Top Things to Do in Bristol During October Half Term 2025

Published On: October 23rd, 2025

Top Things to Do in Bristol During October Half Term 2025

If you’re in Bristol for the October half term and wondering how to keep the kids entertained (and maybe yourself sane), you’re in luck. Bristol has a mix of indoor and outdoor activities that are perfect for families, friends, or even solo adventures if you’re feeling brave. From hands-on science and spooky thrills to bowling and cricket, there’s something for every taste.

1. Explore, tinker, and discover at We The Curious

One of Bristol’s crown jewels for families is We The Curious down on the Harbourside. During half term, the place is buzzing with interactive science, creative building challenges, and mind-bending experiments. Kids can build mini-cities, explore survival-style challenges, or even learn how genetics affects taste in the Greenhouse. It’s the perfect indoor day out when the Bristol drizzle sets in—and it’s fun enough that adults often forget they’re learning too.

Parking: There are several car parks nearby, including Q-Park Harbourside, Cabot Circus multi-storey, and street parking along Anchor Road and Wales & West car parks. Arrive early during peak times to secure a spot.

2. Get muddy and adventurous outdoors

For those who want to enjoy some fresh air, Bristol’s surrounding green spaces and adventure centres really shine in autumn. Bushcraft Adventure is ideal for kids who love hands-on activities like fire-making, building shelters, and cooking treats in the great outdoors.

Another local favourite is Way of the Viking, where children can don a Viking persona, craft pottery, practice shield-wall techniques, and play traditional games. The leafy outskirts of Bristol are perfect for this kind of immersive, action-packed half term fun.

Parking: Most of these outdoor activity centres have onsite parking. If you’re heading to a park or woodland area, look for nearby public car parks or lay-bys, as some locations may be limited in space.

3. Spooky seasonal thrills

October half term in Bristol wouldn’t be complete without a touch of spooky fun. For older kids and teens, Greenhouse of Horrors at Bristol Aquarium delivers creepy plant exhibits, slime-making sessions, and guided tours that mix thrills with a hint of learning.

Closer to the centre of Bristol, AirHop Bristol ramps up the energy with its ScAIRFest evenings—think glow-in-the-dark trampolining, slime, and DJ beats. Perfect if the kids want a high-energy, slightly spooky twist to their half term.

Parking:

Bristol Aquarium: The nearest parking is Q-Park Harbourside or street parking along Anchor Road.
AirHop Bristol: Parking is available at Brunel Street Car Park, Cabot Circus, or nearby street spaces.

4. Creative vibes and hands-on crafts

If you’re after something calmer, Bristol has plenty of crafty options. Local workshops like Spooktacular Halloween Crafts give children the chance to make seasonal decorations, while LUSH Halloween Workshops let kids create their own bath bombs and learn a bit about ethical ingredients. These are the kind of activities where parents can join in, or just sit back and watch little hands at work.

Parking: Most community centres and shops offering workshops have either onsite parking or nearby public car parks. For LUSH, Cribbs Causeway has plenty of free and pay-and-display parking.

5. Bowling, arcade games, and laser tag

When the weather’s grim—or if the kids just want to burn off some energy indoors—King Pins Bristol is a fantastic choice. With ten-pin bowling, laser tag, and a full arcade, it’s easy to spend a couple of hours here laughing, competing, and maybe even discovering your own competitive streak.

Parking: King Pins has onsite parking with plenty of spaces for families. Overflow parking is available nearby if needed.

6. Social cricket and sporty fun

For families who want to get outdoors and active, Sixes Social Cricket Bristol is a friendly, beginner-friendly way to enjoy the sport. It’s social, fun, and a great way for older kids (and parents) to get moving while enjoying some teamwork and friendly competition.

Parking: Most cricket locations in Bristol provide onsite parking or access to nearby public car parks. For urban sessions, check the hosting ground’s website for exact parking guidance.

7. Indoor adventure and team challenges

A newer, exciting option is Wake the Tiger, a Bristol escape room and team-adventure venue. It’s perfect for slightly older kids or families who love puzzles, problem-solving, and a bit of adrenaline. The games are designed to be immersive, so you really feel like you’re part of the story—and it’s a fun way to spend a rainy Bristol afternoon without screens.

Parking: Wake the Tiger has nearby street parking and public car parks such as Broadmead and Cabot Circus within walking distance.

Read more things to do in Bristol at https://directlocalbristol.co.uk/whats-on-bristol/