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Virtual Reality
Where: Active Reality
About: Are you tired of doing the same activities when it's raining? Do you want to find something new and exciting that will keep you and your kids entertained for hours on end? Look no further than Active Reality!
This innovative company offers a range of fun and engaging experiences that are perfect for children of all ages.
From virtual reality games to interactive adventures, Active Reality has it all. Your kids will be amazed as they step into a whole new world and immerse themselves in thrilling challenges and exhilarating activities. With Active Reality, boredom is a thing of the past!
Address: Link Centre, Whitehill Way, Toothill, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 7DL
Telephone: 0333 339 1881
Trampolining at AirHop
Where: AirHop Trampoline Park
About: Bounce on over to experience AirHop Trampoline Park! It offers a range of fun activities for all ages to enjoy with family or friends! You and your kids can have tons of fun bouncing across the main jump arena, diving into the foam pits, and competing to see who can land the smoothest dunk!
Address: Unit 5 Britannia Road, Patchway, Bristol, BS34 5TA
Telephone: 0330 223 3333
Visit the Zoo
Where: Bristol Zoo
About: Rainy days are great days to visit the zoo. There is a lot to see and do, including several indoor attractions with amazing animal habitats. The Aquarium, the activity centre, The Hatching Hut, and The Butterfly Forest are just a few of the zoo's rainy day destinations. Don’t worry if you are caught out, the gift shop has umbrellas, ponchos, sunscreen and clothing for whatever the weather.
Address: Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA
Telephone: 0117 974 7300
Bristol Pottery Workshops
About: Live out your Patrick Swayze fantasies and try your hand at pottery making at one of the many Bristol Pottery Workshops. Suitable for all ages and abilities, make your own mug, plate, plant pot or something else entirely while guided by masters in ceramics. You can take part in glazing workshops or even give these experiences as a thoughtful gift. The possibilities are endless.
Cost: Starting from £35 pp
Opening: Check website as is dependent on class times.
Address: 14 Walton Street, Easton, Bristol, BS5 0JG
Telephone: 07954995127
Wake the Tiger - Bristols amazement park
About: Get ready to dive down the rabbit hole and experience the utterly incredible and mesmerising Wake The Tiger! A self-guided journey through 27 unique and mind-blowing art installations from the wonderful minds of the creators of Boomtown, Wake The Tiger is uniquely fantastic and wildly beautiful.
Forget everything you think you know, throw the rules out the window, and open your eyes to this magical and sensory experience. Is there a hidden door in the bookcase? Does that file cabernet lead to a staircase? Or maybe is the fireplace a portal? Who knows… find out for yourself.
Cost:
- Adults (13+): £19.50
- Child (5-12): £13.50
- Under 5’s: Free
Opening: Wed - Sun - Times may vary so check website.
Address: 127 Albert Rd, Bristol, BS2 0YA
St Nicholas indoor Market
About: Trading since 1743, St Nicholas market aka St Nicks Market, is an iconic part of Bristol's rich history, nestled in the heart of a part of Bristol called “Old City”.
Here you will find Bristol's largest collection of independent retails for everything ranging from food, records, vintage finds, clothing, art and much much more. There isn’t much you can’t find there! Depending on the day and time, you will find additional stalls outside offering a wide range of delicious street food, farmers produce and local handmade delights.
Opening times:
- Indoor market: Mon-Sta 9.30 am - 5 pm
- Farmers market: Every two weeks - check website
- Street food market: Tues & Fri 11 am - 2.30 pm
- Indie Market: Fri & Sat 10 am - 5 pm
Address: St Nicholas Market, The Corn Exchange, Corn St, Bristol, BS1 1JQ
Science Museum
Where: We The Curious
About: We The Curious is a fun day out for the entire family - and a great idea when the rain clouds are out in force! With lots of interactive activities and exhibitions there is always something new to discover. Whether you are a tiny explorer, or you want to experience the silver sphere planetarium, there is a whole world of scientific exploration at your doorstep!
Address: Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB
Telephone: 0845 345 1235
Go Shopping
Where: Cabot Circus
About: There's nothing like a spot of retail therapy to beat away those rainy day blues! So, throw on your raincoat, and head down to Cabot Circus to enjoy their huge range of shops, restaurants and cafes. With all of your favourite stores, a cinema and some top places to grab a bite to eat, it’s a great place to spend a rainy day!
