Outdoor Adventure & Specialist Gear Shops in Bristol

Join your host, Terence Williams, as he explores six Bristol businesses that equip the city’s adventurers, explorers, and outdoors-minded locals. From climbing and hiking to cycling, paddle sports, and wild swimming, this episode highlights independent and specialist shops that help Bristolians get outside — whether that’s the Mendips, the coast, or the hills just beyond the city. Every location featured is actively trading, well-established, and easy to visit. 🥾 Places featured: Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports Website: https://www.ellis-brigham.com Address: 10–12 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5HX Highlights: A go-to destination for serious outdoor kit, including hiking, climbing, skiing, and camping gear. Known for expert staff, boot fitting services, and high-quality technical equipment. Cotswold Outdoor (Bristol) Website: https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com Address: 40–42 Queen Square, Bristol BS1 4QP Highlights: A large outdoor retailer offering clothing, footwear, and gear for walking, travel, camping, and adventure sports — popular with beginners and experienced explorers alike. Bristol Rock Centre Website: https://www.bristolrockcentre.com Address: 336 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8TR Highlights: Independent climbing specialists stocking ropes, shoes, chalk, hardware, and bouldering essentials. A favourite among climbers heading to Avon Gorge, the Mendips, or indoor walls. Ground Effect Cycling Website: https://www.groundeffectcycling.com Address: 11–13 Colston Yard, Bristol BS1 5BD Highlights: A long-established independent bike shop offering sales, servicing, repairs, and accessories. Known for friendly advice and supporting Bristol’s strong cycling culture. SUP Bristol Website: https://www.supbristol.com Address: Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6XG Highlights: Stand-up paddleboarding specialists offering lessons, guided tours, equipment hire, and retail — right on the harbourside, making it easy to get straight onto the water. Up and Under Outdoor Website: https://www.upandunder.co.uk Address: 67 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2NT Highlights: One of the UK’s oldest independent outdoor shops, stocking classic and modern gear for climbing, walking, camping, and travel — trusted by generations of adventurers.