Schmap.com supports the following browsers:
PC
 Family day out in the country |
Pixash Lane Bath Road, Keynsham Bristol BS31 1TP United Kingdom +44 117 986 4929 http://www.avonvalleycountrypa... |
Situated between Bristol and Bath (four and a half miles from the city centre), this park is an excellent place to take your kids for a day out. They'll love it as everything has been geared towards youngsters. So, you'll find plenty of animals for them to watch and pet - Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, kangaroos, Shetland ponies, goats etc. There's an outdoor adventure playground and junior assault course, plus a riverside trail which tells you all about the animals, plants and birds you'll spot along the way. There's also a boating pond, a lake where you can fish (rods for hire), barbecue and picnic areas and a shop. Still not tired? OK, you still haven't tried the quad bikes, mini steam train or the undercover soft play area, complete with bouncy castle - perfect for any rainy interludes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Journey back to the age of steam |
Bath Road, Bitton Station Bath Road, Bitton Bristol BS30 6HD United Kingdom +44 117 932 7296 http://www.avonvalleyrailway.org |
Situated at Bitton Railway Station on Bath Road, Willsbridge (midway between Bristol and Bath), this stretch of track has been restored by steam enthusiasts and is a real treat for train-lovers - kid's especially love it here. Locomotives run four mile round trips every Sunday, and on selected dates when they hold special occasions such as Friends of Thomas the Tank Engine Day and a Santa Special service. The Steam Centre, housed in the restored Midlands Railway station is also open and includes a collection of steam and diesel engines and assorted rolling stock, dating back to the 1920s. There are also refreshments, toilets, and a shop. Although the site and trains are accessible to wheelchair users, there are no disabled toilets. Tickets for the train rides (excluding the special events) cost £3.50 for adults, £2 for children and £10 for a family. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen  |
|
A look at how life used to be |
Henbury Road Henbury Bristol BS10 7QS United Kingdom +44 117 903 9818 http://www.bristol-city.gov.uk... |
This museum is set in a beautifully restored 18th century, country house on the outskirts of the city in Blaise Castle Estate, some of Bristol's finest parkland. It contains a folk collection and gives a fascinating glimpse into everyday life in the past. Children in particular enjoy visiting as a lot of the exhibits are geared towards them - there's a charming assortment of children's toys, dolls and model trains, plus a mock-up of a Victorian schoolroom. There are also examples of Victorian household equipment, such as wash tubs, mangles etc. and a costume collection. Perfect for showing the little ones how easy they've got it these days! Although there is disabled access to the ground floor, the upper floors remain inaccessible to wheelchair users. Admission is free. Fifteen minutes walk away is the 18th Century sham castle itself - although not open, it's a pleasant stroll. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Edmond Holland |
 Winner of "Zoo of the Year" |
Guthrie Road Bristol BS8 3HA United Kingdom +44 117 974 7399 http://www.bristolzoo.org.uk |
Bristol Zoo is extremely popular and if you want to avoid the crowds, get there as soon as it opens in the morning, especially during school holidays. It draws the crowds because it's a very modern and well-done place, housing over 300 different species of animals and wildlife. There's also a strong educational and conservational slant, so the kids will actually learn something as well. Much of it is undercover, so it's still a good place to visit on rainy days. Highlights include Gorilla Island and the Seal and Penguin Coasts, whose landscaped beaches, tunnels and cliffs are home to some very lively wildlife. Every kind of wildlife is here, from lions to lizards and elephants to dung beetles. Check out the hands-on activity centre and interactive Zoolympics trail - see how you match up to the animals! As you'll no doubt spend a whole day here, take advantage of their covered picnic area or restaurant. Admission: adults £11, children (aged three-14) £7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark McLaughlin |
 Photo: Martin Irwin |
 Photo: Mary |
 Photo: Martin Irwin |
 Photo: Lorrie Hartshorn |
 Photo: papareturns |
 Photo: Andrew |
 Photo: nicky |
 Photo: Anthony Rogers |
 Photo: sonicdante |
 Photo: Ben J. Charles |
 Photo: Philippa Olivier |
 Photo: Terry Pritchard |
 Photo: hackerphotography |
 Photo: Karl Gookey |
 Photo: Craig Wherlock |
 Photo: Jay Gooby |
 Photo: Clare Jolly |
 Photo: Darkieboy |
 Photo: Kathy Bragg |
 Photo: Nadine Ballantyne |
|
Sailing, fishing, bird-watching and walking |
Mendip Hills Bristol BS40 8TF United Kingdom |
Situated eight miles south of Bristol, this lake, set in 1,000 acres of lovely countryside, is popular with anyone who enjoys the open air, and is particularly attractive to bird-watchers (there are hides dotted around the area from where you can watch the birds) and fishermen (permits required). You can also go sailing here, have a picnic at one of the picnic areas around the lake, or follow a nature trail. A tearoom, shop, and modest Visitor's Centre operated by Bristol Water plc, is located at the above address on the north eastern side of the lake. If truth be known, it's not actually a lake but a reservoir created by Bristol Waterworks Company. During its controversial creation it drowned a Roman bridge and if you look carefully in times of drought, you can still see this today. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: essjayt |
