Family / green spaces
10 green spaces to go with the family in Bristol
One of Bristol’s best assets is the amount of green space it has – whether it’s somewhere to go for a picnic, or just somewhere that needs to be explored. Here are ten places to go with the family in the Bristol area.
The Downs
The Downs is a family favourites. It’s a beautiful protected parkland area where many families can go and spend the whole day. It’s a great place to have a picnic, do some cloud watching and play family games like frisbee or football.
Ashton Court
Set in 850 acres of parkland, Ashton Court is the perfect place to take the family. Go for a bike ride, have a picnic or simply enjoy the fresh air and listen to the birds.
Leigh Woods
Immerse yourself in nature by visiting Leigh Woods. It’s great for a family walk and exploring the woods, although the best bit for lots of families is building a den.
And if you just need to hug a tree, there are plenty.
Hours of fun building dens in Leigh Woods
Brandon Hill
Nestled between Park Street and Jacob’s Wells Road, this park is perfect for taking in the views. Let the kids use up some of their energy playing games in the open space or just enjoy the beauty of this location.
Abbots Pool
If you’re looking for somewhere a little less busy, then Abbots Pool is a great alternative to Leigh Woods. Head straight to the pools to feed the ducks, if they aren’t already full from lots of feeding from visitors!
Explore Abbots Pool
Blaise Castle
Located north of the city, Blaise Castle estate is set amongst 650 acres of parkland. It’s just the right place to go for playing games with the family and on a windy day it’s great for flying a kite.
Bishops Knoll
Bishops Knoll is a hidden gem near the Portway. Steeped in history, which can be traced back to Henry VIII, follow the well warn paths that lead through enchanting woods and to views of Leigh Woods and the gorge
Chew Valley Lakes
To take advantage of sunshine, then head to the lakes. It’s great for taking a long walk around the lakes to build up an appetite, and in the summer spot electric blue damselflies.
Ride bikes around the lakes
Portishead Lake Grounds
Portishead Lake Grounds combines two great things: A beach on one side and a lake to the other. On a summer’s day, it’s an ideal place to go for a family picnic. Play some family games, like bat and ball or frisbee, and take a walk along the promenade.
Clevedon
Just a short drive outside of Bristol is the seaside town of Clevedon with its Grade 1-listed Victorian pier. Take a stroll along the esplanade to the Marine Lake to see if the crabs are biting or just play on the beach.
Maria Newman runs her own blog, Mummy On A Break.
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All photos: Maria Newman
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