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Things To Do in Bristol: Our Top Ten Picks

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Families in Bristol, or those who wish to visit – listen up! Are you wondering about things to do in Bristol for your next day out? you can get up to in Bristol? Not only will you find a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and adventure, but plenty of family fun activities that makes Bristol a perfect destination for a family day out!

Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich maritime heritage or seeking thrills at a family-friendly attraction, Bristol has something for everyone. Come along for a Bristol weekend or head there during the school holidays.

Top Ten Things To Do in Bristol

bristol balloon festival

Bristol Balloon Fiesta

Every summer, the sky is alive with bright and bold hot air balloons in Bristol, with the Bristol Balloon Fiesta! You’ll crane your heads upwards as you watch 100 hot air balloons float up into the air over this famous four-day event. From morning masses and nighttime floats, it’s truly a spectacle to behold. Did you know it brings in over 500,000 spectators?!

It’s just not about balloons, though; they also have fun fair rides, children’s entertainment, musical performances and, of course, delicious food to munch on – you’ll have lots of choice on what street food to devour.

It’s the perfect family trip to make this summer!

Shape Location Get directions

Ashton Court Estate,
Long Ashton,
Bristol
BS41 9JN

Opening Times

9th - 11th August 2024

Pricing

Tickets are free. You just need to pay for parking if you're driving

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family on the ss great britain

Brunel's SS Great Britain

Step back in time aboard the SS Great Britain, one of the world’s most important ships in history. Did you know it was the world’s first great ocean liner?!

The interactive displays and the Dockyard Museum make history come alive, making it an engaging experience for kids and adults alike! Experience what life was like at sea, discover the famous engineer and uncover why this was the ship that changed the world! Board the ship, dress in traditional Victorian clothing and even steer the SS Great Britain!

It’s time for your family to go behind the scenes…

Shape Location Get directions

Great Western Dockyard,
Gas Ferry Rd,
Bristol,
BS1 6TY

Opening Times

Monday Closed
Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 - 17:00

Pricing

Adult £22.00
Child (4-16) £13.50
Under 3s free

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we the curious planetarium show

We The Curious

We The Curious is a hands-on arts and science centre where curiosity knows no bounds. With over 250 exhibits, a 3D planetarium, and various workshops, it’s a place where kids can learn through play and exploration.

Located at Bristol Harbourside, you can discover an interactive experience where science knows no boundaries. You can touch the exhibits and let your curiosity drive you forward! Not to mention the amazing planetarium shows that are sure to blow you away!

A trip to We The Curious is sure to be a fantastic family day that will be filled with ‘oohs’, ‘ahhs’ and ‘wow!’. 

Shape Location Get directions

1 Millennium Square,
One Millennium Square,
Anchor Rd,
Bristol,
BS1 5DB

Opening Times

Opening from 2nd July 2024

Pricing

Adult £20.35
Child (3-15) £13.95
Under 3s free

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a child looking into an aquarium

Bristol Aquarium

Dive into the deep blue at Bristol Aquarium, where you can uncover the creatures of the deep! Be amazed as you watch aquatic creatures like zebra sharks, seahorses and babymoon jellyfish effortlessly swim beneath the water. Check out the bustling life in the coral reef exhibit and wander through the Urban Jungle when you’re back on dry land!

At Bristol Aquarium, you can explore marine life from all around the world, walk through underwater tunnels, and meet fascinating creatures like sharks, seahorses, and colourful tropical fish. A family trip here makes for the perfect family day out! It’s educational and outstanding, and let’s face it: we all love animals.

What could be better?

Shape Location Get directions

Bristol Aquarium
Anchor Road
Bristol
Somerset and Bristol
BS1 5TT

Opening Times

Monday to Friday 10:00 - 16:00
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 - 17:00

Pricing

Adult (13-18+) £20.50
Child (3-12) £13.35

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the magic portal at the wake the tiger

Wake The Tiger

Wake The Tiger is a unique and thrilling experience that combines elements of escape rooms, immersive theatre, and puzzle-solving in the heart of Bristol! Set in a mysterious underground bunker, participants are tasked with uncovering the secrets hidden within its walls before time runs out.

Participants are divided into teams and must work together to solve a series of challenges, riddles, and clues scattered throughout the bunker. As they unravel the mystery, they will encounter unexpected twists and turns that will keep them on their toes.

With a blend of suspense, excitement, and teamwork, Wake The Tiger offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is perfect for thrill-seekers and puzzle enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a unique team-building activity, this immersive adventure is sure to leave you wanting more!

It’s a magical event that you’ll want to experience before it leaves! It’s the perfect activity for families with kids who are brimming with curiosity and imagination!

