If you’re looking for a family day out with a bit of everything – adventure, learning, splashing, climbing, and maybe a pirate ship or two – then Bristol is a brilliant choice. It’s colourful, creative and full of fun surprises, with loads to keep little ones (and grown-ups!) entertained. Whether you’re after fun things to do in Bristol with kids, free things to do in Bristol, or just the best places to go in Bristol for families, this guide has you covered.
We love heading up from Somerset for a city day trip, but Bristol also makes a fab weekend break. Whether you’re chasing street art, splashing in fountains, or exploring an old ship, there’s something for every age, whatever the weather. Here’s our pick of the very best things to do in Bristol with kids – including big attractions, hidden gems, rainy-day saviours, and a few local secrets you might not have heard of!
We The Curious
We The Curious is one of the best things to do in Bristol with kids. It’s a hands-on science centre filled with interactive exhibits. Build robots, make bubbles, and learn through play. Curious minds can explore coding, animation, and electricity.
Don’t miss the UK’s only 3D digital Planetarium – a big hit with space lovers. Kids are encouraged to ask big questions and explore ideas. It’s educational and entertaining – ideal for a rainy day in Bristol.
It’s right on Millennium Square, next to the splash park and harbourside. Pair it with a walk, picnic, or paddle!
Brunel’s SS Great Britain
Step aboard one of the most fascinating ships in the world and journey back to Victorian times. Brunel’s SS Great Britain combines history, storytelling, and hands-on fun making it one of the top things to do in Bristol with kids.
Families can explore the grand saloon, cramped cabins, and noisy engine rooms. All brought to life with sights, sounds – and yes, smells! Kids love dressing up, steering the ship’s wheel, and meeting costumed characters who share sailor stories.
The Dockyard Museum has loads of interactive exhibits about life at sea and the incredible feats of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Outside, walk beneath the ship’s hull in a dry dock.
It’s educational, immersive, and packed with adventure – perfect for curious kids and history-loving grown-ups alike. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop and grab a slice of cake from the café!
Bristol Zoo Project
Formerly known as Wild Place Project, Bristol Zoo Project is now a 136-acre outdoor conservation zoo just outside the city.
Families can explore open habitats that are home to giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, lemurs, and red river hogs. There’s also Bear Wood, where you can spot European brown bears, lynxes, and wolves living together in a natural woodland setting.
Kids will love the large adventure playground, the Fun Fort, and the Butterfly Maze. There’s also a brilliant three-story Explorers Basecamp tower with climbing walls and zip lines.
The zoo is undergoing exciting development, including a new Central African Forest habitat opening in 2026. This will feature gorillas, crocodiles, and parrots as part of their long-term conservation plans.
It’s a brilliant mix of play and wildlife, with wide open spaces for kids to run, roam and learn. There’s a café, picnic areas, free parking and plenty of spots to stop and watch the animals. A great day out for animal lovers and adventurers alike.
Aerospace Bristol – Concorde and Supersonic Family Fun
Aerospace Bristol is a dream day out for little pilots and space enthusiasts alike and is one of the best things to do with kids in Bristol. It spans over a century of aviation history, with interactive exhibits, outdoor play, and—and the real showstopper—Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the very last Concorde ever to fly.
Stepping aboard Concorde gives a real—and rare—peek into supersonic travel. A stunning projection show on the outside brings the jet’s story to life, and you can snap a memorable Concorde selfie.
Families can follow the Time‑Travelling Trail, where kids take on missions, collect stamps, and solve puzzles. There’s a fun rivet game to test your hand–eye coordination, interactive physics displays, and flight simulators—perfect for budding engineers.
Kids can burn off steam in the Little Pilots outdoor play area, while adults enjoy a coffee nearby. The Conservation Workshop is also fascinating—they’re rebuilding vintage aircraft in real time.
Tickets include free return visits for a year, so you can experience the magic again and again. It’s a thrilling mix of learning, play, history, and adventure—truly one of the most exciting things to do in Bristol with kids!
