As an unusual plant lover and collector, it can be frustrating that we live in a climate not suited to the more interesting, colourful and carnivorous plants of the tropics. But tucked away in Stoke Bishop, you can see just that: an array of thousands of wonderful plants, arranged and cared for with precision. The University of Bristol's Botanical Garden is a fantastic day out on a sunny day.
With glasshouses aplenty to explore, as well as winding paths covered with beautiful trees and lakes decorated by caricature-sized water lilies, you can end your visit with a coffee and cake in the café courtyard overlooking the grounds. The enormous glasshouse is divided into four sections to create four microclimates: The Tropical Zone, The Sub-Tropical Zone and two Warm Temperate zones. Here you can see the touch-sensitive Mimosa Pudica, coffee and cocoa plants and towering Birds of Paradise.
Read more: The SS Great Britain trail for budding gardeners Top spots to see animals around Bristol this summer holiday Coming up is the Bee and Pollination Festival on Saturday August 24. Visitors, for £10 admission, can see demonstrations, exhibits and talks, buy honey and see the Botanic Garden in all its late summer finery. Adult entry costs £9, but there are a number of concessions available, including a 'donate what you like' option on Wednesdays.
You can board the Number 4 bus from the city centre to get there, or the 1 or 2 from Temple Meads Station..