Ashton Court
1 / 10

Ashton Court

4.6
·5k reviews·Long Ashton, United Kingdom

An 850-acre country estate near Bristol, featuring deer, gardens, play areas, golf, and a cafe. Perfect for walks and events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful walks, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Ashton Court

Ashton Court

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful walks, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An 850-acre country estate near Bristol, featuring deer, gardens, play areas, golf, and a cafe. Perfect for walks and events.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"Wonderful place to visit with very big area for a fantastic walk around and see deers!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking for Fiesta

Fiesta parking can be distant. Arrive early or consider alternative transport. :car:

🦌 Deer Etiquette

Observe deer from a distance; they are wild animals. Enjoy their majestic presence! :deer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Deer Sightings

Majestic Deer Sightings

Throughout the estate

Witness majestic deer roaming freely across the vast 850-acre estate. A truly enchanting experience for all ages.

Reddit
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Main event field

Experience the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of hot air balloons ascending into the sky. A vibrant family-friendly event.

Reddit
Model Ride-On Railway

Model Ride-On Railway

Within the estate

Enjoy a charming ride on the impressive model railway, especially the steam-powered locomotives. Fun for kids and adults alike.

Reddit
Expansive Estate Walks

Expansive Estate Walks

Across the 850 acres

Explore the rolling hills and beautiful grounds with ample space for walking, running, and discovering hidden spots.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Morning Dog Walks & Early Access

Planning an early morning dog walk? Ashton Court estate opens its car parks at 8 am, with closing times varying seasonally. Be aware of the specific closing hours to avoid any issues during your visit. Reddit

Balloon Fiesta Crowds & Parking

Visiting for the Balloon Fiesta? Expect significant crowds and potential parking challenges. While organizers arrange parking, red spots can be distant with no shuttle service. Plan your transport and arrival time carefully. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful walks, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
During Balloon Fiesta
Why
Spectacular balloon displays
Crowd
High
When
Afternoon tea at cafe
Why
Relaxing break with views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Ashton court opening time

🚗 Parking for Fiesta

Fiesta parking can be distant. Arrive early or consider alternative transport. Reddit :car:

🦌 Deer Etiquette

Observe deer from a distance; they are wild animals. Enjoy their majestic presence! Reddit :deer:

reddit.com

How to get from Clifton to Ashton Court?

reddit.com

Ashton court walk?

☕ Cafe Prices

Enjoy the cafe, but be aware that prices can be a bit high. Reddit :coffee:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The estate is vast; wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Photos I took during my walk from Bristol to Long Ashton (finally a weekend with nice weather)

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking for Fiesta

Fiesta parking can be distant. Arrive early or consider alternative transport. Reddit :car:

🦌 Deer Etiquette

Observe deer from a distance; they are wild animals. Enjoy their majestic presence! Reddit :deer:

☕ Cafe Prices

Enjoy the cafe, but be aware that prices can be a bit high. Reddit :coffee:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The estate is vast; wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Fun

Plenty of space for kids to run and explore. A great family-friendly destination. Reddit :child:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ashton Court is widely praised for its beautiful, expansive grounds perfect for walks and spotting majestic deer. Visitors enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere and attractions like the model railway. However, the Balloon Fiesta can be overwhelmingly crowded with parking challenges, and cafe prices are noted as being on the higher side.

"Have been to Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. It was too crowded. Lots of entertainment activities around. Red parking spot is far away from the actual site and no proper road is maintained to arrive for parking. From parking place to actual site is never provided. High safety risk of people might slide down and security concerns.
Balloon fiesta is beautiful to watch"

Raghunath Sheshamattum

"Went there for an event. (Bristol Hot air balloon festival ) plenty of space for car parking ( previously arranged by the event organizers. Had a lots of fun. Family event friendly . Large outdoor space."

disni nissanka

"Wonderful place to visit.
Very big area to have a fantastic walk around.
Deers 🦌 on site to see, café and toilets at the mansion house."

kevin dyer

What People Like

Beautiful expansive grounds
Majestic deer sightings
Family-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Balloon Fiesta crowds
Overpriced cafe
Distant parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ashton Court is easily accessible by car from Bristol city center, located just west of the city. Public transport options include local bus routes that stop near the estate. For the Balloon Fiesta, parking is often arranged by event organizers, but can be a significant walk from the main site. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Ashton Court. During the Balloon Fiesta, specific parking areas are designated, though they can be quite far from the event. Outside of the fiesta, general parking is available. Reddit

The Ashton Court estate car park opens at 8 am daily. Closing times vary throughout the year, with earlier closures in winter months (e.g., 5:15 pm in Nov-Jan) and later closures in summer. Reddit

Yes, Ashton Court is a popular destination for cyclists, with many cycle paths leading to and around the estate. It's a great way to explore the grounds and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

Several local bus routes serve the Ashton Court area, providing access from Bristol city center and surrounding towns. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general entry to Ashton Court estate grounds is free. There are no admission tickets required for walking, exploring the park, or seeing the deer. Reddit

While entry is free, there may be charges for specific events like the Balloon Fiesta, and parking fees might apply during major events. The cafe also offers food and drinks for purchase. Reddit

The cafe at the mansion house typically opens around 9:30 am and closes in the late afternoon, with hours potentially varying seasonally. It's best to check their specific opening times before your visit. Reddit

Riding the model railway usually involves a small fee per person. It's a popular attraction, especially for families, and offers a delightful experience. Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Ashton Court and are a common sight, especially during morning walks. Please ensure your dog is kept under control, particularly around the deer and other visitors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy walking, cycling, bird watching, picnicking, and observing the resident deer. There's also a children's play area, golf courses, and the model ride-on railway. Reddit