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Bristol Aquarium
Bristol Aquarium is a fantastic indoor adventure for families, especially on a rainy day. Located right on Millennium Square, it offers a colourful and calming journey through marine life from around the world.
Your children will love spotting tropical fish, tiny seahorses, glowing jellyfish and rays as they explore the themed zones. One of the standout features is the Coral Seas tunnel, where you can walk beneath a 250,000-litre tropical tank teeming with vibrant reef fish, pufferfish and even sharks. It’s always a magical moment and a real hit with younger kids.
There’s also a huge urban jungle-style botanical house inside—filled with lush greenery, tortoises and freshwater fish—creating a rainforest atmosphere in the middle of the city. Your family can get hands-on with rockpool exhibits and enjoy daily talks and feeding sessions that are both fun and educational.
It’s ideal for little ones with buggy-friendly paths and plenty of places to sit, it’s a lovely slow-paced outing. There’s even a café on site for snacks and drinks. If you’re planning to visit We The Curious or the Harbourside on the same day, this makes a perfect addition to your Bristol itinerary.
Outdoor Things to Do in Bristol with Kids
Ashton Court Estate – Family-Friendly Things to Do in Bristol with Kids
Ashton Court Estate is a huge green space just minutes from the city centre, packed with exciting outdoor adventures and one of the top family-friendly things to do in Bristol. It’s perfect for a day out in nature with kids of all ages.
There are miles of family-friendly walking trails through ancient woodlands and open meadows. You’ll find designated mountain biking routes with varying difficulty.
Little ones will love the miniature railway that operates on selected weekends. Keep your eyes peeled for the red and fallow deer that live in the historic deer park – a real treat for animal-loving kids.
For thrill-seeking families, Tree Tops High Ropes Adventure is nestled within the estate and offers aerial fun for children aged six and over. With rope bridges, climbing challenges, and zip lines through the trees, it’s one of the most exhilarating things to do in Bristol with kids.
There’s a family-friendly golf course which also offers foot golf and disc golf for all ages.
When it’s time for a break, the estate’s café near the mansion serves up hot drinks, cakes, and lunch options. There’s space for picnics too, plus toilets and baby changing facilities.
Ashton Court Estate is home to the famous Bristol International Balloon Fiesta which is held every year in August. This free festival sees mass ascents where as many as 100 balloons may launch at a time. It’s such a spectacular sight and one of the best free festivals in the South West.
With so much space to roam, a great mix of activities, and lovely views over the city, Ashton Court Estate is the perfect spot for an energetic family day out in Bristol.
Blaise Castle Estate – Family-Friendly Outdoor Fun
Blaise Castle Estate is one of the most scenic and family-friendly places to visit in Bristol with kids. With over 650 acres of woodland, meadows, and parkland, it’s perfect for exploring, playing, and enjoying nature.
Climb to the storybook-style castle folly for panoramic views. Or wander the river trail and discover the tale of giants Goram and Vincent. Your kids will love the play area with its zip wires, swings and climbing frames. Plus, there’s a free museum inside Blaise House full of toys and costumes from the past.
With a café, toilets, and lots of picnic space, it’s ideal for a relaxed family day out. There’s always an ice cream van near the playground too!
Check out our Blaise Castle Family Walking Route.
Blaise Hamlet – A Hidden Historic Gem
Just beyond the estate lies Blaise Hamlet – a peaceful circle of thatched cottages built for retired workers in the 1800s. Now owned and maintained by the National Trust, these cute cottages are a quiet haven just a short stroll from the busier parkland.
Though the cottages are private homes and not open to the public, you can walk around the central green and admire the fairy-tale buildings. Each cottage is unique, with twisted chimneys, thatched roofs, and beautifully tended gardens.
Leigh Woods
Just across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Leigh Woods offers families a peaceful escape into nature. This National Trust woodland is full of easy walking trails perfect for little legs, and the well-marked purple trail is even an accessible and pushchair-friendly walk.
