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Exploring Bristol from Bath
Our BedroomsSpecial OffersFrom Bath to Bristol: The Perfect South West Getaway
Did You Know Bristol is Only 15 Minutes from Bath?
If you’re planning a trip to the South West and can’t decide between Bristol and Bath, there’s no need to pick just one. The two cities are less than 15 minutes apart by train, so it’s easy to enjoy both in a single stay.
Future Inn Bristol puts you in the perfect spot for exploring both cities. You’ll find us at Cabot Circus, close to Bristol’s main attractions, shops and restaurants, with Bath just a short train ride away. After a day out, you can unwind in a spacious room with a large bed, free WiFi and complimentary tea and coffee. Free parking is included, and Chophouse Restaurant is on hand for breakfast, afternoon tea or a relaxed dinner. Staying here means you can make the most of both Bristol and Bath, without any hassle. Book direct for our best available rates. If you join Future Club Rewards, you’ll also get up to 12% off – and it’s free to sign up.
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Best Day Trips from Bath
Bath is known for its Roman history, Georgian buildings and calm atmosphere. Bristol, on the other hand, is full of energy, with great nightlife, top attractions, excellent shopping and a lively food scene.
Many visitors find that staying in Bristol and taking a day trip to Bath is the easiest way to enjoy both places.
Are Bath and Bristol close?
So many people ask, is Bath near Bristol?
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Bristol and Bath together is how close they are. Regular trains run between the two cities throughout the day, with journeys taking around 12 to 15 minutes. By car, the journey typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
This makes it easy to spend a full day exploring Bath before returning to Bristol in the evening for dinner, drinks or a comfortable overnight stay.
Whether you prefer travelling by train, bus, bike, on foot or by car, there are plenty of options available.
Bath to Bristol Train
Travelling by train is the quickest and most convenient way to get from Bath to Bristol. Direct services run regularly between Bath Spa and Bristol Temple Meads throughout the day, with journey times typically taking around 12 to 15 minutes.
Once you arrive at Bristol Temple Meads, many of Bristol's top attractions are within walking distance, including the Harbourside, Cabot Circus and St Nicholas Market. Future Inn Bristol is also easily accessible from the station by taxi, bus or a short walk.
You can buy an Anytime or Off-Peak ticket on the day. Saying that, booking ahead can be worthwhile if you’re travelling at peak times, travelling as a group, or have a connecting rail journey.
Bath to Bristol Bus
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, regular bus services connect Bath and Bristol. Journey times vary depending on traffic, but most services take between 45 minutes and one hour.
Buses can be a good choice if you're travelling at quieter times of the day.
Several services operate between Bath and Bristol, including routes run by local operators such as FlixBus and National Express. First Bus - numbers X39 and 39 - operate frequently throughout the day from Bristol Bus Station. They offer tap-on and tap-off so you can save money. Your tickets will be automatically capped, so you never pay more than the cost of a day ticket.
Bath to Bristol Cycle Path
If you'd like to combine sightseeing with some exercise, the Bath to Bristol Cycle Path is one of the most popular traffic-free cycling routes in the South West.
Part of the National Cycle Network, the route follows a former railway line and stretches for around 13 miles between the two cities. Along the way, cyclists pass through picturesque countryside, old railway tunnels and charming villages.
The Bristol and Bath Railway Path begins near Bristol city centre and runs all the way to Bath. Access points can be found throughout both cities, making it easy to join the route wherever suits your plans.
Bath to Bristol Canal Walk
For walkers looking for a slower-paced adventure, the route along the Kennet and Avon Canal offers a scenic journey between Bath and Bristol.
The walk follows peaceful towpaths, passing locks, waterways, wildlife and beautiful countryside. While it takes considerably longer than travelling by train or bus, it's a rewarding option for keen walkers who want to experience more of the surrounding landscape.
