What to do in Bristol when it Rains

Rain needn’t dampen your plans. In fact, some of the very best indoor things to do in Bristol are perfect for grey skies. Whether you're visiting for the day, enjoying a weekend break, or an extended stay, there are plenty of attractions to explore.

Future Inn Bristol is a brilliant base in the city centre, opposite Cabot Circus. You’re perfectly placed for Bristol’s top attractions, shopping, theatres and days out. The hotel offers spacious bedrooms that sleep up to four, free parking, and a hearty full English breakfast to fuel busy days of exploring. With kids staying free, it’s an easy, stress-free choice for family breaks. After a full day out, relax with dinner at the Chophouse Restaurant, serving classic British dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Whatever the weather, Bristol has plenty to offer. This guide brings together cultural highlights, family favourites and activities for adults. All are easy to reach from our central location, so you can explore the city, rain or shine.

Rainy afternoons are ideal for slowing down and immersing yourself in Bristol’s history and culture. These museums and heritage sites offer fascinating collections, beautiful interiors and shelter from the drizzle.

Hidden behind Park Row, Red Lodge Museum is one of Bristol’s architectural treasures. Dating back to the late 1500s, it features ornate plaster ceilings, carved oak panelling and richly decorated rooms.

Each space reveals a different chapter of the building’s history, from Tudor beginnings to Victorian reform school. Its intimate rooms make it particularly atmospheric on a rainy afternoon.

Cost: Free
Address: Park Row, Bristol BS1 5LJ
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk, 8-minute taxi or 15 minutes by bus

Located on College Green, Bristol Cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture. Its vaulted ceilings and intricate stonework create a truly impressive interior.

When the rain starts to fall, the cathedral’s peaceful inner spaces offer a quiet retreat. Take time to admire the stained-glass windows, explore the cloisters, or simply pause in the nave and absorb the atmosphere. Regular concerts and choral services also take place throughout the year.

Cost: Free
Address: College Green, Bristol BS1 5TJ
From Future Inn Bristol: 22-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes on the bus

Step back into 18th-century Bristol at this beautifully restored townhouse just off Park Street. Once home to a wealthy sugar merchant and plantation owner, the house provides a powerful insight into Georgian life in the city.

There are eleven rooms spread across four floors, from the working kitchen in the basement, where servants prepared elaborate meals, to the elegant dining room and withdrawing room above. Period furnishings, carefully recreated décor and informative displays help tell the story of Bristol’s trading past. It’s compact enough to explore comfortably in an hour.

Cost: Free
Address: 7 Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute walk or 10-minute taxi

Located on the historic harbourside, M Shed celebrates Bristol’s social and industrial history. Through interactive exhibits, audio recordings and personal stories, it explores everything from maritime trade to modern music culture.

The museum’s engaging format makes it accessible for all ages, and its waterfront café offers a welcome spot to relax while watching the rain across the harbour.

Cost: Free
Address: Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol BS1 4RN
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute walk, 10-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus

This grand Edwardian building houses a diverse collection spanning art, archaeology, geology and natural history. Exhibits are thoughtfully organised into themed categories, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Highlights at Bristol Museum include Egyptian artefacts, dinosaur skeletons and an impressive collection of fine art. Spacious galleries and regularly changing exhibitions mean you can comfortably spend several hours here out of the weather. It’s one of the city’s best all-round indoor things to do Bristol visitors consistently enjoy it.

Cost: Free (some special exhibitions may charge)
Address: Queens Road, Bristol BS8 1RL
From Future Inn Bristol: 29-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes on the bus

Situated in Müller’s former home near Gloucester Road, this small but meaningful museum tells the story of George Müller, the philanthropist who founded orphanages that supported thousands of children in Victorian Bristol.

Through photographs, personal belongings and historical accounts, visitors gain insight into his life and lasting legacy. It’s a quieter experience, ideal for reflective time indoors.

Cost: Free
Address: The Lofthouse, 45-47 College Road, Ashley Down, Bristol BS7 9FG
From Future Inn Bristol: 10-minute drive, with six free parking spaces available opposite the museum (collect the parking permit when you arrive) or 25 minutes by bus

A contemporary art venue set within a former industrial building, Spike Island showcases modern exhibitions, installations and creative projects. The changing programme ensures there’s always something new to discover. It’s a calm and inspiring indoor option, ideal for a slower-paced afternoon away from the rain.

