We have a wide range of French courses suitable for beginners, intermediate and advanced students. Our French language courses for adults at Stoke Lodge in Bristol are designed to help you build your skills with confidence. We also offer French cultural workshops where you can take a day to really immerse yourself in a region, or particular part of the French culture.
French Language Courses in Bristol
At Stoke Lodge we offer in-person French classes, as well as some online classes, designed to fit into your life. Whether you’re looking for weekday evening sessions, daytime classes and Saturday courses. We have something to suit every schedule. Our experienced tutors create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where learning feels natural and fun.
Looking for something a bit different? Try one of our cultural workshops, like French for Holidays, French Regional Discovery, or French Book Club. They’re perfect for anyone wanting to combine language learning with a taste of French culture.
Our learners come from all walks of life — from those picking up a new hobby, expanding skills, preparing for holidays and enjoying learning to keep the mind active.
Whatever your reason for learning, you’ll join a friendly group of adults who enjoy discovering French language, culture, and conversation together. If you’re looking to learn French in Bristol and want practical, enjoyable lessons that fit into your life, you’re in the right place.
Bristol Adult Learning Courses 2025/26 - PREVIEW ONLY
You can LOOK but you can’t BOOK! Booking for 2025/25 courses will open on Tuesday 8 July at 9:30am but you can browse the new courses in advance.
Description: Ce cours s'adresse à des personnes avec un bon niveau de français. Elles discuteront des articles de presse/internet sur divers thèmes, d'actualités culturelle, politique ou sociale, dans le but d'approfondir leurs connaissances, d'élargir leur vocabulaire et de réviser un peu de grammaire.
From lively group discussions to moments of quiet study, get a sense of the rhythm and energy in our sessions.
“It felt like stepping into a little piece of France each week”
What Makes Our French Classes Special
Our French courses stand out for their personal touch. Taught by passionate tutors, including many native-speakers in friendly, interactive groups, they’re designed to support learners at every level.
Many native-speaking local tutors
Friendly groups, interactive classes
Suitable for learners of all levels
Course Levels
French for Beginners to Advanced Learners We offer French courses in Bristol for beginners, intermediate, upper intermediate and advanced learners. Whether you’re learning French for the first time or looking to deepen your knowledge, we have a level that fits your needs.
All of our classes are led by experienced tutors who bring warmth, encouragement, and cultural insight to every session. Whichever level you join, you’ll become part of a vibrant community of adult learners who share your interest in French language and culture.
If you’re not sure which course is right for you, we’re happy to help you find the perfect fit!
Just starting out? This course is the perfect introduction if you’ve never studied French before. You’ll learn essential phrases, pronunciation tips, and how to introduce yourself, ask questions, and navigate simple real-life situations like ordering food, asking directions, or shopping.
Best for: Complete beginners who wants to build confidence from the ground up. No prior experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to have fun with the language.
Beginners Plus
This level is ideal if you already know some basic vocabulary and grammar. You’ll learn more complex phrases, using different tenses, improve your pronunciation, and expand your vocabulary.
Best for: Learners who have studied French for around a year (60 hours) in a classroom setting.
Ready to go beyond the basics? Our intermediate courses help you build confidence and fluency through conversation, listening practice, and expanded vocabulary.
Lower Intermediate
You’ll learn how to express yourself more naturally and handle a wider range of everyday situations, reinforce your grammar skills and understanding of past, present and future tenses, from talking about past holidays to making plans and sharing opinions.
Best for: Learners who know some French and want to take their skills further in a relaxed, supportive setting. Learners who have studied French for around 2 years (120 hours) in a classroom setting.
Intermediate
Designed for learners with a solid grasp of the language. You will have the opportunity to study longer texts and be engaged in more spontaneous conversations with your fellow learners in the classroom.
Best for: Learners who have studied French for approximately 3 years (180 hours) in a classroom setting.
Upper Intermediate
Here’s where your French really starts to come alive. At this level, you’ll sharpen your grammar, improve your speaking and writing, and gain confidence understanding French in real contexts—like reading articles, watching short films, or discussing cultural topics. We also dive into French life and traditions, making learning both practical and enriching.
