Getting around Bristol

Bristol is a great place to get around without a car. Our central location means you can reach most places easily on foot, by bike or by public transport.

Maps

  • Maps of the University campus are on our maps and travel page.
  • Visit Bristol has maps of Bristol and information where to get hard copies.

Walking

The University campus is quite compact, and you can walk between most buildings in less than ten minutes.

The campus is within easy walking distance of the city centre, Bristol Temple Meads train station and Bristol bus and coach station.

Visit Bristol has maps of Bristol and information on where to get hard copies.

Cycling

Cycling is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to get around town. Try Better by Bike to plan your route.

There is cycle parking throughout the campus and many of the residences have locked cycle parking facilities.

We run initiatives to support and encourage cycling, including free cycle training and a free cycle clinic to keep your bike in good order.

Join the University Bicycle User Group (TUG-BUG). This is a community of nearly 2,000 cyclists. You can keep up to date with University cycling news, events and initiatives.

Bus

The Clifton campus, Langford campus and student residences are linked to the city centre and other places by frequent bus services.

If you live in university-allocated accommodation, you will receive a free pass for unlimited travel on the Bristol Unibus U1, a fast and frequent service connecting student residences in North Village with the Clifton Campus and the city centre.

If you are not living in university-allocated accommodation, you can buy tickets or passes for this service.

Langford Campus (Bristol Vet School)

The Bristol Unibus U2 service links the Langford and Clifton Campuses.

All our Vet School students receive a free bus pass for unlimited travel on the Unibus U2 service. If you're not a vet student you can buy tickets or passes for this service.

Discounted student bus fares

All students can get cheaper bus fares online or via the First Bus app.

Train

Bristol has good train connections for getting around the city. Clifton Down station is the nearest station to the main University campus.

Student discounts

You can get reduced rail fares with a 16-25 Railcard (also available to full-time mature students).

Car

We do not recommend students bring a car to Bristol unless it is essential. Bristol is a very congested city and there are many parking restrictions.

There are residential permit areas, meters and time limits in and around the main campus.

Bristol City Council introduced a Clean Air Zone in Bristol in 2022. You must pay to drive within the zone if your vehicle does not meet the zone's emission standards, unless you have an exemption. 

You could join a car club. They have pay-as-you-go cars located across Bristol.

Park and Ride Services

If you drive to Bristol, we recommend using a Park and Ride service instead of driving into the city.

Electric scooters

Electric scooters are a common sight across Bristol and a popular way of getting around for many students and staff alike.

To use a scooter, you need to download the TIER app. This provides information on where to pick up a scooter, where you can to use it, costs, and much more. University staff and students can apply for a 35% discount

Travelling home in the dark after late teaching

Advice on personal safety is available from Security Services.

Getting to Bristol

For information on how to get here, look at our maps and directions information.

Travelwest

Travelwest's journey planner can help you to plan local journeys in detail.

Sustainable travel

Sustainable travel benefits your environment, your health and wellbeing as well as your finances.

Find out how we are dedicated to promoting sustainable travel through our initiatives and facilities.

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