Visit Bristol, a part of Visit West, has announced a line-up of events, including zoos, adventure parks and festivals.
Cracking Exhibition Gromit: 50 years of Aardman at M Shed and Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
Now – 13 September
Celebrate 50 years of Bristol’s Aardman animations with the Cracking Exhibition Gromit at M Shed, featuring original models and behind the scenes displays. Families can also enjoy a themed afternoon tea inspired by Aardman’s much-loved characters and take part in a miniature Aardman treasure hunt at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.
Ships and Giggles at Bristol Dockyards, home of SS Great Britain
New Museum opening 18 July – on all summer
Enjoy the SS Great Britain, and discover the newly expanded Bristol Dockyards, with the new, redeveloped Dockyard museum opening on 18 July. Families can enjoy interactive summer games and challenges throughout the holidays called Ships and Giggles, with one child receiving free entry with every paying adult. Every ticket is valid for 12 months, so visitors can return as often as they like.
Conservation Carnival at Bristol Aquarium
18 July – 31 August
Discover ocean conservation success stories through engaging talks, behind the scenes tours and hands-on family activities, including a sandpit search. Visitors can also save 10% on admission throughout the promotional period with Great British Summer Savings scheme.
Summer of Imagination at We The Curious
23 July – 1 September
Enjoy hands-on science, creativity and discovery. Fly through the rings of Saturn, uncover optical illusions, create fruit sorbets and experiment with interactive exhibits at the Theatre of Curiosity. We the Curious is taking part in the Great British Summer Saving (VAT savings have been taken off ticket prices for summer).
Adventure Bristol Tree Tops high ropes at Ashton Court Estate
Throughout summer
Experience an outdoor adventure among the trees at Ashton Court Estate. From woodland walkways to high ropes courses, Adventure Bristol offers challenges and activities.
Dome Club Planetarium at Aerospace Bristol
1-16 August
Discover aviation history through interactive family activities, an airplane-themed play area and special planetarium shows inside an immersive 360° digital dome where you can discover the night sky, a celestial adventure or flight through a pilot’s eyes. Visitors can also get up close to the iconic Bristol Freighter and Concorde Alpha Foxtrot, the last Concorde ever to fly.
The Dream Factory by Wake The Tiger
Throughout summer
Explore immersive rooms and imaginative worlds at the UK’s largest amazement park, as well as the new Junk yard outdoor space at Dream Factory by Wake the Tiger. Children under five can visit free, while visitors can enjoy 20% off tickets throughout the summer holidays.
Shaun the Sheep Wildlife Mission at Bristol Zoo Project
Now – 31 October
As part of the Aardman 50th anniversary celebrations, follow a brand new Shaun the Sheep trail through Bristol Zoo Project and keep an eye out for Wallace and Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, Feathers McGraw and other familiar Aardman favourites along the way. It’s a family adventure with a strong conservation and education theme alongside the zoo’s animal experiences.
Summer Holidays at The Grand Pier
23 July – 3 September
Spend the day enjoying unlimited rides, over 500 arcade games and classic seaside fun at Weston-super-Mare’s iconic Grand Pier. Unlimited Ride Wristbands are £15, with 25% off weekend and North Somerset school holiday bookings when purchased in advance.
Summertopia at Avon Valley Adventure Park
Now – 31 August
Enjoy a packed programme of outdoor family fun, from a giant slip n slide, beach zone and mini Jeep safaris to encounters with prehistoric giants in Dinosaur Valley. Visitors can return for free after their first visit until 31 August, while those wanting a longer stay can enjoy camping and glamping on site.
Summer at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
Throughout summer
Meet African elephants, giraffes, rhinos, lions, tigers and many more incredible animals. Visitors who book more than five days in advance can also enjoy 10% off admission.
Dragonfly Festival at WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre
18 July – 3 September
Discover the world of wetlands through dragonfly-themed activities ranging from stilt walkers, pond dipping, science shows and dragonfly safaris, plus interactive family events and guided canoe safaris. It’s an ideal way to get closer to nature during the school holidays.
Pokémon TCG Mega Evolution Trail at Dyrham Park
Now – 2 September
Join a family Pokémon adventure at Dyrham Park from 23 May. Explore the Pokémon Trading Card Game Mega Evolution Trail, search for Mega Evolution Pokémon, discover their powers, complete fun challenges together, and collect your trail sheet on arrival.
Summer of Play at Tyntesfield National Trust
Throughout summer
Make the most of the school holidays with outdoor games, family activities and nature-inspired adventures in the beautiful gardens of Tyntesfield. The National Trust’s Summer of Play programme offers opportunities to explore, play and relax together in this Victorian Gothic Revival house and parkland.
Summer Holidays at Wookey Hole
23 July – 31 August
Discover a brand new immersive cave projection at Wookey Hole, plus a heritage tour, a brand new circus and magic show, and the Dinosaur Experience where families can meet the Dino Ranger and baby dinosaurs. Book in advance to save 15% on tickets.
Mendip Mini-Fests at Mendip Basecamp
Weekends throughout school summer holidays
Enjoy six mini family-friendly festivals over the school summer holiday weekends featuring live music, entertainment, creative workshops and activities for all ages. Included in ticket price for those camping at Mendip Basecamp, Mendip Mini-Fests offer a relaxed outdoor atmosphere perfect for making the most of the summer holidays.
For more inspiration for summer in Bristol content including family days out and events and festivals, click here.
