Great Summer Fun in Bristol: Free & Affordable Activities for Families
The summer holidays are here! families often face the classic challenge of how to effectively engage their children over a six-week period filled with enjoyable activities.
Various factors must be taken into account when planning these family outings—keeping children entertained and content while creating lasting memories in preparation for their return to routine in September.
From considerations such as weather conditions and budget constraints to travel logistics, parents have numerous details to manage. Fortunately, Bristol offers a wealth of opportunities for families this summer at minimal or no cost. One noteworthy event is the renowned Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, which will take place at Ashton Court from August 9-11.
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta 2022
Please credit PaulBox ©
We have curated a selection of family-oriented events and activities within the city that are either free or economical throughout July and August. For instance, the popular water garden at Cribbs Causeway is returning this season featuring an engaging wooden pirate ship designed for climbing and splashing fun. Visitors can also enjoy a giant bubble machine operated by children themselves and a gentle water play stream ideal for entertaining younger guests. Ample space is available for picnicking, alongside snack vendors offering refreshments conveniently located near the fountain outside the front of the shopping centre.
The highly regarded paddling pool in St. Andrew’s Park, Bishopston, has reopened for the summer season following comprehensive maintenance to ensure its optimal condition. This facility remains a favorite among families in the area, drawing numerous visitors during the warmer months. Previous reviews indicate that it offers an excellent way for children to engage and stay active on hot days—all at no cost.
Additionally, Weston Wallz will return to the seafront from Saturday, August 31 through Sunday, September 15 as it enters its fourth year of street art activities. The 2024 edition promises fresh artworks and engaging workshops aimed at art enthusiasts—it is a complimentary event suitable for families.
Building upon the existing collection of 46 murals created since its inception in 2021, this year’s festival anticipates introducing 18 new large-scale artworks by a diverse group of talented local, national, and international artists who will be announced shortly. Art aficionados can also participate in various free workshops designed to encourage creativity—including introductions to spray painting techniques and character drawing sessions. Reservations for these workshops will open on Thursday, August 1 via Yuup and will take place throughout each weekend of Weston Wallz.
**Old City Sounds Festival**
Following a highly successful inaugural event in 2023, the Bristol City Centre BID is pleased to announce the return of its complimentary day-long music festival, scheduled for Saturday, August 24th. The festival will feature genre-specific musical zones throughout the Old City area of Bristol. Attendees can enjoy performances in the Old City Jazz zone, showcasing live jazz along with folk, funk, and swing music. Additionally, families will find delight in the Old Kids Area, which will host bubble artists, jugglers, circus performers, and oversized garden games.
**Lumosphere Experience**
This summer introduces a new multi-sensory experience for audiences of all ages at Cabot Circus. Located within the Friary Building in Quakers Friars, Lumosphere offers an immersive 45-minute journey where visitors are encouraged to wander and engage with various artistic installations. The attraction opens to the public on July 26 and continues until August 16. Suitable for participants of all age groups, tickets are currently available priced between £8-£12; children under three attend free of charge. For further details orto purchase tickets, please visit yuup.co/lumosphere. In addition to Lumosphere’s debut this summer at Cabot Circus, another interactive installation titled ‘Space Shanty’ will open at M Shed in celebration of Bristol’s maritime heritage while revealing its lesser-known connections to astronomy.
The upcoming installation, hosted by the local experiences company Yuup, promises to transform one of Bristol’s most iconic harbourside venues into an immersive environment featuring interactive installations, digital artworks, and historical artefacts. This family-friendly exhibit will be open from July 18 to September 1. Ticket prices are set at £12 for adults, £8 for children aged 4-17 years, and £8 for concessions (including seniors over 65, students, armed forces personnel, and Blue Light cardholders). Children under three can attend free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult. Additionally, registered carers accompanying individuals receiving care must have valid identification.
We The Curious
After undergoing a two-year closure due to a fire incident, We The Curious has re-opened its doors with an exciting lineup of new activities planned for visitors in the coming months. While programs such as Toddler Takeovers, Planetarium Nights, and Relaxed Morning events will resume in the autumn season; a variety of engaging new events have already been introduced.
Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park
Located on Pixash Lane in Keynsham, Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park is preparing for significant events this summer during the school holiday period.
We are pleased to announce the arrival of Summertopia, a vibrant summer event taking place at Avon Valley from now until Sunday, September 1. This family-friendly destination is poised to offer an array of enjoyable activities for visitors of all ages. Families can indulge in an exciting sand and water play area, explore the fascinating Dinosaur Valley alongside life-sized prehistoric replicas, and interact with a variety of real animals.
For children eager to showcase their talents or acquire new skills, our event field will host a mini festival atmosphere. Participants can take part in ‘Avon Valley’s Got Talent’ on our main stage and experiment with circus skills equipment designed for aspiring acrobats. Additionally, storytelling sessions led by members of our entertainment team will provide a soothing environment for those wishing to unwind with captivating tales.
Adventurous visitors are invited to experience our impressive 50-meter slip ‘n’ slide featuring three lanes for maximum enjoyment. For those interested in extending their stay amidst this lively setting, accommodations are available at the park’s campsite. Guests may choose from traditional camping options or opt for luxurious glamping tents—some equipped with private hot tubs—for a more indulgent experience. Furthermore, motorhome and campervan pitches are accessible throughout the summer season to cater to various preferences in outdoor lodging.
We encourage everyone to join us at Avon Valley this holiday season for unforgettable memories!
Visitors to Summertopia! are encouraged to bring a change of clothes, as each day will conclude with a lively foam party filled with soap suds. For older children and adults seeking an exhilarating experience, Avon Valley is proud to host the Tartan Titan—a Guinness World Record-holding obstacle course—on select dates from Saturday, July 27 through Saturday, August 31. Recognized as the world’s longest inflatable assault course, The Tartan Titan features 50 challenging obstacles and will be stationed at the Park for the summer season. We invite groups of friends and colleagues to engage in a spirited day of competition.
Additionally, guests can enjoy interactive talks and feeding demonstrations featuring six shark species during Bristol Aquarium’s Summer of Sharks event. Complementing this experience is Oceanic 31, a new art exhibition that showcases 31 remarkable pieces inspired by various species of sharks and rays.
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