Amazing animals
If you’re travelling with animal lovers in tow, they’ll go wild for Bristol. There’s a state-of-the art aquarium packed with incredible ocean dwellers, and then there are the majestic residents of the zoo to get to know. Bristol Zoo Gardens
Having first opened its gates in 1836, Bristol Zoo Gardens is jam-packed with amazing creatures from every corner of the globe. Swing by the monkey jungle and come face-to-face with playful spider monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and adorable lemurs. You’ll also gawp at the Asiatic lions, and other popular locals include pygmy hippos, mischievous meerkats, and a rare red panda.
Bristol Zoo Gardens, Bristol BS8 3HA. Play time
If the kids get the urge to blow off some steam, Bristol is liberally scattered with lush public parks, many of which feature free-to-use play areas. But there’s one family attraction where good times are guaranteed, whatever the weather. Jump
If you’re visiting with younger children, Jump is an absolute must. It’s a huge, dedicated indoor soft play centre, with themed areas including a space zone, a pirate galleon, and an enchanted castle. There’s a host of amazing super-sized inflatables, expansive ball pits, and a giant area especially for toddlers. Parents are welcome to join in and play, but you may prefer to take the opportunity for a breather, and enjoy the free magazines and WiFi.
22 Concorde Road, Bristol BS34 5TB.
Historical wonders
Many of Bristol’s museums have interactive exhibits designed to appeal to all ages, and handy facilities like buggy parks and baby changing rooms. The city also boasts a novel, one-of-a-kind historical attraction that’s guaranteed to enthral your whole gang. SS Great Britain
Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s SS Great Britain was the world’s first major ocean liner, making its maiden transatlantic voyage back in 1845. Visitors of all ages will love the time warp feel as they stroll the decks, poke around the luxurious first class cabins, and take a fish-eye’s view of the world’s oldest iron hull. The adjacent Dockyard Museum tells the amazing story of the ship through a fascinating collection of paintings, photos, artefacts, and archive film.
Great Western Dockyard, Bristol BS1 6TY.
Family dining
From quirky independent cafés to bustling chain restaurants, Bristol has all your family dining needs sewn up. La Grotta
This atmospheric, family-run joint has a great-value kid’s menu, with smaller portions of fresh pizza and pasta dishes served with a soft drink and a scoop of delicious Italian ice cream for dessert. Parents, meanwhile, can gorge themselves on decadent dishes like fillet steak with pate and rich Madeira sauce.
9 Union Street, Bristol BS1 2DD.
Giraffe
The Bristol branch of this popular chain is a firm favourite with younger diners. There are tasty kids’ dishes on the menu to suit any time of day, from mini brunches to filling evening meals like beef hot dog with jacket potato wedges. The colourful atmosphere and lively music all add up to a playfully child-friendly environment too.
Glass House, Cabot Circus, Bristol BS1 3BX.
