Days out in Bristol

A vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors young and old, Bristol is the perfect place for a family day out. Here we take a look at some of the best things to do for kids in this south-western city.

From kid-friendly theatre shows at the famous Hippodrome and fishy friends in the fascinating aquarium to famous artworks, aerospace history and outdoor spaces, you’ll be spoilt for choice when you plan a day out in Bristol. 

To make sure your family day out in Bristol is the best it can be, we’ve collated our favourite activities in the city so you don’t have to. Read on for our picks of the best things to do in Bristol with kids.  

And if you’re looking to save up to 57% on family activities across the UK, as a Boundless member you can make use of Kids Pass for discounts, deals and savings on all kinds of days out. Click here to find out more.

Bristol Hippodrome

Featuring one of the largest theatre stages in Britain, The Bristol Hippodrome plays host to a huge variety of spectacular touring shows throughout the year. Also known as ‘Bristol’s West End Theatre’, the Hippodrome has been delighting generations of guests since opening in 1912. And in 2023 there are a whole host of exciting theatre shows for children taking place at the Bristol Hippodrome including: David Walliams Demon Dentist, Encanto Sing-a-Long, The Lion King, Shrek The Musical, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory and Annie to name just a few. Find out more about booking tickets here.

Bristol Aquarium

Located in the Millenium Square development beside the harbour, the Bristol Aquarium is a wonderful way to get close to some exotic wildlife in the heart of the city. Featuring a variety of undersea creatures to get up-close and personal with, the aquarium is home to species including sharks, stingrays, seabass, seahorses, lionfish, jellyfish, spider crabs and even a giant pacific octopus. Housed across a variety of themed exhibits (including a real, living rainforest) Bristol aquarium is the perfect day out for kids young and old. Top tip: make sure to check this schedule for events throughout the day including special talks and feeding times. Plus, as part of your Boundless membership you can enjoy one child’s entry for free per full paying adult ticket with Kids Pass, click here to find out more.

Bristol Museums

Bristol is also home to a broad array of interesting museums covering all kinds of topics from fine art and archaeology to technological history and everyday Georgian life…  

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Comprising a whopping 19 galleries spread over three floors, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery has more than enough on display to keep you and your kids entertained for an afternoon in Bristol. Featuring exhibits on topics including ancient civilisations, human invention, fine art, archaeology, and the natural world, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery has been entertaining families for free since 1905. With plenty for kids to enjoy including an under 7s play area, colourful trails and hands on activities, this museum is an ideal stop on any day out in Bristol itinerary. 

Bristol Aerospace Museum

Recounting the incredible story of Bristol’s aerospace industry, Aerospace Bristol has lots to discover for the whole family. Charting the technological history of aviation in the city, your visit will begin with an introduction to the earliest days of powered flight and carry you all the way through to today’s cutting edge aeroplane technology. With aeroplanes, helicopters, missiles, satellites, engines, interactive exhibits and even a look inside the last Concorde ever to fly, a visit to Aerospace isn’t likely to be one you or your kids will soon forget.

The Georgian House Museum

Interested in living out your very own Bridgerton fantasy? Look no further than this expertly restored six-storey Georgian townhouse located in central Bristol on Park Street. Reopening after refurbishment in April 2023, this museum is a magical way to step back in time and learn about the lives of 18th century Bristol residents. Spread across 11 rooms you’ll get to see kitchens, formal rooms, drawing rooms, and even a preserved cold water plunge pool on your visit. Plus there’s also an important exhibition in the museum detailing the original owner’s involvement in the slave trade. 

Bristol outdoor fun

It’s not just the myriad of rainy-day activities that make Bristol ideal for a family day out, there’s also lots of fantastic outdoor activities to have a go at on your visit…

Huntfun Treasure Hunts

A great way to see parts of the city you might not otherwise visit and to keep the kids entertained, Huntfun Treasure Hunts Bristol offers an organised way to get outdoors and explore. Following directions and solving clues, your treasure hunt will encompass many of the city's most famous attractions including Bristol Cathedral, The Council House, Broad Quay, Queens Square, Peros Bridge and many more. And as a Boundless member you can save an average of £5.98 on your experience when you book through Kids Pass, click here to find out more. 

Brandon Hill Park

A hilly open space with spectacular views of the city’s skyline, Brandon Hill Park is arguably the most beautiful green space in Bristol. Including a children's play area, scenic pathways and mature gardens, Brandon Hill is a must-visit stop on any trip to Bristol. And no visit to the park would be complete without climbing the famous Cabot Tower, a gothic structure built in 1897 with an unbeatable viewpoint from the top that’s completely free to visit!

Do more with Boundless

To benefit from amazing offers, along with dozens of other deals on holidays, days out, experiences, shopping and more, join Boundless today. To find out how, visit www.boundless.co.uk