Shape Location Get directions

Wake The Tiger,
127 Albert Rd,
Bristol
BS2 0YA

Opening Times

Monday to Thursday 10:00 - 19:00
Friday 10:00 - 18:00
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 - 19:00

Pricing

Adult (13+) from £14.50
Child (5-12) from £10.00
Child (under 5) free

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Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Discover a world of history, art, and natural wonders at the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. From Egyptian mummies to dinosaur skeletons and an impressive art collection, there’s plenty to spark the imagination of young minds.

Learn all about how animals have adapted to the environment around them, say ‘hi’ to Alfred the Gorilla, uncover the mysteries of Egyptian mummies and take a moment to capture the essence of beautiful paintings.

Shape Location Get directions

Queens Rd,
Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8 1RL

Opening Times

Monday Closed
Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00

Pricing

Free entry

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boy feeding tortoise

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is a popular family-friendly attraction located just outside of Bristol. This fun-filled farm park offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

You can’t visit Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm and not see their amazing collection of animals! From cute and cuddly farmyard animals like pigs, sheep, and goats to more exotic creatures such as meerkats, wallabies, and lemurs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can also participate in feeding sessions and animal encounters and even meet some of the farm’s resident reptiles!

Plus, you’ll find outdoor play areas, including giant slides, trampolines, and pedal go-karts! And if the weather is looking a little sad…there are also indoor play areas too.

Shape Location Get directions

Clevedon Road, Wraxall
Bristol
Somerset and Bristol
BS48 1PG

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday 10:30 - 17:00

Pricing

Adult £26.40
Child £22.00

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bristol pirates

Bristol Pirate Walks

Embark on a swashbuckling adventure with Bristol Pirate Walks! Discover the city’s piratical past, hear tales of famous pirates like Blackbeard, and explore hidden treasures along the harbourside… It’s a fun and educational tour for kids and parents alike. These guided tours take visitors on a journey through Bristol city’s rich maritime history, exploring the lives of pirates who roamed the waters around Bristol centuries ago!

Led by knowledgeable guides dressed as pirates, these walks offer a unique and immersive experience that brings history to life. Visitors will hear tales of famous pirates, learn about the city’s connections to piracy, and discover hidden secrets of Bristol’s pirate past.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of adventure, or just looking for a unique way to explore the city, Bristol Pirate Walks are sure to be a highlight of your visit to Bristol.

Shape Location Get directions

Black Beetle Status,
Anchor Square,
BS1 5LL

Opening Times

Weekends at 14:00

Pricing

Adult £12.50
Child £6.50

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Bristol Zoo Project

Previously known as the Wild Place Project, Bristol Zoo Project is a fantastic wildlife conservation park offering immersive animal experiences and a wild day out! You can wander through the Barefoot Trail, flutter through the Butterfly Maze and let loose in the outdoor adventure playground!

But you can also meet the lemurs, bears, giraffes, lynx cats and even red pandas! Bristol Zoo Project is a fab spot for children to learn about wildlife conservation, meet new animals and make memories.

Bristol Zoo Project also features a variety of interactive exhibits and play areas for kids. From the popular Splash Zone water play area to the Bug World exhibit, there is plenty for kids to explore and enjoy! The zoo also offers educational programs and workshops for schools and families, making it a great destination for a day out with the kids.

Shape Location Get directions

Bristol Zoo Nursery
Blackhorse Hill
Bristol
BS10 7TP

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday 10:00 - 17:00

Pricing

Adult £22.50
Child (2-14) £18.00
Under 2s free

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inside wookey hole caves

Wookey Hole Caves

Just a short drive from Bristol, Wookey Hole Caves is a popular tourist attraction that offers curious minds the chance to explore an underground world of stunning natural formations…

Did you know the caves were formed over millions of years by the constant flow of water?

They created a labyrinth of chambers and passages that are now open for guided tours! As you make your way through the caves, you’ll see impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as underground rivers and pools!

But that’s not all, Wookey Hole also offers other attractions such as a 4D cinema, a mirror maze, and a fairy garden. There are also opportunities for outdoor activities like mini golf and dinosaur-themed adventure golf!!

With something for everyone to enjoy, Wookey Hole Caves is a great day out for families, friends, and anyone looking for things to do Bristol.

Shape Location Get directions

Wookey Hole
Wells
BA5 1BB

Opening Times

Monday to Friday 10:00 - 15:00
Saturday and Sunday 09:30 - 15:30

Pricing

Adult (16-18+) £22.95
Child (4-15) £18.45

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Bristol offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to learn, explore, or simply have fun, there’s always plenty of things to do in Bristol to entertain your family! So, pack your bags, gather the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Bristol!

Looking for FREE things to do? We have plenty of inspiration for you! Try reading Free Fun Family Days Out, Things To Do With Teenagers, Fun Things To Do Near Me, Days Out Membership, Outings for Stroppy Teens, Free Things To Do in Manchester or Free Things To Do In London!