Bristol Airport

Bristol Airport is not merely a transport hub, but the main aerial gateway to the picturesque South West of England. Set amongst the rolling hills of Somerset, this modern and dynamically developing aviation hub opens the way for travellers to the historic Roman Baths of Bath, the beauty of the Cotswolds, and the vibrant streets of Bristol itself. Despite its compact size, the airport impresses with its thoughtful infrastructure and cosy atmosphere, where the start of a journey becomes a pleasant part of the holiday rather than a tiring necessity.

Bristol Airport stands out among regional UK hubs for its commitment to comfort and sustainability. Passengers can utilise the services of the Aspire and 1903 Lounge business lounges, offering panoramic views of the runway and a menu featuring local produce. For shopping enthusiasts, there is an extensive Duty Free zone and stores featuring renowned brands.

Particular attention is paid to transport accessibility: the 24-hour Airport Flyer Express bus connects the terminal with Bristol Temple Meads station and the city's bus station, ensuring a quick transfer. The airport is also actively implementing "green" technologies and plans to expand the terminal to increase capacity, whilst maintaining ease of navigation for every guest.

• Official Website: www.bristolairport.co.uk. Here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Helpdesk Phone: +44 (0)871 334 4444. Please note that calls may be chargeable and billed at special rates.
• Airport Address: Bristol Airport, Bristol, BS48 3DY, United Kingdom.
• Email: For most enquiries, including feedback and suggestions, it is recommended to use the official contact form on the airport website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on major social networks (e.g., X (formerly Twitter), Facebook), where you can follow news and updates. Search for the official handle @BristolAirport.
• Lost Luggage Information: If luggage was lost during a flight, you must contact your airline directly. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the Lost Property service; contact details are available on the official website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For passengers requiring Special Assistance, there is a dedicated section on the airport website with a form for pre-booking the service and contact details.

Getting to Bristol Airport (BRS) from the city centre and surrounding areas is possible via several convenient methods suitable for any budget and travel style. Located approximately 13 kilometres south of the centre of Bristol, the airport has well-established transport links.

Public Transport: The most popular and economical option is the Airport Flyer express bus (Route A1). It operates 24 hours a day, connecting the airport with key points in the city, including the main railway station, Bristol Temple Meads, and the Bristol Bus & Coach Station. The journey time from the centre is approximately 30-40 minutes, though this may increase during peak hours. Tickets can be purchased from the driver or online in advance.

Taxi and Transfer: For maximum convenience, especially when travelling with family or a large amount of luggage, you can use taxi services or book a private transfer. A taxi ride from the city centre will take about 25-30 minutes excluding traffic. This is a more expensive method, but it guarantees comfort and delivery directly to the departure terminal entrance. There is an official taxi rank at the airport, and popular mobile apps can also be used.

By Car: If you are travelling in your own or a rented car, getting to the airport is straightforward — it is located near the A38 highway. Various parking options are available at Bristol Airport: from short-stay parking right by the terminal to more budget-friendly long-stay car parks served by free shuttles. To save money and guarantee a space, it is strongly recommended to book parking in advance via the official airport website, especially during holiday periods.

Bristol Airport (BRS) is distinguished by a structure that is well thought out and convenient for passengers. All flights, both domestic and international, are handled in one modern terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal structure is intuitive and divided into two main levels. On the Ground Floor, airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located. This level also houses a spacious arrivals hall with baggage reclaim belts, car rental desks, taxi offices, and exits to bus stops and car parks. Passengers arriving in Bristol complete all formalities and exit to the city on this level.

The First Floor can be reached via escalators or lifts after check-in. Here, the security checkpoint is located, after which passengers enter the spacious departure lounge. This area concentrates the main infrastructure facilities: numerous shops, including Duty Free, restaurants, cafes, and several business lounges. All boarding gates are also located in this zone, and navigation to them is guided by clear signage.

When planning a departure, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. The standard recommendation is 2-3 hours before departure for an international flight and 1.5-2 hours for a domestic one. During peak periods, such as summer months or holidays, the time required for check-in and security screening may increase, so it is worth allowing extra time. Since there is only one terminal and its layout is logical, getting lost here is practically impossible. All necessary information is displayed on numerous electronic boards throughout the building.

The history of Bristol Airport (BRS) is a journey from a modest flying club to one of the busiest regional transport hubs in the United Kingdom. Its story began in 1930 when an airfield was opened in the Whitchurch area. During the Second World War, it played a strategic role, remaining one of the few operational civil airports in the country and ensuring vital air transport.

After the war, it became evident that the site at Whitchurch could not cope with growing demands and the size of new aircraft. A decision was made to relocate. In 1957, the airport opened at its current site, on the grounds of the former Royal Air Force base, RAF Lulsgate Bottom. This move marked the birth of the modern airport, which originally bore the name Bristol (Lulsgate).

Key stages of development occurred in the second half of the 20th century. The runway was extended to accommodate jet liners, and a new passenger terminal opened in 1968. However, the real transformation took place in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Extensive reconstruction and terminal expansion, timed to coincide with the rise in popularity of budget airlines, allowed the airport to reach a new level. In 1997, it received international status and was renamed Bristol International Airport.

In 2010, the name was simplified to the current Bristol Airport. Since then, the airport has continued to develop actively, regularly upgrading infrastructure and expanding its route network. It has repeatedly set records for passenger traffic, firmly establishing itself among the top ten busiest airports in the United Kingdom. An interesting fact: despite the huge traffic, the airport functions efficiently with just one runway.

Bristol Airport (BRS) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Before departure, you can visit numerous shops, including Duty Free with a wide assortment of perfumes, beverages, and souvenirs. The departure lounge also features diverse dining points: from coffee shops for a quick snack to restaurants offering full meals. Everyone will find something to their taste here, whether it be a sandwich or a hot lunch.

For those wishing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. The waiting areas are equipped with numerous charging stations for electronic devices. If you prefer to wait for your flight in a calmer environment, paid lounges such as the Aspire Lounge are at your service. They offer an elevated level of comfort, complimentary refreshments, snacks, and a secluded atmosphere away from the main hustle and bustle.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points operate here. For travellers with children, special mother and baby rooms are equipped, as well as play areas to help little passengers avoid boredom. In case of need, one can visit the pharmacy or the first aid point.

The airport is fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility. Special assistance is provided, which is recommended to be booked in advance through the airline. For those needing rest between flights, the Hampton by Hilton hotel is located next to the terminal and can be reached on foot. Business travellers can utilise work zones and meeting rooms available in the business lounges, making the wait for a flight productive.

At Bristol Airport (BRS), passengers will find a decent selection of establishments to have a snack before departure or a full lunch. Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the "airside" zone, after passing security control, but options exist in the public area of the terminal as well.

After Security (Airside):

This is where the main food court is located. For those with time for a leisurely lunch or dinner, restaurants such as Frankie & Benny's, offering American-Italian cuisine, or The Brunel Bar & Kitchen, where you can try classic British pub dishes and local specialities — popular in this part of the United Kingdom — are excellent choices. For a more refined experience, you can visit The Cabin, which offers views of the runway. If you are looking for something faster and familiar, Burger King is at your service.

Quick Snacks and Coffee:

For those rushing to catch a flight, popular chain cafes operate in the departure lounge. Pret A Manger always has fresh sandwiches, salads, and organic coffee. For freshly baked baguettes with various fillings, head to Upper Crust. Coffee shops are also located throughout the terminal, including Costa Coffee and Caffè Ritazza, where you can get beverages and pastries to take away.

Before Security (Landside):

In the public zone, the choice is more limited. Usually, you can find a coffee shop here, for example, Starbucks, in the arrivals area. Additionally, the M&S Simply Food store offers an excellent selection of ready-made sandwiches, salads, snacks, and drinks that can be taken with you.

Special Dietary Needs and Prices:

Most establishments offer options for vegetarians and vegans, as well as gluten-free dishes — look for the corresponding marks on the menu or ask the staff. Please note that Halal options may be available at select outlets; it is advisable to enquire directly. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city. A cup of coffee will cost approximately £3-4, and a hot dish in a restaurant from £15 upwards. Most dining points are open from the first to the last flight, but operating hours may vary.

To ensure your journey through Bristol Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, stress, and money, regardless of whether you are flying for a holiday or a business trip from the United Kingdom.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Bristol Airport recommends arriving at least two hours before departure. In peak seasons (summer, holidays), it is better to add another 30-40 minutes. The fastest way to save time is online check-in, which is offered by almost all airlines. If you are travelling with hand luggage only, this will allow you to head straight to the security checkpoint.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage: To pass security control quickly, prepare in advance. All liquids in containers up to 100ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics must be removed from bags and placed in a separate tray. Remember that it is prohibited to take sharp objects, weapons (including toys), and flammable substances in hand luggage. Always check the current rules on your airline's website.

Seat Selection and Transfers: If comfort is important to you, select your seat when booking your ticket. Aisle seats are convenient for those who wish to stand up freely, while window seats are for lovers of beautiful views. Passengers with connecting flights should clarify in advance whether they need to collect their luggage or if it will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. Bristol Airport has one terminal, which simplifies navigation, but always follow the "Flight Connections" signs.

Customs Control and Savings: Upon arrival, be ready to present your passport and other travel documents. If you are arriving from outside the UK, you may need to pass customs inspection. Familiarise yourself with the rules for importing goods in advance. To save money, book parking online — this is significantly cheaper than paying on the spot. Also, take an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security at special water fountains.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the duration of the delay and the flight destination, you may be provided with vouchers for food and drinks. Keep all receipts and boarding passes. It is useful to install the airline's app on your smartphone in advance — this way you will promptly receive notifications about changes to your flight status.