Living in student accommodation in Bristol doesn’t have to mean living on a tight budget. With a bit of creativity and local know-how, you can enjoy some of the city’s best experiences completely free or at very low cost. Whether you’re into street art, green spaces, museums or quirky markets, Bristol offers plenty of value-packed activities.
This guide rounds up the best free things to do in Bristol, so you can make the most of your student life without breaking the bank.
Explore Bristol’s Street Art – Including Banksy
One of Bristol’s most iconic (and free) attractions is its vibrant street art scene. Home to legendary artist Banksy, the city offers several self-guided street art tours where you can view political, abstract and humorous murals across areas like Stokes Croft, Bedminster and the city centre.
Tip: Download a free street art map and make an afternoon of it with your mates.
Visit Free Museums and Galleries
- Bristol Museum & Art Gallery – From Egyptian artefacts to natural history and classic paintings, this museum is free for all and packed with things to see.
- M Shed – Dive into Bristol’s industrial and social past with interactive exhibits and local stories.
- Arnolfini – A leading centre for contemporary arts located at the harbourside with free rotating exhibitions.
These are perfect for rainy days and easy cultural enrichment.
Picnic or Chill in Bristol’s Green Spaces
Bristol is full of beautiful parks and open-air spots ideal for a no-cost hangout:
- Brandon Hill & Cabot Tower – Great views over the city and a peaceful space for walks or reading.
- Ashton Court Estate – Historic grounds perfect for weekend picnics or cycling.
- College Green – A go-to for University of Bristol students just outside the main campus.
Bring a blanket, some snacks and you’re sorted for the afternoon.
Visit Clifton Suspension Bridge
An iconic Bristol landmark that’s completely free to visit. Walk across the bridge for stunning views of the Avon Gorge. There’s also a visitor centre nearby that offers free exhibits about the bridge’s history and construction.
Attend Student Nights & Budget-Friendly Events
Evenings don’t have to be costly. Many bars and clubs offer student deals:
- Thekla – A club on a boat with student nights.
- Lizard Lounge – Known for its cheap drinks and themed nights.
- Motion – Sometimes hosts free daytime events, exhibitions and pop-ups.
Check social media or your university’s events board for free gigs, society meetups and film screenings.
{H2} Browse St Nicholas Market
This historic market is a buzzing hub of independent stalls selling everything from vintage clothes to handmade jewellery. While shopping isn’t free, browsing is! And you can often find budget-friendly bites from international street food vendors.
Take a Walk Around Bristol’s Harbourside
The Harbourside area is ideal for a scenic stroll with great views, live performers and bustling weekend energy. You’ll find book stalls, cafés, buskers and seasonal events that often don’t cost a thing.
Volunteer and Give Back
Volunteering is a meaningful way to engage with the community while gaining experience. Bristol has dozens of organisations—from food banks to arts collectives—where students can get involved.
Many local groups also host free training workshops and socials for volunteers.
Where to Stay: Study Inn Marlborough House
When exploring the best of Bristol on a student budget, living in the right place makes all the difference. Study Inn Marlborough House provides:
- Premium luxury student accommodation in Bristol with top-tier finishes
- All-inclusive student accommodation in Bristol – bills, cleaning, Wi-Fi and security all rolled into one price
- Private, fully equipped student studio in Bristol setups for modern student lifestyles
- Beautifully managed student serviced apartments in Bristol designed for comfort, convenience and community
All this is just a short distance from city highlights and student hotspots.
Final Thoughts
Being a student in Bristol doesn’t mean spending a fortune. With countless cheap student activities in Bristol and plenty of options for exploring Bristol on a budget for students, you can experience everything the city has to offer—from culture and nightlife to nature and history—without worrying about your wallet.Choose student accommodation in Bristol to combine savings with quality. With centrally located, all-inclusive and premium student living options, you can enjoy the best of Bristol with ease.