Yes, toilet facilities are available at the mansion house, which also houses the cafe. These are generally accessible during the estate's opening hours. Reddit

Absolutely! Ashton Court is very family-friendly with plenty of open space for children to run and play, a dedicated play area, and the exciting model railway. Reddit

Yes, Ashton Court is famous for its resident herd of deer. You can often see them grazing in the fields, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Reddit

The Balloon Fiesta is a major annual event held at Ashton Court, featuring mass ascents of hot air balloons, nightglows, and entertainment. It's a spectacular sight but draws very large crowds. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located at the mansion house. It offers a range of refreshments, including coffee, tea, snacks, and light meals. Reddit

The cafe typically serves hot and cold drinks, cakes, sandwiches, and other light bites. It's a convenient spot for a break during your visit. Reddit

Yes, Ashton Court has vast open spaces perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food and find a scenic spot to enjoy a meal outdoors. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great way to enjoy the estate and save money. Remember to take all your rubbish with you. Reddit

While Ashton Court has its own cafe, there are also restaurants and eateries in the nearby city of Bristol if you're looking for more extensive dining options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The rolling hills, the deer, the mansion house, and the balloons during the fiesta offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Early morning light is particularly beautiful. Reddit

Yes, the deer are a popular subject for photographers. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and use a zoom lens to capture them without disturbing their natural behavior. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful golden hour shots. The Balloon Fiesta provides unique opportunities for dramatic aerial photography. Reddit

Drone usage at Ashton Court may be restricted, especially during events like the Balloon Fiesta due to safety regulations and air traffic. It's advisable to check with the estate management or event organizers before flying a drone. Reddit

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission from the estate management. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ashton Court is a fantastic destination for families. The vast open spaces are perfect for children to run and play freely, and the dedicated play area offers dedicated fun. The model ride-on railway is a guaranteed hit, providing exciting rides for all ages. Reddit

Spotting the deer is often a highlight for kids, offering a chance to see wildlife up close in a safe environment. Packing a picnic is a great way to keep everyone fueled and can be enjoyed in one of the many scenic spots. Remember to bring a ball or frisbee for extra fun in the open fields. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Dog Walkers

Ashton Court is a paradise for dog walkers, with its extensive grounds and welcoming atmosphere. Dogs are permitted throughout the estate and can enjoy miles of walking routes. The car park opens at 8 am, making it ideal for early morning exercise. Reddit

Be mindful of the deer and other wildlife, and ensure your dog is under control, especially in areas where deer are present. The open fields and varied terrain provide excellent stimulation for canine companions. Remember to bring water for your dog and clean up after them. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Ashton Court a rewarding location. The rolling hills, the resident deer, and the historic mansion house offer diverse subjects. Golden hour light in the morning and late afternoon creates stunning photographic opportunities. Reddit

During the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, the skies become a canvas for incredible aerial photography. However, be prepared for large crowds and potential restrictions during major events. For wildlife photography, patience and a good zoom lens are key to capturing the deer without disturbance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Vast Estate

Ashton Court boasts an impressive 850 acres of rolling parkland, offering endless opportunities for exploration. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, invigorating hikes, or cycling adventures across its diverse terrain. The estate is renowned for its resident herd of deer, providing magical encounters for those who venture out. Remember to wear comfortable footwear, as the grounds are extensive and can be uneven in places. Reddit

Beyond the natural beauty, Ashton Court also features a challenging 18-hole golf course and a popular children's play area, ensuring activities for a wide range of interests. The mansion house itself serves as a central hub, housing a cafe and toilet facilities, making it a convenient starting point for your explorations. Reddit

For those seeking a unique experience, the estate is home to a charming model ride-on railway, complete with steam engines, which is a particular hit with younger visitors and railway enthusiasts alike. The sheer scale of Ashton Court means you can easily spend a full day here, discovering new vistas and enjoying the tranquility of the countryside. Reddit

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is one of Europe's largest annual hot air balloon festivals, transforming Ashton Court into a vibrant spectacle. Held over a few days in August, it attracts hundreds of balloons from around the globe. The highlight is the mass ascent, where the sky fills with a kaleidoscope of colors as balloons take flight. Reddit

Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere with entertainment, food stalls, and craft vendors. The 'Nightglow' events, where balloons are tethered and illuminated after dark, are particularly mesmerizing. However, the fiesta is incredibly popular, drawing massive crowds. Parking can be a significant challenge, with designated spots often a long walk from the main event area, and traffic can be heavy. Reddit

Attending the Balloon Fiesta is a memorable experience, offering incredible photo opportunities and a unique festival vibe. It's a true celebration of aviation and community spirit. Planning your visit, including transport and arrival times, is crucial to making the most of this spectacular event. Reddit

Wildlife and Nature at Ashton Court

Ashton Court is a haven for wildlife, most notably its resident herd of fallow deer. These majestic creatures roam freely across the parkland, offering visitors a chance to observe them in their natural habitat. Seeing the deer up close, especially during the quieter morning or evening hours, is a truly special experience. Reddit

Beyond the deer, the estate's varied landscape supports a rich diversity of birdlife, making it a pleasant spot for birdwatching. The woodlands and open fields provide habitats for numerous species. The expansive grounds also offer a sense of peace and connection with nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to respect the wildlife by observing from a distance and refraining from feeding the animals. This ensures the well-being of the deer and other creatures that call Ashton Court home, preserving its natural beauty for generations to come. Reddit

You may also like