 Photo: Kyle Thompson |
 Photo: Owain Huw |
 Photo: Dave |
 Photo: s2u.black (no videos) |
 Photo: Devon Angler |
 Photo: Brad Dyer |
 Photo: Neil Parker |
 Photo: mumgriffiths |
 Photo: Vicky Young |
 Photo: side_One |
 Photo: Nick Pound |
 Photo: Jon Ellis |
 Photo: Nigel Hopes |
 Photo: RubyBlueLady |
 Photo: Carpe.Diem1 |
 Photo: johndjacks |
 Ancient, fortified manor house and gardens |
Tickenham Road Clevedon Bristol BS21 6QU United Kingdom +44 1275 87 2257 http://www.clevedon.gov.uk |
Located some 12 miles from Bristol city centre, this National Trust property is one for the more cultured and architecturally-minded amongst you, and is where you can see various styles from throughout the ages, all coming together rather beautifully in one place. It's actually a 14th century Manor House, but contains and is particularly noted for its large 12th century tower and 13th century Great Hall, along with its terraced garden, a fine example of 18th century style and taste. A fine collection of Nailsea Glass is on display, and many examples of Eltonware vases and pots are also exhibited. Those interested in literature might also like to know that Alfred, Lord Tennyson and W M Thackery stayed here. To get a proper feel for the place and discover more, ask for a guided tour (these must be pre-booked). Unfortunately, only parts of the ground floor are wheelchair accessible. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Lydon |
|
Arts and crafts at affordable prices |
Moor Lane, Clevedon Clevedon Bristol BS21 6TD United Kingdom +44 1275 34 2114 |
Located on the outskirts of the Victorian seaside resort of Clevedon—worth a day trip alone—this complex is a good place to head if you're into all things crafty. There are 10 studios, housed in 17th century farm buildings, each of which contains a crafts person exhibiting traditional skills and products related to goldsmith art, leather work, glass-engraving, hand-painted house signs, silk and dried flowers and even garden furniture. You're invited to wander among them just observing, asking questions or snapping up their original works. There's also a tea room (open during the summer and at weekends) where you can grab a bite to eat and a pottery gallery with some interesting exhibits, also for sale. After you've finished shopping, take a walk around the rural setting where the ducks, chickens and geese are more than happy to let you feed them! Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Nature reserve and ancient monument |
Doleberrow Bristol BS25 5PP United Kingdom +44 117 926 8018 |
Located approximately 15 miles from the city center, this is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and also designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument - serious history buffs will love it (the less esoteric can ignore all that and just enjoy a great countryside walk here). Dolebury fort is an exceptional example of an Iron Age hill fort and has an adjacent Celtic field system, approximately 2,000 years old and there is also a medieval rabbit warren - a definite contender for "strangest attraction of the year award"! The best time of year to see the wildflowers and 29 species of butterflies on this limestone heath is from late May to August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Exercise and fitness for a healthy life |
Merlin Road Cribbs Causeway Bristol BS10 7SR United Kingdom |
Are you one of those people that like a little comfort as you sweat and strain your way to fitness? Look no further, this large fitness club has an extensive range of luxurious facilities, including a sunbed, beauty salon, video library and refreshment lounge. There are two air-conditioned gymnasiums containing the latest state-of-the-art equipment, a cardio theatre with sixteen TV and radio channels and a spacious fitness studio. A range of different classes are held each week and there's also a spa, sauna and steam room. A creche operates for children from one month to five years old, who can be looked after for up to two hours. You don't need to be a full member to enjoy all this - you can use all the above for a day by buying a guest pass for £7.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Wildlife haven with stunning views |
Stowey Pensford Bishop Sutton Bristol BS39 4DW United Kingdom |
This 250 acre site is located approximately eight miles south of Bristol and is just one mile from the popular tourist attraction of Chew Valley Lake, a visit to both would make for a great day out in the countryside. The Nature Reserve incorporates both new and ancient woodland and is particularly rich in a wide variety of wildlife. There are also traditionally managed wildlife meadows and old farm buildings, plus a badger-watching platform (wheelchair accessible) and spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. If you fancy a longer walk there are marked trails, including an 800 meter circular one which is wheelchair-accessible. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Remembering an eminent, but little-known Bristol family |
