Bristol Airport Parking
Compare Cheap Bristol Airport Parking Deals
- Silver zone, premier, multi-story, long or short stay parking
- Special deals on meet & greet and drop & go parking
- Secured & fully insured low-cost, multiple parking options
- Extra 10% off when booking online
- Book with confidence, save time and money
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Compare Bristol Airport Parking
It’s easy to find the best car parking deals at Bristol Airport. With a range of secure car parks for a short stay, long stay and valet meet and greet parking, Bristol Airport offers options to both pre-book parking, and drive up on the day. Getting a great deal on airport parking means complete peace of mind before you travel that your car will be left safely, so you can relax and enjoy your trip.
Whether you’re heading away for a family holiday, or just away overnight on business, finding the right airport parking does not need to be a headache.
Types of parking at Bristol Airport
Bristol Airport has a range of car parking options to choose from for every length of stay. The cost of parking varies according to which car park you choose, whether you book in advance and the distance of the car park from the terminal.
Silver Zone Parking
The cheapest parking at Bristol Airport is usually in the Silver Zone car park. This is great for medium to long-stay parking and is available to book in advance. After parking your car, simply check your keys in at the reception area, and head to the terminal building.
The Silver Zone parking is a short bus transfer ride from the airport, which is free of charge. The shuttle runs 24 hours a day and takes around 7-9 minutes, so you’ll need to factor this in when planning your arrival time for your flight.
Multi-Story parking
For those who prefer to leave their vehicle undercover while they travel, the multi-storey car park at Bristol Airport is a good choice. The car park is closer to the terminal than both Silver and Long Stay parking, with the walk taking around 3-4 minutes. It’s a great option if you’re looking for convenient and easy parking.
It is possible to arrive at this car park without pre-booking, although the cheapest rates are found by booking your spot in advance.
Meet and Greet parking
Meet and greet parking is ideal if speed and convenience are factors in your choice of car park. Located right next to the terminal building, the Drop and Go parking is a fully staffed car park where you simply pull into one of the available bays, leave your keys, and your car is parked for you.
On your return, your car will be waiting for you to simply drive away.
Meet and greet parking is only available to pre-book.
Drop and Go parking
For dropping off passengers, Bristol Airport has a Drop and Go car park area. The area is designed for very short stays, with ten minutes of parking costing £3. If you think you will need longer than this, the short stay car park may be a cheaper option.
There is a waiting zone, which is free to use for up to an hour if your passenger’s flight is delayed, or you need longer. The waiting zone is near the entrance of the Silver Zone car park.
Long stay parking
If you’re looking for parking slightly closer to the terminal, Bristol Airport’s long-stay parking is a good option. It’s only available for stays over one day, but it is possible to walk to the terminal building from parts of the car park.
Alternatively, if you prefer not to walk, the free shuttle bus runs frequently to the check-in area, which is a useful option if you are travelling with excess baggage, or small children in tow. The shuttle transfer from Long Stay parking takes just 4 minutes.
Premier Parking
One of the most convenient parking options at Bristol Airport is the Premier Car Park. This is ideal for business travellers, or anyone looking to park close to the terminal as it is only a short 2-minute walk to check-in.
The car park is open for stays of between 1 and 15 days, and although you can drive up on the day of travel, there are discounts available for booking in advance to secure one of the 495 spaces.
Short stay and pick up
Short Stay parking is available at Bristol Airport for around £2 for the first twenty minutes. The short-stay car park is the best option when picking passengers from the airport. It is close to the terminal, within walking distance of the arrivals hall.
Entry and exit to the short-stay parking are barrier controlled. Simply take a ticket on arrival, and pay at the pay station before you leave.
Bristol Airport parking at a glance
- Short stay and long stay parking
- Meet and greet parking
- Secure car parks
- Accredited with ParkMark for safer parking
- CCTV
- ANPR number plate recognition
- Secure perimeter fencing
- Controlled entry and exit points
- Free shuttle bus transfers
- Pre-bookable
- Drive-up rates available
Hotel and parking at Bristol Airport
Booking a hotel stay the night before you fly from Bristol can mean you get an extra hour in bed, without having to worry about long journeys to the terminal, or last-minute traffic problems.