Best for: Committed learners ready to step up and deepen their understanding of language and culture. Learners who have studied French for approximately 4 years (240 hours) in a classroom setting.
Already a confident speaker? Our advanced classes are dynamic and intellectually stimulating, designed to stretch your fluency and broaden your perspective
Advanced
This level is ideal for learners who are more comfortable with complex language. Reaching high levels of grammar understanding and the nuances of the language.
On the course you will reinforce and strengthen your skills through exploring authentic French materials—literature, news, film, podcasts—and take part in lively discussions on everything from art and politics to social trends in the Francophone world.
Vous développerez votre confiance dans la communication en français dans une atmosphère sympa et informel.
Best for: Fluent or near-fluent speakers, advanced learners, or anyone with a strong grasp of French who’s ready to challenge themselves and grow further.
Advanced Conversation
Ce cours s’adresse à des personnes qui ont un bon niveau de français. Afin d’approfondir leurs connaissances, elles discuteront des articles de presse/internet sur divers thèmes, principalement d’actualités culturelles, politique, artistique ou sociale dans le but d’élargir leurs vocabulaire et parler plus couramment.
Vous développerez votre confiance dans la communication en français dans une atmosphère sympa et informel.
Best for: les étudiants doivent avoir appris le français pendant plusieurs années. Ils doivent parler plus ou moins couramment.
Which Level to Choose?
Not sure which level to choose, take our quick quiz: “Which French course is right for me?”. It only takes a minute and helps you find your perfect starting point.
Learn French with Purpose and Progress Each of our French courses in Bristol is designed to help you grow your skills step by step, helping you build a strong foundation or prepare for advanced conversation.
Foundation and Progression
We offer a structured pathway from complete beginner to advanced levels, helping you build your skills steadily across speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Every course includes regular practice and gentle repetition, allowing you to absorb new language naturally over time. You won’t just memorise vocabulary—you’ll learn how to use it with real confidence.
Progress Checks
While our classes are relaxed and friendly, we’re her to help you continually develop your skills.
Regular check-ins on your learning are built into classes through informal activities, homework, and tutor feedback. This will help you reflect on your progress, identify areas for improvement, and feel proud of what you’ve achieved.
Our tutors are hands-on and approachable—to help you understand where you are and what to focus on next.
Culture, Society and Communication
Language doesn’t live in a textbook—it lives in people, places, and stories. That’s why our courses, especially at intermediate and advanced levels, go beyond grammar to explore the rich tapestry of French-speaking culture.
You’ll be able to explore French cinema, literature, history and society, giving you an understanding of the language in context.
Real-World Application
Lessons focus on real communication. You’ll practice speaking in pairs and small groups, listen to authentic audio, and use practical language that prepares you for holidays, work, or meeting new people. Our tutors often use topical news and events as a way to explore the country and language in more depth.
Learn French in Bristol – Beginner to Advanced Courses Available
Explore our engaging and friendly French courses—perfect for beginners as well as those looking to refresh their skills and gain confidence in speaking, reading and understanding the language.
Course Tutors
Meet Your Tutors: Experienced, Supportive and Passionate About French Our French tutors are experts in their field, with many years of teaching experience and a real passion for sharing the French language and culture.
Out tutors will support you at every stage of your learning journey.
Subject(s): French and Bilingualism Originally from Paris, I have settled in Bristol and have been running classes at Stoke Lodge for many years in addition to private teaching […]
French Tutors in Bristol
Students often tell us that the tutor makes all the difference. That’s why we choose professionals who are not only knowledgeable but also patient, enthusiastic, and engaging.
Getting started with your French course in Bristol is easy. Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to study, we’re here to help you find the right class and get enrolled quickly.
Start Your French Learning Journey Today
Book Your French Course Now and start your journey with confidence
Step-by-Step:
Choose your level – Not sure? Contact us to discuss further on the number below or by emailing stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk.
Pick a course – Browse available dates and times to suit your schedule.
Book your place online – Simply follow the links and secure your spot.
Ready to Begin?
All our courses can be booked online through our booking portal or if you would prefer to speak to a real person directly you can book over the phone or in the office at Stoke Lodge with our lovely administrative team.