Kids will enjoy the natural play areas hidden among the trees, where they can climb, balance, and explore to their heart’s content. Along the way, you might spot birds, butterflies, or even a deer if you’re lucky. Plus an Iron Age Hillfort, local legends, and ponds.
The views across the Avon Gorge are stunning, and there’s an unmissable viewpoint overlooking the suspension bridge and city beyond.
Whether you’re looking for a picnic spot, a chance to run wild, or simply a breath of fresh air, Leigh Woods is a brilliant free day out in Bristol with kids.
Please note, there is now a parking fee.
Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower – Scenic Walks and Family Views
Brandon Hill is one of the oldest parks in Bristol and a peaceful green space just a short walk from the city centre. It’s a fantastic free thing to do in Bristol with kids – ideal for running, rolling, picnicking, and soaking up city views.
At the top of the hill stands Cabot Tower – a tall, red sandstone tower built in honour of explorer John Cabot. Climb the winding steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views over Bristol’s rooftops and harbourside. It’s a small challenge for little legs, but totally worth it!
You’ll discover a great playground at the base of the hill and wide grassy areas perfect for ball games and picnics. The park also has ponds, wildflower areas, and squirrels galore – always a hit with younger children.
For families looking for relaxing and scenic things to do in Bristol with kids, Brandon Hill is a lovely local spot for an easy outdoor adventure.
Arnos Vale Cemetery – History, Nature, and Family-Friendly Events
Arnos Vale Cemetery is far more than just a burial ground – it’s a peaceful and fascinating 45-acre green space that combines history, wildlife, and engaging family activities, making it one of the most unique and educational things to do in Bristol with kids.
Located just a short walk from Temple Meads station, this Victorian garden cemetery is full of hidden stories, beautiful woodland trails, and quirky memorials. Families can explore the winding paths and spot wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and even the occasional fox. It’s a great way to introduce children to local history in a gentle and natural environment.
Throughout the year, Arnos Vale hosts a variety of family-friendly events and seasonal activities. From interactive Halloween trails and storytelling sessions to craft workshops and nature walks, there’s always something new for children to enjoy. During school holidays, they often run themed events that are both fun and educational – perfect for curious minds.
The on-site café serves cakes, drinks, and light lunches, and there’s plenty of space for a peaceful picnic surrounded by trees. The cemetery is buggy-friendly and accessible in most areas, making it suitable for families with younger children.
Whether you’re attending an event or simply looking for a tranquil walk with your little ones, Arnos Vale is one of Bristol’s hidden gems. It’s a brilliant example of how outdoor learning, nature, and history can combine into one unforgettable family day out in Bristol.
The Wave Bristol – Inland Surf Adventure
Just a 20-minute drive from the city, The Wave is a state-of-the-art inland surf lagoon that offers consistent, ocean-style waves year-round. Perfect for family-friendly adventures:
Surf lessons for ages 6+ – including beginner and “Little Rippers” sessions for younger kids.
Play in the Bay session makes it accessible even to non-surfers – splash about in gentle waves
Full playground, café-bar, and picnic spots on-site – ideal for pairing with your surf time.
Whether your kids try their first wave or you all hang out in the sun, it’s a unique addition to things to do in Bristol with kids — combining adventure, confidence-building, and water fun in one epic day out.
Bristol’s Best Play Parks – Outdoor Adventures for All Ages
One of the top free things to do in Bristol with kids is to visit one of the city’s many exciting play parks. Whether you’re after splash pads, sculptures, or adventure playgrounds, there’s a green space for every age and interest.
Hengrove Play Park
Hengrove Play Park is one of the largest and most popular in Bristol. It features a huge sandpit, climbing frames, swings, and a splash park during the warmer months. It’s ideal for toddlers and older children alike, and there’s plenty of space to picnic or run around.
Oldbury Court Estate
Oldbury Court Estate and Snuff Mills offer a fantastic combination of nature and play. The estate’s large wooden play area includes zip lines, climbing towers, and inclusive play equipment, while scenic riverside walks lead down to the beautiful Snuff Mills section. It’s one of the best places to go in Bristol for active families.