Bristol Airport has one hotel on-site, but there is a range of well-known hotel brands all within easy reach of the terminal.
Hampton By Hilton
This new hotel is connected to the terminal by a covered walkway, and is only 250metres from the check-in area, making it very convenient. The hotel is well equipped with a fitness centre, restaurant, comfortable rooms and a complimentary hot breakfast, so you can start your day of travel in style. For business travellers, there is a range of services available including meeting rooms, phone and fax and Wi-Fi.
The hotel has its own car park, and longer stays can be booked into the long-stay parking at the airport.
Holiday Inn Bristol Airport
The Holiday Inn offers well-priced rooms just 3 miles from the airport. A shuttle bus operates between the hotel and the terminal, so you can be assured of a fuss-free start to your trip. The shuttle costs £4 per person and runs 24 hours a day. The hotel offers room service, a mini fitness centre and an on-site restaurant and bar.
Parking is available at the site for the duration of your trip if you book in advance. Rates start at £10 per night.
Bed and Breakfast
For a more personal touch, some travellers from Bristol Airport choose one of the many highly rated bed and breakfast accommodation options. Coombe Retreat offers free airport transfers and on-site parking. The Old Manor House, Ashdale B&B and The Old Chaff Mill are all also close by, offering friendly and charming accommodations close to the airport.
Transfers to Bristol Airport
By Bus
Bristol Airport is well served by local and national transport links by bus. There are frequent bus services to nearby cities Bristol, Bath and Weston-Super-Mare, along with services to smaller local destinations.
Transfers by bus to Bristol are via the Airport Flyer Express. This leaves approximately every ten minutes from the airport and costs £8 for a single journey.
The Bath Bus Company run transfers to Bath every thirty minutes. The journey takes around 50 minutes, and prices start from £14 one way.
There is also an hourly service to Weston-Super-Mare by AirportFlyer, which costs just £5 for a single journey.
The A5 bus services local villages, and a full timetable can be found here.
Taxi
Bristol Airport has a dedicated private hire taxi company, Arrow Cars.
Arrow Cars are the only taxi operator licenced to pick up or drop off directly outside the terminal, although other operators may use the waiting zone or drop-and-go areas.
By train
Bristol Airport does not have its own train station. The closest station is Bristol Temple Meads. From here, trains connect all over the UK.
The train station is connected to the airport using the Airport Flyer Express bus service, which runs from directly outside the rail station to the airport every ten minutes.
Transfers from Bristol Temple Meads rail station operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Car Hire
Hiring a car at Bristol Airport is a great way to explore the southwest of England. There is a car hire area near the terminal, with a free shuttle bus leaving every ten minutes from Bus Stop 3.
At the dedicated Car Rental Area, you will find nine well-known car hire companies offering a range of vehicles for all types of travel. The best prices on car renting at Bristol Airport are usually found by booking in advance. Car hire companies operating in Bristol include:
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Enterprise
- Thrifty
- Alamo
- National
Bristol Airport Overview
Bristol Airport, or BRS, is a busy passenger hub serving over 8 million passengers from the surrounding areas in the southwest of England, Shropshire and Wales. It is the ninth busiest airport in the UK, operating flights to destinations across the country and popular European and North American destinations.
The airport was opened in 1930, moving to the current site in 1955. As demand for commercial passenger flights increased over the 70s and 80s, the airport continued to expand, changing its name in 1997 to Bristol International Airport. The new, larger terminal building was opened in 2000 and subsequently rebranded in 2010 to the new name of Bristol Airport.
BRS operates flights from many airport carriers, including RyanAir, Flybe, Lufthansa, EasyJet and British Airways.
Facilities at Bristol Airport
Bristol Airport is very well equipped with every possible thing you could need as you wait to board your flight. As a central hub for flights from the southwest, it caters to every type of passenger from families to business travellers.
There is a good selection of convenience stores, with well-known high street brands selling everyday essentials, drinks and snacks. Shops open with the day’s first flight, so you can still pick up last-minute essentials even for those early starts.
Eating and drinking in the terminal are well catered for too. Choose from a quick cup of tea, a full English breakfast or even a Mexican Burrito at one of the many cafes, restaurants and bars on site.