Begbrook Park Frenchay Bristol BS16 1SZ United Kingdom +44 117 957 0942 http://www.frenchay.org/museum... |
The Tuckett family of Frenchay were a prominent Quaker family with many pioneering members. FF Frenchay was an alpinist (many lodges in the Alps are named after him), his father lived through the Bristol Riots of 1831 and chronicled the turbulent time in his letters and his sister was a respected artist. This new museum, contains various artifacts (such as their travel journals, climbing axes and ropes and paintings) and is located in the grounds of Frenchay Hospital (to the north east of the city). It also commemorates two of Bristol's other famous sons - JS Fry, the chocolatier and Frederick Dennison Maurice, who started the Christian Socialist Movement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
A Sacred Sight |
Magdalene Street Bristol BA6 9EL United Kingdom +44 145 883 2267 http://www.glastonburyabbey.com/ |
Set in the quaint town of Glastonbury, the legendary ruins of Glastonbury Abbey draw tourists to take a trip back in time as they roam the grounds of this centuries-old site. Still a living church, the Abbey has served as an important epicenter for Christian worship for nearly 2,000 years. From April to October, the Abbey's Living History characters are present to aid visitors in creating a vision of life at the Abbey hundreds of years ago. The Abbey has an orchard, lily pond, and herb garden, and legend has it that the grave of King Arthur lies somewhere on the Abbey grounds. Various concerts, performances, and workshops are held at the Abbey throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
A great day out at equine rescue centre |
Staunton Lane Whitchurch Bristol BS14 0QG United Kingdom +44 1275 54 0173 http://www.horseworld.org.uk |
Got a horse-mad member of the family? Bring them here - there are over 200 rescued and retired horses, ponies and donkeys and twice a day during the "Parade", visitors can meet them and talk to their grooms. As you'd expect, everything here is seriously horsey - there are two hands-on exhibitions, The Museum of the Horse and Donkey House which show man's dependence on the horse throughout history, plus a Heritage Tack Room Museum, a play area, film shows and a blacksmiths. If you fancy some fresh air, try the nature trail around the farm or have a picnic in the garden. There's also a tea room serving snacks and meals and a gift shop. Free wheelchair loan for disabled visitors is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Colin Gimblett |
|
Women-only pampering and fitness |
22 Burchells Green Road Bristol BS15 1BH United Kingdom +44 117 961 3191 |
A very impressive, ladies-only fitness club, ITS offers an incredible range of fitness, health and beauty services - aromatherapy, head and holistic massages, reflexology, sports injury massages, beauty treatments, hips and bums classes, body conditioning, yoga step classes - the list goes on. The cardiovascular room, fully equipped gym, aerobic studio and weights area, cater to all ages and abilities and classes are run throughout the week (six daily) and cost £2.50 during the day and £3 in the evening. If it's pampering you're after, there's a fast tan solarium, plus sauna and jacuzzi. There's also a creche, which is open Monday to Friday, 9.30a-11.30a. You can join either with a yearly or monthly membership fee, or pay as you go. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
The world's largest dedicated helicopter museum |
Locking Moor Road Weston-super-Mare Bristol BS24 8PP United Kingdom +44 1934 63 5227 http://www.helicoptermuseum.co... |
More than 60 exhibits are housed in this award-winning collection , so it's perfect for rainy days. Aircraft have been collected from all over the world including America, Europe and the Soviet Union and it's possible to watch enthusiasts as they work on the aircraft and even have a try on the flight simulator. A new addition is the Heli-Adventure Area, playground for kids. There is also a shop stocking a large range of kits and books, a cafeteria and free parking. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
The remains of an ancient Roman villa |
Long Cross Lawrence Weston Bristol BS11 0LP United Kingdom +44 117 922 3571 |
If you're into archaeology then you'll definitely want to make a trip to this place. It was built towards the end of the third century AD (so the experts say) and its discovery is purely fortunate - it was found during the construction of a housing estate in 1947. A full excavation was carried out in 1948-50. No one really knows what the villa may have been, (although it is assumed that it was the centre of an estate associated with farming), nor why it was abandoned. The remains consist of the bath suite, the living quarters with wonderful mosaic floors, the porch and gravelled court and the east wing. A key to the site must be obtained from either Blaise Castle House Museum during its open season (1st April-31st October) or from Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery any other time. It can be collected from 10am, but must be returned the same day and there is a returnable £10 deposit. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
East Bristol sports centre |
