What's On & Local Events
Find Out What's On!
Is It Easy to Visit Bristol Without A Car?
Places To Visit In Bristol Without A Car
Bristol is simple to get around without a car. The city centre is walkable, public transport is reliable, and rail links are strong. Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or using Bristol as a base to explore the South West, you won’t need to worry about driving or parking.
Future Inn Bristol makes exploring the city without a car easy. Right beside Cabot Circus, you’re within walking distance of shops and attractions, with Bristol Bus Station and Bristol Temple Meads also nearby for exploring further afield. If you do drive, free parking is included, so you can leave the car and explore Bristol on foot or by public transport.
After a day out, relax in a spacious room with a large bed, free WiFi and tea and coffee ready for you. Or enjoy a meal at Chophouse Restaurant, which serves breakfast, afternoon tea and seasonal dishes. It’s a straightforward base for a car-free Bristol break. Book direct for the best rates guaranteed. Plus, Future Club Rewards members get up to 12% off - join free today!
Book a RoomDo You Need A Car In Bristol?
Bristol is surprisingly easy to explore without a car, particularly if you’re staying in the city centre. Bristol's main attractions are relatively close together, while excellent rail connections and regular bus services make it uncomplicated to reach areas further afield.
That means you can have the best of both worlds: drive to Future Inn Bristol, leave your car parked next door at Cabot Circus, and explore the city without it.
Is Bristol A Walkable Town?
Bristol is best seen on foot. There are pedestrian areas, hidden streets, parks and green spaces to discover. The Harbourside, Old City and Bristol Shopping Quarter are all easy to walk around.
A good way to explore is to follow the waterfront. The Harbourside is mostly traffic-free and takes you past places like M Shed, We The Curious, Bristol Aquarium and the Dockyards.
Bristol does have some hills, so it’s worth wearing comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to visit Clifton, Leigh Woods or Brandon Hill.
How To Get Around Bristol
You’ve got plenty of options for getting around Bristol without a car. Public transport is reliable and runs often.
Things To Do In Bristol Without A Car
Bristol is simple to explore without a car. Many attractions are within walking distance, and public transport makes it easy to reach places further out.
Cabot Circus
For shopping, food and a break from sightseeing, Cabot Circus works well for mixed-age groups. Here, there’s Treetop Golf, King Pins Bowling, Escape Rooms, and the ODEON Luxe.
Cost: Pay per game/activity
Address: Shopping Centre, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3BX
From Future Inn Bristol: 2-minute walk; Cabot Circus is opposite Future Inns
Wake The Tiger
Wake The Tiger is a unique immersive art experience that feels part museum, part adventure world. 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 discounts 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.
Bristol Hippodrome
Bristol Hippodrome is one of the city’s best-known theatres, hosting major West End shows, musicals, comedy, dance and live performances throughout the year. It’s a great option for an evening out, particularly if you want to combine sightseeing with a show.
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
We The Curious
Interactive and hands-on, We The Curious blends science, creativity and discovery. With interactive exhibits, live demonstrations and a planetarium, it’s a great option for families, curious adults and anyone looking for an interactive indoor attraction in Bristol.
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
Bristol Aquarium
Bristol Aquarium on the Harbourside, home to marine life from around the world, including sharks, rays and tropical fish. Its immersive exhibits keep it a popular attraction for families and a good option if the weather isn’t on your side.
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 a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply), or 15 minutes by bus
M Shed
Located on the harbourside, M Shed is a free museum telling the story of the city and its people through objects, photographs, and personal stories. It’s a great place to learn about Bristol’s history, from its maritime past to the city it is today.
Cost: Free
Address: Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol BS1 4RN
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute walk, 10-minute drive with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus
Bristol Packet Boat Trips
Bristol Packet Boat Trips are a lovely, slow-paced experience. The cruises along the River Avon offer beautiful countryside views and a peaceful journey away from the busy city centre.
Cost: From £11.55 for adults, £10.45 for seniors and £6.75 for chilren 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
Bristol Dockyards
One of the top family days out in Bristol is a fascinating step back into maritime history at Brunel’s SS Great Britain, now known as Bristol Dockyards. Visitors can step aboard the restored ship, explore the historic dockyard and discover the stories of the people who built, travelled on and were connected to this remarkable vessel.