Cost: Free (some events ticketed)
Address: 133 Cumberland Road, Bristol BS1 6UX
From Future Inn Bristol: 10-minute drive, with pay and display parking on Gas Ferry Road.

Keeping kids entertained during wet weather is easy thanks to Bristol’s diverse attractions.

King Pins is a lively entertainment venue offering ten-pin bowling, arcade games and interactive social gaming experiences. With modern lanes, comfortable seating, it’s designed for relaxed, competitive fun. Whether you're visiting as a family or a group of friends, or planning an informal evening out, it’s a convenient indoor option.

Cost: Pay per game/activity, from £17 per person. Offers are available for several games.
Address: Shopping Centre, Broadmead, Bristol BS1 3BX
From Future Inn Bristol: 2-minute walk, Cabot Circus is opposite Future Inns

Situated within Cabot Circus, Treetop Golf offers a tropical-themed mini-golf adventure course. With lush décor, creative obstacles and two indoor courses to choose from, it’s ideal for friendly competition. Because it’s entirely indoors, it’s a lively way to stay dry while enjoying some light-hearted fun.

Cost: From £13 per person, with discounts for concessions
Address: Cabot Circus, Bristol BS1 3BX
From Future Inn Bristol: Less than a 5-minute walk, Cabot Circus is opposite Future Inns

For a classic rainy-day activity, ODEON at Cabot Circus offers multiple screens showing the latest blockbuster films, family releases and special screenings. Comfortable seating and a varied programme make it an easy choice when the weather turns.

Cost: From £7.95 per person, depending on the title. With special offers throughout the year, and Saver Mondays for members.
Address: Cabot Circus, Bristol BS1 3BX
From Future Inn Bristol: Less than a 5-minute walk, Cabot Circus is opposite Future Inns

Recognised as the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, Bristol Old Vic has been staging performances since 1766. The beautifully restored auditorium blends historic charm with modern comfort. With a varied programme of drama, comedy and music, it’s an excellent cultural choice when the rain sets in.

Cost: Varies by production
Address: King Street, Bristol BS1 4ED
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes by bus

This grand theatre regularly hosts West End productions, musicals, ballet and live entertainment. The Bristol Hippodrome has an impressive interior and a large stage, making it one of the region’s premier performance venues. An evening show here guarantees a memorable indoor experience.

Cost: Varies by show
Address: St Augustine’s Parade, Bristol BS1 4UZ
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute walk, 10-minute taxi or 15 minutes by bus

An award-winning science centre packed with hands-on interactive exhibits, We The Curious encourages visitors to explore, question and experiment. Covering everything from space to psychology, it’s designed to engage both children and adults.

The fully indoor attraction is perfect if you’re looking for lively indoor things to do Bristol families will enjoy. Expect experiments, demonstrations and plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Cost: Tickets start at £20.40 for those aged 16 and over and £13.90 for children aged 2-15.
Address: Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5DB
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk, 12-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus

Situated on the harbourside, Watershed is a cinema and creative media venue screening independent films, documentaries and international releases. The comfortable screening rooms and relaxed café make it an excellent choice when the weather turns. It’s an easy option for a laid-back afternoon or evening indoors.

Undershed is the ground-floor immersive gallery dedicated to showcasing interactive artwork from around the world.

Cost: Cinema tickets start from £6 to £11.50
Address: 1 Canon’s Road, Bristol BS1 5TX
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute walk, 10-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus

Located on the harbourside, Bristol Aquarium takes you on an underwater journey through tropical oceans, coral reefs and native UK waters. As you wander through glass tunnels and themed zones, you’ll encounter sharks, rays, seahorses and colourful reef fish.

The fully covered attraction makes it ideal for rainy days in Bristol, especially if you’re travelling with kids. It’s immersive, educational and manageable in a couple of hours.

Cost: Tickets are £22.50, and 3-12-year-olds are £15.30. Concession and family tickets are also available.
Address: Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5TT
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk or a 10-minute drive with pay with a 24-hour car park opposite (charges apply) or 15 minutes by bus

Step aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain, a restored 19th-century steamship housed within a covered dry dock. Below deck, immersive displays and recreated cabins bring Victorian maritime life into focus. Much of the experience is indoors or under cover, making it one of the most engaging wet-weather attractions in the city.

