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Bristol in Autumn
Experience Autumn in Bristol
Autumn is a magical time to visit Bristol. As the city’s leafy streets turn golden and the crisp air brings a fresh energy, visitors can enjoy a mix of seasonal events, colourful walks, and cosy indoor activities. Whether you’re exploring by day or heading out for an evening show, autumn in Bristol is full of charm. From vibrant festivals to firework displays, there are plenty of things to do in autumn in the UK, and Bristol is one of the best cities to experience them.
Autumn Bristol
Stay right in the heart of all the autumn action at Future Inn Bristol. Our hotel, ideal for solo travellers, couples, and groups, offers spacious bedrooms with large Canadian-style beds, complimentary WiFi, and tea and coffee facilities. Kids stay free and under-fives eat free, making it perfect for families. With free parking at Cabot Circus, next door to the hotel, Chophouse Restaurant serving hearty breakfasts, Future Inns is the perfect base for a relaxing autumn mini break in Bristol city centre.
Book a RoomAutumn Things To Do In Bristol
Autumn in Bristol is the perfect time to enjoy colourful walks, cosy food and drink experiences, and seasonal events. From crisp mornings exploring outdoors to evenings filled with live entertainment, the city comes alive with things to see and do.
Image Credit: Visit Britain/ Pinzutu
Autumn Events Bristol
Each year, Bristol hosts a packed programme of autumn events, from cultural festivals to seasonal highlights. Visitors can look forward to:
Women’s Rugby World Cup Fan Zone - whether you have match tickets or not, the Fan Zone is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere, celebrate women’s sport, and experience the spirit of Bristol.
Encounters Film Festival – a short film, animation, and VR festival celebrated every year for six days in Bristol Harbourside.
Bristol Open Doors - offers the public free access to the city's hidden and fascinating buildings, forgotten spaces, and innovative designs through tours, workshops, and talks.
Animangapop - an Anime convention and Manga POP culture event with a programme of shows, panels and talks on fashion, cosplay and the industry in general.
Cary Grant Comes Home Festival - a biennial festival celebrating how Bristol-born Archie Leach changed his name and his fortunes to become the internationally famous film star Cary Grant.
Pandorica - a Dr Who convention with talks, exclusive video presentations, commentaries, evening entertainment, and the chance to get autographs from some of the stars.
Cheese and Wine Tasting Evening
Saturday 27 September 2025 | 7pm
An evening of indulgence celebrating perfectly paired artisan cheeses and exceptional wines from around the world.
Learn about the wine in a relaxed and fun environment. Suitable for absolute beginners or budding wine enthusiasts.
£45 per person
More information
Halloween
Spooky season is taken seriously in Bristol. From themed club nights and pumpkin patches to family-friendly trails, there’s something for everyone. You can also read our dedicated Halloween in Bristol blog post for more ideas. Popular highlights include the Spooktacular at Bristol Zoo Gardens, haunted boat parties on the harbour, and ghoulish performances at the Old Vic Theatre.
Murder Mystery Night
Friday 31 October 2025 | 7pm
You are invited to a night of murder mystery and intrigue. An interactive murder mystery over dinner with live actors. Become an active participant in unravelling the mystery.
£45 per person
More information
Haunted Places to Visit in Bristol
Is Bristol haunted? Many locals think so. The city is full of chilling tales, from ghostly apparitions at the Llandoger Trow to eerie goings-on at Arnos Vale Cemetery. For more stories, check out our blog on Haunted Places to Visit in Bristol.
Visitors can also join a guided ghost tour through the city centre – complete with lanterns, costumed hosts, and spine-tingling stories that really set the scene. Starting at Bristol Cathedral, on the tour, you'll get to visit 17 different haunted locations and hear the kind of ghostly tales and see eerie texts that have been shared through generations.
