Much like the River Avon, an adventurous spirit runs through Bristol, especially regarding water sports. This former port city with a rich maritime history retains its connection to the water with various aquatic attractions, from exhilarating experiences to more tranquil activities.
Bristol Waters ports: Activities and Attractions
With Factory No.1 as your home, you can participate in water sports at a moment’s notice. Being so close to Bristol city centre means the vibrant Harbourside neighbourhood is just a short journey away. In other words, this elegant development at the Grade II listed former tobacco factory puts you in the ideal spot for enjoying some of the city’s best aquatic facilities. Here are some of the activities you can dive into when living at these new apartments in Bristol.
Scuba Diving
Explore the depths of your capabilities with scuba diving lessons in Bristol. Specialist schools in and around the city deliver classes for novices, those who’ve dabbled in diving before and seasoned pros who’ve previously completed training. From induction sessions to courses where you can earn accreditations, find diving lessons for adults and children at Bristol’s top-rated scuba centres, such as Severnside Sub-Aqua Club and Hidden Depths Diving School.
Paddleboarding
Voted as Bristol’s number one outdoor activity in 2024, stand-up paddleboarding allows you to see and explore the city from a unique vantage point on the Floating Harbour. SUP Bristol delivers stand-up paddleboarding sessions for all skill levels. Dip your toe in the water sport with a taster session or, if you’re a paddleboarding pro, why not join as a member? Then you can enjoy up to 12 sessions per week.
Canoeing and Kayaking
If you prefer to remain seated, you’ll be pleased to know Bristol has plenty of kayaking and canoeing opportunities. All-Aboard Water sports is a local charity aiming to empower all members of the community with water-based activities on the Floating Harbour, including canoeing and kayaking taster sessions open to adults and children aged 8 and above. Elsewhere on the Harbour, Adventurous Activity Company offers tailor-made canoeing sessions with a fun and social aspect – think races, games and guided tours – perfect for group adventures.
Further outside the city, nestled on the edge of the picturesque Mendip Hills National Landscape, Mendip Activity Centre offers water sports in a wilderness setting. With family-friendly kayaking sessions for all abilities, you can get to grips with navigating the water whilst connecting with nature. Speaking of which, if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you can explore the landscape and watch creatures in their natural habitat on a canoe safari at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
Swimming
In general, swimming is prohibited in Bristol Harbour. However, All-Aboard Water sports operates swim sessions at Baltic Wharf on the weekends, allowing you to enjoy the open water in a safely managed environment. Swimming is also one of the main draws at Bristol Lido, an urban oasis in Clifton offering a peaceful place to relax and unwind. After totting up your lengths in the outdoor heated pool, you can rejuvenate with a massage at the spa or refuel at the award-winning restaurant.
Surfing
Last but not least, you can go surfing in Bristol. This activity may come as a surprise, given that the closest beach is a 40-minute drive from the city centre, however, it’s made possible by The Wave, Bristol’s innovative inland surfing lake. Utilising cutting-edge Wavegarden Cove technology, this world-class facility provides consistent waves, ensuring beginners and seasoned surfers alike can find their footing on the water. And with lessons for those as young as four, it’s an attraction all the family can enjoy.
You can easily access all these water sports and more from Factory No.1, our award-winning development of new apartments for sale in Bristol, set around private gardens at the former Grade II listed tobacco factory. Explore the properties available to buy, including conversion and new-build flats.