Top 10 Things To Do In Bristol in 2026 For Locals & Tourists

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Escape Hunt in Cabot Circus offers themed escape rooms that you and your friends can try to escape while the clock is ticking.

You start by selecting your world (e.g., Dracula’s crypt), team up (each room fits 2-6 players), and step inside the richly themed rooms with 60 minutes on the clock to escape.

The activity is ideal for groups who love puzzles, teamwork, and a bit of adrenaline. It’s also beginner-friendly, with helpful hints if you get stuck.

You’ll be able to choose between a variety of escape rooms, such as:

• Escaping the sinking ship in Blackbeard’s Treasure.
• Cracking the code in Our Finest Hour.
• The Fourth Samurai, where you can defeat the evil warlord.
• Eye of the Sun God.

You and your friends will be fully immersed in a themed storyline where every clue matters and communication is key. 

It can be a great way to test how well you work together under pressure while still having fun. 

The excitement builds as the clock ticks down, making the experience intense yet rewarding.

We’d also recommend you book in advance to save your spot.

Location: Cabot Circus, Upper Ground, BS1 3BX.

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ODEON Luxe Bristol at Cabot Circus brings the magic of cinema right to the heart of Bristol, with everything you need for a brilliant film experience. 

The cinema offers stunning iSense screens with crystal-clear 4K projection and incredible sound that pulls you straight into the action, no matter where you sit.

You can also experience films in IMAX, where floor-to-ceiling screens and massive sound place you at the heart of every moment for something truly unforgettable. For those looking to experience the ultimate luxury with their friends, the Luxe Suite provides your own private pod with more space and privacy.

The cinema is fully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly screenings and audio-described showings available for many films. 

Whether you're catching the latest blockbuster, an award-winning drama, or a family-friendly adventure, ODEON Luxe Bristol makes every visit special. 

And the best part? ODEON Luxe Bristol is located in the Cabot Circus Shopping Centre, and ODEON guests can enjoy up to 4 hours of parking for just £2.50 before 5 PM, and a flat rate of £2.50 anytime between 5 PM and 6 AM. 

You’d simply have to speak to a member of cinema staff to validate your parking. 

After the credits roll, you will be right in Cabot Circus to continue the day with food, drinks, or a bit of shopping.

Location: Unit SU9, 11 Quakers Friars, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3BU.

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Six By Nico at Cabot Circus offers a dining experience that reinvents itself every six weeks, which means that you’ll be on a flavour-filled journey with each visit.

The restaurant serves a six-course tasting menu themed around a place, memory, or idea, which means no two visits are ever the same.

Each menu is thoughtfully curated with imaginative storytelling on the plate, beautifully paired wines and cocktails, and dishes that cater to all tastes and dietary needs.

Whether you prefer bold meat dishes or inventive vegetarian creations, the kitchen crafts each course with care and creativity.

The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and special, which makes it ideal for friends looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion.

The ever-changing menu keeps things exciting and gives you a reason to return and discover what journey they'll take you on next.

It can be a brilliant choice for a friend group who loves food that surprises and delights in equal measure.

Location: Brandon Hill, off Park Street, Bristol BS1 5RR.

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Brandon Hill Park is Bristol's oldest park and home to the iconic Cabot Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city completely free of charge.

The 105-foot tower was built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot's voyage to North America, and climbing its steep, twisting steps rewards you with breathtaking views over Bristol and beyond.

The park's hilly nature and winding paths make it perfect for exploring together with your friends, with plenty of benches and green spaces ideal for picnics and relaxing.

You’ll also be able to spot squirrels throughout the park, and some say they'll even eat from your hand if you bring the right kind of nuts.

The peaceful nature reserve areas showcase mature trees, which create a colourful backdrop that changes beautifully with each season.

Access to both the park and tower is completely free, making it a brilliant choice for a relaxing day out.

Are you planning a day out in Bristol that's both fun and family-friendly? 

These 3 activities are perfect for children of all ages, as they combine entertainment and learning.

Play mini-golf at Treetop Golf in Cabot Circus

Location: Cabot Circus, Upper Ground, BS1 3BQ.

Treetop Golf in Cabot Circus is a jungle-themed mini golf course that feels like you’re stepping into a rainforest adventure.

The place is beginner- and family-friendly, with two immersive 18-hole mini golf courses (Tropical Trail and Ancient Explorer) that are colourful, imaginative, and perfect for family fun.

The jungle-themed courses will keep your children engaged while you still enjoy the challenge.

It encourages patience, coordination, and a little friendly competition. 

