We search out some of the best family days out in Somerset and Bristol in 2021.
Please check the latest attraction and Government guidelines before travelling.
Animal Farm, Berrow
There are more than 250 animals onsite at Animal Farm, including George the raccoon, llamas, alpacas, goats, sheep, rabbits, degus, chipmunks and a vast collection of reptiles and bugs.
Noah’s Ark, Wraxall
Noah’s Ark is a great place to be able to see all the big wild animals, with giraffes, elephants, tigers and much more. The attraction is set in a nice, big open space with lots of areas for a picnic, but it also has an on-site restaurant too if you don’t fancy sitting outside.
Court Farm, Banwell, near Weston-super-Mare
Court Farm is a small, family-run farm which is especially good for under fours. At certain times of the year you can take a tractor ride, but it makes a good half day out with trampolines, play areas and, of course, the farm animals, to see whatever the weather. The annual membership is also really good value.
Puxton Park, near Weston-super-Mare
With a combination of soft play, farm animals, high ropes, rides and even a new reptile house, there is so much to do at Puxton . I’d say it’s a good day out for children up to the age of 10, but it’s worth checking out membership options if you are going to go at least once a month.
Bristol Zoo
Well what can we say about Bristol Zoo that most people from around here don’t already know? Did you know it’s the fifth oldest zoo in the world? Visit and become fascinated watching the gorillas, see the aquarium or the lions or visit the adventure playground or activity centre. There’s so much to do on a family day out at Bristol Zoo.
Wild Place Project, Bristol
Situated conveniently off the M5, Wild Place Project is more about outdoor adventures and discoveries in the wild. See European brown bears at home in the newly-created Bear Wood, where you can watch them prowling around below the raised walkway. Or visit one of the themed areas like Discover Madagascar or Secret Congo.
Bishop’s Palace, Wells
Explore 14 acres of gardens, plus the Dragon’s Lair play area. Throughout the school holidays, there are plenty of events taking place to keep families busy at The Bishop’s Palace : crafting, outdoor gardening, family trails, storytelling and more.
Kids under five also go free
Grand Pier, Weston-super-Mare
With hundreds of arcade games and amusements, a go-karting track, ghost train, ‘Britain’s smallest rollercoaster’ and plenty more, it’s doubtful you’ll get bored on Weston’s Grand Pier (your pockets might just be a little emptier).
Wookey Hole Caves
As well as soaking in the beauty and charm of the stunning caves, there are more than 20 fantastic attractions to enjoy on a visit to Wookey Hole . Wander through the ‘Valley of the Dinosaurs’, escape the magical mirror maze and uncover the history of the village at the Cave Museum.
Forde Abbey and Gardens, Chard
There’s plenty to see and do on a visit to Forde Abbey House and Gardens - from the beautifully preserved abbey, 30 acres of award-winning gardens and the country’s highest powered water feature.
Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford
You don’t need to be a car fan to enjoy a day out here. The fascinating displays make for entertainment for the whole family at Haynes Motor Museum.
Check out the exclusive Williams F1 display, a dedicated exhibition to the late John Haynes OBE, founder of Haynes Manuals and the museum and a Ferrari exhibition for a ‘start’.