Cost: Tickets are £22 for adults and £14.50 for children aged 4-16. Family tickets are also available. Visit after 3.30pm for half-price tickets.
Address: Great Western Dockyard, Bristol BS1 6TY
From Future Inn Bristol: 30-minute walk, 10-minute drive with discounted parking at the Maritime Heritage Centre, or 25 minutes by bus

Wake The Tiger is an immersive art experience unlike anywhere else in the UK. This imaginative indoor attraction combines storytelling, soundscapes and interactive rooms to create a multi-sensory adventure.

Visitors move through themed spaces filled with colour, light and surprises. It’s creative, playful and entirely undercover.

Cost: Tickets are £16.50 per adult and £13.50 per child aged 5+. Student and Blue Light are also available. There are also adult-only after-hours events from £20 per person.
Address: 127 Albert Road, Bristol BS2 0YA
From Future Inn Bristol: 7-minute drive with a small pay on exit car park, or 25 minutes by bus

Jumpin Fun! is an indoor trampoline park offering fun for all ages. Sessions include open jumps, obstacle courses and foam pits. It’s perfect for energetic kids or adults who want to have an active, playful time indoors.

Cost: Toddler time is from £5, and bounce sessions from £16. There are also free SEN sessions.
Address: Unit C/D, Eastgate Retail Park, Eastville, Bristol BS5 6XX
From Future Inn Bristol: 8-minute drive, with free parking for up to four hours

For high-speed indoor excitement, Absolutely Karting offers a challenging circuit suitable for adults and older children. Safety briefings and timed races add a competitive edge. It’s a thrilling way to spend a wet afternoon indoors.

Cost: Session-based pricing, from £28 per person
Address: 14 Chapel Lane, Clay Hill, Bristol BS5 7EY
From Future Inn Bristol: 10-minute drive, with free parking for customers

One of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks, the Clifton Suspension Bridge spans the Avon Gorge at an impressive height of 75 metres above the river. While the bridge itself is outdoors, the nearby Visitor Centre offers indoor displays explaining Brunel’s engineering achievement.

Interactive screens, historic drawings and models help bring the story to life. On a rainy day, you can explore the exhibition space before braving the elements for a quick photograph.

Cost: Free
Address: Bridge Road, Bristol BS8 3PA
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute drive. No dedicated car park, but there is pay-and-display parking in Clifton Village or at Leigh Woods.

Home to the last Concorde ever to fly, Aerospace Bristol is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. The museum is housed in large indoor hangars where you can explore aircraft, helicopters, and interactive exhibits that explain Bristol’s aerospace history.

You can even step on board Concorde itself. It’s spacious, informative and perfect for spending several dry hours indoors.

Cost: You can save by booking online in advance. Walk-in prices are £22 for adults and £15 for children aged 4 and over. Student and family tickets are also available. With your ticket, you get free, unlimited returns within 12 months.
Address: Hayes Way, Patchway BS34 5BZ
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute drive, with a free car park

If you’re looking for something active, Planet Ice offers indoor skating sessions suitable for beginners and experienced skaters alike. Public sessions, lessons and themed events run throughout the week. It’s energetic, fun and fully indoors.

Cost: Standard tickets are from £9 per session
Address: Cribbs Causeway, Bristol BS10 7SR
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute drive, with ample free parking

Wild Things Play Project is an indoor play space designed for younger children to explore, climb, and be active in a safe, imaginative environment. Soft play areas, tunnels and creative zones encourage physical activity while stimulating curiosity and social interaction.

Cost: From £4.50
Address: The Mall, Cribbs Causeway, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5DG
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute drive, with ample free parking

Offering activities such as laser tag, archery, axe and knife throwing, and team challenges, Bristol Activity Centre provides energetic indoor entertainment. It’s particularly popular for group bookings and celebrations. There are also outdoor activities, such as paintball, quad trekking, and clay-pigeon shooting. A practical option when outdoor plans need to change due to rain.

Cost: Varies by activity, from £25 per person
Address: Hollywood Lane, Patchway, Bristol BS10 7TW
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute drive with free parking

AirHop is a large indoor trampoline park offering open jump sessions, fitness classes and foam pits. It’s lively and energetic, ideal for burning off energy when outdoor play isn’t an option.

