Five best green spaces to relax and unwind in Bristol

By Ellie Crabbe, Second year, English

The Croft Magazine // Break the back-to-uni blues by spending time in Bristol's beautiful green spaces. Here are the top five places to hang out this autumn.

As the new year approaches, there is one thing at the forefront of our minds: academic work. Whether you are a fresher or a returner, despite the excitement, it can be a stressful time as there is plenty of hard work to be done.

However, there are some amazing ways to reduce back to uni stress – one of the cheapest and most relaxing being spending time outdoors!

The benefits of being in nature are limitless. There are obvious physical health aspects such as increased sun exposure which helps to increase levels of vitamin D (which helps the body absorb calcium, maintaining strong bones), but the mental health benefits are even more impressive.

Spending as little as 20-30 minutes a day in nature has been shown to decrease levels of the so-called ‘stress hormone’ cortisol and reduce general mental fatigue induced by regular proximity to screens.

Being out in nature is a fantastic, free way to de-stress and in Bristol, we are lucky to have such an abundance of accessible and beautiful green spaces. From vast expanses to pretty little parks, here are just a few of the best green spaces to relax in Bristol.

1. The Downs

It may seem glaringly obvious, but because they are a bit out of town it can sometimes be a trek to get up to the downs. However, I lived in Stoke Bishop as a fresher and I would often get off the bus to walk through the downs on my way home.

In varying weather, seasons, or times of day, it always looks different. From winter walks to summer barbecues, the downs are always a wonderful place to chill, both on your own or with friends.

2. Royal Fort Gardens

This charming little garden sits right in the centre of campus, but instantly has a different, more relaxed vibe. There are plenty of benches dotted around beside the lawns and flowerbeds, so it is a lovely, convenient spot to take a quick break during a day full of classes.

3. Victoria Park

Sitting just south of the Avon in Bedminster, this large Victorian park is an unsung hero. It provides great views of the city, plenty of seating areas and a tracked route of about a mile if you want to do some exercise.

Earlier this year, a new mobile café in a campervan called ‘Stuffed’ opened there. Serving hot drinks and pastries, it is sure to relax you even more in the fresh autumn air.

'Spending as little as 20-30 minutes a day in nature has been shown to decrease levels of the so-called ‘stress hormone’ cortisol'

4. College Green

Nestled between the cathedral and city council, College Green is surprisingly peaceful. With its colourful flowerbeds, water feature and large lawn, it is a great place to sit and take a breather after a busy day in town.

5. Brandon Hill

Brandon Hill is the oldest park in Bristol and has arguably some of the best views of the city. To the south, there is an almost bird’s eye view of the SS Great Britain and to the east a view of the suspension bridge.

Though a fairly beaten track, the park has lots of nooks and crannies to relax in including a pond surrounded by trees and shrubs. Due to its central location, it’s a perfect spot to bring your lunch and sit quietly, taking in the beautiful views of this brilliant city.

So, whether you prefer to get lost on the meandering paths of the downs, or simply stroll through college green as part of a busy day, one thing is for sure – we are spoilt for choice with green spaces in Bristol.

Featured: Epigram / Luke Leckie

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