Church Road Soundwell Bristol BS16 4RH United Kingdom +44 1454 865 700 |
Kingswood Leisure Centre is an excellent, recently built centre serving east Bristol (it's about seven miles from the city centre), that as yet, is relatively unknown. They offer superb, up-to-date facilities, including squash courts, badminton courts, five-a-side indoor pitch, basketball, netball, volleyball, indoor hockey, a fully-equipped gym, martial arts classes and self-defence sessions. There is also a swimming pool, a range of holiday activities, and various health/fitness related courses. If everywhere else is busy and you can't get a court, this place is a good bet, because it remains as yet, a bit of an undiscovered gem. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Well-equipped and testosterone-free gym |
Silver Street Bristol BS1 2DL United Kingdom +44 117 929 9229 |
This ladies-only fitness and slimming centre, right in the city centre, offers state-of-the-art, hi-tech gym equipment and is a great place to get fit. You can get a personal exercise programme and diet plan devised specifically for you, attend aerobic classes, use the toning tables, luxury sauna, showers and changing rooms and hang out afterwards in the coffee lounge. All testosterone free! In fact, even the gym machines themselves are designed to tackle those areas of the body that women often have problems with - yes, we're talking bums and thighs!. Membership fees vary, but look out for seasonal special offers and monthly rates, if you're only here for a short time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
A great day out for kids |
Clevedon Road Wraxall Bristol BS48 1PG United Kingdom +44 1275 852 606 http://www.noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk |
Just six miles from Bristol, this zoo farm is a top choice for kids. They absolutely love the place because it's all geared to them and there's loads to see and do. The biggest draw are the animals of course - over 40 different sorts, including buffalos, llamas and wallabies to less exotic (but no less popular) lambs, ponies and goats. They can handle and feed some of them, learn about them and even take part in a lamb race! It doesn't matter if it's raining, as there are plenty of undercover attractions too. These include the adventure playground, indoor straw den with its rope swings, the food and farming exhibition which explains all about crops and what they grow into and the food barn, where you can get drinks and snacks. Outside, there are also tractor rides and nature trails, plus pony and donkey rides on most Saturdays. Admission: adults £8.00, children (2-16) £6.00, concessions £7.00. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ray O'Hara |
 Photo: Noah's Ark Zoo Farm |
 Photo: Noah's Ark Zoo Farm |
|
Indoor swimming pool that's particularly good for kids |
Harbour Road Portishead Bristol BS20 7DD United Kingdom +44 1275 84 8494 |
This large leisure center is a great choice for a rainy day. There is a large main swimming pool for everyone's use, plus a smaller pool for younger children—children under the age of eight years must be accompanied by an adult in the pool areas at all times. If your kids don't know how to swim, lessons are available from pre-school ages upwards. Or if they're more than confident in the water they could go along to one of the children's pool activities on Saturday afternoons—such as "Monster Island", a game of pirates and "Splash Attack", an hour of wet and wild fun with floats and balls. For an after-swim cup of cocoa head for their cafe, which is open seven days a week. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Boating lake, walks and more |
Esplanade Road and Lake Road Portishead Bristol BS20 7HD United Kingdom |
These lake grounds are a popular place for adults and children alike and are perfect for lots of fresh air activities that cost little or nothing. Located right on the River Severn estuary, there is a constant succession of enormous ships to watch coming in and out of the busy industrial docks at Avonmouth, and also a small pebbled beach for children to play on. During the summer months, the boating lake hires out rowing boats and on certain days, model boat enthusiasts gather with their radio controlled boats to sail them across the lake. Nearby are tennis courts and there are woodland walks on the headland which has some excellent views. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Underwater adventure at popular aquarium |
Marine Parade Bristol BS23 1BE United Kingdom +44 1934 61 3361 http://www.sealife.co.uk |
This unique and entertaining centre, which is particularly popular with kids, offers more than 30 fascinating displays, each of which allow you to have close encounters of the marine kind. There is an interactive Undersea Adventure Trail, feeding demonstrations of various of species plus talks and special presentations. Everyone's favourite however, is the Oceantank with its walk-through tunnel, from which you can gaze close-up at all the seafish. There's also a new Amazone section, containing tropical freshwater fish and a Ray-tank, housing mostly locally-caught species of rays. After you've explored in here, head down to the nearby beach - you may find some sea-creatures of your own! Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Celebrating contemporary engineering feats |
