Things to do in Bristol on a rainy day

14 February 2019
As cities go, Bristol’s the perfect size: small enough that you can get anywhere pretty quickly and still big enough that there’s plenty going on. Yet despite being in the south of the UK, there’s no escaping the fact that in England, wherever you are, it rains. A lot.

But have no fear, because there are still plenty of things to do in Bristol on a rainy day. Our team at Access Self Storage Bristol have listed the best indoor things to do in Bristol so that you don’t have to spend rainy days resigned to your sofa.

wet umbrella

M Shed

Rainy days provide the perfect excuse to go to a museum. M Shed focuses on the history and culture of Bristol, so it’s perfect for locals and for those travelling from further afield. It’s packed with limited-time exhibits, original photography and interactive displays – there’s something for everyone. The café and shop are a delight, it’s free to enter and it’s open seven days a week.

One Google reviewer said: “Loved looking around the museum, so many incredible things to see. Staff are nice and are more than willing to point you in the right direction.”

Address: M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol, BS1 4RN

Website: www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed

Price: Free

The Cube

To say that The Cube is just an independent cinema showing artsy films would be doing it a disservice. Described as an ‘adult creche’, you can find music, cabaret, discussions, comedy and performance art – there’s bound to be an event that you’re interested in. With bring-your-baby cinema screenings and kid’s workshops, there’s something on the itinerary for children, too. Lifetime membership costs just £1 and you can get a cup of tea for 50p. If that doesn’t tempt you, then nothing will.

Address: Dove Street South, Kingsdown, Bristol, BS2 8JD

Website: www.cubecinema.com

Price: Variable depending on performance

Aspects Leisure Park

If you’re looking to go somewhere to spend the whole day (either with kids or without) you might want to go to Aspects Leisure Park. There’s a ‘Hollywood Bowl’, as well as a number of restaurants including all the classics like Frankie and Benny’s, Nando’s and Pizza Hut. And there’s currently a team event package offer where a group can bowl for just £16.99 per person from Sunday to Thursday. Included in the package are two games of bowling, a party host, drinks, food, a trophy for the winner and a team picture (£20.99 on weekends).

Address: Aspects Leisure Park, Longwell Green, BS15 9LA

Website: www.aspects-leisure.co.uk

Price: Variable depending on the restaurant and bowling package

Aztec Hotel and Spa

If you’re looking to do something a little special on a rainy day, why not check out a spa? The Aztec Hotel and Spa has three tranquil treatment rooms, a lounge, sauna, steam room, hot tub and pool area. You can go for membership or opt for a Spa Day package. And you won’t go hungry - all Spa Day packages begin with snacks. Woop woop.

As if you needed any more convincing, it has a 4.3/5 rating on Google.

Address: Aztec W, Almondsbury, Patchway, Bristol, BS32 4TS

Website: www.aztechotelbristol.co.uk

Price: Spa Day packages start from £50

The Rummer

Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t drink like it’s a summer’s day! The Rummer is a cocktail bar with a micro-distillery that is now home to The Bristol Spirits Collective, which creates craft gin, vodka and Aquavit. The Distillery hosts regular gin tastings on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7pm and Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 3pm. Each session normally lasts over an hour and you’ll try five gins per session. Be sure to book in advance online.

Cocktail drink in a trendy bar

Address: All Saints Lane, Bristol, BS1 1JH

Website: www.therummer.net

Price: £27 for gin tasting, variable for individual drinks at the bar

You&Meow Cat Cafe

Bringing up the rear on our list of things to do in Bristol on a rainy day is the city’s first cat café.

You&Meow (get it?) Cat Café is inspired by Japanese design, and aims to provide a ‘soothing and peaceful experience’. You can visit the café to relax with the cats, have afternoon tea or attend a mindfulness class. The café welcomes children, but they must be aged 10 years and over. It’s also highly recommended that you book in advance online.

A Google reviewer said: “Members of staff were amazing and super friendly. Lovely ambience, very relaxing and it’s a perfect place to enjoy a nice cup of coffee alongside the cute cats.”

woman holding a white cat

Address: 22 Denmark St, Bristol BS1 5DQ

Website: www.youandmeow.co.uk

Price: General admission starts from £6 for adults and £4 for children.

Do you have summer equipment like deckchairs, BBQs and croquet sets taking up space in your home? Why not put them in storage over the colder months? Access Self Storage Bristol, Access Self Storage Gloucester, Access Self Storage Southampton and Access Self Storage Bath are nearby to help with your storage needs.