Top Family Vacation Spots in Bristol, Bristol, City of, United Kingdom

Bristol, United Kingdom, Bristol, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Top Family Vacation Spots

Top Family Vacation Spots in Bristol, Bristol, City of, United Kingdom

1. Bristol Zoo Gardens

Meet over 400 exotic and endangered species in this award-winning zoo. Enjoy interactive displays and daily animal feedings.
  • Variety of Animals: Home to a vast array of animals, including gorillas, penguins, and Komodo dragons.
  • Interactive Experiences: Offers opportunities for up-close encounters with animals like meerkats and lemurs.
  • Conservation Efforts: Contributes to global conservation efforts by participating in breeding programs for endangered species.

2. At-Bristol Science Centre

Explore the wonders of science and technology at this interactive museum. Experience live shows, exhibits, and hands-on activities.
  • Interactive Exhibits: Allows visitors to engage with various scientific concepts through engaging and interactive displays.
  • Live Shows: Features daily live shows that make learning about science fun and entertaining for all ages.
  • Planetarium: Boasts a state-of-the-art planetarium that provides immersive astronomy experiences.

3. SS Great Britain

Step aboard the world's first iron steamship, now permanently moored in Bristol harbor. Explore the ship and its history during guided tours.
  • Historic Artifact: Is a historic artifact that revolutionized ocean travel in the mid-19th century.
  • Interactive Tours: Offers interactive tours where visitors can learn about the ship's history and restoration process.
  • Maritime Museum: Features a maritime museum showcasing artifacts, models, and exhibits related to maritime history.

4. Bristol Aquarium

Discover the underwater world at this aquarium featuring over 40 live displays. See everything from sharks and sea turtles to seahorses and jellyfish.
  • Diverse Marine Life: Showcases a variety of marine life from around the world, including the UK's only tropical ocean tunnel.
  • Interactive Features: Includes interactive features like touch pools and underwater tunnels for closer views of marine life.
  • Educational Programs: Offers educational programs focusing on marine conservation and the importance of preserving our oceans.

5. Bristol Balloon Festival

Witness the breathtaking spectacle of hot air balloons lighting up the sky during this annual event. Enjoy live music, food stalls, and fireworks.
  • Hot Air Balloon Flights: Allows visitors to take flights in hot air balloons for a unique view of Bristol and the surrounding area.
  • Mass Ascent: Features a mass ascent where hundreds of balloons launch simultaneously, creating an unforgettable sight.
  • Night Glows: Includes night glows where the lit balloons create colorful and mesmerizing patterns in the dark sky.

6. Clifton Suspension Bridge

Experience the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Enjoy panoramic views of Bristol and the Avon Gorge.
  • Iconic Landmark: Is a symbol of Bristol and one of the most recognizable bridges in the world.
  • Suspension Bridge Design: Showcases Brunel's innovative suspension bridge design, still considered an engineering marvel today.
  • Walking and Cycling Paths: Provides walking and cycling paths for visitors to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the views.

7. Bristol Harbour Festival

Celebrate Bristol's maritime heritage during this three-day festival. Enjoy live music, street food, boat races, and fireworks.
  • Live Music Performances: Features performances from various artists across multiple stages throughout the festival.
  • Boat Races and Regattas: Includes boat races, regattas, and other water-based activities showcasing Bristol's maritime culture.
  • Food Stalls and Markets: Offers a wide variety of food stalls, markets, and culinary demonstrations highlighting the region's cuisine.

8. Cabot Tower

Climb to the top of Cabot Tower for stunning views of Bristol and the Avon Gorge. Explore the tower's history and learn about its connections to explorer John Cabot.
  • Panoramic Views: Provides panoramic views of Bristol, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
  • Historic Tower: Is a historic tower built in celebration of the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage to North America.
  • Exhibitions and Events: Features exhibitions, events, and activities related to Bristol's history and culture.

9. Bristol Cathedral

Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of Bristol Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century. Explore its rich history and beautiful gardens.
  • Gothic Architecture: Showcases intricate Gothic architecture, with stunning stained glass windows and ornate carvings.
  • Historic Church: Is a working church that has been in continuous use since the 12th century.
  • Beautiful Gardens: Features beautiful gardens with a variety of flowers, trees, and fountains perfect for picnics.

10. Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Discover Bristol's history and culture at this museum and art gallery. Explore collections focusing on geology, archaeology, and fine art.
  • Diverse Collections: Showcases a diverse range of collections, including prehistoric fossils, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and contemporary art.
  • Temporary Exhibitions: Features temporary exhibitions showcasing works by local and international artists.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Offers family-friendly activities, workshops, and guided tours to engage visitors of all ages.

11. Park Street

Stroll down one of Bristol's most iconic streets, lined with unique shops, cafes, and street art. Reach the top for panoramic views of the city.
  • Iconic Street: Is one of Bristol's most famous streets, known for its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Shopping and Dining: Features a variety of independent shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
  • Street Art: Is home to some of the city's most famous street art, including works by Banksy and other renowned artists.

12. Bristol Botanic Garden

Explore the beautiful Bristol Botanic Garden, showcasing plants from around the world. Enjoy peaceful surroundings and educational workshops.
  • Diverse Plant Life: Showcases a wide variety of plant life, including rare and endangered species.
  • Educational Workshops: Offers workshops and guided tours focused on horticulture, botany, and conservation.
  • Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation, picnics, or family outings.

13. Bristol Harbour Cruise

Explore Bristol's historic harbor on a boat tour. Learn about the city's maritime history and enjoy stunning views of the city and surrounding area.
  • Maritime History: Provides insight into Bristol's rich maritime history, with stories about famous ships, sailors, and events.
  • Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of the city, harbor, and surrounding area from the water.
  • Informative Commentary: Features informative commentary by knowledgeable guides, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.

14. Bristol International Balloon Fiesta

Experience the world's largest hot air balloon festival at Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. Enjoy mass ascents, night glows, and a wide variety of entertainment.
  • Mass Ascents: Features daily mass ascents where hundreds of balloons launch simultaneously.
  • Night Glows: Includes night glows, where the lit balloons create colorful and mesmerizing patterns in the dark sky.
  • Entertainment and Food: Offers a wide variety of entertainment, food stalls, and live music performances throughout the event.

15. Bristol Old Vic Theatre

Experience world-class theater at Bristol Old Vic, the oldest continuously running theatre in England. Enjoy a wide variety of productions for all ages.
  • Rich History: Is the oldest continuously running theatre in England, with a rich history dating back to 1766.
  • Diverse Productions: Offers a diverse selection of productions, including classic plays, modern adaptations, and family-friendly shows.
  • Workshops and Classes: Provides workshops and classes for aspiring actors, writers, and theater enthusiasts of all ages.