Bristol Airport is one of the UK’s most affordable airports and a great place to catch cheap flights to and from Europe. However, although named after the city of Bristol, the airport is actually situated 8 miles southwest of the city on the edge of the Mendip Hills. This can provide some slight logistical issues for travelers.
As your Google search probably alluded to, there is little information online regarding the available transport options. This blog aims to provide some useful insight on the best methods of transport to and from the airport, from someone who commonly flies from there.
Is there a train station at Bristol Airport?
One of the most common questions is whether you can catch a train directly to the terminal. Unfortunately, the answer is no—there is no train station at Bristol Airport. The nearest major rail link is Bristol Temple Meads, located in the city centre. To get there, you’ll need to use the bus or a taxi service as detailed below.
How long does Bristol Airport Flyer take?
Although there is a clear lack of rail infrastructure, the airport does offer a great airport bus service. The bus, appropriately named the Airport Flyer (A1), operates 24/7, running up to every 8 minutes during core hours.
The journey itself typically takes 35 to 45 minutes from start to finish. It follows the route starting at the Bristol Airport Bus Station, stopping at Bedminster Parade and Temple Meads Station before terminating at Bristol Bus Station.
To note: Ensure you board the A1 Airport Flyer or else you will be slightly shocked when you arrive in Weston-super-Mare on the A3!
How much is Bristol Airport Flyer?
Tickets can be purchased in person or online. As of early 2026, the prices are:
| Ticket Type | Single | Return |
| Adult | £9 | £15 |
| Child (5–15) | £6 | £9 |
| Student (with ID) | £7 | £10 |
| Family Return | — | £25 |
Where is Bristol airport bus station?
If you are looking for the bus station, follow the signs for “Buses & Coaches” from the arrivals hall. In late 2025, the airport opened a new Public Transport Interchange. You will cross a covered pedestrian bridge to a new building where the A1 Flyer usually departs from Bays 4 and 5.
By car (Avoid if possible)
The obvious option is to travel by car, as the airport is located a short twenty minutes from the city centre. However, if you are not being dropped off and have to leave your car, be prepared to pay upwards of £90 a week for the airport’s cheapest tier.
For this reason, I would consider getting a taxi. Taxis can be found outside the airport or ordered via apps like Uber or Veezu, where fees are usually upwards of £30 for a one-way trip.
If set on parking, I highly recommend checking JustPark. You can often find residents nearby offering spaces for a fraction of the airport’s official price. Just check the distance to the terminal before booking!
The Free Drop-Off Tip
Be aware that as of 2026, Bristol Airport now charges £8.50 for their “Drop & Go” car parks. However, this can be avoide by:
- Using the Free Waiting Zone (near the Silver Zone). It is free for 60 minutes and provides a shuttle bus to the terminal
- Downside Road (parallel to the airport) may offer a solution when quiet, permitting you don’t mind a 10/15-minute walk.
Conclusion
Overall, from a budget-oriented traveler’s point of view, I recommend the bus due to its high reliability and frequency. However, if you have a lot of luggage or a big group, a taxi or a JustPark space provides a more reliable and likely cheaper option than official airport parking.
If you’re looking for activities in Bristol, [check out my recommendations for spending 2 days in Bristol here]!
