Bristol is handily located between the M5 and M4 motorways, making it well connected to the rest of the UK. Once you leave the airport head north on the A38 and in just over 20 minutes you’ll be in the heart of the city. Note that there are one-way systems in operation around here to reduce congestion, as well as large pedestrian areas. 

If you take the A38 south you’ll be able to venture out to Weston-super-Mare for a seaside break or visit the limestone Mendip Hills – an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Alternatively, drive down the M5 towards Devon and Cornwall, where sandy beaches and quaint villages await. If you’d prefer to make your way north you will reach Gloucester, Cheltenham and the Cotswolds.

The Cotswolds are another area of outstanding natural beauty where you’ll encounter quintessentially English market towns and villages, set against a backdrop of rolling hills. From here you can continue onto Birmingham.  

If you’re visiting Cardiff then take the M4 towards the Severn Bridge – but be aware you’ll have to pay a toll as you cross through into Wales. Tolls are charged westwards only and you can either pay in cash or by card. 

To access Bath, a beautiful World Heritage Site, you need to join the A4 – Bath Road, which is easily reached via Airport Road. Here you can visit Britain’s only natural thermal spa and see streets lined with stunning Georgian architecture. 

Arrive at Bristol Airport and you have easy access to some of the most appealing destinations in south-west England, from picturesque coastal spots to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you want to breathe in the fresh country air or a sea breeze, you’re only a short drive away.

Explore rural Somerset

The stunning Somerset countryside has provided inspiration for a host of poets and authors down the years due to its striking natural beauty. Roam the Mendip Hills and discover their distinct limestone ridges, gorges and ancient monuments, which provide wonderful views across to Wales, the Quantock Hills and Glastonbury.

Nearby Wookey Hole Cave is the perfect place for a subterranean adventure, or clamber up the steps of Jacob’s Ladder to the top of Cheddar Gorge and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful rural vistas.

Head over Bristol’s Clifton Suspension Bridge and you’ll arrive at Ashton Court Estate – a country park with 850 acres of woodland and grassland. Spot deer as you wander through the historic park or settle down among the lush green grounds and tuck into a picnic.

If you’re visiting in August, this estate is the location of the incredible Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, which sees more than 130 hot air balloons take to the skies.

Experience history and architecture

Bristol and the surrounding area is rich in history and as a result, is home to impressive architecture and interesting landmarks. Trace different parts of the UK’s history all around the city – admire the Gothic façade of Bristol Cathedral, explore the Norman ruins of Castle Park and marvel at Tudor design at Thornbury Castle.

Bristol played an important role in the sea trade for hundreds of years and its maritime history is still evident across the city. For a taste of it, make your way to Bristol Marina and enjoy the splendour of the SS Great Britain.

The longest passenger ship in the world when she was built in the 1840s, this mighty ship has been restored to its former glory and is perfect for a family day out. Stroll across the pristine deck, head downstairs to explore the different quarters and see the enormous model engine up close.

Once you’ve enjoyed a dose of Bristol’s heritage, drive south-east out of the city and in just 40 minutes you’ll arrive in the beautiful city of Bath. Grand history is in abundance here, with Roman and Georgian sights to discover.

Listen to an audio guide as you meander through the famous Roman Baths to find out all about its incredible history. Then discover more elegant architecture at the Royal Crescent, wandering along the sweeping semi-circular terrace and enjoying views of the Royal Victoria Park.

Discover the English coast 

Rent a car from Bristol Airport and it’s your gateway to the coast. The seaside resort of Weston-Super-Mare is only a 30-minute drive away and offers a traditional English experience by the sea.

Take a gentle stroll along the promenade with an ice cream in hand, build sandcastles on the beach and have a go on the classic arcade games at the Grand Pier.

You’re also within easy reach of the Jurassic Coastline, a stunning stretch of World Heritage-protected coastline running from Studland Bay in Dorset to Exmouth in East Devon.

Explore the wild beauty of the pristine beaches and drink in views of the dramatic cliffs atop rugged headlands. Continue further down the coast to the epic county of Cornwall – there’s so much to do and see in this naturally beautiful pocket of England.

Sample hand-crimped Cornish pasties as you stroll around the picturesque port town of Falmouth, explore the giant fauna-filled biomes of the Eden Project and try your hand at surfing at Newquay’s famous Fistral Beach.

Whether you’re staying in Bristol city centre or heading to one of the surrounding areas, car hire from Bristol Airport will enable you to see all that south-west England has to offer and more.