Stoke Park
Stoke Park is home to the eye-catching yellow Dower House and the Stoke Park Sculpture Trail. This expansive parkland is great for walking, scooting, and imaginative play, with wooden sculptures hidden along the route for kids to discover.
The Downs
The Downs, near Clifton, offer a wide open space for running, ball games, and picnics. There’s also a fantastic wooden adventure playground tucked into the edge of the trees, perfect for climbing and exploring. It’s a lovely place to combine a play stop with a walk to the nearby Clifton Suspension Bridge or Observatory.
St Andrew’s Park
St Andrew’s Park in Bishopston is a lovely Victorian green space where families can enjoy a children’s playground and a seasonal paddling pool open during summer. The park also includes a play area with swings, slides, and a sandpit, alongside toilets and a community café van .
Exploring Bristol’s play parks is a brilliant way to enjoy the outdoors, get active, and experience fun, family-friendly things to do in Bristol—all without spending a penny.
Get Creative: Educational and Cultural Things to Do in Bristol with Children
Upfest Street Art Trail – A Colourful Family-Friendly Adventure in Bedminster
Bristol is famous for its street art – and the murals in Bedminster are like a giant outdoor gallery.
Upfest is Europe’s largest street art festival, held annually in Bedminster, Bristol. It attracts thousands of visitors and over 100 local and international artists, making it one of the most vibrant and creative family-friendly things to do in Bristol with kids. The festival transforms streets, walls, and buildings into a stunning outdoor gallery full of colourful murals, graffiti art, and interactive installations.
Families visiting Upfest can enjoy free street art tours, perfect for children aged five and up, where local artists share stories behind the artworks and teach creative techniques. Kids can also join fun workshops such as spray-paint stencil art and printmaking, allowing them to try their hand at street art in a safe and welcoming environment.
Even outside the main festival days, much of the incredible street art remains visible throughout Bedminster, especially around North Street and the Tobacco Factory area. This makes for a fantastic self-guided mural trail for families wanting to explore Bristol’s creative side at their own pace. Interactive maps and suggested routes help families find the best murals and hidden gems.
Upfest is a great choice for families looking for free things to do in Bristol that combine creativity, culture, and outdoor exploration. The festival also features street food stalls, pop-up markets, and live music, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere perfect for all ages.
Whether you’re visiting during the festival or exploring the permanent street art around Bedminster, Upfest offers an inspiring and colourful experience.
READ MORE: Creative Days Out: Art Experiences in Somerset With Kids – including family-friendly art trails, museums and art galleries in Somerset, hands-on art experiences and art festivals.
M Shed – Discover Bristol’s Stories Through Family-Friendly Exhibits
M Shed is a free, family-friendly museum on Bristol’s Harbourside that brings the city’s rich history to life. It’s one of the best indoor things to do in Bristol with kids, offering interactive exhibits, hands-on displays, and fascinating local stories.
Children can explore real buses, trains, and a giant working crane while learning about Bristol’s people, places, and past. The galleries are engaging for all ages, with a mix of digital screens, objects to handle, and immersive storytelling that makes history fun.
There’s often something special for families, like craft sessions, trails, and workshops during school holidays. Outside, kids can enjoy watching the historic cranes move or hop aboard the old steam train on selected weekends and school holidays.
M Shed is buggy-friendly and has accessible facilities, plus there’s a lovely café overlooking the harbour. It’s also right next to other attractions, making it easy to plan a full day out on the Harbourside.
Clifton Suspension Bridge – Family-Friendly Views, Visitor Centre and Hidden Vaults
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for families visiting the city. This historic bridge spans the dramatic Avon Gorge and offers stunning views of the river and the cityscape. It’s completely free to walk across and provides a brilliant opportunity for children to learn about engineering, history, and architecture.
