Welcome to our in-depth guide of the best free things to do in Bristol! The city is already perfect for exploring, but what’s even better is the number of free things you can do here! We’ll share our top recommendations of the best 37 free activities to do in Bristol.
Bristol is our home, we grew up right around the corner and lived in the city for a couple of years. We were saving up for our next big travel trip, so we were always on the hunt for the best free things to do in Bristol.
This guide is a collection of our knowledge of all the free activities to do in Bristol, free monuments to visit and unique places to explore.
We have you covered for all seasons from visiting Bristol Harbour Festival in July or getting stuck into a good book on a cold winter’s day in Bristol Central Library.
Whether you’re visiting for a day, spending the weekend or living in Bristol, we are confident we have the best list for all types of travellers. Keep reading to find how to plan the best free day Bristol has to offer!
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Free things to do in Bristol: The best 37 free activities
In this list we share free activities in Bristol from East to West, you’ll find places to visit in the city and around the outskirts. Most places are easy to visit by public transport or you can walk for free!
1. Walk along the harbourside
When looking for free things to do in Bristol, walking along Bristol harbourside has to be at the top of your list. It’s quite easy to spend hours walking along the waterways of Bristol, take a look at the map provided below to see what’s possible.
Stretching from Hotwells to Temple Meads, you’ll be racking up the steps while watching the sunlight dance in the ripples of the water.
2. Get lost exploring Clifton Downs
The next free thing to do in Bristol is visit Clifton Downs. Spanning 400 acres, Clifton Downs will without a doubt keep you busy on your tour of free things to do in Bristol.
Clifton Downs is a huge green space great for exploring, picnicking, sports practice and soaking in some great views over the river Avon and the Suspension Bridge. There are some wooded areas that we love finding conkers and dancing through the orange leaves during autumn.
3. Cycle to Bath along the Bristol to Bath Cycle route
If you feel like burning some calories and have access to a bike, another one of Bristol’s free things to do is to cycle the Bristol to Bath cycle route. Totalling 13 miles one way (26 miles round trip) this cycle route is great for any level of cycling.
Completely traffic-free and flat in elevation, the Bristol to Bath cycle path follows an old disused railway track. I’ve completed this route twice now, once with a friend and the other time with Amy! It’s full of nature and the views are lovely. Bring a packed lunch to eat in Bath to keep your day as free as possible!
4. Visit Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
When planning one of your free days out in Bristol, head to the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. Admission is free, but donations are always greatly appreciated.
Here you will find Banksy pieces, fine art, natural history and geology. Perfect for rainy days, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is great to visit. Also, keep an eye out for Alfred the Gorilla!
5. Visit the Arnolfini
Next on the list is to visit the infamous Arnolfini art gallery. A global hub for diverse contemporary arts, the Arnolfini brings together a dynamic and extensive array of visual art, performance, dance, film, and music in an ambitious program. Located in the heart of the harbourside, it’s a great all-rounder on your day in Bristol.
6. Explore Brandon Hill and climb Cabot Tower
Searching for the best views of Bristol? Then look no further, this next spot is a must! And better yet, it’s one of Bristol’s free activities to discover. Climb to the top of Cabot Tower to get a full 360-degree panoramic of Bristol and its surrounding areas.
If you don’t fancy climbing the tower, have a wander through Brandon Hill, you can still get some nice views here too. Don’t miss the ‘Cassy bench’ if you’re a Skins fan!
7. Visit Bristol Cathedral
Another free activity to do in Bristol is to visit the Bristol Cathedral. Being one of Bristol’s most famous and recognisable landmarks, be sure to check it out. Soak in the history of this 12th-century gothic cathedral as you gaze at the colourful stained glass windows.
You will also find a cafe and garden at the rear of the cathedral once you’ve walked all the way through! Free water and toilets on site.
8. Self-guided street art tour (Stokes Croft)
Take a stroll through the centre of Bristol and find yourself passing through the ‘Bearpit’ and entering Stokes Croft. Bristol is filled with amazing graffiti and street art, in Stokes Croft especially, you will find it in abundance.
Stokes Croft is known for its alternative, bohemian style. If this sounds like a bit of you, come and take a look!