It is possible to walk between Bath and Bristol using a combination of canal towpaths, footpaths and designated walking routes. Depending on the route chosen, the walk is typically around 13 to 15 miles and can take between four and six hours.
Is parking easy in Bristol?
Yes, Bristol offers a range of parking options, including city centre car parks, pay-and-display, park-and-ride facilities, and hotel parking.
Guests staying at Future Inn Bristol can take advantage of complimentary parking, making it easy to leave the car behind and explore the city on foot. With the top attractions in Bristol all nearby, you won't need to worry about finding parking during your stay.
Free parking is available for all hotel guests, with one car per room, at the Cabot Circus multi-storey car park, located directly opposite the hotel. Any additional vehicles will need to be paid for separately. Chophouse Restaurant diners get 50% off parking. The process is the same - please give your vehicle registration number at Reception. Plus, business conference visitors can access discounted parking if arranged in advance. The car park is within the Bristol Clean Air Zone; however, entry and exit via Houlton Street avoids the chargeable zone. We recommend double-checking your car's eligibility before travelling. A drop-off parking zone located at the back of the hotel, also within the Bristol Clean Air Zone, allows you a strict 15-minute time limit to unload. Limited blue badge parking is also available here, which must be registered at Reception on a first-come, first-served basis.
Best Things To Do In Bristol
Bristol is full of things to see and do, from famous landmarks and waterfront walks to independent shops, attractions and a lively food scene.
Bristol Harbourside
The Harbourside is one of the best places in the city for a relaxed stroll with the whole family. There are boat trips, cafés, playgrounds and plenty of places to sit and watch the world go by, making it perfect for all ages to enjoy at their own pace.
Address: Canons Way, Bristol BS1 5LF
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute walk, 10-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus
Bristol Ferry
A simple but brilliant way to see the city from a different angle, Bristol Ferries are perfect for all ages. Sit back and take in the views. It’s a gentle, scenic way to travel between attractions along the harbour.
Cost: From £2 for children and £3 for adults
Main Office Address: 44 The Grove, Bristol BS1 4RB
From Future Inn Bristol: The closest ferry stop to Future Inns is Castle Park Ferry Landing, a 9-minute walk from the hotel.
Bristol Packet Boat Trips
Bristol Packet Boat Trips are a lovely, slow-paced experience that suits every generation. The cruises along the River Avon offer beautiful countryside views and a peaceful journey away from the busy city centre. One of the highlights is the trip out to Bee’s Tea Rooms, which adds a nostalgic, traditional stop.
Cost: From £11.55 for adults, £10.45 for seniors and £6.75 for children over 4
Main Office Address: Gas Ferry Road, Bristol BS1 6UN
From Future Inn Bristol: 30-minute walk, 15-minute taxi or 25 minutes on the bus
Brunel’s SS Great Britain
One of the top days out in Bristol is a fascinating step back into maritime history at Bristol Dockyard Museum. It’s one of the city’s most popular waterfront attractions, telling the story and restoration of one of Britain’s most important engineering achievements.
Cost: Tickets are £22 for adults and £14.50 for children aged 4-16. Family tickets are also available. Visit after 3.30pm for half-price tickets.
Address: Great Western Dockyard, Bristol BS1 6TY
From Future Inn Bristol: 30-minute walk, 10-minute drive with discounted parking at the Maritime Heritage Centre, or 25 minutes by bus
We The Curious
Interactive, hands-on and genuinely engaging for every generation, We The Curious blends science, creativity and discovery. With hands-on exhibits covering everything from space exploration to the human body, it encourages curiosity and creativity through engaging activities.
Cost: Tickets start at £20.40 for those aged 16 and over and £13.90 for children aged 2-15.
Address: Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5DB
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk, 12-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus
M Shed
Located on the harbourside, M Shed brings Bristol’s history to life through interactive displays and real-life stories. Including Bristol’s trading past, its role in the transatlantic slave trade, wartime experiences, industrial heritage and engineering history. Plus, it’s music, arts and culture.
