A peaceful 7.5 km riverside loop on Bristol’s eastern edge, weaving through ancient woodland, hidden river paths, and wildlife-rich parkland. This route feels far removed from the city centre, offering a quieter, nature-focused run with long stretches beside the River Avon.
Route Overview
Distance: 7.6km
Style: Woodland and riverside out-and-back loop
Start & Finish: Bus stop near Crew’s Hole
Surface: Woodland trails, riverside gravel paths, compact dirt
Best Time to Run: Morning for calm conditions or dusk for wildlife spotting
The Route
1️⃣ Crew’s Hole Woods
Start near the bus stop and enter Crew’s Hole Woods, a tranquil woodland that immediately shifts the atmosphere away from urban Bristol.
The trail surface is compact dirt with occasional roots underfoot, making it engaging without being technical. It’s a gentle start with light undulations to warm the legs.
2️⃣ Beese’s Riverside Bar — Ferry Crossing
Follow the river path toward Beese’s Riverside Bar, a much-loved Bristol institution accessed via a small ferry crossing.
After hugging the Avon for a couple of kilometres, this makes for a tempting mid-run landmark. The path here is flat and steady, ideal for settling into rhythm while enjoying water-level views framed by trees.
3️⃣ Conham River Park
Continue into Conham River Park, where the scenery becomes even more immersive. Woodland meets riverbank in a stretch known for its biodiversity.
Herons are frequently spotted here, and if running later in the day you may even glimpse bats at dusk. The peaceful setting makes this one of the most scenic sections of the route.
4️⃣ Grey Heronry on the River Avon
As you progress along the Avon, look across to the trees on the opposite bank where grey herons nest each year. This long-established heronry adds a distinctive wildlife element to the run. The path remains largely flat and runnable, with the river constantly in view and the city feeling far away.
5️⃣ Return Along the Avon
Retrace your steps along the same riverside trail, enjoying the scenery from the opposite perspective. The return stretch allows for a steady negative split if desired, with consistent terrain and only gentle rises. Finish back at the bus stop, completing a calm and nature-filled loop.
Why This Route Works
- Quiet, traffic-free riverside paths
- Rich wildlife and woodland scenery
- Mostly flat, making it suitable for steady pacing
- Feels remote despite being within Bristol
- Ideal for longer easy runs or relaxed weekend mileage
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