Right next to the bridge is the Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre, which is FREE and full of interactive exhibits. You’ll discover fascinating facts about the bridge’s construction and its designer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It’s an engaging stop for curious kids and a great way to bring history to life. Don’t forget to pick up a Children’s Trail from the visitor centre.
Join a walking tour of the bridge on weekends and Bank Holidays at 2pm, led by volunteer tour guides. These tours last 45 mins – 1 hour where you’ll learn all about the history, construction and maintenance of the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. Tours are FREE but donations are welcome (£5 suggested donation).
For families looking for unique experiences in Bristol, don’t miss the Vaults Tour. From Easter to October, you can join a guided tour into the hidden chambers beneath the Leigh Woods tower. Children over the age of seven (minimum height 1.2m) can take part in these hard hat tours, which are perfect for older kids with a sense of adventure. It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Bristol with kids, taking a look into Brunel’s secret underground spaces.
On the Clifton side, there’s a brilliant wooden playground just a short stroll from the bridge. It’s perfect for a post-tour play session with climbing frames, swings and picnic benches – ideal for burning off steam while you enjoy the views.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery – A Free, Family-Friendly Cultural Adventure
For families who love learning and discovering together, the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is one of the best free things to do in Bristol with kids. Located at the top of Park Street, this museum offers an interesting mix of natural history, archaeology, art, and local culture – all under one roof.
Kids can marvel at real dinosaur skeletons, Egyptian mummies, and Alfred the Gorilla in the natural history gallery. Look up and spot the Boxkite biplane hanging above your heads! There’s plenty of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays to keep little ones engaged, making it one of the most educational and family-friendly attractions in Bristol.
Upstairs, the art galleries showcase everything from classic paintings to modern sculpture, while special exhibitions often include family trails and activity booklets to help children explore. The museum regularly runs child-friendly events, craft sessions, and themed activity days during school holidays, making it an ideal option for a fun day out with kids in Bristol. Don’t miss visiting exhibitions like the Wildlife Photographer of the Year, older kids and adults will find this fascinating.
There’s a café on-site for snacks and drinks, baby-changing facilities, and easy access with lifts and ramps. It’s also right next to Brandon Hill and the Cabot Tower, so you can easily pair your museum visit with outdoor play and scenic views.
Dinosaurs, mummies, and art all under one roof. A fab choice for a rainy afternoon and always something new to spot.
Banksy Trail and Bristol Street Art Tours – Discover Creative Family Adventures
Bristol is world-famous for its vibrant street art, and one of the most exciting family-friendly things to do in Bristol is to follow the Banksy Trail. Banksy, the elusive and iconic street artist, was born in Bristol and many of his original works can still be found across the city. Families can enjoy a self-guided Banksy walking tour or join a guided tour to learn about the history and stories behind each piece.
Top spots on the Banksy Trail include the famous ‘Well Hung Lover’ on Park Street, the ‘Mild Mild West’ in Stokes Croft, and ‘The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum’ near the Harbourside. These murals are spread across different neighbourhoods, making the trail a fun and free way to explore Bristol on foot with kids.
In addition to Banksy’s work, Bristol is packed with colourful murals and art trails that turn everyday walks into adventures. Teens and tweens will love tracking down Banksy’s work across the city. It’s a great thing to do with kids in Bristol to get them outdoors exploring.
There are also downloadable street art maps and apps available to help plan your route. For kids who love drawing and creating, it’s a brilliant way to inspire their own creativity.
Rainy Day Fun: Indoor Things to Do in Bristol with Kids
Jump Bristol or AirHop Trampoline Park
For families looking to burn off energy in a fun and active way, Bristol’s trampoline parks are a top choice.
Airhop Bristol
AirHop, located near The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, offers over 60,000 square feet of wall-to-wall trampolines, obstacle courses, foam pits, and even the UK’s first indoor AirSlide. It’s a thrilling and energetic experience for kids of all ages, and one of the most exciting indoor things to do in Bristol with kids.
