Bristol Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Bristol
This itinerary focuses on balancing free outdoor activities with exciting ticketed attractions, designed for families with children aged 3-12. It incorporates real events and attractions running during the February 20-22, 2026 weekend, which falls within Bristol's half-term. Prices are estimated for a family of four (2 adults, 2 children) unless specified.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Bristol Light Festival
Experience the free Bristol Light Festival, showcasing a brilliant collection of interactive light installations around the city centre.
This award-winning festival features creative displays that kids will love, transforming iconic locations like Cabot Circus and College Green.
Suitable for all ages (3-12+). The festival is free to explore and offers a vibrant, engaging experience for families in the evening. Dress warmly.
Easily accessible by walking from many city centre locations or by public transport. Parking available in city centre multi-storey car parks (e.g., Cabot Circus), but be aware of Clean Air Zone charges.
Dinner at Harbourside
Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants located around Bristol's vibrant Harbourside, offering various cuisines to suit all tastes.
Suitable for all ages. Highchairs often available. Choose from options ranging from casual eateries to those with dedicated kids' menus.
Within walking distance from the Light Festival installations in the city centre. Public transport links are excellent. Parking available in nearby car parks like Millennium Square, which is under the We The Curious building.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Zookeeper Training Fun
Embark on a 'Zookeeper in Training' adventure at Bristol Zoo Project.
This special half-term event challenges visitors to explore the zoo and learn real zookeeping skills through a trail of seven training stations, including measuring medicine for red pandas and weighing food for meerkats. Discover wildlife like giraffes, lynxes, and lemurs in 50 acres of beautiful nature.
Best for ages 3-12. The 'Zookeeper in Training' event is specifically designed for families during half-term (Feb 14-22). Allow 3-4 hours. Buggy-friendly paths and facilities. Pizzeria and cafes on-site.
Located off Junction 17 of the M5 motorway, near The Mall at Cribbs Causeway. Ample parking available on-site.
Zoo Lunch Break
Grab a convenient and tasty lunch at one of Bristol Zoo Project's food outlets.
Options include Base Camp Pizzeria, offering freshly stone-baked pizzas, or cafes with hot and cold drinks, and sandwiches.
Suitable for all ages. Highchairs available. The pizzeria is located near the cheetah habitat, offering a view during your meal.
Located within the Bristol Zoo Project grounds.
Playground Adventure
Let the kids burn off energy at the fantastic Oldbury Court Play Park.
This large, free playground is suitable for a wide range of ages, featuring challenging equipment like a zip wire for older children and smaller play areas for toddlers. The park is surrounded by woodland and green space, perfect for a family stroll.
Ideal for children aged 0-13. Cafe and toilets are available on-site. Bring snacks and drinks for a longer stay.
Parking available at Oldbury Court Car Park (BS16 2JW). Public bus routes may serve the area.
Lunar New Year Celebration
Immerse your family in the vibrant Lunar New Year celebrations at Wai Yee Hong.
This event features traditional lion dances, exciting kung fu demonstrations, Chinese folk music performances, and a bustling Asian food market. A wonderful cultural experience for all ages.
Suitable for all ages (3-12+). Expect lively performances and a chance to try various Asian foods. The main celebration is on Feb 21st, 2026.
Parking likely available at the supermarket. Easily accessible by car or local bus routes.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22Curious Science Fun
Spend the morning at We The Curious, Bristol's interactive science centre.
With over 200 hands-on exhibits covering everything from bubbles to brains and robots, it’s a place to play, experiment, and learn together. Don't miss the UK's only 3D Planetarium (shows are extra and not suitable for under 6s in 3D).
Great for children aged 3-12. Allow 3-4 hours. Under 12s must be supervised. Book tickets online in advance, especially during school holidays.
Located on the Harbourside. Millennium Square Car Park (BS1 5LL) is directly underneath the venue (note: within Clean Air Zone). Easily accessible by public transport or walking from city centre.
Harbourside Lunch
Enjoy a family lunch at one of the numerous eateries around the Harbourside, close to We The Curious.
Options range from casual cafes to restaurants with diverse menus, many offering views of the harbour.
Suitable for all ages. Look for cafes or casual restaurants. Options like 'Sticky Fingers' or 'Spoke & Stringer' could be good for families. Consider packed lunches to save on costs.
Within a short walking distance from We The Curious. Public transport available.
M Shed Museum
Discover Bristol's rich history at M Shed, a free museum housed in a 1950s dockside transit shed.
Explore three galleries – Bristol Places, Bristol People, and Bristol Life – with interactive displays, film, photographs, and personal stories. There are Family Explorer Kits available, and on weekends (Feb-Oct), you can often ride the working exhibits like cranes and trains.
Great for all ages (3-12+). Free entry. Allow 1-2 hours. Cafe and accessible facilities available. Check on arrival for working exhibit operating times.
Located on the historic harbourside, a short walk from We The Curious. Public transport accessible. Limited street parking nearby, larger car parks available in the city centre.
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