Parks and Green Spaces

Bristol offers an enticing green and pleasant landscape with over 450 parks, gardens and open spaces - proportionately more than any other UK city. Take a look at just some of the green spaces below to help you find a quiet place to relax and escape from the hubbub of the city.

• The Downs - Bristol's largest open space, with outstanding views over the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge.

• Brandon Hill - Just off Park Street, you'll find a tranquil garden surrounded by splendid Georgian houses and buildings. Relax with a picnic or climb Cabot Tower for an outstanding view over the city and the countryside beyond.

• Castle Park - Originally home to Bristol Castle during medieval times, this centrally-located park is situated next to Cabot Circus and the Broadmead shopping centre, and offers a great place to relax your weary feet after a hard day's shopping.

• Queen Square - This charming square in Bristol's Old City district is a haven for lunchtime sun-worshippers enjoying an alfresco lunch.

• The University Botanic Garden - Cultivating some 4,500 plant species from over 200 plant families, this 5 acre site is a unique green space in the city of Bristol.

• Ashton Court Estate - Located just minutes from Bristol, this huge estate boasts acres of woodland trails and open spaces - perfect for walking, cycling or enjoying a picnic. Look out for major events taking place here throughout the year.

• Blaise Castle Estate - A short distance from the centre of Bristol, Blaise Castle Estate offers wonderful walks and a great children's playground.

• Bristol Zoo Gardens - After browsing the resident animals and taking part in the fun activities, why not relax for a while in the tranquil green space offered by the zoo. Home to an oustanding collection of plants, some unique to the Bristol area.

• Tyntesfield House - A unique National Trust Victorian estate, Tyntesfield House is surrounded by stunning grounds and preened gardens, which are open to the public throughout spring and summer.

• Westonbirt Arboretum - The National Arboretum at Westonbirt near Tetbury has 600 acres of landscaped countryside. Changing foliage throughout the year means every season is special, especially Autumn when the trees and shrubs burst into shades of red, gold and brown.

• Berkeley Castle - This ancient castle was once a Norman fortress, and much of the original building remains as it was hundreds of years ago. These days, the beautiful grounds, ponds, walled gardens and butterfly garden are open to visitors throughout the year.

• The Red Lodge - Located on Park Row near Bristol's city centre, this wonderfully-preserved house includes a beautiful, walled Elizabethan knot garden.