Younger children will love the Mini Hoppers sessions, specially designed for under-6s with soft play zones and sensory toys. Older kids can bounce during Open Jump sessions, while teens might prefer the disco-themed After Dark events. AirHop also offers special SEN sessions with softer lighting and sound, making it an inclusive and welcoming place for all families.
Flip Out
Flip Out, near Temple Meads, provides another great indoor option for families in Bristol. With trampolines, foam pits, climbing walls, and ninja courses, it’s designed for energetic play and adventurous spirits. While safety guidelines should always be followed and younger children should be closely supervised, it’s a memorable and action-packed option for a family day out.
Both venues are accessible, have cafés for refreshments, and offer a variety of sessions tailored to different ages. Whether you’re after a rainy day activity or planning a special weekend treat, AirHop and Flip Out are fantastic options for fun, family-friendly things to do in Bristol with kids.
Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Park (Cribbs Causeway)
Bounce, climb, swing and conquer the famous “Warped Wall” — this indoor ninja obstacle course is inspired by the ITV show. With separate zones for younger children (Mini Ninjas soft play) and longer sessions for bigger kids and grown-ups, it’s a perfect active treat. Sessions from age 4+, adult supervision needed for under 12s.
Clifton Observatory, Camera Obscura and Giant’s Cave – A Scenic and Educational Adventure in Bristol
The Clifton Observatory is one of the most fascinating family-friendly places to visit in Bristol. Perched high above the Avon Gorge, this historic building offers a blend of science and spectacular views, making it perfect for families looking for fun things to do in Bristol with kids.
Inside, you’ll find the Camera Obscura – a rare Victorian optical device that projects a real-time moving image of the surrounding landscape. The camera is one of only three in the UK. It’s an interesting experience that gives kids a new perspective on Bristol’s skyline and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.
For an extra adventure, make your way through a narrow tunnel that leads to the Giant’s Cave. This cliffside chamber opens out to a dramatic viewing platform high above the gorge, and the legend of giants Goram and Vincent adds a mythical twist that will capture children’s imaginations.
The Observatory also features a small museum and a rooftop terrace offering some of the best panoramic views in the city. It’s a brilliant place to visit on a clear day and is a great mix of history, geography, and storytelling. If you’re exploring Clifton or heading across the Suspension Bridge, be sure to stop in—it’s one of the most memorable family-friendly things to do in Bristol.
Treetop Adventure Golf – Indoor Mini-Golf Fun for the Whole Family at Cabot Circus
Tree Top Golf in Cabot Circus is one of the most fun indoor things to do in Bristol with kids. This exciting mini-golf attraction features two immersive 18-hole courses – the Tropical Trail and Ancient Explorer. Each course is filled with vibrant jungle scenes, interactive features, and surprising sound effects. It’s ideal for mini adventurers and their parents, offering a mix of challenge and fun in a colourful, adventure-themed setting.
Families can play at their own pace, with no need to book ahead. Each course is full of imaginative obstacles and hidden secrets, making it a great choice for a rainy day in Bristol or a treat during a weekend city break. At the end of the game, you can try the bonus 19th hole to win a free round – a big hit with kids!
Tree Top Golf also features a mini market with a pizza restaurant, smoothie bar, and mocktail lounge. So it’s easy to turn your game into a full family outing. The venue is buggy-friendly, accessible, and welcoming to players of all ages and abilities.
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Bristol or fun indoor attractions near Cabot Circus, Tree Top Golf ticks all the boxes. It’s playful, creative, and packed with surprises – perfect for making lasting family memories.
Cinemas in Bristol – Rainy Day Activities for Kids
When the weather turns or you just fancy a slower-paced outing, a trip to the cinema is one of the best indoor things to do in Bristol with kids. The city is home to a variety of family-friendly cinemas that cater to all ages, offering the perfect mix of entertainment and comfort.
From the big screens at Vue and Showcase to more intimate indie venues like Watershed and Scott Cinemas in Henleaze, there’s something for every taste and age group. Many cinemas in Bristol run discounted kids’ club screenings on weekends and during school holidays – ideal for budget-friendly family outings.
