Top 5 Budget Friendly Activities in Bristol

Whilst there is a lot to see in Bristol, there are often times when the cost of things can be prohibitive. Exquisite local small plate cuisine, hot air balloon trips and luxury Airbnbs do, after all, come at a steep price! We've had a look around the city and think we've found 5 of the best things you can do right now that keep enjoyment high and costs low. Let's get to it!

An industrial building with red and white facade, large windows, and a sign reading M Shed on the side is situated near a port area. A large crane is visible to the left of the building, with clear blue skies overhead.
M Shed

1) Explore the University of Bristol Botanic Garden

Close-up of a vibrant orange fruit encased in a delicate, lacy, and dried husk. The intricate, web-like structure of the husk reveals the bright, smooth surface of the fruit within. The background is blurred, putting the focus on the fruit and its intricate covering.
University of Bristol Botanic Garden

First up on our budget round-up is the esteemed University of Bristol Botanic Garden which is the proud owner of some 4,500 species of plants across its many buildings, gardens and greenhouses. Capturing the story of evolution, the plants are grouped into climatic zones that are beautiful at all times of the year. We recommend spending some time in the 'Local flora and rare native collection' and the 'Useful plants collection', the latter of which is home to the largest collection of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs in the UK.

@BrisBotanicGarden

Where? Stoke Park Rd, Stoke Bishop, Bristol BS9 1JG.

Cost: £5 per adult.


2) Catch a Bristol Ferry Boat

A yellow and blue ferry boat floats on a canal beside a pier. The backdrop features a long brick building with blue upper panels and a glass-covered walkway, housing various shops and restaurants. A railing lines the pier in the foreground.
Bristol Ferry Boat

Some good weather coming up? Look no further than a trip on Bristol's not-for-profit trusty Bristol Ferry Boat service which aims to connect, build and nurture different communities in the city. Hop on board one of the yellow and blue vessels from a choice of 7 handy landings, the most popular of which include Temple Meads and SS Great Britain which have been working since 1977.

@BristolFerry

Where? 7 landings including Temple Meads, Castle Park, City Centre, Wapping Wharf, ss Great Britain, Mardyke Wharf and The Cottage.

Cost: Up to 10 minutes on board £2, 30 mins on board, £6.


3) Learn about Bristol’s history at M Shed

An industrial building with red accents houses The Workshop and The Shed, featuring large glass windows and doors. An old crane stands to the left of the building on a paved pathway, with a clear blue sky in the background.
M Shed

A jewel of Bristol Harbourside, the giant shed/ museum that is M Shed is the best place in the city to learn more about its rich past, both good and bad. In its free exhibits, see sustainable fashion masterpieces, jump onboard Bristol buses, and watch films and photographs that tell stories of residents that have long since left us. Start your day at M Shed and then head on to see Wapping Wharf, and Brune's SS Britain.

@bristolmuseums

Where? M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol, BS1 4RN

Cost: Free for general access, some exhibits involve paid entry.


4) Join the hustle and bustle at St Nicholas Markets

A bustling outdoor market scene with people browsing various vintage and antique items displayed on tables. A couple in the foreground examines an item closely. Surrounding them are other shoppers and an array of eclectic goods.
St Nicks

Known as St Nicks to locals, St Nicholas Markets can be founded stretching across the oldest stone paved parts of central Bristol. Whilst most known for the food options (which are plentiful!), the indoor section covers the Exchange Hall, the Glass Arcade and the Covered Market which include indie retailers such as Be Natural ProductsLunartique and Payback Records. We recommend taking a stroll around with no destination in no particular direction, following only your eyes and nose!

@stnicksmarket

Where? The Corn Exchange, Corn St, Bristol BS1 1JQ.

Cost: Free to explore but plenty of local fairs is on offer!


5) Enjoy an Oasis of Nature at Arnos Vale Cemetery

View of a cemetery with numerous grave markers and headstones. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and trees. A small chapel or mausoleum is visible in the background amidst the trees. Some people are seen tending to graves and the landscape is well-maintained.
Arnos Vale Cemetery

Something of a hidden gem to the average Bristol resident, the truly unique Arnos Vale Cemetery covers 45 acres of woodland in a mixture of maintained and wild areas. With beautiful stone buildings that house many weddings throughout the year, the site is rich in wildlife, history and charm. If desired, head to the modernist Atrium cafe for a hot chocolate.

@arnosvalecemetery

Where? Arnos Vale Cemetery Trust, West Lodge, Arnos Vale Cemetery, Bath Road, Bristol, BS4 3EW.

Cost: Free admission.