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

Bristol events for summer 2025

Exploring Glenside: a guided walking tour, Sat 23rd Aug

June 26, 2025

5 fun things for families to do in Bristol this summer

Family activities for kids to enjoy for summer 2025

Looking for the ideal mix of fun and educational things to do with the kids this summer? Glenside Hospital Museum in Fishponds is a great place for curious young minds to explore. Our collection of fascinating objects and interactive displays is ready to spark children's imaginations.

In this post we've rounded up a selection of other brilliant family-friendly activities to enjoy in Bristol this summer.

Don't forget to check out our upcoming events at Glenside here, our Tea in the Turret experience (suitable for children age 5+) and our fascinating self-guided outdoor walking tour, exploring the extensive grounds outside our museum.

Our 2025 hit list of interesting things to do in Bristol this summer is eagerly waiting for you below.

Wallace and Gromit sculptures in front of the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Gromit trail sculptures by Clifton Suspension Bridge

Gromit trail 2025

Gromit Unleashed 3 includes a city-wide trail of character sculptures inspired by famous films and stories. Wallace & Gromit feature alongside their dastardly arch nemesis, Feathers McGraw. Norbot, the smart gnome, Wallace’s enigmatic new invention from Vengeance Most Fowl will join the line-up.

30th June - 31st August 2025

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A hand painting a tiny ceramic model of a brain, using colourful shades of acrylic paint from a palette

Paint a mini brain at Glenside Hospital Museum

Paint a mini brain

Visit the current exhibition "Mood States" at Glenside Hospital Museum in Fishponds and join in with this fun creative activity, enjoyed by all ages. Under 18s entry to the museum is free of charge (must be accompanied by an adult). Booking preferred, but not essential.

17th May - 10th September 2025

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2 lambs on a farm sitting together on a wide expanse of grass, with a pink building behind

Elm Tree Farm

A hidden gem in the heart of Stapleton Village, Elm Tree Farm has a fantastic farm shop on site selling local and seasonal produce including ice cream pots, ice lollies and other delicious snacks. A working care farm, supporting more than 60 people with learning disabilities and/or autism, the site is on the border of Stoke Park Estate, making it a welcome oasis to pause and take a mid-walk rest while gathering some picnic supplies.

Tues - Sat, 10am-5pm

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Play in the bay. Photo credit: ImageCabin

The Wave: Play in the bay

These sessions at The Wave, in Easter Compton, are for people of all ages to come and just enjoy the fun and freedom of being in the water. Without needing any surfing skill or equipment, you can still get a hit of ‘blue health’ – research shows that being in or near the water is good for our mental wellbeing!

Throughout July 2025

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Photo credit: Adventure Bristol @ Tree Tops

Adventure Bristol's Tree Tops at Ashton Court

Having designed the "Leap of Faith" at Wild Place (now Bristol Zoo Project) Adventure Bristol took it to the next level. Located in the heart of Ashton Court, "Tree Tops" is an ideal active day out for thrill-seekers of all ages (6+) and abilities. The high ropes course offers a range of obstacles and challenges to overcome, from swinging bridges to zip lines, net traverses and walkways.

Various dates, check for availability

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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 >

Family events in Bristol: summer 2025

5 fun things for families to do in Bristol this summer

Family activities for kids to enjoy for summer 2025

Gromit trail 2025

Paint a mini brain

Elm Tree Farm

The Wave: Play in the bay

Adventure Bristol's Tree Tops at Ashton Court

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