9. Find Banksy street art scattered around Bristol
The world-famous street artist Banksy is known for growing up around Bristol, and as you can imagine, there are quite a few Banksy pieces scattered around the city.
Attempting to find all of Banksy’s street art is one of our favourite things to do in Bristol because we get to adventure around the whole city.
Grab some snacks and take yourself on a free self-guided Banksy tour around Bristol. See below for a quick map of some Banksy pieces to see.
Check out our one day Bristol itinerary to find out how to plan your day trip!
10. Ashton Court Estate
Covering 850 acres of woodland and green space, Ashton Court Estate is perfect for free outdoor activities in Bristol. It has an expansive network of trails for running, cycling or walking.
Be sure to pack a picnic or BBQ in the summer months, as you’ll be jealous when you see others enjoying the sunshine! If you’re here around dawn, there’s a chance you’ll see wild deer wandering the dewy grass.
11. Free walking tour
The best way to experience any city and learn about its rich history is by the side of an experienced walking tour guide. While labelled as a free walking tour, it’s always a good idea to tip your guide at the end. Depending on the service and experience received, go with what feels appropriate.
We’ve done many free walking tours in cities all over Europe and the world, and Bristol is full of hidden history to be learnt!
12. Bristol Central Library
Are you an avid reader, or need a quiet place to come to think? Bristol Central Library is another great free visit in Bristol. Situated near Bristol Cathedral and College Green, it’s an easy one to visit on a day out in Bristol.
Built in 1906, it’s a fascinating slice of British history. Don’t forget to take a look in the main room with its dome-like ceiling windows.
13. Clifton Suspension Bridge
One of the best free things to do in Bristol is to visit the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. We still get chills driving in Bristol and seeing the bridge amongst all the colourful houses.
No visit to Bristol is complete without seeing Clifton Suspension Bridge up close and personal. Free to visit, Clifton Suspension Bridge offers breathtaking views, great photo opportunities and a glance into what was the British industrial revolution. A rich example of British history.
14. Queen Square
Most notable for its Georgian architecture, you’ll notice that Queen Square is symmetrical with 18th-century buildings surrounding this timeless park. It’s a nice spot to sit with friends in the summer months and also admire the impressive architecture.
15. Castle Park
Next on our free things to do in Bristol guide, we have Castle Park. Conveniently nestled in the centre of Bristol overlooking the waterside, Castle Park is a great spot to come and unwind.
We’ve lost count of how many times we’ve chilled here after work, the atmosphere is pretty lively and it’s also perfect after a day of shopping!
You might be wondering, “Where did Castle Park earn its name?”. Take a look around, you’ll see remains of a medieval castle and old city walls!
16. Victoria Park
Hidden in the South of Bristol in Bedminster, you will find a wonderful park called Victoria Park. Perfect for relaxing, walking and dog spotting on a slow Sunday. In November they hold a huge annual bonfire on November 5th for Guy Fawkes night!
Victoria Park became our local park when we moved to Bristol, so we spent the weekends sunbathing here and exploring the grounds. It’s quite hilly and a great way to spend an afternoon in Bristol for free.
17. Self-guided filming locations tour
As you navigate your way around Bristol, you might recognise a few film locations. You’ve likely seen them on the big screen at some point! Bristol is packed with filming locations, which makes for a free fun activity to do in Bristol.
British cult classics such as Skins, Doctor and Sherlock have all been filmed in Bristol. Check out these great filming locations around Bristol.
18. Visit M Shed
When looking for things to do in Bristol for free, head to M Shed. M Shed is a free museum dedicated to all things Bristol. Located on the old working docks of Bristol Harbourside, it’s a great activity for sunny or rainy days alike. Suitable for all ages.
19. Window shopping in Cabot Circus and Broadmead
Technically you can browse shops without shopping. It doesn’t cost anything to explore the shopping area of Cabot Circus and Broadmead. It’s worth checking out even if you aren’t there to shop. Cabot Circus frequently has free events and campaigns running in the main shopping area.
20. Check out the thrift shops on Park Street
Park Street has some of the best thrift stores in Bristol, what’s not to say you can’t do a bit of free window shopping to explore all of the different fashion styles you spot around the city? Come here for inspiration on your next shopping trip.