The relaxed atmosphere makes it stress-free for parents, which is why many families in Bristol find it ideal for a light-hearted and joyful family outing.

In the end, you’ll be able to grab a slice of pizza at Pizza Cabana and relax at the Jungle Buzz Café.

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For group experiences and bookings, you can find out more about Treetop Golf here, although walk-ins are also welcome.

Step back in time at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery 

Location:Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1RL

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Bristol Museum & Art Gallery is a free, family-friendly museum located at the top of Park Street, offering a rich journey through art, history, and culture. Housed in a grand Edwardian Baroque building, the museum showcases everything from ancient Egyptian mummies and natural history exhibits to fine art, archaeology, and local Bristol stories.

Visitors can explore interactive displays, fascinating collections of fossils, wildlife, and world cultures, as well as impressive galleries featuring European masterpieces and contemporary works. Children will enjoy the dedicated family trails and hands-on activities designed to make learning fun and engaging.

With its central location, the museum is perfectly placed to combine with a stroll through nearby Brandon Hill Park or a visit to the iconic Cabot Tower, making it an ideal stop for a day out in Bristol.

Relax at Castle Park in the city centre

Location: Broad Weir, Bristol BS1 3XB.

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Castle Park offers a green escape right in the heart of Bristol, which is perfect for letting your children run free.

The park sits between the Shopping Quarter and the River Avon and provides wide open lawns ideal for picnics, casual strolls, and catching up in the sunshine with your family.

You can explore the historic ruins of St Peter's Church and discover remnants of Bristol Castle, which add character and stories to this urban oasis.

The park features a beautiful peace garden filled with herbs and water features, which creates peaceful spots to sit and chat.

Castle Park is free to enter and open at all times, making it an easy, spontaneous choice.

If you are searching for romantic and playful things to do with your partner in Bristol, these 3 ideas are ideal for quality time together. 

They range from relaxed and intimate moments to fun-filled experiences that bring you closer.

Have fun at King Pins’ bowling at Cabot Circus

Location: Cabot Circus, Upper Ground, BS1 3BX.

King Pins at Cabot Circus is a bowling alley in Bristol that offers a relaxing night out with your partner, thanks to its playful atmosphere.

Bowling can be fun even if you are not very competitive, which keeps the mood light and relaxed. You can laugh at missed shots and celebrate small victories together.

But the place is more than just a game of ten pins.

Apart from its light and relaxed bowling zone that makes conversation easy and natural for couples, there is also karaoke, ice-free curling, pool, and a large arcade, where you and your partner can spend quality time together.

And, when you get hungry from all of the playing, you can finish the night properly with King Pins’ tasty food and its massive drinks menu.

➡️ Coming with family? The place also has baby-changing facilities, highchairs for children, and step-free access throughout.

Explore Clifton Observatory

Location: Litfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3LT.

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Clifton Observatory is a beautiful, romantic spot in Bristol that invites slow moments together. 

The views over the Avon Gorge and Suspension Bridge feel cinematic and unforgettable. 

It can be the perfect spot for couples who enjoy quiet walks and deep conversations. 

The peaceful surroundings makes it easy to feel connected, and it is especially magical around sunset.

The observatory also has a roof terrace, which can be a good place to have a drink while you’re relaxing with your partner.

Have a picnic at College Green

Location: College Green, Bristol, BS1 5UY.

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College Green offers a simple but charming picnic setting right in the heart of the city. 

Sitting together on the grass, with Bristol Cathedral nearby, creates a calm atmosphere. 

It can be the ideal spot for sharing food, talking, and enjoying each other’s company without distractions.

There’s no charge for admission, and the place is open at all times, although take note that there’s no dedicated car park.

Locals in Bristol frequently visit College Green, as it serves as a popular, central, and pedestrian-friendly public space for socialising, relaxing on the grass, and enjoying the city’s cathedrals, city halls and other historical architecture.

➡️ Pick up some snacks and other items from Marks & Spencers located in Cabot Circus on the way.

Cabot Circus in Bristol is more than just a shopping centre.

We designed it to be a slice of Bristol life, and a place where, regardless of whether you’re with kids, friends, or your partner, you can have something new to see and do.

Our shopping centre offers a variety of surprises, unmissable performances and must-see moments all year round in a stress-free environment.

You can plan your visit to Cabot Circus here to see how you can visit us by car, taxi, train, bus, or by bike. 

If you’re visiting the shopping centre with a car, you will find how easy parking is with the smart parking solution we designed to help you avoid tickets and reduce queues.