Vue at Cribbs Causeway has easy parking and plenty of food options nearby, making it convenient for families. Watershed on the Harbourside, offers a more relaxed atmosphere and often shows beautifully animated or educational films, with child-friendly café options on-site.
Some cinemas even offer autism-friendly screenings, with softer lighting and lower volume, to ensure an inclusive experience for all families. Whether it’s a rainy day in Bristol or you’re looking for a break from outdoor activities, a cinema trip is always a winner.
Catch a kids’ film or weekend family screening. Watershed often has something a bit different if you’re after a break from the big blockbusters.
Laser Tag (Bristol)
There are a couple of options for laser tag in Bristol, ideal for kids age 6+:
Laser Fusion Bristol – Broadmead
A thrilling indoor laser tag experience, set in a fog-filled maze with UV lighting, sound effects, and futuristic zones. Games last 20 minutes each, with pricing from £10–£18 based on session length. It’s perfect for birthday parties, family groups, and rainy-day fun in Bristol.
Laser Combat – Avonmouth Way
Bristol’s largest multi-level laser tag arena, with neon-lit corridors, sniper ramps, and hidden rooms. Sessions include three 15-minute games from around £17 pp, with mega Sunday offers and party packages. Ideal for families, and groups up to 22 players. Free parking and café included.
Both are fantastic indoor, active things to do in Bristol with kids, offering high-energy fun, strategic play, and memorable experiences for tweens and teens in particular. Let me know if you’d like booking tips, recommended age ranges, or to adjust numbering to reflect 33 total activities!
Bristol City Farms – Fun, Free and Family-Friendly Animal Encounters
Bristol is home to several fantastic city and community farms, making them perfect places to visit with kids. These family-friendly attractions offer hands-on animal encounters and are among the best free things to do in Bristol with children.
There are five city farms in Bristol: Windmill Hill City Farm in Bedminster, St Werburgh’s City Farm, Lawrence Weston Community Farm, Hartcliffe Community Farm, and Grimsbury Community Farm in Kingswood. Each farm has its own unique charm and plenty to offer families looking for outdoor fun with animals.
Kids can meet goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, and rabbits, and many of the farms also offer nature play areas, gardens, and on-site cafés. These spaces are designed to be welcoming, educational, and accessible – ideal for toddlers to tweens.
Windmill Hill City Farm
Windmill Hill City Farm regularly hosts seasonal events and activity sessions for families, while St Werburgh’s features a woodland area and adventure playground. Many farms also provide opportunities for learning about sustainability, gardening, and food growing – perfect for curious kids.
Whether you’re popping in for a quick visit or making a morning of it, visiting a city farm is a wonderful way to connect with nature. These are fun, low-cost, and enriching family-friendly things to do in Bristol with kids all year round
A little indoor hideaway with soft play, good food and a chilled-out vibe. Great for a quieter moment.
Wake the Tiger Amazement Park – A Surreal, Immersive Family Day Out in Bristol
Wake The Tiger is one of Bristol’s most imaginative and exciting indoor attractions for families. Described as the world’s first ‘Amazement Park®’, this immersive art experience combines storytelling, interactive exhibits, and bold creativity in a way that captivates kids and grown-ups alike. It’s certainly unlike anything else we’ve visited as a family. So, if you’re looking for a unique and fun things to do in Bristol with kids, Wake The Tiger is not to be missed.
Step into the alternate world of Meridia, where you’ll explore over 30 fantastical themed rooms filled with secret passageways, hidden worlds, and mind-bending art installations. Children will love the sensory surprises and hands-on exhibits, while parents will be wowed by the attention to detail and magical atmosphere.
Located in St Philip’s, Wake The Tiger is a great option for a rainy day in Bristol or a special treat on a family weekend. It’s an original mix of art, adventure, and imagination, and quickly becoming one of the top family-friendly things to do in Bristol.
