Here in Bristol we are lucky in many ways, one of which is easy access to some fantastic outdoor spaces. When it comes to places to go for a walk, we have some absolute corkers right on our doorstep and this bank holiday weekend could be the perfect opportunity to make the most of some of them.
Where to go, do I hear you ask? Below you will find some of our favourites…
If you are looking to stay inside of Bristol itself, there are walks a plenty between Ashton Court, Blaise Castle and The Downs. Deer parks, bike tracks, a folly dating from 1766, views over the Suspension Bridge – all firm favourites and brilliant if you’re after somewhere local for a wander.
Cheddar Gorge – a limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills with a brilliant National Trust walking trail across the cliff tops. There are subterranean stalactite show caves to visit too and tea rooms a plenty for some well-deserved refreshment after a good hike (not to mention the famous steps of Jacob’s ladder too).
Coastal trails. With so many things going on in Bristol all year round, it can be easy to forget that we live so close to the coast. Breezy coastal walks are a gorgeous way to spend a weekend and between the Clevedon Path, the sand dunes of Brean and the pretty Porlock Bay there is plenty to keep you all busy!
One that I’ve had my eye on for a while and am hoping to get to in the next few days is The Strawberry Line, a traffic free route running all the way from Yatton to Cheddar. The former railway line takes its pretty name from the cargo it used to carry and is hugely popular with both walkers and cyclists alike.
Westonbirt Arboretum. Just a few miles outside of Tetbury, this one is a little further afield but is absolutely beautiful and definitely worth a visit. Managed by the Forestry Commission, Westonbirt is home to a whopping 15,000 types of trees and shrubs and is a beautiful place to spend a day in springtime (Tetbury and the surrounding Cotswolds are then pretty stunning for a visit afterwards too).
The Mendip Hills. Three day hike anyone?! The Mendips offer a 50 mile long-distance trail and have been designated as an Area of Outstanding National Beauty (one of 46 in all of England, Wales and Northern Ireland). There are tracks and paths of varying lengths and difficulty with something to cater for all abilities
Warmer weather, lighter evenings and so many wonderful places to visit – this bank holiday looks set to be a good one!