Cost: Free
Address: Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol BS1 4RN
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute walk, 10-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus
Bristol Aquarium
Bristol Aquarium is packed with colourful displays, underwater tunnels and interactive sections. Highlights include a life-size recreation of a sunken ship, a Bristol harbour scene, a walk-in seahorse display and a wooden footbridge over the open-top giant coral seas display, which are home to tropical sharks and unicorn fish.
Cost: Tickets are £22.50, and 3-12-year-olds are £15.30. Concession and family tickets are also available.
Address: Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5TT
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk or a 10-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus
Bristol Cathedral
A peaceful and beautiful stop, Bristol Cathedral offers stunning architecture and a calm atmosphere. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s fascinating history, from its time as an Augustinian abbey to its role in the city's rich heritage. It’s free to visit and is open to the public 365 days a year.
Cost: Free
Address: College Green, Bristol BS1 5TJ
From Future Inn Bristol: 22-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes on the bus
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
A great all-round cultural stop, Bristol Museum offers everything from dinosaurs to ancient artefacts and fine art. As one of the top family-friendly museums in Bristol, the variety means children can focus on the fun, visual exhibits, while adults can enjoy the deeper historical and artistic collections at their own pace.
Cost: Free (some special exhibitions may charge)
Address: Queens Road, Bristol BS8 1RL
From Future Inn Bristol: 29-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes on the bus
Cabot Tower
Set within Brandon Hill Park, Cabot Tower rewards those who climb it with fantastic views over the city. While the climb may suit more active visitors, the surrounding park is ideal for everyone to enjoy, making it a flexible stop for families.
Cost: Free
Address: Brandon Hill Park, Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR
From Future Inn Bristol: 30-minute walk, 14-minute taxi or 20 minutes on the bus
Bristol Hippodrome
For a special evening out, Bristol Hippodrome offers West End-style shows, musicals, and family-friendly performances, such as the annual pantomime.
Cost: Varies by show
Address: St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes by bus
Bristol Zoo Project
Set in spacious, open countryside, Bristol Zoo Project is ideal for a relaxed day out. In 50 acres of beautiful woodland, gardens and meadows. Here you can watch animals in large, natural-style habitats, including bears, giraffes, cheetahs, and lemurs.
Cost: £27 for adults and £21.75 for children aged 2 and over. The Family Saver ticket is £87.50, and is valid for 2 adults and 2 children, or 1 adult and 3 children
Address: Blackhorse Hill, Easter Compton, Bristol, BS10 7TP
From Future Inn Bristol: 19-minute drive, with ample free parking
Clifton Suspension Bridge
One of Bristol’s most iconic sights, the Clifton Suspension Bridge offers stunning views. It’s a memorable stop for families. Follow the Family Trail from the Visitor Centre at Leigh Woods across the bridge into Clifton Village.
Cost: Free
Address: Bridge Road, Bristol BS8 3PA
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute drive. No dedicated car park, but there is pay-and-display parking in Clifton Village or at Leigh Woods.
Ashton Court Estate
Perfect for fresh air and downtime, Ashton Court Estate offers wide-open parkland, deer sightings, walking trails, and picnic spots that work beautifully for relaxing outdoors together.
Cost: Free
Address: Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9JN
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute drive, with an on-site pay and display car park
Wake The Tiger
Wake The Tiger is a completely unique immersive art experience that feels part museum, part adventure world. It’s especially popular with teenagers and older children, but adults quickly get drawn into the creativity, too. With surreal sets, interactive spaces and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s a fun, imaginative day out that arouses curiosity across all generations.
Cost: Tickets are £16.50 per adult and £13.50 per child aged 5+. Student and Blue Light are also available. There are also adult-only after-hours events from £20 per person.