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
Bristol Cathedral
A peaceful and beautiful stop, Bristol Cathedral offers stunning architecture and a calm atmosphere. Visitors are able to 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. At the same time, 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 Zoo Project
Bristol Zoo Project is ideal for a relaxed day out. It's on the outskirts of Bristol, with animals including giraffes, lemurs, red pandas and gorillas. Formerly Wild Place Project, it is around five miles from the city centre and is best reached by car or bus.
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. By bus, take the number 8 from Cabot Circus South (across the road from the hotel). This is frequent and takes around 25 minutes.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
One of Bristol’s most iconic sights, the Clifton Suspension Bridge offers stunning views without needing a long or difficult walk. It’s a memorable stop for families. Follow the walking trail from the Visitor Centre at Leigh Woods across the bridge into Clifton Village. It's full of fascinating facts and a great way to get some fresh air.
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. Several buses head in that direction from across the road from the hotel, with the journey taking around 30 minutes. It takes around 50 minutes to walk, passing Castle Park, Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower, and Bristol Museum.
Ashton Court Estate
Ashton Court Estate is a huge 850-acre country park just outside Bristol, with woodland, open grassland, historic gardens and deer parks. It’s free to enter and a great place for walking, wildlife and enjoying views across the city.
Cost: Free
Address: Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9JN
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute drive, with an on-site pay-and-display car park. Several buses head in that direction from Cabot Circus South (across the road from the hotel), taking around 40 minutes. However, if you have a bike, it only takes 23 minutes to cycle.
Aerospace Bristol
Aerospace Bristol is an aviation museum, just outside Bristol, where you can explore more than 100 years of aerospace history. Its star attraction is the last Concorde ever to fly, which visitors can step aboard, alongside aircraft, helicopters, rockets and interactive exhibits.
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. By bus, the journey takes around 55 minutes.
Cinemas in Bristol
Bristol has a brilliant independent cinema scene, making it a great option for families. While grandparents might enjoy a relaxed afternoon screening or classic film, parents and older children can dip into more contemporary releases or indie screenings.
Visit Bristol's Independent Bookshops
Bristol has a brilliant independent bookshop scene, with everything from long-established favourites to smaller specialist shops and community-centred stores. Whether you're looking for a new bestseller, a second-hand treasure, local authors or something a little more unusual, the city's bookshops are well worth exploring.
Independent Bookshops Bristol
Bristol By Bike
With so much to see and do when you visit Bristol, what better way to see the city named Green Capital of Europe than by bike? From breathtaking views to historic buildings to architecture and Instagrammable locations.
Bristol has many scenic bike routes, including the Bristol to Bath Railway Path, the Avon Gorge, and the Harbourside Trail. These routes offer beautiful views of the city and its surroundings while being accessible to riders of all abilities.
Cycling in Bristol
Outdoor Activities in Bristol
Making the most of Bristol’s incredible outdoor spaces, showing that the city is packed with green, cultural, and adventurous activities that are perfect for a family weekend in Bristol.
See the iconic city views at the Clifton Suspension Bridge, take a peaceful walk in Leigh Woods, or head to wide-open parkland at Ashton Court Estate and family-friendly adventures at Blaise Castle Estate. The Harbourside is also a lively waterside area where visitors can walk, cycle, enjoy outdoor dining, or take part in activities such as paddleboarding and boat trips.
Things To Do Outdoors In Bristol
Swimming Pools in Bristol
If you're visiting Bristol during the warmer months, why not make a splash at one of the city's outdoor swimming spots? From historic lidos and heated open-air pools to wild swimming lakes and coastal marine pools, there are plenty of ways to cool off while enjoying the sunshine.
Families can spend the day splashing about at child-friendly paddling pools and safe swimming areas, while adults may choose a leisurely swim or a relaxing spa day.
Outdoor Pools in Bristol
Rainy Day Activities
Rain needn’t dampen your plans. In fact, some of the very best indoor things to do in Bristol are perfect for grey skies. The city is packed with indoor attractions that appeal to all ages. From fascinating museums and historic landmarks to interactive family attractions, theatres, and unique food and drink experiences, there are plenty of ways to stay entertained when the rain arrives.
What Can You Do In Bristol If It Rains?
Annual Events in Bristol
Bristol has a busy events calendar throughout the year, with everything from music festivals and cultural celebrations to food, film and family-friendly events. If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth checking what’s on during your stay - you might even find an event worth making a trip to Bristol for.
Things For Couples To Do In Bristol
Bristol is packed with romantic experiences, from admiring the views across the Avon Gorge from the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and exploring the city's thriving art scene, to stargazing at the planetarium, catching live music, enjoying a theatre show, or attempting an escape room together.
