M Shed is Bristol's museum of the city's history, located in a former transit shed on Princes Wharf. It explores the story of Bristol from its earliest days to the present, with interactive exhibits, films, and a huge collection of objects. Highlights include a full-size replica of the Bristol Boxkite aircraft, a dockers' trolley, and a 1950s motor scooter. The top floor has a hands-on gallery 'Bristol: The Story of a City' with dressing-up costumes, touchscreens, and activities for children. There's also a model of the city centre with moving trains. Families appreciate the free entry, accessible facilities, and the on-site café with kids' meals. The museum is fully accessible with lifts and baby-changing facilities. Recommended for ages 5+, but younger children will enjoy the sensory elements and the large windows overlooking the harbour. Best visited on a rainy day, as it's entirely indoor. Note that some exhibits may be less engaging for under-5s.
At a glance
Cost
Free / cheap
Setting
Indoor
Ages
0–18+
County
City of BristolCountry
England
Rainy day
Great for rainy days
Travel tips
Location
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🚂Bristol Harbour Railway
A delightful heritage steam and diesel railway running along Bristol's historic harbour. Operated by the M Shed museum, the railway offers short train rides (about 10 minutes) with fantastic views of the waterfront, passing the SS Great Britain. Kids love the authentic steam locomotives and the opportunity to see the engine shed. The trains run on weekends and bank holidays (check seasonal schedule). - Highlights: Steam train ride, harbour views, adjacent M Shed museum with hands-on exhibits. - Ages: Best for 2-12 years, but all ages enjoy the spectacle. - Facilities: Toilets, café at M Shed, buggy-friendly station. The railway is outdoors but covered waiting areas. - Practical tips: Combine with a visit to M Shed (free entry). Parking nearby (pay and display). Arrive early for a good spot on the train.
⛵The Matthew
The Matthew is a full-scale replica of the 15th-century ship that John Cabot sailed from Bristol to North America in 1497. Docked at Princes Wharf in Bristol Harbour, it offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. Families can explore the ship's deck, see the crew's quarters, and learn about the age of exploration through interactive exhibits. - Highlights include: climbing aboard the replica, handling replica artifacts, and hearing stories from costumed guides. - Suitable for ages 4-12, but younger children will enjoy the novelty of a real ship. - Facilities: baby-changing available, no dedicated play area. The ship has steep stairs and narrow spaces, so supervision is needed. - Practical tips: book tickets in advance during peak season. Allow 1-2 hours. Combine with a visit to the nearby M Shed museum.
🎨Spike Island
Spike Island is a contemporary art centre in Bristol, housed in a former tea packing warehouse on the Harbourside. It features rotating exhibitions of modern art, a spacious gallery, and a cafe with river views. Families are welcome with free admission to the gallery (though some events may have a cost). The centre offers family-friendly workshops and activities, especially during school holidays. The open-plan layout is buggy-friendly, and baby-changing facilities are available. The cafe serves snacks and meals suitable for children. While primarily an art gallery, the industrial setting and large windows make it a bright, indoor space. - Highlights: Contemporary art exhibitions, family workshops, harbourside location. - Ages: Suitable for all ages, but younger children may be less engaged with static art; interactive elements vary by exhibition. - Practical tips: Check website for family event schedules; combine with a walk along the Harbourside.
🐠Bristol Aquarium
Bristol Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction located in the heart of Bristol's Harbourside. It features over 40 displays showcasing a diverse range of marine life from around the world, including a spectacular shark tunnel, a beautiful coral reef, and a fascinating Amazonian zone. Highlights for families: - 'Ocean' tunnel with sharks, rays, and sea turtles swimming overhead. - Interactive touch pool where kids can handle starfish and crabs. - Daily feeding talks and diving shows (check schedule on arrival). - The 'Bay of Rays' exhibit with a walk-through pool. - 'Creature Corner' with a giant Pacific octopus and seahorses. Facilities: Baby-changing rooms, pushchair access (note: some areas may have steps, but alternative routes available), cafe with high chairs, and a gift shop. The aquarium is compact enough for a 1-2 hour visit, ideal for younger children. Most exhibits have low-level viewing windows perfect for toddlers. Weekday mornings are quieter.
