Time and time again, Bristol is named as one of the greenest cities in the UK, with a 2022 study placing Bristol in third place.
Another study placed Bristol in first place, and looked at several different elements during the ranking process, including air quality, recycling rates, and parks and green spaces.Â
So, let’s take this opportunity to learn a bit more about Bristol’s commitment to maintaining its green spaces before taking a closer look at some of the best nature reserves and open spaces across the city.
Bristol’s commitment to preserving green spaces.
Bristol City Council is determined to ensure that every community across the city feels as though its parks are a fun, safe, inclusive and accessible place in which to spend time by 2039.Â
To date, the city has planted nearly 100,000 trees as part of the One Tree Per Child programme. Going forward, the city has plans in place to further its Food and Allotments Strategy to achieve greater food equality and support the city’s social enterprises. Additionally, management of all of Bristol’s parts will be undertaken in collaboration with communities and community groups in order to encourage as many people across the city as possible to get involved, connect with nature, and experience the health and happiness benefits of doing so.Â
The Benefits of Spending Time in Nature
As the charity ‘Mind’ explains, nature can benefit our mental health in many different ways. As well as providing space to enjoy the fresh air and feel more relaxed, open spaces can also improve our mental and physical health by encouraging us to be more active, improve our mood, and minimise feelings of anger or stress.Â
Heather Eliassen, who is a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, explains that exposure to green spaces is associated with myriad health benefits, including lower blood pressure, better sleep, and a reduced risk of developing chronic disease. Eliassen also notes that spending time outside in nature is also linked with improved mental health and well-being, as well as a reduced risk of psychiatric disorders in both children and adults.Â
Must-Visit Parks and Nature Reserves in Bristol
So, now you know how valuable it is to spend time outside and exploring green spaces, let’s take a look at some of the best nature reserves and parks that the city of Bristol has to offer.
The Avon Gorge
Located at the end of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Avon Gorge is home to a spectacular selection of rare plants, making the area one of the UK’s most important botanical sites. In fact, Avon Gorge is the only place in which Bristol onion and rock-cress grows in the whole of the UK.
Avon Gorge was created during the last ice age and is now such an important wildlife habitat that it has been designated as a Special Area of Conservation and as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. With so much to see and appreciate, a full programme of events takes place throughout the year here, including wildlife talks, workshops, and discovery walks, which are suitable for all ages.
Brandon Hill Nature Reserve
Located in the heart of Bristol, Brandon Hill Nature Reserve is managed by the Avon Wildlife Trust and is a haven for wildflowers and wildlife. The Nature Reserve was born during the urban conservation movement in the 1980s, with Bristol City Council and the Avon Wildlife Trust teaming up to transform some five acres of urban parkland into the wildlife haven we know and love today.
Cabot Tower, which measures in at 105 feet tall, sits in the centre of the park and provides those who want to climb to the top with amazing views across the city. Other features to enjoy throughout this two hectare site include green fields that are perfect for picnics, wildflower meadows that are bursting with colour during the spring and summer months, and a large pond that is home to myriad newts, toads and frogs.
The Downs
Encompassing Durdham Down and Clifton Down, the Downs borders the Redland, Clifton and Clifton Village areas of the city. This area of parkland is protected and is home to a range of major events throughout the year. It’s also a beautiful area to walk, picnic and play, as well as observe the spectacular views across the Avon Gorge. Peregrine Watch is another noteworthy area of this special parkland, as you could catch a glimpse of the area’s resident peregrine falcons.
We recommend keeping up to date with the programme of events held in this part of the city, as it includes everything from funfairs to circuses, charity runs and even sponsored abseiling events. The Downs is also home to The Downs League, which is a popular amateur football league with numerous pitches that can be booked throughout the year.Â
Whether you’re new to the city or you’re looking to move to a new part of Bristol and you’re keen to be close to open green spaces, Hopewell can help. We’re all Bristol locals and are always eager to share our knowledge of the city to help you find your perfect property. If you’re hoping to make this green city home, get in touch today.