When it comes to planning family days out it’s easy to stay within our comfort zone and stick to places we know the kids will enjoy.
After all, it saves having to convince them how much fun it’ll be (without actually knowing ourselves) and it’s far easier to actually get them in the car to go!
To save you from another weekend, bank holiday or school holiday of destination déjà vu, we’ve searched both sides of the bridge and found some of the best Bristol activities and Cardiff activities that the whole family will enjoy.
We The Curious (formerly At Bristol), Bristol
This city centre science hub is full of fascinating exhibits that will allow young minds to learn everything from what’s inside their bodies to what can be found in outer space.
As well as the hands-on activities that teach them the how’s, why’s and what ifs of science, We The Curious is also home to the UK’s only 3D planetarium.
The half-hour shows run throughout the day and we highly recommend going to see one if you can.
WotPots at Westbury Wildlife Park, Bristol
This hidden gem will be loved by little ones with a creative streak. WotPots hosts clay workshops and pottery painting sessions for guests of all ages and abilities.
It’s brilliant for discovering new skills and you’ll come away with some extra special family keepsakes too. The wildlife park itself shut in the 1980s and is now a conservation area.
Why not take a stroll around? It’s great for the kids to find some inspiration for their artwork.
Bristol Zoo, Bristol
Bristol Zoo is the fifth oldest in the world and their conservation efforts have saved over 170 species from extinction, some of which still call the zoo their home!
There’s plenty to learn from zookeeper talks held throughout the day and it’s a brilliant opportunity for children to get up close and personal with some furry, feathery or even scaly friends for the first time!
Special events and activities are held throughout the year so check the website to see what’s on. Tickets booked online also get an exclusive discount too!
Margam Country Park, (a short drive from) Cardiff
Margam Country Park is that is definitely worth travelling the extra miles for. You can spend hours exploring the Tudor Castle and Orangery (which is the longest in the UK) or wander the parklands to spot Margam’s resident deer herd and take in the beautiful scenery. Still got energy left?
There’s a whole host of sports and activities to try your hand at on site as well as a Go Ape! high ropes course!
The Cardiff Story Museum, Cardiff
Did you know that Cardiff is home to the oldest record store in the world? The Cardiff Story is a fascinating look at the rich history of the city and is full of fun and interesting facts from its past.
Whether you live here, visit often or you’ve never been before we bet there’s something new to learn about this diverse and energetic capital.
There are plenty of hands-on, interactive exhibits to keep minds, both young and old, learning and there’s a variety of different events are held at the museum throughout the year too.
If you’re looking for something different to do as a family or somewhere new to explore, you don’t need to look much further than Bristol or Cardiff.
There’s so many fantastic days out to be found, you won’t have time to visit twice even if you want to!
The hardest bit now will be choosing where to go first.
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.