THINGS TO DO WITH DAD IN BRISTOL

Whether you’re looking for an exciting an unusual birthday present, or just want to spend some quality time with dad, nothing beats the pleasure of a shared experience. Presents are all very well, but for most dads, spending the day with their kids and having a blast is far more special. If you’re based in or around Bristol and are looking for fun things to do with dad, check out a few of our favourite experiences. From brewery tours to aerospace adventures, we've got you covered with our ultimate guide to all things dad-tastic in Bristol.

Now, we know what you're thinking: "What makes Bristol so special for a father-child bonding experience?" Well, let us assure you, dear reader, that Bristol is a city with a big heart, loads of character, and enough quirky activities to keep any dad grinning from ear to ear. Trust us, you won't find a shortage of fun-filled opportunities to make your dad feel like the superhero he truly is.

So, buckle up, because we're about to dive headfirst into a world of laughter, high-fives, and maybe even a few embarrassing dad jokes along the way. From exploring food markets that make you go, "Wow!" to engaging in thrilling adventures that make your heart race faster than dad's lawnmower, Bristol has it all.

Only Fools and Horses Filming Locations Tour

If your dad’s favourite TV character is Del Boy, what could be more special than treating him to an Only Fools and Horses tour? Though Britain’s most beloved sitcom is set in Peckham, it was filmed mainly in Bristol – and if your dad’s always dreamed of visiting the iconic Nelson Mandela house, this will be a day out to remember. Led by an expert guide, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Del, Rodney and Uncle Albert as you visit some of the show’s most legendary locations and hear fascinating facts about what happened on set. You’ll visit sites from episodes including ‘Yuppy Love’, ‘Fatal Extraction’ and ‘Time on Our Hands’, and you’ll stand on the very same spot where Del and Rodney (dressed as Batman and Robin!) scare off the muggers. You and dad will even get the chance to recreate the scene yourself – superhero suits provided! A must for any fan of Only Fools and Horses, this tour is a great way to gain a new perspective on Bristol… and of course, enjoy a cushty day out with Dad.

Aerospace Bristol

For dads who are interested in tech, aviation and space – or dads who’ve always dreamed of being a pilot – what could be more exciting than a day out at Bristol Aerospace? This is a unique chance to take a flight through aviation history as you learn all about the world’s first powered flight, how air travel became vital during the two World Wars, and discover the intense drama and rivalry of the space race. You can step aboard the last Concorde and learn how this incredible supersonic aircraft was capable of crossing the Atlantic in under three hours – at twice the speed of sound. You’ll get to admire everything from small model aircrafts to helicopters, rockets and missile, and learn all about the cutting-edge aerospace technology that exists today. This is an immersive, interesting and insightful day out for you and dad that’ll have you both dreaming of stars and space for weeks.

Bristol Brewery Experience

If Dad’s a beer aficionado, this Bristol Brewery Experience will be a day out to remember. This full day experience gives you both a behind-the-scenes look at the beer-making process, from barley to bottle, and naturally, you’ll enjoy plenty of tastings along the way. Kicking off at the Bristol Brewhouse and Kitchen, you’ll have a go at making your own beer –pounding the grains with hot water, working the mash tun, and beginning the boil. You’ll learn tricks of the trade from your expert brewer, and once you’ve got your beer on the boil it’s time for lunch and a few more icy brews. After, you’ll refine your mix and begin the fermentation process – thirsty business which requires another drink! Throughout the day you’ll sample a range of craft beers and ales, and all food will be provided. If that weren’t enough, when you leave you’ll both receive a certificate and a 5L mini-keg of brewed beer to take home. You can keep it as a memento of the day… or drink it with dad, to toast your special day together.

Food Tour of Bristol

Dad more of a foodie than a drinker? No problem: The Bristol Food Tour will be right up his street. These appetising tours dig deep into Bristol’s food scene, and provide plenty of mouth-watering tastings along the way. There are three tours to choose from: the East to West Tour, that will take you and dad to hidden gems in Old Market, St Nicholas Market, and several city centre eateries as you sample everything from Japanese dumplings to homemade cakes; the Stokes Croft Tour, that will lead you through the buzzy and independent Cheltenham Road and Stokes Croft while you feast on sustainable seasonal dishes, creole burgers, and Turkish baked goods; and the South of the River tour, that takes you to the foodie hub of Wapping Wharf, where you’ll try vibrant Indian dishes, seasonal sourdough pizzas and indulgent, artisan chocolate truffles. Treat dad (and his taste buds) to a day out you’ll both treasure for years to come.

Professional 60 Minute Golf Lesson

If your dad has a strong interest in golf, he will be able to put his skills to the test in this 60 minute PGA professional golf lesson. Located in Avon, Bristol, this experience is a private 1-1 lesson with a PGA professional, meaning your dad can get the best out of the experience. The qualified instructor can asses every aspect of the game, analysing the swings, perfecting the stance, and improving the golf club grip. Your dad can tailor the experience as he wishes, whether he wants to perfect certain techniques, or practice his aim, his instructor will be there to assist. By the end of the session, he will be feeling professional. So give him this sense of achievement and gift him this experience now!

SUP Paddle boarding Experience

Are you ready to conquer the waters of Bristol in the most hilarious and slightly wobbly way possible? Then we've got just the activity to make your dad's day (and maybe even provide a few unforgettable blooper reel moments): Stand-Up Paddleboarding! Imagine you and your old man, standing tall and proud on a floating board, armed with paddles, and ready to take on the majestic River Avon. Sure, it may sound like a scene straight out of a quirky comedy, but trust us, it's the perfect recipe for some serious father-child bonding and a whole lot of laughter.

Once you've conquered the basics (or at least managed to stay afloat), you'll unleash your newfound paddle boarding prowess on the enchanting River Avon. As you navigate the gentle currents of the river, keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife. From graceful swans to mischievous ducks, you'll be sharing the water with some quirky companions. And who knows, maybe you'll even spot a dad-favourite creature, the elusive "Fish-that-got-away"! So, dear dads and their willing accomplices, grab your swimwear, leave your dignity at the shore, and get ready to paddle. Bristol's calling, and it's time for you and your dad to rise to the occasion. Together, you'll conquer the waters, one wobbly paddle stroke at a time!

Chocolate Making Workshop

If your dad can't resist sneaking into the chocolate tin at night, we've got the perfect solution for his cravings—a heavenly chocolate making workshop, nestled in the heart of Bristol. Whether you're a casual chocolate enthusiast or a certified chocoholic yourself, this is an experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. This workshop will give you a crash course in creating your own delectable treats that will leave you drooling in anticipation. Trust us, they'll be so good that they might just outshine their appearance!

The fun begins with a fascinating discussion on the illustrious history of chocolate. Your friendly chocolatier will then guide you through the magical realm of truffles, filling them to the brim with a luscious cream (you can even use Soya as an alternative). But that's not all! You'll dive into various chocolate-making techniques like mixing, piping, rolling, cutting, and dipping. It's a hands-on experience that will make you feel like a master chocolatier in no time! To wrap up this mouthwatering adventure, you'll have the delightful task of hand-wrapping your creations—around 30-50 heavenly goodies! And guess what? You can take them home to share... or keep all to yourself (we won't judge!). Trust us, these little bundles of joy will bring a smile to your face every time you take a bite.

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading our guide to great things to do with Dad in Bristol. Whether you're searching for that perfect gift, or just something unique to do on the weekends, we hope you've found the answer here. Still searching? Check out our full range of Bristol experience gifts here. If you've got a question, or a local tip for Bristol, please feel free to leave a comment - we'd love to hear from you!