Meanwhile in Bristol: How to Have a Bristolian Staycation

Somehow it’s late July already. We’re not sure how it happened either. Although British summertime is well underway, you haven’t left it too late to plan a holiday. What’s more, you don’t even need to leave Bristol.
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Bristol International Balloon Fiesta
The Bristol Balloon fiesta returns to Ashton Court this year on August 11th-14th. You can expect the usual collection of fairground rides, food and booze. In addition, we can expect the second humongous water slide to come to town. This time, the 500ft water slide is in aid of Cancer Research UK.
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Watch a Shakespeare production at Tyntesfield
There is enough to do at Tyntesfield without its amazing calendar of events. But did you know they host outdoor Shakespeare performances? This summer, Much Ado About Nothing will be performed in the Victorian mansion’s garden.
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Clevedon beach
Clevedon makes 90% of our lists of things-to-do, and for good reason. If the weather permits, it’s the perfect place to pull up a deckchair and relax in the sun.
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Clifton Lido
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Clifton Lido makes a great place to swim, relax and dine. You can visit for a bit of outdoor exercise, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or book yourself a meal in the poolside restaurant.
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Picnic in the Park
When it comes to picnicking in the park, Bristolians are more than spoiled for choice. Not only do we have central hubs like The Downs, College Green and Brandon Hill, we also have a few quieter spots tucked away, such as Berkeley Square and Royal Fort Gardens.
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Hire a bike
Good weather riding! #Templecycles
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Bristol was named as one of Europe’s most cycle-friendly destinations. It would be a shame to waste it. Why not cycle under the suspension bridge on route 41, or take route 33 out of city towards Long Ashton and North Somerset. Head to the Sustrans website to find your perfect route.
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Strawberry picking in Chew Valley
If you have a car, or don’t mind venturing out on the bus for a day, there are some wonderful escapes on the outskirts of the city. In Chosen Hill Farm, you can pick strawberries and fresh fruits to your heart’s content.
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Catch a Sunset
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Given the British weather, this one might take some planning and/or trial and error. But catching a glorious sunset with the suspension bridge or harbourside in the foreground makes it all worthwhile.
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Walk in the Woods
Surprisingly, you don’t need to own a car to go for a woodland adventure in Bristol. Leigh Woods is within walking distance from the city centre (or a short bus ride if you want to save your energy for walking itself). If you do own a car, head to Blaise Castle or Goblin Combe.
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Go Camping or Glamping in Bristol
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If you’re fortunate to have a budget for your Bristolain staycation, you can stay in For Uplands luxury Treehouse. If you’re happy to reside in a tent for a few days, you can head to Nettwood Farm in the Mendip area of outstanding natural beauty for an affordable escape.
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Curzon Cinema
The Curzon cinema is worth having in mind if it rains and all of the above options fail. Even if it’s sunny the cinema is worth the visit.
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Noah’s Ark zoo
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Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is based in Wraxall, Somerset. The farm own an enormous amount of space, meaning you can encounter animals such as elephants and tigers. The playbarns and shows make Noah’s Ark a great day out for families.
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Lavender Picking in Somerset
@mayfieldlavender Surrey uk 👍🏻☀️ #mycanon #summer #omgb #lovegreatbritain
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Our final staycation suggestion is Somerset Lavender farm. This is a great spot for photography and food. Who knew lavender cake was a thing?