Address: Glass House, Bristol, BS1 3BX
Telephone: 0117 952 9361
Soft Play
Where: Better Keynsham Leisure Centre
About: Why not make the most of Better Keynsham's new indoor soft play area. A great place for your children to let off some steam and have bags of fun. The fully enclosed play structure allows your child to climb, crawl, hang and do all the other stuff they love but in complete safety, leaving you to get some well-deserved relaxation time!
Address: Temple Street, Keynsham, BS31 1HE
Telephone: 01225 439680
Aerospace Museum
About: Embark on a captivating journey into the world of aerospace exploration at the Bristol Aerospace Museum.
Discover the marvels of human ingenuity as you delve into the rich history of aviation and space technology. Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits that showcase groundbreaking aircraft, from iconic classics such as Concord to cutting-edge prototypes. Learn about the evolution of flight and have your breath taken away in their Red Arrows simulation.
Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about the wonders of the sky, Bristol Aerospace Museum promises an unforgettable experience for all ages.
What's more, the ticket price entry entitles you to free entry within one year of the ticket purchase date.
Cost:
- Adults: £19.50
- Child (4-17): £12
- Senior: £18
- Under 4: Free
Opening: 7 days a week 10 am - 4.30 pm
Address: Hayes Way, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5BZ
Telephone: 0117 931 5315
Chance Encounters - Board game cafe
About: If you're looking for a place where you can indulge in a delightful mix of coffee, locally brewed beer and over 500+ board games then Chance Encounters is where it’s at! Due to the massive success of the Bristol Christmas Steps cafe, there is now also one on Gloucester Road too!
Regardless of the location you choose (even though both locations are unique and different to the other), these cosy little havens are a paradise for gamers of all ages and abilities. With shelves stacked full of every single board game you could ever think of, take a break from everyday life and dive headfirst into an evening of strategic battles, laughter, and (sometimes) friendly competition.
Tables get booked up fast so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Cost: Starting at £2 per person per hour
Opening: Sun - Wed 10 am - 11 pm & Thurs - Sat 10 am - Midnight
Address: 20 Christmas Steps, Bristol, BS1 5BS & 79-81 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8AS
Bristol Old Vic
About: Bristol has some of the best quality theatre out there and you can’t think of Bristol theatre without immediately thinking of Bristol Old Vic - since 1766, BOV is the oldest continuously working theatre in the English speaking language.
Not only does BOV produce some of the world best theatre, it has also had some incredibly famous names tread their boards including Olivia Coleman, Sir Patrick Stewart and Gene Wilder just to name a few (trust me, the list is endless) but while you might not be guaranteed to see a Hollywood star on stage every day, one thing you are guaranteed is to have the privilege of witnessing some top tier theatre. There is always a wide variety of performances to suit every age and taste or you can even attend one of their many workshops and tours to learn about the theatre's rich and wonderful history.
Cost: Depends on the activity
Opening: Check the website for show/workshop / tour times
Address: Bristol Old Vic, King Street, Bristol, BS1 4ED
Telephone: 0117 987 7877
Whistle Punks - Axe Throwing
About: If you've ever dreamt of channeling your inner lumberjack and throwing an axe with precision while eating pizza and drinking beer… then this is the place for you!
Whistle Punks offers an axe-throwing extravaganza like no other and is super therapeutic for any pent up steam you might be looking to blow off. You are led by an instructor at all times while being closely supervised (in a super fun way) so don’t worry if you’re a total beginner… you won’t be left behind. So, gather your pals, let out your best war cry, and let loose with a wild session of axe throwing.
Cost: From £22
Opening: Tues-Sun (check website for exact opening times)
Address: All Saints’ St, BS1 2LZ
Aquarium
Where: Bristol Aquarium
About: There aren’t many ways you can experience life under water without getting wet. Even if it’s raining outside, you can be sure the only wet thing at Bristol Aquarium is the fish! Situated at the historic harboursite, Bristol Aquarium has a fantastic collection of tropical sharks, beautiful seahorses and impressive rays. There is so much to see and do, no matter what age you are.