Bonfire Night and Firework Displays
Remember, remember the 5th of November! Bristol lights up the skies with spectacular bonfire and firework events. These shows make for a perfect family evening out, complete with food stalls and funfair rides. The city’s top displays usually include:
Autumn Walks Bristol
Nature lovers can embrace the season with scenic autumn walks throughout Bristol, where the city’s green spaces and waterfronts come alive with colour:
Clifton Downs – for sweeping views of the Avon Gorge.
Ashton Court Estate – a woodland wonder with deer roaming freely.
Brandon Hill – home to Cabot Tower, features stunning autumn images over the city.
Blaise Castle Estate – full of history, trails, and vibrant leaves.
Harbourside Walk – where autumn reflections dance across the water.
National Trust in Bristol in Autumn
Visiting the National Trust sites around Bristol in autumn is a real treat. The crisp air, golden leaves, and peaceful grounds make it the perfect season to explore. Many of these places also run autumn events, such as craft workshops, seasonal trails, and family-friendly half-term activities.
Leigh Woods – Just across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, this woodland explodes with autumn colour. There are easy walking trails, mountain biking routes, and gorgeous views over the Avon Gorge.
Tyntesfield – This Victorian Gothic Revival house is set in stunning gardens and parkland. Autumn brings fiery colours in the arboretum, misty mornings, and cosy café stops.
Blaise Hamlet – A picture-perfect group of thatched cottages tucked near Blaise Castle Estate. It feels like stepping into a storybook, especially when the autumn leaves frame the cottages.
The Best Autumn Cycling Routes
Cyclists will love exploring Bristol in autumn. The Bristol to Bath Railway Path is one of the UK’s best-loved cycling routes, offering a traffic-free ride with golden leaves lining the track. For something more challenging, try Leigh Woods with its rugged trails. Families can enjoy the Festival Way cycle route, which runs from the city centre out into the countryside. Cooler autumn weather makes it the perfect time to get outdoors and play on two wheels.
Autumnal Food
Foodies are spoilt for choice in Bristol during autumn. The city is home to bustling street food markets, where you can tuck into seasonal favourites like spiced cider, roasted chestnuts, and hearty pies. St Nicholas Market transforms with stalls selling autumnal treats, while the Harbourside Market is ideal for browsing artisan bakes and fresh produce.
At Chophouse Restaurant, autumn brings hearty flavours to the table with warming seasonal dishes and comforting favourites. You can even indulge in a pumpkin-spiced latte – the perfect sip to capture the cosy spirit of the season.
Rugby and Football Season
Autumn is the perfect time to catch Bristol Bears Rugby or Bristol City Football Club fixtures. With matches taking place across the city, fans can immerse themselves in the local sporting passion and enjoy a lively autumn day out. Future Inn Bristol welcomes both home and away supporters, offering a comfortable base with spacious bedrooms, free WiFi, and on-site dining. After the game, relax with a hearty meal or unwind in the cosy hotel bar.
Live Music and Theatre
Bristol is famous for its live music scene and theatre venues. Autumn sees international acts, local bands, and theatre productions filling the calendar. Popular venues include the O2 Academy, Bristol Beacon, and the Bristol Old Vic – where you’ll find everything from intimate gigs to grand performances. From winter concerts to festive Christmas shows, there’s something for every taste.
At the Bristol Hippodrome this autumn, you can see shows like Bat Out of Hell, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Fastlove - A Tribute to George Michael, Welsh National Opera, The Book of Mormon, Mamma Mia! and Riverdance 30. Book your date early to secure the best seats and enjoy top quality performances.
Autumn Activities UK - Explore Bristol
With so many seasonal experiences, there’s no better city to enjoy autumn than Bristol. Whether you’re here for the fiery colours of autumn walks, the thrills of Halloween, or the buzz of live events, you’ll always find something exciting happening. Staying at Future Inn Bristol ensures your trip is stress-free, with free parking, family-friendly perks, and excellent on-site dining. Book your autumn escape today and experience all the magic Bristol has to offer.
