Spring into action with urban adventures in Bristol

Adrenaline junkies look no further – unexpected though it may be for a city, Bristol is bursting with adventure for those who want to get physical.

From complete beginners to keen outdoor enthusiasts, Bristol’s extensive range of exhilarating pursuits has something to get anyone’s heart pumping, all within minutes of the city centre.

So, spend less time travelling and more time having fun.

The world at your wheels

Beginners or advanced cyclists can enjoy mountain biking around Bristol's famous Ashton Court Estate or, across more demanding and strenuous routes taking in designated areas of outstanding beauty across the nearby Mendip or Quantock Hills. (carefreecyclingtours.co.uk)

For a bit of healthy competition and an action loaded cycling and camping weekend with a DJ on the decks, sign up to the Bristol Bikefest at Ashton Court on the 7-8 June 2008. (bike-fest.com/bristol)

And once you’ve taken in the city sights by pedal power, finish off with a shower and a spot of lunch at the Mud Dock café located above a trendy bike shop on the city’s docks. (mud-dock.co.uk)

Guests staying at the central four-star Holland House Hotel can even take advantage of free cycle hire. (accorhotels.com)

Live the high life

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try abseiling in some of the most extreme locations in and around Bristol with the Adventurous Activity Company. Stand high above the valley floor looking down over the treetops, feel the buzz as you abseil over the Bristol Channel and work your way up to the final challenge, dropping 50 metres into the breathtaking Avon Gorge. (adventurousactivitycompany.co.uk).

Hit the water

Sailing vessel Tangaroa is an 82ft long wooden sailing ship offering harbour tours and trips directly from the centre of Bristol. Try your hand at sailing or sit back and enjoy the atmosphere of a classic tall ship. Tangaroa trips last from two hours to several weeks, with four guest cabins and a fully equipped galley to cater for hearty sailor's appetites. (tangaroa-sailing.com)

See the city from a different perspective whilst gliding through the water a couple of feet above the surface. Canoe and kayak through the heart of Bristol from the harbourside in a two-man open Canadian style canoe or single person kayak for a fun, relaxing and alternative mode of transport. (adventurousactivitycompany.co.uk/canoeing.html)

Or, why not make the most of the harbour and bring your barge to Bristol? Moor up before you move on and take in local attractions.

Up, up and away…

From floating on water to floating through the sky…take a magical flight in a hot-air balloon for a bird’s eye view of Bristol’s inspiring sights. Be blown away by the stunning scenery and let the wind be your guide over the panoramic views of Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge and the ss Great Britain. (bristolballoons.co.uk)

Other adrenaline inducing activities in and around Bristol include:

• Castle Coombe: keen motorists can test their skills on the skid pan and kart track. Watch some racing or try a high speed trip around the circuit for yourself in a Formula Ford, Lotus Elise or, if you’re brave enough, in your very own set of wheels. (castlecombecircuit.co.uk)

• Rocksport at Cheddar caves: head down with your head torch for a unique caving experience or climb your way up the famous cliffs of the Cheddar Gorge.

• Circomedia: swing into action on a trapeze, try your hand at juggling, steady yourself in acrobalance or perfect your art of clowning around at this worldwide centre of excellence. (circomedia.com)

• Rat Race Urban Adventure: Back for its fourth year on 14-15 June 2008, take the opportunity to run, bike, abseil, climb, kayak and navigate around the urban landscape of Bristol in teams of three. (ratraceadventure.com)