Stunning Walking Spots Near Bristol

Bristol offers a variety of scenic walking spots, all within an hour’s drive from the city. Here are some of the top destinations:

  1. Prior’s Wood, Portbury – An 18-minute drive from Bristol, this 2-mile walk features ancient woodlands and the chance to spot roe and fallow deer.

  2. Weston Woods, Weston-super-Mare – Located on Worlebury Hill Road, this area offers a 2-mile walk with a gravel path to accommodate wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs.

  3. Blagdon Lake, Mendip Hills – This 1-mile walk in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty includes a well-maintained footpath and opportunities to see various wildlife.

  4. Glastonbury Tor, Somerset – Known for its historical significance, this 2-mile walk offers stunning views across the Somerset Levels.

  5. The Cleve Hill and Common Walk, Cheltenham – A 4.5-mile hike providing panoramic views of the Malverns and Wales on clear days.

  6. Bath Skyline Walk, Bathwick Hill – A 6-mile walk just outside Bath’s city center, featuring meadows, woodlands, and secluded valleys.

  7. Chew Magna Circular, Somerset – This 3-mile loop offers views of historic buildings and scenic field paths.

  8. Gloucestershire Way – A 94-mile route divided into 12 sections, stretching from Chepstow to Tewkesbury.

  9. Stourhead Terrace Walk, Wiltshire – A 5.5-mile walk encompassing a 1,072-hectare estate with a Palladian mansion and gardens.

  10. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset – A dramatic 3-mile walk around England’s largest gorge, offering spectacular views.

  11. Westbury White Horse, Wiltshire – An 8-mile circuit starting at the Westbury White Horse, passing various historic landmarks.

  12. West Somerset Coast Path – This 25-mile coastal path from Burnham on Sea to Minehead features numerous stop-off points for refreshments.

The Ostrich Pub in Bristol

The Ostrich, located on Lower Guinea Street by Bristol’s harbourside, boasts one of the largest outdoor seating areas in the neighborhood. Acquired by Butcombe in 2017, the pub has been refurbished multiple times, featuring both indoor and alfresco bars, picnic benches, and an American-themed Portside BBQ. Established around 1745, the pub is built into the sandstone cliff of Redcliffe Hill and has a rich history, including a smuggler’s cave now exposed in its interior. The Ostrich is known for its diverse beer selection and extensive menu, offering a mix of bar snacks, burgers, steaks, and fish & chips. It is LGBTQIA+ friendly and welcomes children and dogs.

Boundary Changes for Bristol’s General Election

The upcoming July General Election in the West of England will occur within newly redefined parliamentary constituencies. Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and North East Somerset voters will cast their ballots in different constituencies due to boundary changes driven by population increases. The alterations include the creation of Bristol Central, Bristol North East, and North East Somerset and Hanham constituencies, among others. These changes aim to balance voter numbers across constituencies, impacting voter demographics and potentially election outcomes.

Arcadia’s Dragonfly at Glastonbury 2024

Arcadia, the Bristol-based team known for their iconic spider stage, is back at Glastonbury Festival with a new creation—a dragonfly built from an old Royal Navy helicopter. This biomechanical structure will be part of a new ceremonial arena, featuring performances by members of the Wadjuk Noongar nation from Australia. Headlined by Fatboy Slim, Eric Prydz, Amelie Lens, and Andy C, the Dragonfly installation aims to symbolize transformation and unity. Other features include the Bug, a mobile structure, and the Alchemists’ Playground, an interactive area for children.

Siren Festival Announces All-Female Line-Up

Bristol’s Siren Festival at the Bristol Amphitheatre has announced an all-female line-up for its Thursday events. Headlined by Sugababes, the line-up includes Jaguar, Tyler Lewis, and Peachin’. The festival aims to support and highlight female talent in the music industry. Co-Founder Tom Hoyle expressed excitement about the powerhouse female acts joining the event. Tickets are available on the Siren website.

A Day Out in Brean

Brean, a village in North Somerset, offers a 7-mile beach where visitors can park their cars on the sand. Key attractions include the 97-metre high natural pier Brean Down, historical sites like a Roman temple and coastal fort, local shops, and Brean Leisure Park, which features roller coasters, a water park, and a golf club. Brean is a convenient destination within an hour’s drive from Bristol, perfect for a day out with family.

Hidden Roof of Bristol’s Corn Exchange

The Corn Exchange in Bristol, part of St Nicholas Market, hides a historical feature—a roof with Egyptian depictions and additional rooms that were sealed during World War II. This roof is visible only from specific upper rooms, now part of a walking tour that includes a view of the original structure. The tour also allows a unique view of All Saints Church.

Bristol Police Appeals for Witnesses

Avon and Somerset Police are seeking public assistance in several investigations, including a woman forced into a car in Keynsham, a burglary in Bristol city center, and a serious crash on the M5. They have released CCTV images of suspects in the burglary and are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed these incidents or has relevant information.

Upcoming Northern Lights in Wales

Sky watchers in Wales may witness the Northern Lights between June 4-6, as increased solar activity raises chances for aurora displays. Previous displays in May were extraordinary due to a significant solar flare. Experts anticipate more activity, although weather conditions may affect visibility. The best viewing opportunities will be in Scotland and northern England.