Bursting the uni bubble

Getting caught up in the uni bubble is easily done.

Going from thing-to-thing and place-to-place can be exhausting, especially in Bristol where there’s so much to do and so much on – all the time.

For those needing a breather, or simply just a change of scenery from the constant bustle, check out these top spots just outside the city for a moment of pause.

Clevedon Marine Lake

About a 40 minute bus ride

Fancy a dip? – photo: Sophie Mayhew

There is nothing quite like a cold water dip.

Proven to reduce stress and a boost to self-esteem, taking a plunge at Clevedon Marine Lake is the perfect excursion.

A tidal pool that fills with seawater from the Bristol Channel every spring tide provides a refreshing salt-
water swim without travelling further to the coast.

You also get a mega sunrise and sunset. For the early worms, get a group together for sunrise with a flask of tea and pastries from Scarlett’s Cafe near the historic pier.

Bath

10/15 minutes by train

Bath is famous for its beautiful architecture – photo: Sophie Mayhew

Fancy hopping across to the neighbouring city for a different scene?

Catch the 15-minute train from Temple Meads to Bath Spa – easy peasy.

With a plethora of things to do and see, Bath is a renowned day trip for students.

A perfect city to soak up stunning Georgian architecture and history, brunch along tucked away cafes on cobbled streets and a vibrant place to drink into the evening in, Bath is a hub of civilised activity.

Known also for centuries as a wellbeing destination, Bath can be a relaxing city to amble at your own leisure through, before finding a series of fun nightclubs to dance away in.

Sand Bay Beach

35/40-minute drive

Sand, sun but not so much swim – photo: Sophie Mayhew

Perfect for a stroll across a wide stretch of sand and also for beach cricket, Sand Bay Beach is brilliant for a BBQ and sunset with a group of mates.

Whilst you can’t swim here – unless you want to try your best at getting past the gloopy mud – this beach is a lovely one to blow away the hangover or catch some weekend sea air.

With cheap parking and an ice cream shack selling hot and cold drinks too, it’s a great little half day outing.

Chew Valley Lake

Just over an hour on the bus

The perfect spot to take the family dog for a walk (if it comes to visit) – photo: Sophie Mayhew

If you’re after a decent rural ramble, head to Chew Valley for a walk around the lake.

A two and a half mile loop around, it’s a varied walk that spans past lush green fields and gentle hills, and of course the rather idyllic Chew Valley Lake.

Finish this off with a fish and chip lunch at Salt & Malt or tasty pub grub at the Red Lion.

Warleigh Weir

15-minute train to Bath, then a ten minute D1 bus

Warleigh Weir gets very busy in the summer – photo: Sophie Mayhew

If you’re without a car but want to join in the fun, getting the train to Bath and then the bus for a £1 gets you to the talked about spot down at Warleigh.

Bring a picnic and tinnies for the day in summer term and unwind with friends at this picturesque corner of Somerset.

A nicely sunned spot, catch that tan before balancing along slippery stones to reach the deepest water.

If you fancy some better grub, walk 15 minutes along the canal toward Bath where you will find Bathhampton Mill for a varied menu and cold pints.

Main photo: Sophie Mayhew

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