

Car Hire at Bristol Airport UK






Welcome to Bristol Airport!
Bristol, located in the southwest of England, is a dynamic city known for its rich maritime history, creative culture, and proximity to stunning countryside and coastal areas. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or both, the city offers a variety of attractions to explore. Bristol is a vibrant, historic city in southwest England, known for its maritime heritage, thriving arts scene, and iconic landmarks. From the Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, to the lively Harbourside area and the vibrant street art scene, there’s something for everyone. Renting a car at Bristol Airport provides the flexibility to explore this fascinating city and its surrounding regions at your own pace. Located 13 km (8 miles) south of the city centre, Bristol Airport is easily accessed via the A38 and M5 motorways. From Bristol, you can head to nearby cities such as Cardiff, the picturesque bay-side capital of Wales (44 km/27 miles), the historic city of Exeter, renowned for its stunning medieval architecture (108 km/67 miles), and the picturesque UNESCO status city of Bath, famous for its well-preserved Roman baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and natural hot springs (21 km/13 miles). Just a short drive away you’ll find Cirencester and the beautiful Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty (about 44 km/27 miles). The historic city of Oxford is around 136 km (85 miles) away, while the picturesque coastline of Cornwall is 245 km (152 miles) southwest, offering dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches.
Upon arriving at Bristol Airport (BRS), picking up your hire car is simple, making it easy to head straight to the city or beyond. Whether you plan to explore the historic city centre, enjoy scenic drives in the nearby countryside, or venture to the coast, renting a car gives you the freedom to travel as you wish. The airport has flight connections with cities all over the UK, including London (Gatwick, Heathrow, London City), Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Newcastle, Manchester and Cardiff. It flies to a wide range of European countries, including Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Portugal, Switzerland and Greece, as well as Egypt and Morocco. Bristol Airport is well connected, making it a convenient choice for exploring Bristol itself and the south west region. The city’s iconic harbourside, filled with historic ships and modern attractions, offers stunning views across the water, while its tree-lined streets and independent shops exude charm and character. Visitors can explore the artistic flair of areas like Stokes Croft or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the serene Downs, offering panoramic views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge. Beyond the city, the surrounding countryside beckons with its lush green hills and rolling valleys. Whether you're drawn to Bristol’s lively cultural scene or the tranquil beauty of its rural surroundings, the area promises a perfect blend of natural and man-made splendour.
Nearby alternatives, including Exeter Airport (EXT) and Cardiff Airport (CWL), offer additional options for travellers looking for flights into the region.
Driving in Bristol
Exploring Bristol and its surrounding regions by car is an unforgettable experience. The city itself offers a perfect blend of urban and natural beauty, with the vibrant city centre and historic landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain. The Harbourside area provides a glimpse of the city’s maritime history and is home to a number of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and restaurants. Driving around Bristol is an exciting journey through diverse districts, each offering its own unique character and scenery. The city's well-planned road network connects its many vibrant neighbourhoods, making it easy to explore. Starting from the iconic Clifton, you'll be greeted by the stunning views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the leafy streets lined with grand Georgian buildings. From here, head south towards Hotwells for a glimpse of the harbourside, with its historic ships and vibrant waterfront cafes. Following the A4, you’ll reach Redcliffe and Temple Meads, where industrial heritage meets modern regeneration. The imposing Bristol Temple Meads Station stands as a gateway to the city, surrounded by an emerging district with new developments. Heading west, you enter the quirky and artistic Stokes Croft, known for its street art and indie culture. The area’s murals and independent shops are perfect for exploring at a leisurely pace. Travel further north to Montpelier and Cotham, both areas full of charming Victorian terraced houses, green spaces, and cosy pubs. The Easton district, with its multicultural vibrancy, is best reached via the A420, offering a mixture of international restaurants, lively markets, and eclectic architecture. Heading west on the M4 takes you out of the city towards the peaceful countryside of Bristol’s Downs or the more rural Chew Valley, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for a relaxing drive through scenic landscapes.

Heading outside of Bristol, the Cotswolds, about 44 km (27 miles) away, offer a peaceful escape into rolling hills, chocolate-box villages, and charming market towns like Cirencester and Stow-on-the-Wold. To the south, the coastal city of Weston-super-Mare (25 km/16 miles) provides sandy beaches, traditional seaside attractions, and plenty of family-friendly activities. If you’re keen to explore further afield, the city of Bath, just 21 km (13 miles) from Bristol, is famed for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths, making it a popular day trip. In addition, the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is just 27 km (17 miles) south of Bristol and offers opportunities for hiking, caving, and exploring picturesque villages. If you're interested in the seaside, you can head to the resort town of Weymouth, which is 160 km (99 miles) south of Bristol, or further to the southwest to Exeter and the famous Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, offering dramatic cliffs and fossil-hunting opportunities. The capital of Wales, Cardiff, is just 44 km (27 miles) from Bristol, and it's easy to reach via the M4 motorway. Cardiff is known for its iconic Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and the bustling Cardiff Bay.
Tips and FAQs
Driving in and around Bristol gives you access to some of the most scenic and cultural spots in the UK. Whether you're exploring the city’s museums and galleries or driving to the nearby countryside, your hire car offers a fantastic way to discover the area. For best rates and availability, it’s advisable to book your hire car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Bristol Airport (BRS)
Number of terminals: 1 terminal
Location of car rental desks: In the terminal building
Distance to fuel station: 1.6 km (1 mile)
Nearest city: Bristol
Major roads: A38, M5

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