Weekend in Bristol
This weekend itinerary offers a fantastic blend of free and paid activities, designed to maximize family fun without breaking the bank. From exploring bustling markets and interactive museums to enjoying theatrical adventures and scenic park playtime, there's something to delight children aged 3-12. We've prioritized experiences that offer great value and practical family amenities, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable weekend.
Friday Evening - Harbourside Eats & Play
Friday, October 3Harbourside Market Browse
Kick off your weekend with a leisurely stroll through the Harbourside Street Food Market, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. While the main market runs during lunch, there are often traders winding down or a good vibe for an early evening wander. It's a fantastic spot for people-watching and getting a feel for Bristol's dynamic harbourside.
Perfect for a relaxed start to the weekend. Kids will enjoy the sights and sounds, and there's plenty of open space along the harbour for them to move around. Public restrooms are available nearby, and the area is generally stroller-friendly. Free to browse.
Easily accessible by public transport to the city centre. Limited paid parking is available in nearby car parks such as Millennium Square or Trenchard Street, but walking or bus is recommended to avoid city traffic.
Kids Eat Free Dinner
Enjoy a delicious and budget-friendly family dinner at Las Iguanas, known for its vibrant Latin American cuisine and excellent kids' menu.
Their 'Iggy & Friends' menu offers a main course, two sides, and a dessert, plus a free book with every meal.
Kids (ages 3-12) will love the variety of choices, and the free book is a great bonus. The atmosphere is lively and casual, suitable for energetic children. High chairs are available. Check specific location for exact address and opening hours.
Many Las Iguanas locations are central and easily walkable from the Harbourside. Paid parking available in nearby multi-storey car parks.
Saturday - Farm Fun & Time Travel Theatre
Saturday, October 4Farm & Market Morning
Spend your morning at the Windmill Hill City Farm Market.
From June 2025 onwards, the market is held weekly, featuring local makers, artisan food producers, and street food vendors amidst the farm's gardens and animal enclosures. Kids can enjoy seeing the farm animals and exploring the natural surroundings.
Perfect for energetic kids who love animals and the outdoors. There are plenty of picnic spots, and the farm has gardens, trails, and animals to visit. Toilets and baby changing facilities are available. Suitable for all ages.
Accessible by bus routes (24, 70, 76, 90, A1, M1 to Asda Bedminster stop, 5-minute walk) or a 20-minute walk from Bristol Harbour. Limited street parking might be available nearby, but public transport is encouraged.
Harbourside Street Food Lunch
Head back to the Harbourside for lunch at the lively Street Food Market.
With a rotating roster of the Southwest's best street food traders, you'll find diverse and delicious options for the whole family. Enjoy your meal by the water, soaking in the city atmosphere.
Kids will love choosing their own food from the variety of stalls. There's ample seating by the quayside. Good for adventurous eaters and those who prefer classic options. Toilets are available.
A short walk from many central Bristol locations. Consider a ferry trip for a fun journey along the harbour. Parking at Millennium Square or Trenchard Street.
Time Seekers Theatre
Embark on a thrilling time-traveling adventure at The Wardrobe Theatre with 'The Time Seekers'.
This inspiring, warm, and audience-driven children's theatre show features songs, humour, and lots of audience interaction. Suitable for ages 3-8 and their families.
A perfect afternoon activity for younger children, engaging their imaginations. The show is approximately 1 hour with an interval. Toilets and refreshments are available. Ages 2 and under go free.
Located in Old Market, easily accessible by bus. Limited street parking nearby, but several paid car parks are within a 10-15 minute walk.
Oldbury Court Play Park
Wind down your adventurous day with some free playtime at Oldbury Court Play Park.
Surrounded by woodland and green space, it offers fantastic modern play equipment for both younger and older children, including a zip wire, castle, and sand and water play.
Ideal for burning off any remaining energy before bedtime. The park is suitable for children aged 0-13 and is fenced, making it dog-free. There's a café kiosk and toilets. Plenty of space for kids to run around.
Free large car park available at Oldbury Court Estate. Accessible by bus routes connecting to Fishponds. Stroller-friendly paths throughout the estate.
Sunday - Harbour History & Science Wonders
Sunday, October 5M Shed Crane Fun
Explore Bristol's industrial and maritime past at M Shed as part of the Docks Heritage Weekend.
On Saturday and Sunday, October 4-5, you can experience crane visits, going inside the museum's iconic electric cranes for a unique perspective of the harbour. The museum itself is free to enter and offers engaging exhibits about Bristol's history.
Kids will be fascinated by the giant cranes and the stories of Bristol's working docks. The museum's exhibitions are designed to be accessible and interesting for families. Toilets and a café are on-site. The Docks Heritage Weekend promises events for all ages.
M Shed is on Bristol's Harbourside, easily accessible by walking, bus, or ferry. Paid parking is available nearby (e.g., Wapping Wharf car park). The area is flat and stroller-friendly.
We The Curious Exploration
Dive into a world of interactive science and art at We The Curious.
This award-winning centre makes learning fun for all ages with hundreds of hands-on exhibits covering topics from space to engineering. Don't miss the UK's only 3D Planetarium for an immersive journey through the cosmos (additional ticket required).
Perfect for curious minds (ages 3-12 will be captivated). The centre is wheelchair and pushchair friendly, with baby changing facilities, accessible toilets, and a quiet room. Allow 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit.
Located on Bristol's Harbourside, a short walk from M Shed. Easily accessible by public transport. Paid parking is available at nearby Millennium Square or Trenchard Street car parks.
Riverside Bike Ride
Enjoy a relaxed family bike ride along the Bristol Docks Loop.
This flat, mostly traffic-free harbourside circuit is perfect for all ages and skill levels, offering scenic views and a calm way to end the weekend. Rent bikes if you don't have your own, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll.
A wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air and iconic Bristol scenery. Suitable for families with children who can ride bikes. Watch out for pedestrians and other cyclists. Numerous cafes for an ice cream treat along the route.
Start point is easily accessible by public transport. Bike hire options may be available around the harbourside. Parking available at central car parks.
This weekend itinerary for Bristol can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.