Finding Commercial Property in Bristol

Finding the right Bristol commercial property shouldn't be a full-time job. Whether you’re a startup hunting for a creative studio or a firm needing Bristol office space for rent, our guide simplifies the local market.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best areas, transport links, and property types available. We will also explore why modern teams are increasingly moving away from traditional leases in favour of flexible office space in Bristol, with providers like Runway East Bristol leading the way in community-focused, hassle-free environments.
Why Bristol is a Prime Spot for Business

Bristol isn’t just a pretty city, it is a powerhouse of innovation. Regularly voted one of the best places to live and work in the UK, it boasts a GVA (Gross Value Added) that consistently outpaces the national average.
- The Startup Ecosystem: Bristol is the "Silicon Gorge," home to a massive cluster of tech, aerospace, and digital media companies.
- Economic Growth: With billions invested in the Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone, the city is physically expanding its capacity for Bristol commercial property.
- Lifestyle & Culture: From the independent shops of Gloucester Road to the dining hub of Wapping Wharf, Bristol offers a lifestyle that attracts top-tier talent.
- Education: Two world-class universities provide a steady stream of graduates, ensuring your business has access to a fresh, skilled workforce.
Types of Commercial Property in Bristol
Office Space for Rent

The demand for Bristol office space for rent has shifted dramatically. While traditional long-term leases still exist in areas like Aztec West, the city centre is dominated by serviced and managed offices.
Bristol's best businesses deserve a home that actually works. Runway East is on a mission to destroy boring offices by replacing rigid leases with total flexibility and high-energy community. Opening in June 2026, Runway East Queen Square offers premium offices for teams of 3–75+ who want more from their workspace than just a desk and a chair.
Warehouses and Light Industrial Units
If your business requires warehouse space in Bristol, you'll likely look toward Avonmouth or Severnside. These areas offer high-spec units ideal for e-commerce fulfillment and logistics, with prices typically ranging from £12 to £16 per sq ft depending on the age of the unit.
Hybrid Workspaces and Creative Studios
Bristol excels in ‘maker spaces.’ Areas like Bedminster and St Philips host numerous creative studios in Bristol and hybrid workspaces that combine office desks with light industrial or workshop space, perfect for hardware startups and media production houses.
Key Transport Links and Accessibility
Accessibility is a major driver for Bristol commercial property values.
- Rail: Bristol Temple Meads is the city's primary hub, connecting to London Paddington in just 80 minutes.
- Road: The M4 and M5 interchange makes Bristol the logistical gateway to the South West and Wales.
- Air: Bristol Airport offers direct flights to over 100 destinations, essential for businesses with international clients.
Top 5 Flexible and Hybrid Office Space Providers in Bristol
1. Runway East

Runway East is the top choice for teams who value community over corporate. With locations at Bristol Bridge and the stunning new Queen Square site, members enjoy:
- Amenities: 24/7 access, high-spec meeting rooms, and roof terraces.
- Community: Famous social events, "Cake Wednesdays," and a network of high-growth founders.
- Flexibility: Simple licenses that scale as you do - no 5-year lease traps.

Known for their colourful, vibrant interiors, DeskLodge offers two conveniently located buildings, one offering an impressive rooftop terrace.

Housed in the iconic Generator Building, this space is most suitable for established businesses and professional networking.

Engine Shed is a great option for tech startups and innovation-focused companies; this is due to its partnership with the University of Bristol, which provides members with access to innovation networks.

A local favourite in Clifton focusing heavily on wellness and professional networking.
Top 5 Warehouse and Light Industrial Units in Bristol
- Central Park, Avonmouth: Massive distribution units with Tier 1 transport links.
- St Philips Trade Park: Ideal for smaller light industrial and "trade counter" businesses near the city center
- Horizon 38: A new-build hybrid development in North Bristol. Paintworks: While famous for its creative studios in Bristol, it also offers unique hybrid units.
- Vertex Park: High-quality industrial units located in the Emersons Green area.
Should I Use a Broker to Find Commercial Property?
The answer depends on the type of space you need.
- Use a Broker if: You are looking for a 5,000+ sq ft traditional lease or a large Bristol warehouse space. They can negotiate complex "rent-free" periods and service charge caps.
- Go Direct if: You want flexible office space in Bristol. Although you can engage a broker, contacting providers like Runway East directly is faster, often cheaper, and allows you to get a better feel for the community culture immediately.
Top 5 Brokers for Commercial Property in Bristol
- Savills Bristol: Specialists in large-scale office and retail.
- Knight Frank: A global leader with a strong local presence in the Bristol commercial market.
- Cushman & Wakefield: Experts in industrial and logistics space.
- Burston Cook: A local boutique firm with deep knowledge of the Bristol city center.
- JLL Bristol: Ideal for corporate-grade office searches.
FAQs About Bristol Commercial Property
How much does commercial property cost in Bristol?
Prime Bristol office space for rent in the city centre can range from £42.50 to £50 per sq ft for traditional leases, while flexible office space typically costs between £350 and £600 per desk per month, covering all utilities.
What types of commercial property are available in Bristol?
The area offers a mix of modern Grade A office buildings in the Temple Quarter, converted industrial units in St Philips, and hybrid workspaces across the city.
Should I rent or buy commercial property in Bristol?
Leasing offers essential flexibility for growing teams, while buying offers long-term investment. Most startups prefer Runway East's flexible licenses to avoid the massive upfront costs of a purchase.
What are the benefits of the Runway East Bristol locations?
From the bars of King Street to the quiet greenery of Queen Square, our locations showcase the best of Bristol's lifestyle.
Conclusion
Bristol is an ideal area for growing businesses because it offers a rare mix of economic stability and creative energy. Whether you are hunting for Bristol commercial property in the form of a massive warehouse or a sleek city-centre hub, the options are plentiful. However, for those who want to focus on their work rather than their floorplan, flexible spaces like Runway East Queen Square provide the ultimate convenience.
Book a tour at Runway East Bristol today and see why we’re the most popular choice for modern teams in the South West.
Got Questions? We've Got Answers
We've put together some FAQs to help you settle into life at Runway East.
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