🎭Bristol Old Vic
Bristol Old Vic is the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, located in the heart of Bristol's Old City. For families, it offers a dedicated 'Family' program with a variety of shows suitable for children from toddlers to teenagers, including interactive performances, storytelling, and workshops. The theatre's historic auditorium provides a magical atmosphere. Facilities: baby changing, booster seats, a family-friendly café, and accessible seating. Practical tips: book early for popular family shows; some performances are relaxed or BSL interpreted. The theatre also runs holiday workshops for ages 4-16.
🚢SS Great Britain
Step aboard Brunel's iconic steamship, the SS Great Britain, now a fascinating museum in Bristol Harbour. This innovative vessel was the first iron-hulled, propeller-driven liner to cross the Atlantic. Perfect for families, the ship offers a hands-on journey through maritime history with immersive exhibits and costumed characters. Kids will love exploring the ship from the captain's cabin to the engine room, climbing the rigging, and trying on Victorian costumes. Highlights include: - The 'Being Brunel' museum with interactive displays - The restored decks and state-of-the-art iron hull - A family trail and activity sheets for different ages Facilities include a cafe with high chairs, baby-changing facilities, and pushchair access throughout most of the ship. The attraction is mostly under cover, making it great for rainy days. Pre-book tickets online for best prices, and note that parking is limited; nearby car parks are a short walk away.
🏛️St. George's Heritage Centre
A small local history museum housed in a former school building, showcasing the rich heritage of the St. George's area of Bristol. Exhibits include Victorian toys, school memorabilia, and photographs of the neighbourhood's past. The centre offers hands-on activities for children, such as dressing up in period costume and exploring a replica classroom. Facilities include a gift shop and accessible toilets. Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly option for families. Suitable for children aged 5 and up, though younger children can enjoy the interactive elements. The centre is open limited hours, typically Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, so check ahead.
🏞️Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower
Brandon Hill is a historic park in central Bristol, offering 8 acres of green space with mature trees, wildflower meadows, and a children's playground. At the summit stands Cabot Tower, a 32-meter-tall red sandstone landmark built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot's voyage. Climb the 111 spiral steps for panoramic views of the city, harbour, and beyond. - Children love the playground with swings, slides, and climbing frames, suitable for toddlers and older kids. - The park has plenty of open grass for picnics and ball games, plus benches and paths for pushchairs. - Cabot Tower is free to enter; the narrow staircase may be challenging for very young children or those afraid of heights. - Facilities include public toilets (usually open) and a café nearby on Park Street. No on-site parking but central location makes it accessible by bus or on foot.
🐐Windmill Hill City Farm
A community city farm in Bedminster, Bristol, offering a free and friendly space for families with children. The farm has a variety of animals including goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, and rabbits, which children can pet and feed at certain times. There is also a large adventure playground, a sensory garden, and a cafe serving homemade food. - Highlights: Animal feeding sessions, playground, gardening workshops, seasonal events. - Suitable for all ages, especially toddlers and primary school children. - Facilities: Cafe, toilets (including baby changing), picnic areas, free parking on nearby streets. - Practical tips: Wear sturdy shoes as paths can be muddy. The farm is open daily except Mondays, 9am–4:30pm.
🎵St George's Bristol
St George's Bristol is a renowned concert hall and music venue in the heart of Bristol, celebrated for its exceptional acoustics and diverse programme that includes classical, jazz, folk, and world music. Families are especially welcome with a dedicated series of family concerts, interactive workshops, and relaxed performances designed for children of all ages. - Family concerts often feature storytelling, audience participation, and instruments to try, making music accessible and fun for kids aged 0–12. - The venue is fully accessible, with baby-changing facilities and a café serving child-friendly snacks. - Practical tip: Book 'family tickets' for discounted entry, and arrive early to explore the historic building and its intimate atmosphere.