Stay at Future Inn Bristol
Future Inn Bristol is a modern and comfortable hotel in Bristol city centre.
It offers easy access to key attractions and vibrant areas, making it an ideal choice for families exploring the city.
The hotel features spacious and airy bedrooms, perfect for keeping everyone together. The Superior Double Rooms have two double beds, or choose the City King Rooms, some of which interconnect with the City Twin Rooms.
Each bedroom has free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe.
Added comforts such as complimentary robes, tea and coffee-making facilities, and filtered water enhance the overall experience.
The biggest perk of staying at our Bristol hotel is the free parking at Cabot Circus, directly across the road from Future Inns.
Future Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program.
Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point.
You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant.
Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Bristol Restaurant
Chophouse Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes showcasing the best of the region's produce.
From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Whether you enjoy a succulent steak, a hearty burger, or a fresh fish dish, every meal delivers bold flavours and satisfying portions.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When does autumn start in Bristol?
The Autumn dates UK officially start on 22 September and run through to late November, with October being the best month to see the autumn colours.
What is the weather like in Bristol in autumn?
Bristol’s autumn weather can be crisp and cool, with average temperatures ranging from 9–15°C. Expect some rain, so pack a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes for exploring.
Where can I see the best autumn colours in Bristol?
Top spots include Leigh Woods, Ashton Court Estate, Clifton Downs, Blaise Castle Estate, and Brandon Hill.
Are there autumn festivals in Bristol?
Yes! Highlights include the Encounters Film Festival, Cary Grant Comes Home Festival, Bristol Open Doors, and seasonal markets and firework displays.
Is Bristol good to visit in October?
Absolutely – October is one of the best times to visit. You’ll find autumn walks in full colour, spooky Halloween events, and cosy food and drink experiences across the city.
What should I pack for an autumn trip to Bristol?
Bring layers, a waterproof coat, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget a camera to capture the autumn scenery!
Are there family-friendly autumn activities in Bristol?
Yes – from pumpkin patches and Halloween trails to Bonfire Night fireworks, Bristol has plenty of child-friendly seasonal fun. Plus, kids stay free at Future Inn Bristol, making it a great base for families.
Does snow fall in Bristol?
Snow is rare in Bristol, but it does occasionally fall in the winter months. If you’re visiting in autumn, it’s unlikely you’ll see snow – expect crisp mornings, colourful leaves, and some rainy days instead.
Is it fall or autumn in the UK?
In the UK, we say autumn, not fall. Both words mean the same thing, but “fall” is mainly used in American English.
Do you know of any cool things to do in Bristol UK?
Yes! Bristol is packed with unique experiences – from climbing the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and spotting Banksy street art, to boat trips around the harbour and exploring the SS Great Britain. In autumn, seasonal events, cosy pubs, and colourful walks add to the fun.
Is Bristol the best city in the UK?
Many people think so! Bristol is often voted one of the best cities to live in and visit, thanks to its creative spirit, green spaces, buzzing food scene, and friendly atmosphere. Of course, “the best” depends on what you’re looking for – but Bristol has plenty of charm.
What are some lesser-known sights to see when visiting Bristol UK?
For hidden gems, try Arnos Vale Cemetery with its atmospheric autumn walks, the Red Lodge Museum, or Blaise Hamlet with its storybook thatched cottages. The Christmas Steps – a historic lane of quirky shops – is another spot many visitors miss.
What should everyone know about Bristol?
Bristol is a city of innovation, history, and creativity. It’s where Concorde was built, Banksy’s art can be found on street corners, and Brunel’s engineering shaped the skyline. It’s also very eco-conscious, known as the UK’s first European Green Capital.
What are the most interesting places to see in Bristol?
Highlights include the Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Britain, Bristol Harbourside, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, and the vibrant Stokes Croft area. In autumn, don’t miss Ashton Court Estate, Brandon Hill, and Leigh Woods for breathtaking seasonal colour.