Cost: Session-based pricing, from £11 per child, with packages and add-ons. Grip socks are required, and aren't included in the price.
Address: 5 Britannia Rd, Patchway, Bristol BS34 5TA
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute drive, with free on-site parking for visitors

Although best known for its expansive grounds, Ashton Court’s historic mansion and café provide indoor shelter and scenic views. It’s a quieter choice for those who still want a touch of nature without committing to a long walk in the rain. There are often open days and building tours.

Cost: Free
Address: Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9JN
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute drive, with an on-site pay and display car park

This striking Victorian Gothic Revival house, managed by the National Trust, offers grand interiors, ornate decoration and fascinating family history. While the estate grounds are expansive, the house itself provides plenty of indoor exploration.

On rainy days, focus on the richly furnished rooms and exhibitions detailing the Gibbs family story. You can also browse the shop, bookshop and cafe.

Cost: Admission is from £20 per person, and £10 for children. Family tickets are also available. National Trust Members get free entry.
Address: Wraxall, Bristol BS48 1NX
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute drive. Parking is £3 in the winter months, £5 in the summer months, but free for National Trust Members.

For a more relaxed pace, Bristol’s thriving food, drink and live entertainment scene provides excellent indoor options.

Based in the Old Market area, Wiper & True is one of Bristol’s most respected craft breweries. Their guided tours take you behind the scenes of a working brewery, offering insight into ingredients, fermentation techniques and the creative process behind each brew.

The experience typically concludes in the taproom, where you can sample a curated selection of beers in a relaxed industrial setting. It’s sociable, informative and entirely indoors - ideal for an afternoon sheltering from the rain.

Cost: £20 per person, and pre-booking is essential
Address: The Taproom, Unit 11, City Business Park, Easton Road, Bristol, BS5 0SP.
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute walk, or a 4-minute taxi

Smoke & Mirrors combines a cocktail bar with an intimate magic theatre. The venue hosts regular close-up magic performances and stage shows, creating an evening that feels both exclusive and entertaining.

With low lighting, comfortable seating and a creative drinks menu, it’s a cosy retreat when the rain sets in - perfect for couples or small groups looking for something a little different.

Cost: Show tickets are from £30 per person
Address: 8 Denmark Street, Bristol BS1 5DQ
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk, or a 10-minute taxi

For live music in a vibrant setting, O2 Academy Bristol hosts touring artists, tribute acts and themed club nights throughout the year. The standing venue creates an energetic atmosphere, drawing crowds for a varied programme of performances.

Cost: Varies by event.
Address: 1-2 Frogmore Street, Bristol BS1 5NA
From Future Inn Bristol: 20-minute walk or 10-minute taxi

Located at the historic Harbourside, Bristol Rum School offers hands-on rum blending and tasting experiences inside a working distillery setting. Guided by expert instructors, guests learn about the history of rum, flavour profiles and distillation techniques before creating their own bespoke blend to take home.

Cost: From £60 per person for one bottle shared between two. £80 per person for an individual bottle.
Address: 87-89 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5PW
From Future Inn Bristol: 25-minute walk, or a 10-minute taxi

Chance and Counters is a late-night board-game café where visitors can try hundreds of games in a relaxed indoor setting. Staff can help you choose games based on your group size and interests, and you can enjoy drinks and snacks while playing. There are over 700 to choose from!

Cost: From £2.50 per person, per hour
Address: 79-81 Gloucester Road, Bristol BS7 8AS
From Future Inn Bristol: 30-minute walk, or a 10-minute taxi

The Bristol Lido is a restored historic pool offering luxury spa treatments, a thermal suite, and a heated outdoor pool. Massages, facials, and wellness packages provide the ultimate indulgent escape. A serene, fully indoor experience where you can relax, unwind and treat yourself - ideal after a day exploring Bristol’s rainy day attractions.

Cost: Treatment fees and packages from £25 per person
Address: Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute taxi

Located in Southville, Bristol Beer Factory produces award-winning beers and has been a key part of the city’s brewing revival. Their tours provide an insight into how small-batch beers are crafted, from grain to glass.

Guests can expect tastings along the way, making it both enjoyable and educational. On wet days, it offers a welcoming indoor environment with a strong local flavour.

Cost: £25 per person
Address: 50-52 Ashton Vale Road, Bristol BS3 2HQ
From Future Inn Bristol: 15-minute taxi

Chophouse Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes showcasing the best of the region's produce. From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike. Whether you enjoy a succulent steak, a hearty burger, or a fresh fish dish, every meal delivers bold flavours and satisfying portions.

Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum. Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.