A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Lake District National Park vs. Bristol for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Bristol. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a beautiful, spectacular, and relaxing national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Bristol

Bristol is a diverse, cultural, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Bristol: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bristol. Although Lake District National Park and Bristol are popular destinations, Bristol has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bristol is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Bristol and is known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also well known for The Bristol Harbour.

How is Lake District National Park different from Bristol?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bristol and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Bristol is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Bristol? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Lake District National Park is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Bristol is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Bristol has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Bristol is not a hiking destination.

Around Lake District National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Bristol is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Bristol is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Lake District National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Lake District National Park is great for couples. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Lake District National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.


Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

A large number of backpackers visit Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Bristol is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Is Lake District National Park or Bristol Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Bristol is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Bristol has some public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Lake District National Park or Bristol a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Bristol

Bristol is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Bristol Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bristol or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Bristol. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Bristol. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bristol.

Families should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Bristol. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lake District National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Bristol. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Lake District National Park that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Bristol? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Bristol 1-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Bristol. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Many people visit Bristol for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The historic destination of Bristol offers shopping and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Bristol?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Bristol, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Bristol or Lake District National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Bristol is £91. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lake District National Park and Bristol in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Bristol £49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Bristol £98
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Bristol

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Bristol? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lake District National Park


Hotels in Bristol


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bristol Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Bristol £13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

Also for Bristol, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • PrivateTransfer from Bristol Port to London Heathrow Airport(LHR): $43
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $43
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Cruise Port to Bristol city hotels: $50
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Airport(BRS) to Bristol Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton City : $205
  • Private Bristol Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $56
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Departure Private Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfer Bristol to Bristol Airport BRS by Luxury Van: $85
  • Departure Private Transfer Bristol to Bristol Airport BRS by Luxury Car: $85
  • Bristol Private Transfer from Bristol Airport to central Bristol: $79
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Private Round Trip Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Prices for flights to both Bristol and Lake District National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lake District National Park £21
    Bristol £32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

For Bristol, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Bristol £13

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89

Tours and Activities in Bristol

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bristol.

  • 2 Hours Private Walking to Bristol Cider Tour with Cheese: $45
  • Afternoon Bath City Tour - Private tour from Bristol with a local guide: $280
  • Blackbeard to Banksy - The Ultimate Walking Tour of Bristol: $17
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Sketching Tour for Beginners and Improvers: $38
  • Bristol Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Bristol private pub hopping and sightseeing with local guide: $114
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol’s Darkest Secrets Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Bristol £11

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bristol:

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99


When comparing the travel costs between Lake District National Park and Bristol, we can see that Bristol is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Bristol Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Bristol?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Bristol in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Bristol. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Bristol because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Bristol in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Bristol fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Bristol. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Bristol 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Bristol in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Bristol. The autumn months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bristol this time of year.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is cooler than Bristol. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Bristol averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Bristol. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Bristol 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Bristol in the Winter?

Both Bristol and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bristol for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Lake District National Park in the winter. In January, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Bristol. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Bristol fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Bristol. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Bristol 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Bristol in the Spring?

Both Bristol and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Bristol in the spring for the activities around the city.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Bristol in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Bristol fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in April than Bristol. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Bristol 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bristol and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Bristol
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)