Most Scenic Road Trips in Bristol, Bristol, City of, United Kingdom

Bristol, United Kingdom, Bristol, Activity-Based Travel Pages, Most Scenic Road Trips

Most Scenic Road Trips in Bristol, Bristol, City of, United Kingdom

1. Clifton Suspension Bridge

Iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the city below.
  • Historical Significance: Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in the 19th century.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers a breathtaking viewpoint of Bristol from the bridge's towers.
  • Accessibility: Easily reachable by car, bus or bike.

2. Chew Valley Lake

A picturesque reservoir surrounded by rolling hills and farmland.
  • Wildlife Spotting: An opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including otters and birds of prey.
  • Peaceful Environment: A tranquil location for a relaxing drive or picnic.
  • Scenic Walks: Plenty of walking trails around the lake to explore.

3. Walcot Valley

A picturesque valley with charming cottages and historic mills.
  • Historic Buildings: Features several well-preserved historic buildings.
  • River Avon Views: Offers beautiful views of the River Avon as it flows through the valley.
  • Artisan Shops: Home to numerous artisan shops and cafes.

4. Portishead to Clevedon Coastal Drive

A scenic coastal drive with stunning views of the Severn Estuary.
  • Natural Beauty: Features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and coastal marshes.
  • Maritime History: Passes by several historic lighthouses and ships.
  • Seasonal Appeal: Beautiful in all seasons, with different charms depending on the time of year.

5. Mendip Hills

A scenic area of outstanding natural beauty with rolling hills and limestone caves.
  • Walking and Cycling: Ideal for hiking, cycling, or horse riding.
  • Cave Exploration: Offers the opportunity to explore the famous Cheddar Gorge and its caves.
  • Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, badgers, and deer.

6. Temple Wood and Blackdown Hills

A peaceful woodland drive with panoramic views over the Blackdown Hills.
  • Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for a quiet, relaxing drive or picnic.
  • Wildlife Spotting: An opportunity to spot deer, badgers, and a variety of birds.
  • Historic Monuments: Passes by several historic monuments, including Stogursey Camp.

7. Durslade Farm to Hauser & Wirth Gallery

A scenic drive through Somerset's countryside leading to a contemporary art gallery.
  • Art and Culture: Visit the Hauser & Wirth Gallery, which hosts rotating contemporary exhibitions.
  • Natural Beauty: Passes through rolling hills and picturesque villages.
  • Gourmet Dining: The Durslade Farm CafĂ© serves seasonal, locally-sourced food.

8. Bath to Bristol via the A367

A scenic route connecting Bath and Bristol with views of the Mendip Hills.
  • Historic Cities: Connects two of England's most historic cities.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of the Mendip Hills and Chew Valley Lake.
  • Cultural Attractions: Passes by several cultural attractions, including the Roman Baths in Bath.

9. Bristol to Weston-super-Mare Promenade

A coastal drive along Bristol's seafront and into Weston-super-Mare.
  • Seafront Atmosphere: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Bristol's seaside.
  • Beach Activities: Stop at Weston-super-Mare's sandy beaches for swimming, sunbathing or building sandcastles.
  • Historic Buildings: Passes by several historic buildings, including the Pier Hotel and Winter Gardens.

10. Bristol Balloon Fiesta Route

A scenic route showcasing Bristol's famous hot air balloon fiesta.
  • Unique Event: Experience the annual Bristol Balloon Fiesta, one of the largest in the world.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of hundreds of hot air balloons against the city skyline.
  • Family-friendly: Ideal for a family day out with live music, food stalls and activities.

11. Bristol Harbourside to Clifton

A scenic drive along Bristol's waterfront with views of the city and the Suspension Bridge.
  • Historic Buildings: Passes by several historic buildings, including the M Shed Museum.
  • Cultural Attractions: Includes attractions like the Brunel's SS Great Britain and the Amphitheatre.
  • City Views: Offers stunning views of Bristol from Clifton's hilltop locations.

12. Bristol to Bradford-on-Avon

A scenic route through the Avon Valley with picturesque villages and historic sites.
  • Historic Villages: Passes through charming, historic villages like Dundry and Chew Magna.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the Avon Valley and its rolling hills.
  • Cultural Attractions: Includes the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon with its medieval bridge and tithe barn.

13. Chew Valley Lake Loop

A scenic loop drive around Chew Valley Lake with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Wildlife Spotting: An opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including otters and birds of prey.
  • Peaceful Environment: A tranquil location for a relaxing drive or picnic.
  • Scenic Walks: Plenty of walking trails around the lake to explore.

14. Bristol to Wells via Cheddar Gorge

A scenic route through the Mendip Hills with stunning views of Cheddar Gorge.
  • Historic Sites: Passes by several historic sites, including Cheddar Gorge and Glastonbury Tor.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the Mendip Hills and Cheddar Gorge.
  • Cultural Attractions: Includes the historic town of Wells with its medieval cathedral and boutique shops.

15. Bristol to Portishead via the Avon Gorge

A scenic route along the River Avon with stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Avon Gorge.
  • Historical Significance: Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a historical landmark.
  • Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the Avon Gorge and its dramatic cliffs.
  • Scenic Walks: Includes walking trails along the Avon Gorge, offering panoramic views of the city below.