Facilities at Bristol Airport include:
- Shops
- Café
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Airport lounges
- Fast Track security
- Reserve and collect service
- Information desk
- Toilets
- Baby change areas
- Currency exchange
- Roof terrace
- Trolleys
- Water fountains
- Prayer room
Family travel at Bristol Airport
If you are travelling with small children, it’s best to allow yourself more time than usual to pass through the airport and board your flight. That said, there is plenty to keep your little ones occupied at Bristol Airport in the terminal.
The cafes and restaurants in the departure area serve children’s menus, and high chairs are available if needed. Shops like WH Smith stock a range of books, magazines, toys and games to keep children busy on your flight, and you can pick up any last-minute baby essentials like nappies, wipes and formula after security.
If you are travelling with an infant, check with your airline what the regulations are about taking buggies or pushchairs. Most airlines will allow you to keep your buggy up until you board the flight.
Baby milk may be taken through security in quantities greater than 100ml but will be subject to security screening. You should only take what you need for the journey in your hand luggage.
Top Tips for travelling from Bristol Airport
Keep some small change on you
Most airports have trolleys you can use if you have large or unwieldy luggage to transport. Be aware that at Bristol Airport, you will have to pay to use a trolley. Trolleys are available at vending points throughout the terminal.
Jump the queues at security
At peak times, with over 8 million passengers a year passing through Bristol Airport the queues for security can eat into the time before your flight. Bristol Airport offers a Fast Track service, which allows you to beat the lines and pass through security checks with the minimum waiting time.
Fast track security passes can be booked in advance, and cost £4.95. If you decide to use fast-track security once at the airport, you can pay at one of the kiosks, although this is slightly more expensive at £6 per person.
Book parking in advance
The very best and cheapest rates on airport parking are usually found by booking well in advance of your date of travel. Bristol Airport does have options if you just want to turn up on the day and park, but for anyone on a budget, it does pay to plan ahead.
Get outdoors
Bristol Airport is unusual in that following the expansion of the airport it offers an outdoor rooftop terrace area. If the hustle and bustle inside the terminal are getting to you, why not step outside for a breath of fresh air?
The terrace features a relaxing and unique area with sculptures and is adjacent to the Cabin restaurant so you can enjoy a glass of fine wine as you relax and wait for your flight.
Get in some last-minute shopping
There’s no need to worry if you’ve forgotten to pack something you need for your holiday. There is a good selection of shops at Bristol Airport where you can pick up everything from some sun cream though to a pair of brand new sports shoes.
Browse the latest jewellery fashions in Accessorize, pick up some headphones in Dixons, or perhaps just treat yourself to the new bestselling paperback from the Bookshop.
Things to do near the Airport
Bristol Airport is the gateway to the west country. Just 8 miles from the city of Bristol and its buzzing shops, dining scene and nightlife, there is plenty to see and do. The airport is also well positioned for those wanting to explore the beautiful beaches and coastline of southwest England and south wales.
See the city landmarks
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is perhaps the city of Bristol’s most famous landmark. Spanning the picturesque Avon Gorge, the bridge has been open since 1964, joining Bristol and North Somerset.
The visitor centre at the bridge runs free guided tours throughout the week. It offers an insight into the history and construction of the bridge, along with children’s activities and a gift shop.
Bristol Zoo
Bristol Zoo is world-famous for its collection of interesting and unusual animals. A great day out for all the family, entry to the zoo starts from £10 per adult, although discounts are available for groups and by booking in advance.
Head over to the Gorilla Island, laugh at the penguins or take a stroll through the butterfly house. The zoo is close to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and easily accessible by car or public transport.
Get arty
Bristol is famous as the home of the internationally renowned artist, Banksy. Banksy rose to fame painting graffiti and murals in the city, many of which can still be seen on the city streets. The best way to take in Banksy’s work in Bristol is to join a Banksy walking tour of the city.
Visit Cheddar Gorge
Less than an hour’s drive from Bristol Airport you can visit an area of outstanding natural beauty, and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Cheddar Gorge is a unique and spectacular natural landmark, over 3 miles long and 400feet deep.
