The best Christmas 2021 experiences for families in and around Bristol

With Christmas around the corner, why not enjoy some festive events in Bristol to get the whole family excited for the big day?

From a pop-up cinema featuring festive films, to vintage fairground rides and a historical Christmas experience, no matter what you’re into there will be something for your family to enjoy.

We’ve rounded up the best family Christmas events in Bristol so you can plan ahead and get into the holiday spirit.

SS Great Britain Victorian Christmas

For three weekends in December the SS Great Britain and surrounding dockyards will transform into a Victorian Christmas wonderland that even Dickens would approve of.

Meet a 19th Century Father Christmas, decked out in a traditional green robe, learn about Victorian traditions and meet the characters who rode on the ship during the 1800s.

You’ll find traditional Victorian decorations throughout the ship taking you back in time.

Fun and educational, this family friendly event will have something for everyone.

Book your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Vintage Winter Wonderland at Millennium Square

Returning for another year, the vintage winter wonderland is a playground of fun for kids and adults alike.

For the kids vintage dodgems and chair-o-plane attractions will keep them busy.

For adults a romantic ride on the observation wheel and hot festive drink sounds like just the ticket.

Food will be available daily. Find out more information here.

Cribbs’ Christmas with Paddington

Paddington Bear has set up shop in Bristol this Christmas.

He will be at Cribbs Causeway doing a meet and greet as well as a special Christmas-themed storytime, perfect for preschoolers.

Other activities at Cribbs Causeway include ice skating at the new indoor ice rink Planet Ice and, of course, meeting the jolly old man himself at the Christmas grotto.

Book your storytelling tickets or find out more information.

Winter Wonderland at Wookey Hole

A bit further afield in Cheddar, this underground cave light experience is definitely worth the travel.

Go on a magical tour around the illuminated cave before meeting Santa and his elves.

Experience the film ‘Sleigh Ride’ in 4D with moving seats, 3D vision, wind effects and sprinklers.

Attend the Christmas Circus Show for a magical evening of trapeze, hula, juggling and more.

After working up your appetite you can eat a festive feast at Captain Jack’s restaurant.

Book your winter wonderland experience now.

Festive Pop-Up Cinema at The Galleries

Every weekend until December 13, the Galleries will transform into a festive pop-up cinema.

With two different films playing every Saturday and Sunday you can keep going back for more. It’s free to attend but donations are welcome for Children’s Hospice South West.

Drinks and snacks can be brought from outside or purchased at the pop-up cinema.

No booking required but if you want to guarantee your spot some limited pre-booking is available. Find out more here.