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Bristol is one of the top 10 visitor destinations in England, and Explore at Bristol is one of its leading family attractions. This interactive science centre has a remit to make science fun, and it certainly does just that. With over 300 hands-on exhibits there is plenty to inspire and fascinate children of all ages, as well as mum and dad.
On the first floor, a long-running ‘Animate It’ exhibition offers visitors the chance to see film sets featuring Wallace and Gromit and encourages interaction with the exhibits including the chance to be a set-lighting technician. The exhibition is a co-production with Bristol’s Oscar-winning animators Aardman, who have lent their film models and props in order to bring the exhibition to life. The technicians at Explore at Bristol have several created funky low-lying work stations where budding animators can create their own showreels so that young film makers can select figures, film and edit their story, then revisit online once they return home.
The whole place is abuzz with children and parents getting hands-on with science – creating lightning, making fog, or discovering the secrets of the Bermuda Triangle. Plenty of presenter-led science shows give children a unique chance to get close to real experts including explorers and adventurers, always keen to inspire little minds with tales of their exploits.
For younger ones there are two special exhibitions ‘Jet, Set, Go’ and ‘In the Jungle’ which allow children to dress up and enjoy exciting adventures and stories. And for space lovers the Planetarium show is a great way to discover the night sky and learn more about the stars, planets and galaxies.
The café serves hot and cold drinks and snacks, sandwiches, soup and cakes. Take a breather before discovering more of the exhibits including the popular TV studio where young newsreaders can develop their skills in front of the camera – prepare for much hilarity!
Many families make this their number one choice to visit whilst in Bristol so get there early especially if it is a rainy day. Allow at least half a day to enjoy everything on offer. The location is ideal for a family walk around the attractive riverside area before or after.