Bristol is surrounded by countryside and is an ideal UK city for campervan enthusiasts due to its many attractions — scenic surroundings — and over 450 parks full of greenery. This guide will take you through the top spots to park your campervan and enjoy everything Bristol offers, from the Harbour to Severn Beach. So, if you fancy hiring a campervan and taking a tour around Bristol this spring or summer, keep reading for inspiration on where to go.
Ashton Court Estate
Best for: Nature lovers, walking, golf and picnics.
Ashton Court Estate is a park that expands across 850 acres of woodland, including nature trails for hikers and golf courses for sports lovers. Less than a 20-minute drive from the city centre, it is an excellent place for campervan visitors to park and enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and picnicking against the backdrop of the estate’s mansion.
Clifton’s Suspension Bridge
Best for: Photography, shopping, and engineering enthusiasts.
Clifton is known by locals for its elegant Georgian architecture, quaint streets, and, of course, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The bridge is a must-see if you are new to the city, considering its vast size (702 feet high), weighing 1,500 tonnes. Parking your campervan in Clifton allows you to explore the variety of shops, cafes, and the iconic bridge itself, offering panoramic views of the Avon Gorge — perfect for pictures!
Bristol’s Maritime History at the Harbour
Best for: Entertainment, food, and scenery.
Bristol Harbour is a lively area filled with restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions, which all capture the city’s rich maritime history. Campervan tourists can find convenient spots to park and explore landmarks such as the M Shed museum and Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Try visiting in the day and the evening for two different experiences.
Leigh Woods
Best for: Naturists, walkers, and cyclers.
Just a short drive from the city centre, Leigh Woods offers a peaceful environment of dense woodlands and nature trails, perfect to park your campervan in the summer!
It is ideal for walkers, cyclists, and anyone looking to escape the city and spend time alone or with a small group to enjoy the calmness of the woods. There are several trails to choose from. The purple trail expands across 1.5 miles into the National Trust land; the red trail is a much shorter walk preferred by families.
The Leigh Woods provide stunning views of the Avon Gorge and Suspension Bridge, making it a serene spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Open Spaces of The Downs
Best for: Relaxing, picnics, sports.
The Downs, comprising Clifton Down and Durdham Down, is a vast protected parkland offering green spaces for locals and visitors. It’s a favourite spot for picnics, sports, and leisurely walks. For campervan travellers, The Downs is an accessible part of the city escape where you can relax, on your own terms, or explore the edge of the city.
Severn Beach
Best for: Beach activities, day-trips.
You cannot visit Bristol without visiting the famous beach, just a 30-minute drive from the city centre. A trip to Severn Beach allows campervan adventurers to experience the UK’s coastal scenery without venturing too far from Bristol, making it an ideal summer day trip. This spot is known for its refreshing sea air, walking paths along the estuary, and picturesque sunsets that make you feel like you are abroad. Overall, it is a great place for a day out by the water.
Where To Hire A Campervan
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer road trip, several companies in Bristol can cater to your needs.
- Yescapa provides a platform to book converted vans that come with beds, kitchens, and often bathrooms. Their prices vary, starting from as low as £48.00 per day for a 2-seater with sleeping places, going up to £80.00 for more spacious options.
- Indie Campers is known for its wide selection of campervans and motorhomes across Europe, Oceania, and North America, and the booking process is swift and easy. They offer fully digital experiences with insurance and free roadside assistance.
- Roadsurfer offers campervans from £69 per night, including models like the Surfer Suite VW T6.1 California Ocean campervan with an outdoor shower and automatic pop-up roof, as well as various other models catering to couples and families. They also provide perks like unlimited mileage and free camping equipment.
If you regularly hire campervans but wish to own a campervan one day, there are several competitions online where you can win a van. With just one entry, you could live your campervan travel dreams in the UK.
