New Bus Service to Connect Portishead to Bristol Airport in April: Enhancing Travel Options for Commuters and Tourists

Starting April 5, 2026, a new bus service will be introduced to connect Portishead and several surrounding towns with Bristol Airport, providing travelers with a more convenient, direct transport option. The A2 service, operated by First Bus, will run daily, offering up to hourly departures, and is set to provide a 24-hour connection to and from one of the UK’s busiest regional airports.
This development comes as part of a broader effort to enhance public transport access to Bristol Airport, improving the travel experience for business travelers, commuters, and tourists alike. The service will connect Portishead to key locations including Walton-in-Gordano, Clevedon, Tickenham, Nailsea, Backwell, and Bristol Airport, making it easier for residents in these towns to access the airport without the need for a car or taxi.
Bristol Airport’s £60m Transport Hub Upgrade: A Key Step in the Airport Transformation
Bristol Airport has recently completed a £60 million transport hub, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s £400 million transformation programme. The upgraded facility, designed to accommodate more buses and improve transport links, is set to enhance access to the airport for both passengers and airport employees. While currently, only 15% of airport customers use buses, the new bus service is expected to boost these numbers significantly, offering a more sustainable and affordable travel option for all.
This new bus service comes as part of ongoing efforts to develop more efficient transport systems for the growing demand at the airport, which remains one of the largest UK airports without a mass transit connection. The airport’s transformation will help meet the rising demand for air travel while improving the sustainability and accessibility of travel to and from the airport.
Impact of the New Bus Service on Business Travelers and Tourists
For business travelers, the introduction of the A2 bus service means a more convenient and cost-effective way to reach Bristol Airport from surrounding areas like Portishead and Clevedon. Previously, travelers would have had to rely on private cars or taxis, adding time and expense to their journey. With the new bus connection, these travelers can access the airport without worrying about traffic or parking.
Tourists visiting the region will also benefit from the new bus routes, particularly those flying into Bristol Airport or heading to nearby tourist destinations. With 24-hour service and a bus running up to every hour, tourists will enjoy greater flexibility when traveling to and from the airport, helping to reduce the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with airport parking.
The ease of access to Bristol Airport also opens up greater opportunities for tourists to visit the city of Bristol, known for its vibrant culture, historic sites, and thriving arts scene. The new bus route will make it easier for visitors from outlying areas to explore the city and surrounding attractions like the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol Zoo Gardens, and the SS Great Britain.
Other New Transport Services in the Region
In addition to the new bus service linking Portishead to Bristol Airport, First Bus is also rolling out new routes to improve accessibility across the wider Bristol area. One notable service is the Service 18, which will connect Bristol city centre with Kingswood and Southmead. This new route will offer a direct link from St George to Southmead Hospital, providing convenience for patients, visitors, and staff.
Further expanding the reach of public transport, Bath’s new 175 service will connect the Bath bus station with Peasedown St John, making it easier for residents of this village to travel into Bath for work or leisure.
These additions to the local bus network are designed to meet the increasing demand for affordable, efficient travel options across the region, and will benefit residents, commuters, and tourists alike.
Key Benefits of the New Bus Service
- More Affordable Travel: The A2 service provides an affordable alternative to taxis and private cars for getting to Bristol Airport. This can save travelers money, especially for those traveling regularly.
- Improved Accessibility: The bus will connect Portishead, Clevedon, and other towns to Bristol Airport, giving travelers in these areas a more accessible way to reach the airport.
- 24-Hour Service: The 24-hour bus service makes it convenient for tourists and business travelers with early or late flights to get to the airport, reducing the need for overnight accommodation near the airport.
- Boost to Sustainable Travel: With increased bus services, the new route supports more eco-friendly travel, encouraging travelers to choose public transport over private cars, thereby reducing carbon emissions.
- Enhancing Regional Transport: By improving bus connections between towns and Bristol Airport, First Bus is supporting the region’s economic growth, making it easier for both residents and visitors to get around.
What You Should Know Before Using the New Bus Service
- Check Timetables: Make sure to check the bus schedule on the First Bus website to see the new A2 service times, as well as any updates to other routes.
- Bus Fares: Single tickets will be available at affordable rates, and a variety of discounted travel passes can be used for those traveling frequently.
- Travel Comfort: The A2 buses are designed to accommodate a high volume of passengers, with ample seating and luggage storage, making it suitable for both business travelers and tourists with bags.
Key Points to Remember:
- The A2 bus service will start on April 5, 2026, linking Portishead, Clevedon, Tickenham, Nailsea, Backwell, and Bristol Airport.
- This service is part of Bristol Airport’s £400 million transformation, aimed at improving transport links and increasing accessibility.
- The A2 bus will run 24 hours a day, offering hourly services.
- First Bus is also introducing new routes in Bristol, including the Service 18, connecting the city centre with Kingswood and Southmead.
- Affordable transport options will provide easier access for business travelers and tourists to reach Bristol Airport and other destinations in the region.
Conclusion: Enhanced Connectivity for Tourists and Travelers
The new bus service connecting Portishead to Bristol Airport marks an exciting step forward in improving regional transportation options in the UK. By providing affordable, efficient, and environmentally-friendly travel options for tourists and business travelers, this new route will make it easier for people to access Bristol Airport and surrounding areas. With the launch of the A2 service, it’s clear that public transport in the region is becoming more accessible, reducing the reliance on private cars and helping to make travel in the South West more sustainable.
For travelers planning a trip to Bristol or flying out of Bristol Airport, this new bus service is a game-changer—ensuring smoother and more reliable travel across the region.
The post New Bus Service to Connect Portishead to Bristol Airport in April: Enhancing Travel Options for Commuters and Tourists appeared first on Travel And Tour World.