21. Explore Clifton Village
Clifton Village is another one of Bristol’s free activities. A historic gem blending Georgian elegance, boutique shopping, and a lively vibe. From charming streets and independent shops to iconic landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, it’s a must-visit for a taste of Bristol’s rich culture in a quaint, inviting setting.
It’s also a great stop to grab a coffee and a sweet treat, Clifton Village is spoilt for choice on cafes and bakeries, but you can also pack snacks to keep your day free! Pair this with a visit to the suspension bridge to get the most out of your free day in Bristol.
22. Street art of North Street (Upfest)
As previously mentioned, Bristol is bursting with amazing street art and talented artists. South of the river in North Street, Bedminster hosts Europe’s largest street art and graffiti event, UPFEST.
Once a year, all of the street art on North Street is redone in this 17-day mega event. Meaning, no 2 trips to North Street are the same (unless visiting within the year of course).
23. Spike Island Gallery
Spike Island is a unique art space which hosts different types of exhibitions. Art here is described as ‘thought-provoking’ in a cosy space.
The island is close to the harbourside and there’s a cafe on site with amazing sandwiches. Come and check out Spike Island when looking for free things to do in Bristol.
24. The Georgian House Museum
Step into the past and admire this well-preserved Georgian house from 1790. Originally built for a wealthy sugar merchant by the name of John Pinney, this house now serves as a free museum in Bristol.
It’s important to note that John Pinney worked in the slave trade, which the museum acknowledges and expands on as Bristol played a big part in this horrible trade.
25. Bristol Ballon Fiesta
Watch hundreds of hot air balloons ascend to the skies and float elegantly over Bristol. The official festival takes place on the grounds of Ashton Court Estate and is completely free!
However, hot air balloons can be seen from all over the city, it’s quite the experience! Bristol Balloon Fiesta takes place every summer in August.
This is another one of our favourite things to do in Bristol for free and something we miss about living in Bristol! From our flat in Bedminster, we could see hot air balloons in the sky throughout the year. The Balloon Fiesta is a must when looking for free things to do in Bristol in August.
26. Bristol Harbour Festival
If you’re in Bristol in late July you HAVE to go to Bristol Harbour Festival! It’s a free 3-day festival offering live music, dance performances and cultural displays. Surrounded by amazing food vendors and lots of booze, you’re sure to have a good time here! The main stage being held at Lloyds Amphitheatre.
27. Arnos Vale Cemetery
Arnos Vale Cemetery in Bristol is a captivating blend of history and nature. With its impressive Victorian architecture and landscaped grounds, it offers a unique and peaceful escape. Many notable people have been buried here, either come here for a wander or on a paid tour if you prefer.
28. The Red Lodge Museum
Another one of Bristol’s free activites is the Red Lodge Museum! This is a house museum, dating back to 1580. Red Lodge Museum is a great example of Tudor/Elizabethan architecture and is not to be missed.
Be sure to check the latest opening times here, as the museum is closed during winter as well as mid-week during spring/summer.
29. St Mary Redcliffe
St Mary Redcliffe Church in Bristol is a perfect spot for learning about medieval art and Bristol’s history. The Gothic church is full of lovely architecture from the carvings to the classic stained glass windows.
30. Blaise Castle Estate
Blaise Castle Estate offers a wonderful blend of history and nature. The charming Blaise Castle, open since the 18th century, overlooks expansive grounds with woodlands and family-friendly areas. We remember visiting Blaise Castle on school trips!
You can explore the Georgian mansion, enjoy the quaint Blaise Hamlet, and take in panoramic views, all conveniently accessible from the city centre. So it’s made it onto our free activities to do in Bristol as it’s the perfect day trip.
31. St Nicholas Market
Some of the best market food Bristol has to offer, although eating isn’t free, it is free to spend some time browsing the different market areas of St Nick’s! You will also find some great antiquities and vintage items in the main hall area.
32. Millennium Square
Millennium Square is a large public square that holds some of Bristol’s cultural events. We’ve seen Wimbledon tennis being shown on the big screens with deck chairs and various other sport events!