There’s also a café on-site serving snacks and drinks. The entire experience is designed to spark curiosity and conversation, making it one of the most educational and entertaining indoor activities in Bristol.
Whether your kids love fantasy stories, colourful worlds, or just running through secret tunnels, Wake The Tiger delivers a day out they won’t forget. Book in advance, especially during school holidays, as tickets sell out quickly!
Tenpin Bowling Fun for Families in Bristol
Tenpin bowling is a perfect way to spend time with the kids on a rainy day in Bristol.
Bristol offers several fantastic venues that mix great lanes with family-friendly vibes and plenty of extras to keep everyone entertained.
Lane7 Bristol at the Harbourside brings a cool, neon-lit atmosphere with boutique lanes, pool tables, shuffleboard, and retro arcade games. Grab some tasty American-style bites while the kids try their hand at bowling or arcade classics.
If you’re near Cribbs Causeway or Longwell Green, Hollywood Bowl is a lively spot with 26 modern lanes, an American-style diner, and an extensive amusements area. It’s great for families who want to mix bowling with arcade games and casual dining.
In the heart of the city, Roxy Lanes on Union Street offers a bright and buzzy setting. Alongside tenpin lanes, you’ll find pool tables, darts, and an energetic vibe perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.
For a top-notch experience in Cabot Circus, Kingpins offers not just bowling but also tech darts, shuffleboard, karaoke rooms, and a big arcade. It’s a vibrant venue ideal for all ages and group sizes.
Whatever your choice, each spot provides bumpers and ramps for little bowlers, ensuring the whole family has a blast. Bowling is a brilliant indoor activity for rainy days or when you want to add some friendly competition to your Bristol adventure!
Ice Skating in Bristol
Looking for a cool activity in Bristol? Ice skating is a fun way to stay active and enjoy some family-friendly competition. Here are two top spots to lace up your skates:
Planet Ice Bristol
Located at Cribbs Causeway, Planet Ice offers a spacious indoor rink suitable for all ages. They provide public skating sessions, lessons, and even themed events. It’s a great place for both beginners and seasoned skaters.
Plus, if you fancy some exciting live action, why not catch a game? You can watch the Bristol Pitbulls ice hockey team in action. They play at Planet Ice, and it’s a thrilling experience for kids who love fast-paced sports.
Avon Valley Ice Skating
During the festive season, Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park transforms into a winter wonderland with a real ice rink. It’s perfect for a magical day out with the family, complete with skating and other seasonal attractions .
READ MORE: Looking for festive ice skating experiences? Christmas in Somerset: Where to go Ice Skating
Shhh! A Local Secret Adventure for Kids in Bristol
The Clifton Rock Slide
If you’re visiting the Clifton Observatory or Suspension Bridge, you can’t miss this little gem! Your children will want to check out the Clifton Rock Slide. This smooth natural rock on the Downs has been turned into a slide by generations of local kids. This local legend is great fun for adventurous kids. Bring something to sit on – it’s fast!
Final Thoughts – Things to Do in Bristol with Kids
From historic ships, science adventures and colourful street art, Bristol is packed with incredible family-friendly experiences. Whether you’re planning a big weekend adventure or just looking for fun things to do in Bristol with kids on a rainy afternoon, there’s something here for every interest and age group.
This creative and welcoming city is bursting with fun attractions, educational days out, and brilliant free things to do with children. Whether you’re climbing aboard a ferry, hunting for Banksy street art, or exploring Wake the Tiger, there are endless places to go in Bristol for families.
Whatever the weather or time of year, Bristol makes for an unforgettable day trip or weekend away. So grab your walking shoes, charge your phone for pictures, and enjoy discovering the very best things to do in Bristol with kids.
If you’ve enjoyed this guide, don’t forget to save it for later or share it with a fellow parent! If you’re looking for more family adventures around the South West, check out our other blog posts on Somerset Family Adventures. Happy exploring!
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For more inspiration of things to do around Bristol with kids, check out the following posts:
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