Family Days Out In and Around Nailsea
Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm
Having previously been crowned North Somerset’s Top Visitor Attraction, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is a must for all families. What was just a small farm centre, it has now grown to become one of the most popular attractions in the region. Housing a large variety of exotic and endangered species, such as African Elephants and White Rhinos, the more than 100-acre site is the largest zoo in the South-West.
There are plenty of talks throughout the day, with some of the highlights including watching the keepers demonstrate target training with the tigers, or having the opportunity to handle the zoo’s rabbit, guinea pigs and chicks! However, there isn’t just a range of animals to get up and close with, there is also a large indoor play area for the kids to enjoy.
Situated in the idyllic countryside of Wraxall, Noah’s Ark is less than a 10-minute drive from the centre of Nailsea, and is certainly worth a visit!
Puxton Park
Whether you are an indoor person or prefer the outdoors, there is something for everyone at Puxton Park. A large indoor soft play area will keep the toddlers occupied, whilst the older kids enjoy the range of fast and winding slides in the adventure park. There is also a café on-site, offering a selection of food and drink at reasonable prices. Outdoor activities include mini golf, a giant fort, JCB play diggers and a chance to get friendly with the farmyard animals.
At the end of your visit, make sure you check out the farm shop, where there is a selection of the finest, locally sourced products. From freshly baked bread, to traditionally-reared meat and a mouth-watering deli counter, Puxton Farm Shop has everything you need for your weekly shop.
Less than a mile from Junction 21 M5, Puxton Park is based on the outskirts of Weston-super-Mare and is only a short drive from Nailsea.
Picnic Spots in Nailsea
A traditional family picnic is an activity that has lasted generations, and is a great way of entertaining the kids whilst meeting up with friends and family. Positioned in the heart of the countryside, Nailsea is the home of many picnic spots, ideal for when the sun is shining. Golden Valley playing fields and Grove Sports Centre offer large areas of grass in a peaceful setting, allowing the parents to relax and the kids to run wild.
Millennium Park is another large area of grass, but is usually busier than the other picnic spots. However, it also offers an outdoor play area, a skatepark and is adjacent to a large Tesco and Costa Coffee.
Nailsea Carnival
An annual summer event, Nailsea Carnival is a colourful procession organised by 1st Nailsea Scouts. The vibrant parade works its way through the High Street, before finishing at Millennium Park, where a fete and car boot sale awaits. It’s a great opportunity to see some of Nailsea’s societies, clubs, schools and businesses, as well as join in with the community spirit!
To see a full list of Nailsea’s upcoming events, please visit our What’s On page.
Bristol Aquarium
With over 40 naturally-themed displays and thousands of aquatic creatures, Bristol Aquarium offers a rare opportunity to explore and discover the fascinating nature of the deep ocean. Make the most of the opportunity to feed the fish and watch as seahorses, piranhas and other marine life effortlessly glide through the water.
It is also the only aquarium in the UK to feature a giant botanical house, and with the open-topped Bay of Rays, and Mighty Amazon pool, you will truly feel like you have dived straight into the Great Barrier Reef!
Perhaps the highlight of the visit is the underwater tunnel which presents the unique experience of sharks and tropical fish swimming over your head – remember to keep an eye out for Nemo and Dory!
Bristol Aquarium is located in the centre of Bristol. The quickest route from Nailsea is the A370, but buses are also available with bus stops immediately outside the aquarium.
Enjoy a Family Meal
Nailsea is full of amazing places to eat. From classic pubs serving quality grub, to restaurants serving some of the finest food in area, there are a wide range of exquisite eateries to choose from, all of which cater for children.
The Ring ‘O’ Bells and The Old Farmhouse offer great, traditional food, and also have a garden area with swings and a slide to keep the kids occupied. The Moorend Spout is another pub in Nailsea, offering a wide range of delicious food at reasonable prices.
Or perhaps you are looking for food from further afield? All based on the High Street, Posh Spice, Il Pardiso and The Golden Horse serve authentic Indian, Italian and Chinese cuisine respectively.
Can you recommend any other family days out in Nailsea? Email your favourite activities to hello@nailseatown.com.