The Square is also home to the Planetarium which looks like a huge mirrored globe from the outside. You’ll also find plenty of water fountains here, which kids tend to play in during the summer months.
33. See the SS Great Britain
Come and see the SS Great Britain in all of its glory. Stand on the Hotwells side of the River Avon and you’ll get the best view to snap your pictures. SS Great Britain charges to go aboard, but it’s completely free to admire from the outside. Built-in 1843, this ship is of great British historical importance.
34. Christmas Steps
Christmas Steps is one of the best free places to visit in Bristol and it’s a local favourite! A medieval alleyway that looks like it is straight out of a Harry Potter book, you will find boutique independent shops, cafes and barber shops. And don’t be confused by the name, it is not Christmas-themed!
The visit to Christmas steps may be short, but you can pair it up with the harbourside or Park Stree.
Browse our Bristol day trip guide to plan your trip by morning, afternoon and evening!
35. St Pauls Carnival
Since the late 1960s, St Paul’s Carnival has been an annual celebration of Afro-Carribean culture in Bristol. This amazing festival is celebrated with food, live music and a colourful parade.
It’s one of the more unique free things to do in Bristol. It’s important to note that St Paul’s Carnival attracts thousands of people and will be very busy.
36. The Royal York Crescent
When hunting for free things to do in Bristol for free in Clifton, visit the Royal York Crescent.
The Royal York Crescent are an elegant row of Georgian-style houses in the Clifton area. This notable street is full of history and overlooks the impressive Clifton Suspension Bridge. We can’t even imagine who these beautiful homes were built for!
This crescent is the perfect spot for photography which is another free activity to do in Bristol if you’re feeling creative.
37. Leigh Woods
The last activity on our free things to do in Bristol list is to explore Leigh Woods. If you cross over the Clifton Suspension Bridge to the opposite side of the Avon Mouth Gorge, you will be greeted with a beautiful wooded area!
There’s a lot of walking trails around here and there are some hidden holes where you can get views of the bridge and surrounding area. We always get lost when exploring here. Leigh Woods is also listed as an ‘Ancient Woods’ which refers to an area that has been continually wooded since 1600 AD.
Overview of 37 free things to do in Bristol
We’ve covered a lot of free activities to do in Bristol throughout this guide and as we’ve said before Bristol is great for sticking to a budget.
Bristol is the perfect day trip, whether you’re based somewhere local or visiting after spending a few days in London – we guarantee you’ll have a cheap (most likely free) day out in Bristol.
We found lots of free things to do in Bristol because we were saving up for our 3 month Southeast Asia trip whilst living in the city. We would find cheap ways of eating out, bring packed lunches to work every day and avoid expensive activities. Alongside these free tips, we also have a guide on how to save money for travelling.
Top 5 Free Things to do in Bristol from a Local
As we grew up in Bristol and also lived there, we wanted to share our personal top 5 favourite free things to do in Bristol.
- Clifton Village & Suspension Bridge – the most iconic free places to visit in Bristol.
- Harbourside – the best way to end your day in Bristol!
- Finding Banksy Street Art – Banksy’s murals never get old!
- Bristol Cathedral – worth a visit if you appreciate buildings and churches.
- Bristol Ballon Fiesta & Bristol Harbourside Festival – the free best events in Bristol.
Planning tips for a free day out in Bristol
💤 Hotels – Book the Moxy Bristol for a comfortable time in the city!
🛌 Hostels – Book the The Full Moon Backpackers for an affordable stay in Bristol.
The best way to get around Bristol for free is to walk. Luckily, Bristol is very walkable but some of the places on this list are a little out of the city centre. Grab a bike if you have one, or take a local bus for only a few pounds.
If you’re looking for a cheap day trip to Bristol, you can find Megabus or National Express coaches for great prices if you book in advance. We usually get a ticket from London to Bristol for £3 each when we come back home to visit family.
You can also bring your car to Bristol and park for free in areas around Clifton, however most neighbourhoods in the city you’ll have to pay to park on the street or use a car park.
Best time to visit Bristol? When hunting for things to do in Bristol for free, any time of year is perfect. However our favourite time of year is May to September when the weather is better for exploring and relaxing in the parks.
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