Severn Road, Pilning And Severn Beach Bristol BS35 4HW United Kingdom +44 1454 633 511 |
Situated on the Severn Way Coastal Footpath, and adjacent to the second Severn crossing, this centre celebrates the engineering achievements of the two outstanding bridges that take you across the water into Wales. Opened in 1996 the second bridge is the longest bridge in the UK and also boasts the longest cable-stayed span. The first was, in 1966 when it was built, the seventh longest suspension bridge in the entire world. You can find out more about the history behind the bridges in the education centre and buy mementos in the shop. Or, if the weather is good (the place is closed in inclement conditions), walk along the new sea wall, and walk a fraction of the long distance Severn Walk. There is free parking at the site. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ted Green |
|
An ancient mystery waiting to be solved |
6 miles south of Bristol Bristol BS18 United Kingdom |
This small, rural village, nine miles from Bristol, clusters around some nationally important archeology dating to over 4,000 years ago. Three stone circles seem to make a series of alignments with a number of outlying standing stones, but their purpose is a mystery. Apart from the two smaller circles there is also a megalithic "cove" which is located in the garden of the local pub, the Druid Arms - a lovely place for a pint. A straight line drawn from the cove, through the centre of the large circle, hits the centre of one of the smaller circles. Remains of a substantial wooden structure have recently been found, making the complex much larger and more significant than already thought! The stone circles lie on private land - seek permission from the landowner before entering. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Cox |
 Photo: Gianfanco Trucchi |
 Photo: a59rambler |
 Photo: PetitPoulailler |
 Photo: Neil Toyne MyChoonz |
 Photo: Thomas Chadwick |
 Photo: Simon Manby |
|
Voyage to an isolated, historic island |
Bristol Road Bristol BS14 0 United Kingdom |
The more adventurous among you might like to try this day trip with a difference. Steep Holm is a small island which lies five miles offshore from Weston-super-Mare, and enjoys spectacular views in all directions. It's only recommended for people who are reasonably active however—there is a zigzag climb to the island's plateau, some 250 feet above sea level. Apart from rare plants and vegetation, there are colonies of seabirds and even a small herd of Muntjac deer that graze the island. A medieval priory was established here in the 12th century, and the island was fortified in Victorian times, with the barracks now used as a Visitor's Centre. Sailings are determined by the tide but are made on most Saturdays throughout the year. There are also Wednesday sailings during Jun, Jul and Aug—ring for details of ferry prices and times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Mass & Music |
Wells Cathedral Cathedral Green Bristol, Somerset BA5 2UE United Kingdom +44 174 967 4483 http://www.wellscathedral.org.uk |
The Wells Cathedral is the second smallest cathedral in England. Visitors to this Gothic style building can participate in the religious services offered and occasionally enjoy classical music concerts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
|
Internationally famous seaside resort |
Marine Parade, Weston-Super-Mare Weston-super-Mare Bristol BS23 1AL United Kingdom +44 1934 62 0238 |
With miles of golden sand, this coastal resort has been a firm favourite with tourists for centuries and is a great example of the quintessential English seaside town. The beach is impressively clean and comes complete with donkeys - go for a ride on one for the full seaside experience! There are plenty of shops on the seafront where you can buy buckets and spades to keep the kids happy. The pier itself has been attracting visitors for around 100 years. There is a train which can ferry people from one end of the pier to the other. At the seaward end, there is an entertainment complex with a wide range of attractions, including go-carts, dodgems, a big wheel, haunted house and a rumpus room for tots. Yes, this is beach-life English style, brash, sometimes tacky but full of charm! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ian. T. Davis |
 Photo: Kate Hobson |
|
Water mill in a wildlife valley |
Willsbridge Hill Willsbridge Bristol BS30 6EX United Kingdom +44 117 932 6885 |
A visit to this 19th century corn mill, located between Bristol and Bath, makes for a wonderful day out in the country. It's situated in a wooded valley Nature Reserve and houses hands-on historical and wildlife exhibits, plus a wildlife garden containing two ponds and a butterfly area. Those wanting to stretch their legs should try the trail, about one kilometre in length, around the reserve, along which there are many sculptures. There is a wealth of countryside information available here at the Forest of Avon Gateway Centre, ample parking, wheelchair access to all areas (plus use of electric scooter) a shop and a café, selling vegetarian snacks and hot and cold drinks. As it is manned by volunteers, opening times tend to vary - although the reserve itself is always open, cafe and shop areas may be closed at various times - so it's always best to call before visiting. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |