Spring has sprung! That means the most beautiful sight of all is overdue in Bristol, cherry blossom trees. Japanese cherry blossom, also known as sakura, is well suited to the British climate and adds a pop of colour and beauty to any landscape. These stunning pastel pinks don’t hand around for long, however. If you’re looking for a new walk or day trip, keep a keen eye out from late March to early May to see cherry blossom in Bristol.
1. Castle Park
Bang in the centre of town, cherry blossom is abundant here. There is a lovely tree trail within Castle Park, including Cherry Avenue, where you can see cherry blossom in full bloom. This avenue is part of the route between Bristol Bridge and Wine Street. You will also find the Great White Cherry tree, planted in 2014 for the 70th anniversary of the Hiroshima bombing.
2. Harbourside
There’s nothing quite like a stroll by the harbour on a warm, sunny day but it gets even better at spring time. Bristol harbourside gets a dose of pink with a pretty cherry blossom tree in bloom as you walk or cycle down the path towards the city with the colourful houses of Cliftonwood above.
3. Arnos Court Park
This is home to the best tree in the UK for cherry blossom spotting. ’nuff said.
4. Cliftonwood
Between Hotwells and Clifton, wander around the brightly coloured streets of Cliftonwood – which fill up with pink plumes in springtime.
5. Southmead
Get your weekly shop and a dose of beauty in one by heading to Southmead. You’ll stumble upon this cherry blossom tree in the Lidl supermarket car park there. Bargains and blossom!
6. Arnos Vale Cemetery
This Victorian garden cemetery, set in a leafy 45-acre Arcadian landscape is not only dotted with classical buildings, historic monuments, sweeping carriage drives and leafy walks but also cherry blossoms too. Enjoy a tranquil stroll away from the hustle and bustle and get a dose of cherry blossom this spring while you’re there.
7. Brandon Hill
The views from Cabot Tower aren’t the only stunning thing about Brandon Hill. Take in views from a park bench at this Bristol park and discover the gorgeous cherry blossom, also known as sakura, without even having to leave the city.
8. Shirehampton Park Golf Club
This park situated north-east of Bristol offers more than just golf. Whether you’re visiting for a game of pitch and putt or simply out for some exercise, you’ll be welcomed by these rows of cherry blossom trees which are bound to brighten your day.
9. Oldbury Court Estate
It seems every corner of Bristol has a little pocket of green space reserved for cherry blossom and this area up in Fishponds is no different. You’ll also find a nature trail, an orienteering path and lots of bird and squirrel life here, despite only being around three miles out of the city centre.
10. Severn Beach
Let’s go to the beach, let’s go get a… cherry blossom. But yes, a half an hour’s drive from Bristol will get you to Severn Beach where you can enjoy both waves and cherry blossom. If you’re not feeling brave enough to dip your toes into the water (after all, it is spring) at least you have this gorgeous Japanese tree in bloom.