Step Into a Storybook This Summer

This summer, Cabot Circus is turning the taps on creativity with Once a Pond a Time, a full-blown wonderland created by Bristol’s own Alex Lucas.

Right in the heart of Quakers Friars, this immersive art exhibition is made for all ages. Kids will love it. Adults might love it even more. Drop in for pop-up paintings, giant games, reading nooks, and the kind of charm only Bristol can deliver.

Picture giant lily pads transformed into picnic spots, bold murals bubbling with nostalgia, and sculptural creatures straight out of a surreal storybook. 

At its centre sits a vibrant, walk-through artwork that wraps you in colour, texture and imagination that blends the magic of childhood tales with space to sit, play or simply breathe.

Whether you're looking to wear out the kids, or after something different in the city, Once a Pond a Time is your open invitation to pause, play, and soak it all in.

Need a midday reset? This immersive art exhibition is the perfect lunchtime escape, a tranquil, art-filled installation where you can relax, unwind, and take a moment away from the real world.

Free August Activities

📍 Quakers Friars

🎟️ All events are free

Bristol Forest School at Once A Pond A Time

📅 Saturdays in August (2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th) 🕑 2: 2–4pm

Join Bristol Forest School every Saturday for hands-on family fun at Once A Pond A Time. Kids can get creative with hapa zome art, clay creature making, and more. Perfect for curious minds and little explorers.

Silent Disco: Laurie’s Pond Party

📅 Thursdays: 31 July, 21 & 28 August, 4 September 🕙 7–9pm

DJ Mellowmarsh brings the beats to the pond. Choose your channel and dance your way through the installation with dub remixes, live pond games, and a guided dance meditation. Fun, weird, and made for all ages.

Storytelling & Creative Play with Rose Popay

📅 Thursdays in August (7th, 14th, 21st, 28th) 🕙 10am–1pm

Artist Rose Popay brings stories, games, and creative surprises to Once A Pond A Time. Expect imaginative storytelling, bubble moments, adventure walks, and quick-fire portraits to take home. Each visit is different!

No need to pre-book, see you there!