Family Trips
Bristol is a vibrant city brimming with family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Dive into the interactive exhibits at We The Curious science centre or take an enjoyable scenic boat rides along the River Avon or embark on a historic adventure at the SS Great Britain. With its lively markets, green spaces like Ashton Court, and street art tours featuring Banksy’s famous murals, Bristol offers endless opportunities for fun and discovery.
SS Great Britain
The SS Great Britain is a historic ship designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and it was the world’s first iron-hulled, screw-propelled passenger steamship. Launched in 1843, it revolutionised maritime travel by combining innovative engineering with luxury accommodations. After serving as a passenger liner and later a cargo ship, the vessel was retired and eventually returned to Bristol, where it was restored. Today, the SS Great Britain is a popular museum ship, offering visitors a glimpse into Victorian maritime history and the ship’s ground breaking design.
- Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5pm
- Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Bristol Aquarium
Bristol Aquarium is a popular attraction located in the heart of the city, showcasing a variety of marine life from around the world. It features immersive underwater displays, including tropical fish, sharks, rays, and vibrant coral reefs. The aquarium also highlights local aquatic species from the UK and has an impressive botanical house with lush plant life. Ideal for families, it offers educational experiences and hands-on activities, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems and ocean conservation efforts.
- January 2 – February 9: 10am-4pm weekdays, 10am-5pm weekends.
- February 10-July 19: 10am-5pm every day.
- July 20-September 1: 10am-6pm every day.
- September 2-October 31: 10am-5pm every day.
- November 1-December 16: 10am-4pm every weekday, 10am-5pm every weekend.
- December 16 – January 1: 10am – 5pm every day (Closed December 25)
Wake the Tiger
Wake The Tiger is an amazement park. It's immersive and has an interactive experience that blends art, storytelling, and exploration. Unlike traditional theme parks, it takes visitors on a fantastical journey through a series of creatively designed environments filled with art installations, secret passageways, and hidden worlds. Described as a "parallel universe," Wake The Tiger invites both children and adults to discover surprises, solve puzzles, and engage with the imaginative spaces. It’s a unique and magical destination that combines play with creativity and artistic expression.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic landmark in Bristol, designed by renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Spanning the picturesque Avon Gorge, the bridge opened in 1864 and is recognised for its stunning design and engineering significance. It stretches 414 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Today, the Clifton Suspension Bridge remains a symbol of Bristol’s industrial heritage and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, known for both its historical importance and scenic beauty. You can book an underground tour that guides you around the secret vaults underneath!
Clifton Observatory
The Clifton Observatory is a historic landmark in Bristol, situated near the Clifton Suspension Bridge with panoramic views of the Avon Gorge. Originally a windmill built in 1766, it was later converted into an observatory. Today, it houses a camera obscura offering a unique, 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Visitors can also explore the Giant's Cave, which opens onto a dramatic cliffside balcony. The Clifton Observatory combines history, stunning scenery, and an intriguing blend of science and local legend, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
- April - October: 10am-5pm
- November - March: 10am-4pm
We The Curious
We The Curious is an interactive science and arts center that encourages hands-on exploration and curiosity. Designed for all ages, the centre features engaging exhibits that cover a range of subjects from biology and physics to space exploration and sustainability. It also houses the UK's first 3D planetarium, offering immersive educational shows. Aimed at sparking creativity and critical thinking, We The Curious is a popular destination for families and school groups, blending science with art in a fun, interactive environment.
- Term time, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am - 5pm
- School holidays, daily, 10am - 5pm
The M Shed
The M Shed is a museum that explores the city’s rich history, culture, and people. Located along the historic harborside, it features exhibits on Bristol’s past, from its industrial heritage and maritime history to its role in the transatlantic slave trade. The museum also highlights the city’s vibrant art, music, and social movements. With interactive displays and a diverse collection of artifacts, the M Shed offers an engaging insight into the stories that have shaped Bristol, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s unique heritage.
- Monday, closed
- Tueday, 10am - 5pm
- Wednesday, 10am - 5pm
- Thursday, 10am - 5pm
- Friday, 10am - 5pm
- Saturday, 10am - 5pm
- Sunday, 10am - 5pm
Ashton Court Estate
The Ashton Court Estate is a historic country estate located just outside Bristol, offering 850 acres of beautiful parkland. Once the stately home of the Smyth family, the estate features a grand mansion, woodlands, and deer parks. Today, it’s a popular destination for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and golf. Ashton Court also hosts major events like the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Its expansive grounds and stunning views make it a favorite spot for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat close to the city.
- Opens at 8am Monday - Sunday
- Closes at 5.15pm in November, December and January
- Closes at 6.15pm in February
- Closes at 7.15pm in March
- Closes at 8.15pm in April
- Closes at 9.15pm in May, June, July and August
- Closes at 8.15pm in September
- Closes at 7.15pm in October
Blaise Castle Estate
The Blaise Castle Estate is a historic parkland featuring 650 acres of picturesque woods and open space. At its heart is the 18th-century Gothic-style Blaise Castle, a charming folly offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The estate also includes the Blaise Museum, housed in a grand mansion, which showcases local history and art.
