Are you thinking of having a day out or staycation in the West of England and wondering what the best family activites in Bristol and Bath are? When it comes to family activities, it’s never quite as simple as you envisage. A nice day out with your nearest and dearest is often difficult to organise and even harder to orchestrate; when to go, what to do, how to get the kids out of the house and whether or not you plan to follow through with the threats if the kids didn’t cooperate – pleasing everyone can be an impossible task.
More often than not, finding the right activity is the tricky part. But don’t worry. Not all family activities pan out likhttps://motherhoodtherealdeal.com/parenthood/how-to-get-the-most-out-of-a-uk-staycation/e the National Lampoon’s Vacation. So here are a few great ideas for family activities in Bristol and Bath that will bring you all harmoniously together (for a few hours, at least!).
The best family activities in Bristol and Bath
The Bath Spy Mission Treasure Trail
There are loads of amazing Bath activities in the surrounding area. But for a great family activity on a budget, this simple yet ingenious treasure trail is a great way for the whole household to enjoy exploring the elegant Georgian streets.
Pick up your trail map at the Tourist information centre and follow the clues to crack the code. The trail is a two-mile circular route you navigate yourself (and your family, of course!). As you make your way round the trail, you’ll solve cunning clues to complete the mission and enter the prize draw. The clues are based around local landmarks and monuments, providing the perfect opportunity to marvel at your surroundings while your little spies complete the mission. And if you get stuck, there’s even a text service to give you helpful hints en route.
The egg, Bath
Creative, engaging and innovative, The egg invites parents and young children to immerse themselves in the world of theatre and storytelling. Through a variety of mediums including poetry, spoken word, song, dance, acting and regular audience participation, The egg offers a unique family activity for all. Pick your show and take your young ones on an imaginative and interactive creative trip to broaden their mind. Tailored especially for children, the plays are expertly created to keep kids entertained and fully engaged – whether that’s through stories with puppets, live music or interactive dance.
The Roman Baths
There’s something magical about the Roman Baths. Maybe it’s the sense of standing on ancient ground, or the steam rising from the great Bath. It could be the thrill of seeing where Bath’s Romans relaxed, or the exhilaration of experiencing their surroundings nearly 2000 years after it was originally created. Whatever it is, it’s bound to be a hit with your family.
Founded around an ancient hot spring, the Roman Baths has undergone centuries of regeneration – most recently in 2011. But the original foundations date back to 74 AD – parts of which can still be admired to this day. The Baths illustrate how the Romans lived, and include exciting film projections and ancient artefacts that bring Roman society to life. There are even real Romans wandering around, ready to teach you a thing or two about Roman culture. They are without doubt one of the best historic places to visit in Bath.
Leigh Woods, Bristol
If the sun’s out and you fancy a wander in the countryside, head to Leigh Woods for a family-friendly afternoon in Bristol. Overlooking then ancient Avon Gorge, the woods bring the kids out of the cloud (digitally speaking) and back to nature. You can navigate through the woods yourself, by following one of the designated paths surrounded by oak and ash trees, as well as other stunning flora and fauna. If you’re quiet, you might even spot some of the woods’ local residence, such as foxes, endangered birds and – at dusk – horseshoe bats. And the view of the Gorge itself (which was formed during the last ice age) is pretty impressive. There’s even a natural play trail throughout the woods for the younger explorers.
We The Curious (formerly @Bristol), Bristol
If you thought science was boring when you were at school, think again. An obvious choice for a rainy day, We The Curious takes learning to the next level, with its unique and refreshing outlook on education – for kids and adults alike.
Throughout the year, We The Curious puts on a range of science-based exhibits, proudly cultivating questions from visitors of all ages. The hands-on activities are designed to make learning interactive, inspiring and most of all, fun! The venue also boasts the UK’s first ever 3D digital planetarium, an incredible immersive experience for aspiring astronauts, or those who simply enjoy stargazing. It’s located right next to Bristol’s harbourside, where there’s a wide selection of cafes and eateries to sate the appetites of your young scientists.
We The Curious is a fun family activity, which will leave you feeling a little wiser – and yet, a lot more inquisitive.
West Country Games, Bristol
For more adventurous Bristol activities, West Country Games is a whacky day out that’s bound to bring your family together. Nine hilarious activities will have your whole clan in stiches; show your mum how it’s done at Drunk Pub Skittles, challenge your sibling to a Pitch Fork Duel (inflatable, of course!) and watch you Dad’s Welly Wanging skills. Better yet, invite your friends or extended family to join the fun and settle that ‘friendly’ family feud forever!
Based on the outskirts of Bristol, it’s location is easily accessible and within a short drive from the city centre, making it a great choice if you want to pop into Bristol for a bite to eat after your whacky day out.
Alternatively, you may want to check on their sister company, Welsh Games, one of the most popular Cardiff activities.
We hope you found this list of the best family activities in Bristol and Bath useful, Happy exploring!
Photo by Rachel Claire from Pexels.