Call 0117 903 8844 for help booking or choosing the correct option.
Over the years, hundreds of adults have joined our French classes in Bristol and shared how much they’ve enjoyed the experience. Here’s what just a few of them have said:
“The classes are friendly, well-paced, and fun. I’ve learned more than I expected in just a few weeks! — Margaret, Complete Beginners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I was nervous speaking in class at first, but the tutor put me at ease straight away. It’s been good preparation for holiday in France. I think I am ready to go to Bordeaux!” — David, Lower Intermediate ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Despite all the “remote” learning now available, nothing beats learning with others. It’s a lively, friendly group who are very supportive of each other.” — Richard, Intermediate ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This course provided a structure and a commitment to do something I had been delaying and it’s a great way to keep the little grey cells working!” — Rachel, Beginner Plus ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From Nervous Beginner to Confident Speaker
“I was nervous about learning a new language, but the tutor made everything clear and enjoyable. After just a few weeks, I found my confidence growing and really looked forward to each weeks class.”
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions and additional information.
If you don’t have any experience, you can still learn with us. We would recommend a Complete beginners course.
If you have some experience or if you’ve studied French before (even a little) then there are lots of different levels to choose from. Its just a case of finding the right one for you.
If you are not sure which level is correct you can take our quick quiz to help find your level or contact us to talk to someone about the different options available.
We know many of our learners will have tried out language apps such as Duolingo, while these are great for increasing your exposure to the language and can be a useful practice tool, learners need to be aware that the hours and levels on apps like this do not equate to classroom levels or prepare your language skills in the same way as face to face classes. For example, 20 hours of Duolingo study is not equal to 20 hours of classroom learning.
Standard courses usually run for up to 16 weeks, with one session per week.
Holiday and refresher courses (available at certain times of year) typically last around 6 to 10 weeks—great for a quick refresher or seasonal learning.
All courses are structured to give you steady progress, and you’ll always know what to expect from week to week.
Our classes include many retired learners and lots of our older learners tell us they join courses to make new friends and keep active. Lifelong learning and particularly learning in a group regularly, is a great way to build social circles, have engaging conversations and keep your brain active.
Classes are welcoming, relaxed, and paced to support your learning style. You’ll never feel rushed, and there’s plenty of opportunity for questions, repetition, and review.
We always suggest learners bring a notebook and pen to class
Your tutor may use or recommend a particular course or textbook but they will advise you of any recommendations and where to get them at the first session.
Our classes are usually between 8 and 12 students—so you get plenty of attention and opportunity to speak. The maximum number we would have in a class is around 16 but most groups are smaller.
Lessons are interactive and engaging, with pair work, group discussion, listening activities, and games that bring the language to life.
All in-person classes take place at Stoke Lodge our Bristol Adult Learning Centre.
Stoke Lodge has been our home for over 50 years and is a much-loved grade 2 listed building in leafy surroundings.
We are conveniently located and easy to reach by public transport (the number 3 and 4 busses stop nearby). We have a large free car park and plenty of bike racks for cyclists.
The classrooms are comfortable and equipped with everything needed for a great learning experience.
That’s completely normal—many of our learners feel the same at first!
Our tutors are friendly, patient, and skilled at creating a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable giving it a go. You’ll never be put on the spot, and you’ll find your confidence grows naturally as the weeks go by.
Potentially yes depending on the available spaces. We would want to chat through with you the best option before joining just to make sure you were comfortable joining the class at that level. So, get in touch with us if that is something you are considering.
Ready to Learn French?
Are you ready to book or just have a few questions? We are here to help you start your French learning journey.
Book your place today and join the Stoke Lodge community. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to see what is happening and sign-up to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on new course dates.
If you are looking to book a different course, use the search facility or list of courses by category in the sidebar. For the latest updates and course releases, sign-up to receive our ‘In The Loop’ newsletters or read our recently published newsletters online.
Bristol Adult Learning Courses 2025/26 PREVIEW ONLY
You can LOOK but you can’t BOOK! Booking for 2025/25 courses will open on Tuesday 8 July at 9:30am but you can browse the new courses in advance.
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