Date Night Ideas Bristol
What Can You Do In Bristol For Free?
You don't need a big budget to enjoy Bristol. Some of the city's best attractions are completely free:
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.
Book Now
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!
More information
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.
Food & Drink Special Offers
Explore Bristol
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get around Bristol?
For central Bristol, walking is usually the easiest option. For longer journeys, buses are convenient, while trains are particularly useful for trips outside the city. If you're staying at Future Inn Bristol, many central attractions are within walking distance.
Is Bristol nicer than Bath?
That's a matter of personal taste. Bristol is bigger, livelier and known for its street art, independent culture, music, food and waterfront. Bath is smaller and famous for its Roman history, Georgian architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status. If you have time, the best option may be to visit both. They are exceptionally easy to combine as day trips, with trains taking as little as 15 minutes between Bristol Temple Meads and Bath Spa.
Is Bristol worth visiting for a day?
Absolutely. You can see a lot of Bristol in a day, particularly if you focus on the Old City, Harbourside, Bristol Cathedral and Clifton. However, staying overnight at Future Inn Bristol gives you more time to explore without rushing and lets you experience Bristol's restaurants, bars and nightlife.
Can I drive my car in Bristol?
Yes. Bristol is accessible by car, but some central areas are within the Clean Air Zone, which was designed to reduce pollution, and older, more polluting vehicles may have to pay a daily charge. There are no outright vehicle bans, but you should check your vehicle before travelling.
Do you have to pay to drive into Bristol?
Bristol City Council’s Clean Air Zone has been created to help reduce air pollution and congestion to create a healthier city. Not all cars are charged; over 70% of cars can travel free of charge. Typically, the charge applies to older and more polluting vehicles. You can check if your vehicle will be eligible for the charge or exempt beforehand.
Would you recommend visiting the city of Bristol while in England?
Yes. Bristol is an excellent choice for a city break, particularly if you enjoy history, street art, independent shops, food and drink. It also makes a useful base for exploring the wider region. You can visit Bath from Bristol, for example, by train in around 15 minutes, while Cardiff is also easily accessible by rail in 35 minutes.
What's the easiest way to get from London to Bristol?
The train is generally one of the easiest options. Direct Great Western Railway (GWR) services run from London Paddington to Bristol, with the fastest journeys to Bristol Temple Meads taking around 1 hour 33 minutes. Once you arrive, you can walk, catch a bus or take a taxi to your accommodation.
How is the public transport in Bristol?
Bristol has a good network of buses, trains and other options for getting around without a car. First Bus operates many local routes, while MetroBus and Park and Ride services provide additional connections.
For visitors, the most important thing is choosing accommodation with a convenient location. Staying centrally means you can walk to many attractions and use public transport when you need to go further.
How to get to Bristol Airport without a car?
The A1 Bristol Airport Flyer connects the airport with Bristol Temple Meads, supplying a straightforward connection to the national rail network. Combined rail and bus tickets can also be booked through Great Western Railway (GWR).
The airport also has frequent local bus services, as well as coach connections to destinations including Cardiff and Newport.
If you're staying at Future Inn Bristol, you can take the Airport Flyer to Temple Meads and then walk to the hotel, which is around 15 minutes away.
How accessible are public transport and main attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes - Bristol is reasonably accessible for visitors with mobility needs, although its hills, cobbled streets and older buildings can make some journeys slightly more challenging. Most buses have wheelchair-accessible low floors and dedicated spaces, while many of the city's main attractions offer step-free access, accessible toilets and other facilities. It's worth checking individual attraction and transport information before travelling, particularly if you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, as accessibility can vary between venues and routes. Check out our accessible guide to Bristol.
Which transport options are best for families with young children?
Buses are generally the most convenient public transport option for families with young children or pushchairs. First Bus services have low-floor access, ramps and designated spaces for buggies, although space can be limited at busy times and you may occasionally be asked to fold your pushchair.
For shorter journeys, walking can be easy, while taxis or Uber can be useful if you're travelling with lots of luggage or young children. Trains are also a good option for day trips, with Bristol Temple Meads offering step-free access to all platforms.
Are there luggage storage options at the hotel or nearby for early arrivals or late departures?
If you arrive before your room is ready or have time to explore after checking out, speak to the Future Inn Bristol reception team about storing your luggage while you’re out. Reception is open 24 hours, and early check-in and late check-out can also be arranged in advance, subject to availability and an additional charge.
