Bristol, a vibrant and eclectic city in the southwest of England, offers a wealth of exciting activities for families with children. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this bustling city is packed with attractions, from interactive museums and scenic parks to wildlife experiences and unique outdoor adventures. Here’s a roundup of some of the best things to do in Bristol right now with your little ones!
1. Bristol Zoo Project
A visit to Bristol Zoo Project is a must for animal-loving families. Home to over 400 species of animals, the zoo offers an interactive and educational experience for children. They can learn about endangered species, explore themed areas like the Lion's Den and Gorilla House, and even take part in animal feeding sessions and talks. With plenty of open spaces for picnics and a fantastic playground, it’s a great family day out.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (check for seasonal changes)
- Ticket Price: Adults £21.36, Children £17.09, Family Ticket £67.82
- What’s on Right Now: Seasonal animal experiences and special kids' activities.
- Learn More: https://bristolzoo.org.uk/
2. Bristol Aquarium
If your children are fascinated by the ocean, the Bristol Aquarium is a fantastic spot to explore marine life. With a variety of exhibits showcasing creatures from the deep, kids can marvel at colourful tropical fish, sharks, and even sea turtles. The interactive touch pools allow kids to get hands-on and learn more about sea creatures in an engaging way. It's an educational and fun outing for children of all ages.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Adults £13.50, Children £10.50, Family Ticket £41
- What’s on Right Now: Interactive feeding demonstrations and seasonal events.
- Learn More: https://www.bristolaquarium.co.uk/
3. M Shed Museum
For a fun, free, and educational day out, the M Shed Museum is a great choice. This interactive museum tells the story of Bristol’s rich history, from its industrial past to its cultural heritage. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits, including the chance to climb aboard an old bus or take a look at historical objects that tell the story of the city. It’s an ideal spot for a family to explore together and learn more about the history of Bristol.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Free entry
- What’s on Right Now: Interactive exhibits and fun family workshops.
- Learn More: https://www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed
4. Bristol's Harbourside
The Harbourside is one of the best places to visit in Bristol, especially with kids. You can stroll along the waterfront, hop on a boat ride, or just enjoy the views. There are several attractions and playgrounds along the way, and you’ll find plenty of child-friendly cafes where you can take a break. For something extra special, consider a Bristol Ferry Boat ride for a unique view of the city from the water.
- Free Entry: Walking around the Harbourside is free
- What’s on Right Now: Boat rides, seasonal outdoor events, and family-friendly festivals.
- Learn More: https://visitbristol.co.uk/discover/areas/harbourside/
5. At-Bristol Science Centre (We The Curious)
For families with curious kids, We The Curious (formerly At-Bristol Science Centre) is an exciting hands-on experience that makes learning fun. The museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits about science, space, and technology. Kids can experiment with physics, create art using science, and even explore the wonders of the solar system in the planetarium. It’s an ideal place to ignite your child’s imagination and curiosity.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (check for seasonal hours)
- Ticket Price: Adults £15.95, Children £10.95, Family Ticket £49.95
- What’s on Right Now: Live science shows, planetarium screenings, and workshops.
- Learn More: https://www.wethecurious.org/
6. Ashton Court Estate
For a more relaxed day, head to Ashton Court Estate, a vast park on the edge of the city. Perfect for a family picnic, it also has plenty of space for running around and outdoor games. You can explore the woodlands, visit the deer park, or enjoy the beautiful gardens. For a little more adventure, try the Ashton Court Mountain Bike Trails, which cater to all levels, or hire a tandem bike for a fun family activity.
- Free Entry: Open year-round
- What’s on Right Now: Seasonal outdoor activities and bike rentals.
- Learn More: https://www.bristol.gov.uk
7. The Wild Place Project
For families that want to combine wildlife with adventure, The Wild Place Project is an amazing destination. Just a short drive from the city center, this wildlife park is home to animals from around the world, including giraffes, lemurs, and wolves. With interactive exhibits, a play park, and walking trails through the woodlands, children can learn about conservation and enjoy the great outdoors. It's the perfect place for a day of adventure and discovery.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal hours)
- Ticket Price: Adults £15, Children £12, Family Ticket £49
- What’s on Right Now: Animal encounters and special family events.
8. Cabot Circus Shopping Centre
If you’re looking for an indoor activity, Cabot Circus is more than just a shopping mall – it’s a great family destination. With plenty of family-friendly restaurants, shops, and even a cinema, it’s perfect for a day out with kids. The AirHop Trampoline Park is located nearby, offering an exciting way for kids to burn off energy while having fun.
- Free Entry: Window shopping is free, but activities like trampoline jumping may have fees
- What’s on Right Now: Kids’ events, cinema showings, and family-friendly shopping offers.
- Learn More: https://www.cabotcircus.com/
9. Bristol’s Parks and Playgrounds
Bristol is known for its fantastic parks and outdoor spaces, perfect for families with children. Queen Square is a popular spot for picnics, while Castle Park offers green space for outdoor games and a lovely playground. St. Andrews Park is also a hit with families, featuring a large playground, a cafe, and plenty of open space for games.
- Free Entry: Open year-round
- What’s on Right Now: Seasonal activities, outdoor play, and community events.
10. Brunel's SS Great Britain
For a historical adventure, step aboard the famous SS Great Britain, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The ship, which once sailed the oceans, is now a museum, offering an interactive experience that immerses children in the history of maritime exploration. Kids can explore the decks, discover the ship’s fascinating history, and even step into recreated cabins to see what life was like on board.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Ticket Price: Adults £18, Children £11, Family Ticket £50
- What’s on Right Now: Interactive tours and family-friendly activities.
- Learn More: https://www.ssgreatbritain.org/
Conclusion
Bristol is a city full of excitement, offering a variety of fun and educational activities for families with children. From exploring the wonders of science and history at museums to enjoying outdoor adventures in beautiful parks and wildlife centres, there’s always something to keep kids entertained. So whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to take advantage of these fantastic family-friendly attractions in and around the city!