Bristol is always a good idea, but that is especially true in the summer, where everything is just that little bit more special. Whether you’re after one-of-a-kind festivals, a short break with the family or your significant other, a day out with the kids, or a longer stay, you’re in the right place!
Bristol is always a good idea...especially in the summer
In association with Bristol City Centre BID and Visit Bristol, the iconic light artwork “Bristol is Always a Good Idea” by renowned artist Real Hackney Dave is set to return to the city, kicking off a vibrant Bristol summer. The captivating light installation will make its way back to the city centre and will travel to various iconic locations around the city. Starting in Millennium Square, before touring different venues, with local businesses able to enter a competition to host this glowing pink reminder of Bristol’s charm. Tag your pictures of the neon light with @VisitBristol, @BristolBID and #SummerInBristol.*
Book a summer break
Enjoy long days of sunshine in Bristol and book a stay in the city this summer. From stylish modern hotels, elegant apartments, family-friendly digs, cosy guesthouses and even campsites, experience a summer holiday to remember in Bristol.
Summer events and festivals
Bristol’s renowned annual event line-up truly comes into its own every summer. Find out what’s happening when with our What’s On page, and check out our special offers to help you save on days out while you're here.
From huge free events like Bristol Pride, Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol International Balloon Fiesta and Old City Sounds to festivals and exhibitions, there’s never a dull moment during summer in Bristol!
Family fun in the summer holidays
If family fun is what you’re after, Bristol has more than enough to keep the kids entertained over the summer. Head over to one of our award-winning attractions such as Aerospace Bristol, Brunel’s SS Great Britain and M Shed, where exhibits are brought to life with interactive displays, or take a trip to Bristol Aquarium or Bristol Zoo Project for a cute animal fix. We The Curious reopens its doors this summer, from 2 July 2024, so head along to discover an incredible journey exploring the inner workings of the world around us.
Explore some of the top attractions just outside Bristol, with hours of fun to be had at Wookey Hole, a theme park, water park and more at Brean Leisure Park, karting and arcade games at The Grand Pier, or little ones can drive their own mini safari Jeep at Avon Valley Adventure & Wildlife Park.
One of the best ways to see the city is by boat - hop on and off at stops around the city centre with Bristol Ferry, or take a cruise around the harbour with Bristol Packet or The Matthew.
We've also rounded up all the family-friendly events taking place over the summer, to help you bust any boredom over the school holidays.
Head outdoors
Bristol's glorious parks and gardens are bursting with life in the summer months and are the perfect place to enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
If you’re looking to delve into Bristol’s outdoor offerings, check out our Experiences for outdoor fun and memorable days out. With everything from garden tours to stand-up paddleboarding and cycling to inland surfing, there are a multitude of ways to enjoy the city’s unique landscape. There’s also the option to try hot air ballooning in the skies above the city!
Summer food and drink
Spend balmy evenings dining alfresco on a harbourside terrace, find a bustling pub garden, or relax with a cocktail on a rooftop bar. Bristol's exceptional food and drink scene will be serving up plenty of memories for you this summer.
Getting to and around Bristol
It's easy to get to Bristol by public transport, with rail one of the most convenient and green options. Temple Meads Station has direct services from London, Scotland, Wales, Manchester and Birmingham.
Book a GWR Family Ticket in advance and up to two adults and four children (or a minimum of one adult + one child) can travel from London Paddington to Bristol for £69 per family one-way.
Alternatively, hop on a coach service from National Express, Megabus, FlixBus and Falcon. If you're thinking of bringing the car, consider using the Park & Ride services for day trips.
You can travel around Bristol with First Bus for just £2 for adults and £1 for children, or five people can travel all day for just £12.
Keep in touch
Share the highlights of your summer in Bristol with us on social media by tagging us in your posts, photos and videos using #SummerInBristol.
