The growth in flight destinations across Europe seems to be having a direct benefit on local airports in the UK. There’s lots of changes taking place at departure points such as Bristol Airport, where bigger lounges and new hotels are being created to accommodate more passengers. We have put together our the ultimate family guide to Bristol Airport to let you know everything there is to do.
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The ultimate family guide to Bristol Airport – Introduction
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Bristol is one of my favourite airports. It is a lovely size, seeming to find a good balance between being not too local and not too big and corporate.
Getting through an airport and onto the plane can sometimes feel like a bit of an ordeal. But at Bristol my experience has often been quite the opposite. With good resources for families and really friendly staff too.
Bristol Airport: The Airport Itself
The Airport has a large airy check in hall, which is near to the drop off spots for buses and the on site car-parking.
You are also brought here if  you choose to park off site and get a courtesy bus.
Or you can park right next to the airport at the short stay car park, but there is a charge to use this after twenty minutes.
There’s the regular shops and kiosks in this area and this downstairs arrivals hall is currently being expanded as well.
Once you’ve checked in the customs checks are a few minute’s walk away upstairs.
We’ve always found the Bristol Airport customs area to be really helpful to families who are travelling and juggling little ones and luggage. A friendly face and a little understanding goes a long way.
There’s a really lovely outside space to go and spend some time if it’s not raining.
Where to eat
The departures lounge is well equipped with plenty of shops, eateries and a large coffee shop. I love that you can now pick up proper Cornish Pasties just before you go through security.
Bristol Airport Lounges
Bristol Airport has an Aspire Lounge which you can book for somewhere to sit away from the crowds and enjoy some great food and snacks.
There’s a whole range of teas, coffees, soft drinks and alcohol available. And then there are cereals, pastries and hot items if you’re travelling over breakfast or other hot meals through the rest of the day.
There are also lots of brownies, crisps and fruit to pick up as and when you feel like them.
It’s a really nice, quiet space to come and watch some tv with monitors up to keep track of your flight.
We have found Aspire lounges to be a great place to feel like your holiday is off to the best start before you’ve even left the UK.
Find out more and book here.
Getting around
The airport has opened a number of new gates which are a bit of a walk from the lounge so give yourself time to get to them.
It’s great to see that the airport has anticipated little legs and provide free buggies to help you get there more easily.
Where to stay
The Hampton by Hilton is right on-site at Bristol Airport so a great place to stay.
Parking at Bristol Airport
There are a number of parking options at Bristol Airport from Meet & Greet to long stay parking off site where you get the bus in. Check out all the options via Holiday Extras here.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our ultimate family guide to Bristol Airport.
