Home Things to do The Very Best Free (or Cheap) Things to Do for Families in Bristol this Summer 2023
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The Very Best Free (or Cheap) Things to Do for Families in Bristol this Summer 2023

The harbourside in Bristol city centre
Bristol

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Are you planning a trip to Bristol but concerned about the expenses? No need to worry! Bristol has many affordable or free activities that are perfect for budget-conscious travelers. As someone who knows Bristol well, I’ve gathered a list of some of the best budget-friendly things to do in the city. From visiting landmarks and museums to exploring parks, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained without spending too much money. In this blog post, I’ll share some insider tips on the best inexpensive activities in Bristol, so you can have a great time without going over your budget. Let’s dive in and discover the wallet-friendly activities that Bristol has to offer!

Table of Contents

Clifton Suspension Bridge

犀利士 >Aerial view of Clifton Suspension Bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge

This iconic bridge offers stunning views of the city and the Avon Gorge. It’s free to walk across the bridge, and there are several walking trails in the surrounding area. Clifton Suspension Bridge is a great thing to do for families because it’s a world-famous landmark that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Avon Gorge. Walking across the bridge is an exciting experience for both kids and adults, and there are plenty of photo opportunities. The surrounding area is also great for exploring, with several walking trails and parks nearby. Families can pack a picnic and enjoy a day out in the fresh air while taking in the stunning scenery.

This museum offers free entry and has a wide range of exhibits, including natural history, archaeology, and art. Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is a great thing to do for families because it’s a free museum offering various exhibits to cater to all ages and interests. Kids will love the natural history and archaeology exhibits, which include dinosaur fossils and mummies from Ancient Egypt. The art gallery features works by famous artists such as Banksy and Damien Hirst, which can inspire and spark creativity in children. There are also interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that encourage learning and exploration.

M Shed

This museum is dedicated to the history of Bristol and is free to enter. It features exhibits on Bristol’s industrial heritage, maritime history, and social history. M Shed is a great thing to do for families because it’s a museum dedicated to the history of Bristol, with interactive exhibits and immersive experiences that make learning fun. Kids can explore the city’s industrial heritage, maritime history, and social history through exhibits, films, and photographs. There are also special events and workshops for families throughout the year, which offer a chance to engage with local history and culture.

Arnos Vale Cemetery

Tomb of Raja Rammohun Roy in Arnos Vale Cemetery, Bristol
Tomb of Raja Rammohun Roy in Arnos Vale Cemetery, Bristol

This beautiful cemetery is free to enter and offers a peaceful escape from the city. There are several walking trails, and you can also take a guided tour. Arnos Vale Cemetery is a great thing to do for families because it’s a peaceful and beautiful space that offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history. Kids can learn about the lives of Bristolians through the centuries by exploring the graves and monuments of notable figures. There are also several walking trails that offer a chance to connect with nature and take in the stunning views of the city. Arnos Vale Cemetery offers guided tours that cater to families, which provide a fascinating insight into the history of the cemetery.

St Werburghs City Farm

This farm is free to enter and has a range of animals, including pigs, sheep, and chickens. There is also a café and a shop selling local produce. St Werburghs City Farm is a great thing to do for families because it’s a free farm that offers a chance to connect with animals and learn about sustainable living. Kids can interact with a range of farm animals, including pigs, sheep, and chickens, and learn about how food is produced. The farm also has a café and shop selling local produce, which offers a chance to support local businesses and learn about the benefits of sustainable living.

Brandon Hill Nature Park

This park offers stunning views of the city and has a playground and a nature trail. It’s free to enter, and there are several events throughout the year. Brandon Hill Nature Park is a great thing to do for families because it’s a free park that offers a range of activities and experiences for all ages. Kids can explore the park’s playground, which offers a chance to climb, swing, and slide. The nature trail is a great way to connect with nature and learn about the local flora and fauna. Families can also pack a picnic and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the park’s lookout tower.

The Harbourside

The Harbourside at night.
The Harbourside, Bristol

The Harbourside is a great place to take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere of the city. There are several cafes and restaurants, and you can also take a ferry ride. The Harbourside is a great thing to do for families because it’s a vibrant and exciting area that offers a range of activities and experiences. Kids can watch boats and ferries coming and going, which can be a thrilling experience. There are also several cafes and restaurants offering a range of cuisines, which cater to all tastes and budgets. Families can take a ferry ride to explore the harbour or simply enjoy a walk along the waterfront while taking in the bustling atmosphere. The Harbourside also hosts several events throughout the year, including festivals and markets, which offer a chance to engage with the local community and learn about the city’s culture and history.

Written by
David Prior

David Prior is an NCTJ-qualified journalist and the editor of Big Family Breaks. He is also a father of five and an experienced traveller, especially with kids.

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