Address: Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5TT
Telephone: 0117 929 8929
Cinema
Where: Showcase
About: Whether you’re a fan of action movies, romance or horror, a trip to the cinema can be the perfect way to pass a rainy afternoon. If you go on your own, or with a group of friends, it doesn’t have to cost the earth. With NUS discounts, 2for1 nights and other ticket offers you can make sure your pennies stretch that little bit further.
Address: Cabot Circus, Bristol, BS1 3BX
Telephone: 0871 220 1000
Rock Climbing
Where: Undercover Rock
About: If you’re getting itchy feet from staying indoors, then why not try your hand at climbing. Undercover Rock offers a fantastic climbing experience in the unique setting of a renovated church. The centre caters for all abilities and all ages, and it’s a great way to keep fit whilst avoiding the rainstorms.
Address: Mina Road, Bristol, BS2 9YT
Telephone: 0117 941 3489
Bristol Rum School
About: Yes, the rum is gone.
Why is the rum gone? … because it is a vile drink that turns even the most respectable men into complete scoundrels.
Channel your inner Jack Sparrow and embark on your own journey of rum, from rum's miraculous conception on the Caribbean sugarcane plantations through to the superior spirit it is today all while enjoying your very own rum cocktails. Get inspired by a spiced rum tasting session before then trying your hand at being the distiller yourself and make your very own, unique bottle of rum to take home with your very own name and branding. This is the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening for any rum lover!
Cost: From £80 pp
Opening: Check website for booking times and availability.
Address: 87-89 Park Street, Bristol, BS1 5PJ
Telephone: 07557 253770
Art Gallery
Where: Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
About: If the rain has put a damper on your day, then why pay the museum a visit. You’ll be able to explore collections of art, history and nature in the stunning surroundings of beautiful building. There's so much to see, you‘ll be sure to browse the rain clouds away. And what’s the best part? Entry to the museum is free of charge, so what are you waiting for?
Address: Queen's Road, Bristol, BS8 1RL
Telephone: 0117 922 3571
Freedog Bristol
Where: Temple Gate Park
About: The rain won't dampen your day at Freedog Urban Activity Centre! You'll have loads of run enjoying the seemingly endless array of trampolines, or you could challenge yourself with the Trapeze, Lazer Maze or Power Tower. You might even learn a thing or two from the Freedog Parkour Academy!
Address: Unit 2A-C, Temple Gate Park, Mead Street, Bristol, BS3 4RP
Telephone: 0117 203 4888
M Shed museum
About: The interactive and hugely popular M Shed offers a fascinating insight into Bristol's history. Experience awe-inspiring films and captivating photographs, immerse yourself in heartfelt personal narratives and contribute your own cherished memories of Bristol through many of M Shed's interactive exhibits. Spanning from ancient eras to the more contemporary moment of Bristol, M Shed unveils the captivating narrative of our remarkable city and its unparalleled significance in the global landscape.
Cost: Free
Opening: Tues-Sun - 10am-5pm
Address: Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol, BS1 4RN
Telephone: 0117 352 6600
Have a Workout
Where: Better Keynsham Leisure Centre
About: Whether you’re taking the first steps on your fitness journey or you’re looking to stay in shape, you’ll find everything you need in the newly refurbished Better Keynsham Gym. With over 60 Technogym workout stations including a functional fitness area and a large free weights area, you can work up a sweat without the sunshine!
Address: Temple Street, Keynsham, BS31 1HE
Telephone: 01225 439680
Ping Pong Parlour The Galleries
About: Ping! is the street ping pong project which provides people with opportunities to play table tennis in a variety of environments from casual play in parks to organised coaching sessions.
Their aim is to get as many people as possible across Bristol to play table tennis and provide a wide range of table tennis opportunities for all to enjoy the game.
Address: 25 Union Gallery, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3XD
T:0117 352 5632
Laser Fusion
Where: Laser Fusion
About: Laser Fusion is in essence a game of tag with a high-tech twiLaser Fusion is in essence a game of tag with a high-tech twist! Points are awarded every time you 'zap' another player, with points deducted every time you are 'zapped'. At the end of each game, scores are displayed on our plasma score screen, with each player receiving an individual score card that has a breakdown of the score.st! Points are awarded every time you 'zap' another player, with points deducted every time you are 'zapped'. At the end of each game, scores are displayed on our plasma score screen, with each player receiving an individual score card that has a breakdown of the score.
Address: Silver Street, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 2AG
Telephone: 0117 929369901017 929 3699