Address: 127 Albert Road, Bristol BS2 0YA
From Future Inn Bristol: 7-minute drive with a small pay on exit car park, or 25 minutes by bus
Aerospace Bristol
A fantastic attraction for all ages, Aerospace Bristol is home to the iconic Concorde and a huge collection of aircraft and interactive exhibits. You’ll find the first British-built jet engines, rockets, helicopters, and even bits of space technology.
Cost: You can save by booking online in advance. Walk-in prices are £22 for adults and £15 for children aged 4 and over. Student and family tickets are also available. With your ticket, you get free, unlimited returns within 12 months.
Address: Hayes Way, Patchway BS34 5BZ
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute drive, with a free car park
Explore Bristol
Need some more inspiration? Check out some of our travel guides:
Shoppers' Guide To Bristol
Bristol is a great place to shop, with everything from independent boutiques to big-name brands. You can hunt for bargains in vintage shops, wander the streets of Clifton Village, or find high street and designer stores in Cabot Circus.
Best Shopping in Bristol
Things to do in Bristol for Couples
If you’re planning a romantic city break, Bristol has plenty for couples to enjoy. Try a sunset walk across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a waterside stroll around the harbourside, or discover street art, live music, theatre, comedy and even stargazing.
You might explore museums, head into Leigh Woods, enjoy a show at the Bristol Hippodrome or try a round of adventure golf. There’s no shortage of inspiration.
Top 10 Things For Couples To Do In Bristol
Bristol Itinerary With Kids And Grandparents
Bristol is one of those UK cities that works for everyone in the family. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teenagers or grandparents, there’s something for all ages. It’s easy to plan a multi-generational family break here, with plenty for everyone to enjoy.
Multi-generational Family Break in Bristol
Hotel in Bristol City Centre
Future Inn Bristol is a modern and comfortable hotel in Bristol city centre. It offers easy access to key attractions and vibrant areas. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe. Guests can also enjoy added comforts such as complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities, enhancing 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.
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Future Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. For every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. Plus, get double points when you dine in the restaurant. Points can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem when you dine in the restaurant and a member's discount rate. It's also completely free to join!
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Restaurant in Bristol
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
What is Bristol famous for?
Bristol is famous for its colourful street art, maritime history, creative culture and impressive landmarks. The city is home to iconic attractions, including Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Britain - now known as the Bristol Dockyard Museum - and Bristol Harbourside, as well as a thriving food, music and arts scene.
How far is Bath from Bristol?
Bath and Bristol are around 13 miles apart, making them two of the easiest cities in the South West to combine into one trip. With regular transport links between the two, visitors can easily stay in Bristol and explore Bath for the day.
How long does it take to get from Bath to Bristol?
The travel time between Bath and Bristol depends on how you choose to travel. The quickest option is by train, with direct services from Bath Spa to Bristol Temple Meads taking around 12-15 minutes. By car, the journey is usually around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Is Bristol worth visiting from Bath?
Absolutely. While Bath is known for its history, architecture and relaxing atmosphere, Bristol offers something completely different with its buzzing Harbourside, independent shops, museums, restaurants and nightlife. Visiting both cities gives you the chance to experience two of the South West’s most popular destinations.
What are the best things to do in Bristol in one day?
If you only have one day in Bristol, start with a walk around the Harbourside, visit a landmark such as Clifton Suspension Bridge or SS Great Britain, explore the street art scene and finish with dinner or drinks in one of the city's fantastic restaurants or bars. Staying somewhere central makes it easy to fit plenty into your day.
How regular are trains from Bath to Bristol?
Trains between Bath Spa and Bristol Temple Meads run regularly throughout the day, making it simple to plan a day trip. Services are frequent, so you can enjoy a flexible itinerary without needing to plan every minute.
How long is the train from Bath to Bristol?
Most direct train journeys take between 12 and 15 minutes, making it ideal for a day trip or weekend break. Ticket prices can vary depending on when you travel and whether you book in advance.
