Where is Bristol Airport and Why It’s the Perfect Gateway to Southwest England

Tucked away in the rolling hills of North Somerset, Bristol Airport stands as one of the most significant transport hubs in the UK.

While it may not be as large or bustling as Heathrow or Gatwick, Bristol Airport plays a crucial role for travellers heading to the South West of England – a region known for its rich history, charming fairy-tale villages, and stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re planning to visit the Roman city of Bath, marvel at the mystique of Stonehenge, explore the golden beaches of Cornwall, or drive through the picture-perfect Cotswolds, Bristol Airport will be the most convenient starting point for you.

In fact, it is one of the fastest-growing regional airports in the UK, a testament to its increasing importance on both national and international travel maps.

Bristol Airport was originally opened in 1930 as Bristol (Whitchurch) Airport and played a role in WWII as a base for the Royal Air Force. The modern airport, in its current location, officially opened in 1957 and has since grown to handle over 8 million passengers annually.

Where is Bristol Airport

Bristol Airport is situated in North Somerset, approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) southwest of Bristol city centre. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for both local residents and incoming tourists.

How to Get There

Thanks to its proximity to major cities and road networks, Bristol Airport offers a fantastic central point for exploring the South West. Depending on your preferences, there are several ways to get to and from the airport:

• By Car

The airport is conveniently located off the A38, a major route connecting Bristol to the surrounding areas. It offers a variety of parking options, including short-stay, long-stay, and premium car parks. Many travellers appreciate the ease of driving straight to the terminal, especially when compared to navigating the congestion around London airports;

• By Bus

The Airport Flyer Express is a fast and frequent bus service that connects the airport with Bristol city centre and Bristol Temple Meads train station. With departures every 10 minutes during peak hours, it’s a reliable choice for people getting to and from the airport;

• By Train (via Transfer)

Although there is no direct train service to the airport, passengers can travel to Bristol Temple Meads (a major railway station) and connect to the airport using the Airport Flyer bus service.

It is good to know that there are several cities nearby: Bath, which is approximately 45 minutes by car or transfer, Cardiff, which is 1 hour and 15 minutes away, and Exeter – 1 hour and 30 minutes from the airport.

What Does the Airport Offer

Despite being a regional airport, Bristol Airport is actually quite well-equipped to serve the needs of modern travellers.

The airport serves a growing number of airlines, including EasyJet (which is the dominant operator with many European routes), Jet2, Ryanair, TUI Airways and many others.

From Bristol, you can fly to a variety of popular European cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam, Rome, and Nice, as well as some popular sun-soaked beach destinations in Spain, Portugal, Greece, and the Canary Islands.

There are also several long-haul charter routes available, including seasonal flights to the increasingly popular Cape Verde.

Bristol Airport has seen several improvements over the years and now boasts a range of amenities.

Whether you’re in the mood for a full English breakfast or a quick coffee, its restaurants and cafés offer plenty of food and drink options.

The duty-free shops offer a wide variety of cosmetics, alcohol, tobacco, chocolate temptations, and gifts at tax-free prices.

There are also two Aspire Lounges, offering a comfortable and quiet space for business or leisure travellers seeking a more premium experience.

Of course, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. There are also family-friendly facilities, including baby changing areas, children’s play zones, and family seating to make travelling with kids more convenient.

Accessibility services are available for passengers with special requirements, including dedicated assistance for those with reduced mobility, which can be arranged upon request.

Why is Bristol Airport the Ideal Choice

Bristol Airport stands out as the perfect gateway to the South West of England. One of the biggest advantages of flying into Bristol is the relative calm compared to London’s major airports. Passengers benefit from shorter queues, quicker baggage claim, and a generally less stressful experience – a huge plus for families and older travellers.

Bristol Airport is ideally situated for exploring some of England’s most famous historical and natural landmarks, including Bath (UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture) and Stonehenge (Mysterious and ancient, this prehistoric monument is just a 90-minute drive away).

Cotswolds, known for its rolling hills, honey-coloured stone villages, and charming countryside, await less than an hour from the airport.

Cornwall and Devon, on the other hand, are ideal for road trips, offering breathtaking seaside cliffs, world-class surf beaches, and charming fishing towns.

With operators like EasyJet and Ryanair, Bristol Airport offers a good mix of budget and comfort. However, the facilities also cater to those who prefer a bit more comfort, making it suitable for all types of journeys.

Last but not least, flights to and from Bristol often cost less than from bigger UK airports. Additionally, shorter transfer times and cheaper parking make it an economically smart choice for weekend getaways or family holidays.

Bristol Airport may be modest in size, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to convenience, connectivity, and charm.

It offers the perfect entry point to discover the treasures of South West England, whether you’re planning to soak in Bath’s thermal waters, walk the cliffs of Cornwall, or cycle through the Cotswolds.

If you’re considering a trip to this part of the UK, Bristol Airport should be at the top of your list. From here, you can easily visit Glastonbury Tor (steeped in myth and legend), Cheddar Gorge (dramatic cliffs and caves just 30 minutes from the terminal), and Wells (England’s smallest city, known for its stunning cathedral).

And a few quick travel tips to make your journey flawless:

Tip №1: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure, especially during peak season;

Tip №2: Use online check-in to save time;

Tip №3: Book your transfer from the airport to your final destination in advance (Airport Flyer buses and rental cars are your best bet).