10 Things to Do with An Elderly Parent in Bristol

Spending time with an elderly parent can be a wonderful way to reconnect, reminisce, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures together. Bristol is a city brimming with charm, history, and creativity, offering plenty of things to see and do at a gentle pace. Whether your parent enjoys nature, culture, or a quiet cup of tea overlooking the harbour, here are ten lovely ideas for a day out together in Bristol.

Visit the Bristol Botanical Gardens

The University of Bristol Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis just outside the city centre. With beautifully arranged flower beds, glasshouses full of exotic plants, and an assortment of tranquil ponds, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll. The gardens are easy to navigate, with plenty of places to sit and admire the diverse surroundings. You can even get a guided tour, helping you both learn more about the fascinating plants and their stories.

Take a Harbour Boat Ride

Bristol’s harbour is one of the city’s most picturesque areas, and a boat ride offers a unique way to see it. The ferry services that run around the Floating Harbour are accessible and calm, providing a gentle glide past colourful houses, old warehouses, and landmarks like the SS Great Britain. It’s an enjoyable way to take in the city’s maritime charm without too much walking.

Explore the Bristol Museum

The Bristol Museum and Art Gallery is packed with treasures from around the world. From ancient Egyptian mummies to stunning artwork and natural history exhibits, there’s plenty to capture the imagination. The building itself is a work of art, with its grand architecture and peaceful atmosphere. With lifts, seating areas, and a lovely café, it’s well suited to visitors of all ages.

Stroll Through Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower

For some fresh air and fantastic views, take a gentle walk through Brandon Hill Park. It’s one of the oldest parks in Bristol and home to the iconic Cabot Tower. While climbing the tower might be a bit much for some, the park itself offers accessible paths and benches for resting along the way. On a sunny day, it’s a wonderful place to sit and watch the world go by.

Take in a Performance at Bristol Hippodrome

A night out at the Bristol Hippodrome can be a real treat. The theatre regularly hosts musicals, plays, concerts, and comedy shows, offering something for everyone. The seating is comfortable, and staff are always happy to help with accessibility needs. Sharing a live performance together can be a memorable and heartwarming experience.

Explore M Shed Museum

M Shed is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Bristol and its people. Housed in a former dockside warehouse, it’s full of interactive exhibits and personal stories that bring the city’s history to life. There are also working exhibits outside, such as cranes and steam trains, which are great fun to see in action. The museum is fully accessible and has a café overlooking the harbour.

Visit The Central Library, Bristol

Tucked beside the historic cathedral, Bristol’s Central Library is a gem worth visiting. Its grand architecture and peaceful reading rooms make it a lovely spot for a quiet hour or two. You can browse the books, admire the stained glass, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere. It’s a great place to take a break from busier parts of the city.

Visit Ashton Court Estate

Ashton Court Estate is one of Bristol’s best-loved green spaces. Spread over 850 acres, it’s perfect for a gentle walk, a picnic, or a coffee in the courtyard café. The estate’s beautiful gardens and woodland walks are ideal for a relaxed outing, and the deer park is always a delight to visit. With plenty of accessible paths, it’s suitable for visitors with varying mobility levels.

Head Over to SS Great Britain

A visit to the SS Great Britain offers a fascinating step back in time. This historic ship, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is now a museum that tells the story of life at sea in the 19th century. The exhibits are thoughtfully designed, and there are accessible routes throughout. Standing on the deck and looking out over the harbour is a wonderful experience for any visitor.

Take in Clifton Suspension Bridge

No trip to Bristol would be complete without visiting the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. You can admire it from the viewing platform, take a short walk across, or enjoy the scenery from nearby Clifton Observatory café. The views over the Avon Gorge are breathtaking, especially at sunset. It’s a peaceful and inspiring spot to end a day out together.