The long summer holidays are upon us and if you’re a parent, you’ll know what that means. If your child hasn’t already broken up, then they will be sooner than you can sing ‘school’s out for summer’.
With the cost of living skyrocketing, two months of having your kids at home might be a bittersweet prospect. Thankfully, a visit to some of Bristol’s most popular attractions doesn’t need to be an expensive one.
Here’s a round-up of ten things to do in the city which won’t cost a penny. That’s if you don’t spend too much on ice creams or in the gift shops, of course.
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M Shed, Harbourside
Located in a vast 1950s transit shed right on the Harbourside, the M Shed museum explores over 2,000 years of Bristol’s history and is free to enter. Learn about Bristol People and Bristol Places and keep an eye out for the special exhibitions on the top floor.
Visit on July 23/24 and you can even experience a working crane on the quayside outside. It’s open 10am-5pm.
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Queens Road
No school holiday in Bristol is complete without at least one trip to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Set across 19 galleries on three floors, it’s a magnificent space filled with art, archaeology, geology and natural history.
Don’t miss the Egyptian mummies, gypsy caravan and Alfred the Gorilla. It’s open 10am-5pm.
Cabot Tower and Brandon Hill
A stone’s throw from Park Street, Brandon Hill is a peaceful haven within the city. As well as the original ponds and countless squirrels, it’s a lovely nature reserve for all the family to appreciate.
And if you’re feeling energetic, you can climb the Cabot Tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city. Back open after two years, this iconic landmark opens from 8am every day and closes in July and August at 9.15pm.
Georgian House Museum, Great George Street
Just off Park Street and close to Brandon Hill, The Georgian House Museum is a restored 18th century townhouse built in 1790 for John Pinney, a wealthy slave plantation owner and sugar merchant. It is also where the enslaved African, Pero Jones lived.
Eleven rooms spread over four floors and reveal what life was like above and below stairs, from the kitchen in the basement where servants prepared meals to the elegant formal rooms above. The Georgian House Museum is free to visit but donations are welcome. Open 11am-4pm.
Ashton Court Estate
Home to the free Bristol International Balloon Fiesta in August every year, Ashton Court Estate is 850 acres of woods and grasslands in total, designed by Humphry Repton. Ancient oak trees, a 600-year-old deer park and a magnificent house and gardens, Ashton Court Estate is one of the jewels in the crown for Bristol and, best of all, it’s completely free.
Windmill Hill City Farm
Between East Street in Bedminster and Windmill Hill itself, Windmill Hill City Farm is a working urban farm where visitors can meet the animals, stroll through the community gardens and play in the outdoor play areas. There’s also an excellent and affordable cafe serving local food, some of it grown on the farm itself.
Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate
Set in 400 acres of parkland and woodlands, Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate is free to visit and features a 19th century mansion, a folly castle and a popular children's adventure playground. Nearby you'll also find Blaise Hamlet, a group of quaint and picturesque cottages now owned and maintained by the National Trust.
Hengrove Play Park, Hengrove Promenade
Hengrove Play Park is a huge open space which includes the biggest free play park in Bristol for all ages and an additional wheels park. For over-10s, the Play Park includes a 12 metre high dome with a jungle play experience, swings, and many other play attractions. There is a zip line, rope pyramid and assault course for older kids, plus cafe, leisure complex and skate park next door. It’s a great free day out for the whole family.
Badock’s Wood
Tucked away in Westbury-on-Trym, Badock’s Wood is a hidden gem with winding paths, a babbling stream and lovely walks. It’s so tranquil you’ll feel as though you are miles from the hustle and bustle of the city as soon as you arrive.
Cribbs Summer Beach at The Mall, Cribbs Causeway
If you can’t face an expensive train trip to Weston-super-Mare, there’s always the golden sands of Cribbs Causeway. That’s right, the Cribbs summer beach is back this summer, complete with palm trees and water play fountains. Free to enter, there’s even the iCandy ice cream van to keep you cool. Open until early September, Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 10.30am-5pm.
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