The area is a mecca for cavers and climbers, with opportunities to explore the stalactites and stalagmites in the ancient caves and stunning views of the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bristol Airport?
Bristol Airport is not actually in the city of Bristol, but 8 miles southwest in Lulsgate Bottom in North Somerset. It is easy to reach by car and linked to the major motorway network via the M5.
Drivers should follow the SatNav postcode BS48 3DY. Be aware that some of the major roads close to the airport are very busy at peak times, so be sure to factor in enough time to arrive for your flight. All airport car parks are clearly signposted on arrival.
Does Bristol Airport have valet parking?
Valet parking is the most convenient way to start your trip. Simply hand in your keys, and make your way to your flight. Bristol Airport has a dedicated Meet and Greet valet parking service. The Meet and Greet parking area is close to the terminal, so once you have dropped off your keys, it’s just a short walk to the check-in desks.
What time should I arrive for my flight from Bristol Airport?
It’s important to allow plenty of time to catch your flight from Bristol. You will need to factor any time taken to park your car, make your way to check-in and any queues for security.
Most airlines recommend you arrive at the airport a minimum of two hours before your scheduled departure time, although this may be longer for long haul flights. Travelling with oversize or excess baggage may take longer, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and arrive earlier than later.
Does Bristol Airport have executive lounges?
Booking a lounge to relax in before you board your flight is a great way to start your trip. Bristol Airport has an Aspire and Aspire Plus lounge for passengers travelling on any airline. These can be booked in advance for the best rates, and offer a range of snacks, hot and cold drinks, complimentary papers and magazines and Wi-Fi.
How do I arrange special assistance at the airport?
If you need any assistance whilst at the airport or on your flight, you must make sure you inform your airline at least 48 hours in advance. Blue Badge and accessible parking spaces are available at the airport, and assistance is on hand for those with additional mobility needs. Special assistance at Bristol Airport is provided by OCS, and their reception desk can be found in the main terminal.
What happens to lost property at Bristol Airport?
Even the most seasoned travellers may occasionally lose items in the airport. The airport lost property service can be reached on +44 (0)1274 473573 for items lost in the previous 48 hours. After this, passengers should email brslostproperty@1stflight.co.uk
Can I refill my water bottle at the airport?
Current security restrictions mean that liquids may only be taken through security in containers less than 100m. You are permitted to take water bottles of less than 100ml through security, and there are points to refill them in the departure hall. Any containers larger than 100ml should be packed in your hold baggage, or discarded prior to the security hall.
Can I change currency at Bristol Airport?
Yes. There are three currency exchange bureaus operating in the terminal from Moneycorp where you can exchange over 80 currencies. The best rates on travel money are usually found by booking your currency in advance and collecting it in the airport.
ATMs are also available in the terminal. The ATMs dispense Euro and Sterling currency and are open 24 hours a day.
Where can I park my motorbike at Bristol Airport?
The airport has a designated motorbike parking area. It’s free to park motorcycles, although be aware that there is no facility to store helmets or anchor points. The motorbike parking at Bristol Airport is located in the Coach Parking area, opposite the main terminal.
How can I get the cheapest airport parking at Bristol Airport?
The best way to save money on your airport parking is to plan ahead and book your parking in advance. Bristol Airport offers short and long stay parking options, along with concierge meet and greet parking, so however long your trip you can take advantage of discounted rates and save money.
Which terminal do I need at Bristol Airport?
Luckily, travelling from Bristol Airport could not be simpler, as there is only one terminal building. All flights, regardless of which airline you fly with, will leave from the main building. Simply make your way to the check-in desk for your airline in the main check-in area when you arrive for your flight.
Can I sleep in the airport?
Bristol Airport is open 24 hours a day, however, if you need to arrive very early in the morning for a flight, it might be a good idea to consider booking an airport hotel. The Hampton by Hilton is a 4-star hotel on-site at the airport, so you can get a good night’s sleep with the peace of mind that you are only minutes away from the check-in area.
Is there somewhere to get hot food in the airport?
Yes, the airport has a good range of restaurants, cafes and snack bars where you can buy all kinds of hot and cold food while you wait to board your flight.