Discover 4,500 species of plants at the Botanic Garden, or enjoy a living history of the city's trade and maritime past at the Floating Ballast Seed Garden. 

Nearby nature reserves like Chew Valley offer the opportunity for hiking, spotting wildlife, and fishing. For something more central, there’s Brandon Hill, the oldest park in Bristol and a tranquil oasis just minutes from the bustling Park Street. In summertime, residents line the banks of the River Avon, relaxing in the sunshine by the harbourside.

Take a dip at Clifton Lido, or, for the more adventurous, try wild swimming at Claverton Weir in neighbouring Bath. For further fun: take a boat to Beese's Tea Gardens, travel along the river in style with Bristol Ferries, or try your hand at paddle boarding at the harbourside. After being on the water, relax and unwind in one of Bristol's numerous floating bars and restaurants.

Enter the Giant’s Cave if you dare, and enjoy the folklore and mystery of Clifton Observatory, as well as the views. Spot red deer at the beautiful Ashton Court, or learn to rock climb in the Avon Gorge. Nearby Leigh Woods has excellent walking and biking trails, and Clifton Downs is a huge area of protected parkland stretching north of the city.