The Rising Squall, Hot Wells from St Vincent’s Rock, Bristol (1792), the earliest-known oil painting ever exhibited by JMW Turner and is believed to be the only oil painting he made of a Bristol scene. Shows a rough stormy sea with huge waves and ships sailing and houses in the background

Supporting Bristol Museum & Art Gallery’s campaign to ‘Bring Turner Home’

Wallace and Gromit sculptures in front of the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Family events in Bristol: summer 2025

June 17, 2025

5 things to do in Bristol this summer

Mindful activities to enjoy for summer 2025

Glenside Hospital Museum in Fishponds is proud to be part of a thriving art and culture scene in Bristol, which has attractions and experiences of all sizes and for a wide range of audiences.

Whether you're a family looking for fun events for kids to enjoy over the summer holidays or a couple hoping to do something a little more relaxing during a visit to Bristol, we've curated 5 things to do in Bristol this summer to make it unforgettable.

Don't forget to check out our upcoming events at Glenside here and our new Tea in the Turret experience (see below). Without further ado, here are some of our top picks for 2025 to find interesting things to do in Bristol this summer.

People taking a yoga class in the enlightenment art gallery at Bristol museum

Bristol Museum Morning Mindfulness

Fancy doing yoga in an art gallery? Bristol Museum is hosting Sunday morning yoga in their Enlightenment Gallery. Art galleries are the perfect place to unwind and recentre yourself. Enjoy an energising Vinyasa flow class, suitable for all levels.

Sunday 29th June 2025

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Tea in the Turret at Glenside Hospital Museum

Relax while enjoying a cup of tea and a slice of cake in this quirky little secret space in a balcony overlooking Glenside Hospital Museum of mental health care. This historic and unique space has never before been accessible to the public. Booking essential. A visit to the museum is included.

29th March 2025 onwards

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A night time scene of a beautiful spa location with warm fairy lights showing a sauna and an outdoor cold plunge pool full of water, in Westbury-on-Trym Bristol

Fire and Ice wellness in Westbury-on-Trym

Sharpen your mental clarity by experiencing the invigorating chill of a cold plunge pool set within a stunning natural landscape. Designed to promote relaxation, recovery and overall wellness the contrast of deep, soothing heat of a wood-fired sauna will help to release tension.

Multiple times, check availability

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A selection of films shown in a collage, promoting an outdoor cinema event in Clifton, Bristol

Bristol Film Festival: outdoor cinema

Taking place in the beautiful Mall Gardens in the heart of Clifton Village, this is outdoor cinema with a twist. Relax with drinks, art displays, tastings and local food vendors, then make your way into one of two cinema spaces for the main event. With covered seating, a state-of-the-art LED screen and wireless headphones, enjoy your film come rain or shine.

Throughout July 2025

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RWA Bristol art gallery in Clifton, with a big pink ribbon on the building by artist Luke Jerram

Soft Power at RWA Bristol

On arrival you'll be greeted by the striking sight of "Negotiating Space" an installation by artist Luke Jerram. A 1km long big pink ribbon weaves its way through the beautiful "Soft Power: lives told through textile art" exhibition before exiting the gallery to connect with neighbouring spaces. Soft Power explores stories, identity and heritage through stitch, fabric and form.

17th May - 10th August 2025

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Explore our collection from anywhere

Discover the fascinating history of Glenside Hospital Museum wherever you are. Browse our collection virtually through the free Bloomberg Connects app, and don’t miss our specially curated Top 20 Highlights Tour.

Download app >

Bristol events for summer 2025

5 things to do in Bristol this summer

Mindful activities to enjoy for summer 2025

Bristol Museum Morning Mindfulness

Tea in the Turret at Glenside Hospital Museum

Fire and Ice wellness in Westbury-on-Trym

Bristol Film Festival: outdoor cinema

Soft Power at RWA Bristol

Explore our collection from anywhere

Freelance archive specialist role available

Tea in the Turret: featured in City Uncovered by Yuup

FREE walking tour for Bristol Walk Fest