- The car parks are open everyday from 7:30am
- Closes at 5.15pm in November, December and January
- Closes at 6.15pm in February
- Closes at 7.15pm in March
- Closes at 8.15pm in April
- Closes at 9.15pm in May, June, July and August
- Closes at 8.15pm in September
- Closes at 7.15pm in October
Bristol Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
Bristol Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is a major cultural attraction in the city, offering a diverse collection of art, archaeology, natural history, and historical artifacts. The museum showcases everything from ancient Egyptian mummies and dinosaur fossils to fine art, including works by prominent European and local artists. It also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year. Housed in an impressive Edwardian building, the museum provides an enriching experience for visitors of all ages, blending art, history, and science in one accessible space.Museum & Art Gallery
- Monday, closed
- Tuesday, 10am – 5pm
- Wednesday, 10am – 5pm
- Thursday, 10am – 5pm
- Friday, 10am – 5pm
- Saturday, 10am – 5pm
- Sunday, 10am – 5pm
Cheddar Gorge and Caves (45 mins away)
Cheddar Gorge is a stunning limestone gorge located in Somerset, near Bristol, and is one of the UK's most dramatic natural landscapes. Carved by meltwater floods over millions of years, the gorge features towering cliffs and deep, scenic valleys. It is famous for its extensive cave system, including Gough's Cave and Cox's Cave, which showcase impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers. Cheddar Gorge is also the birthplace of Cheddar cheese and is a hotspot for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and caving. The area is rich in history, including prehistoric human remains discovered in the caves.
- Tours are subject to booking times on their website
Wookey Hole Caves (40 mins away)
Wookey Hole is a renowned cave system located in Somerset, near Bristol. It features a series of dramatic underground caverns shaped by centuries of water erosion. Visitors can explore the impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and see the famous "Wookey Witch" rock formation. The site also includes a range of attractions, such as a 4D cinema, a Victorian penny arcade, and a traditional paper mill.
- Peak season, 9:30am - 5pm
- Off peak, 10am - 4:30pm
Aerospace Bristol
Aerospace Bristol is a museum dedicated to the history and development of aviation and aerospace in Bristol and beyond. Located on the site of the former Filton Airfield, it features a range of exhibits, including the iconic Concorde aircraft, which is displayed in a specially designed hangar. The museum explores the technological advancements and engineering achievements of the aerospace industry through interactive displays, historical artifacts, and engaging stories. Aerospace Bristol offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of flight and the significant contributions of Bristol's aerospace sector.
- Open 7 days a week, 10am - 4:30pm
Weston-super-Mare (30 minutes away)
Weston-super-Mare offers a range of family-friendly activities perfect for a day out. Enjoy the traditional seaside fun on the sandy beach, explore the Grand Pier with its amusement arcades, rides, and eateries, or visit the SeaQuarium to discover local marine life. For outdoor adventures, head to the Weston Sandpoint for scenic walks and nature trails, or explore the nearby Uphill Nature Reserve. The town also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something for families to enjoy together.
Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park
Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park is a family-friendly destination offering a mix of wildlife encounters and outdoor fun. Located in Keynsham, near Bristol, the park features a variety of animals, including farm animals and exotic species, along with interactive experiences like animal feeding and petting. The park also boasts a range of adventure activities such as play areas, zip lines, and climbing frames.
- Monday to Sunday, 10am - 6pm
Noah's Ark Zoo Farm
Noah's Ark Zoo Farm is a large, family-oriented zoo located in Wraxall, near Bristol. It features a diverse collection of animals, including lions, elephants, and farm animals, housed in spacious enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. The zoo offers interactive experiences like animal feeding and educational talks, along with adventure play areas, including a large indoor play barn and outdoor playgrounds.
- Monday to Sunday, 10am - 6pm
Bath City (30 minutes away)
The city of Bath is a historic and picturesque city located in Somerset, England, known for its well-preserved Georgian architecture and Roman heritage. Famous for its Roman Baths, which include ancient thermal springs, Bath also boasts stunning landmarks such as Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent. The city is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, charming shopping streets, and beautiful surrounding countryside. Bath’s rich history, combined with its elegant architecture and cultural attractions, makes it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Leigh Woods
Leigh Woods is a scenic nature reserve located just across the Avon Gorge from Clifton. It offers a variety of walking and cycling trails through its diverse woodlands and meadows, providing stunning views of the gorge and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The woods are rich in wildlife and feature a mix of ancient and semi-natural habitats, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Leigh Woods is part of the Avon Gorge and Downs wildlife reserve, offering a peaceful retreat close to the city.
Caldicot Castle (40 mins away)
Caldicot Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress located in Caldicot, Monmouthshire, near the Welsh-English border. Originally built in the 11th century, the castle features impressive battlements, a grand gatehouse, and a moat. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, enjoy panoramic views from the tower, and wander through the surrounding gardens and grounds. The castle hosts various events and activities throughout the year.
- Tuesday to Sunday, 11am - 4pm
Oldbury Court Estate
Oldbury Court Estate is a scenic parkland in North Bristol, featuring extensive green spaces, woodlands, and the picturesque River Frome. The estate is known for its family-friendly amenities, including spacious play areas, walking trails, and picnic spots. The historic mansion, now used as a community center, adds to the estate's charm.