Things to do in North Somerset with kids when it’s raining

Where can you take the kids in North Somerset on a rainy day? We’ve rounded up the best indoor attractions in North Somerset.

Even though I’m an advocate for getting outdoors, sometimes you need to come up with some indoor activities to keep everyone happy. So if the weather isn’t playing ball, there are plenty of indoor attractions in North Somerset to keep the family entertained.

Whether you’re in Somerset on holiday, visiting for the day, or a local who’s looking for some inspiration, we’ve come up with some fantastic indoor places to go in North Somerset.

Here is our guide to the best things to do in North Somerset with kids, that is fun whatever the weather and ideal for rainy days.

Indoor Attractions in North Somerset: Museums

Helicopter Museum, Weston super Mare

Locking Moor Road, Weston super Mare, BS24 8PP

See the largest collection of helicopters and other rotar craft in the world, with over 80 military and civilian craft currently on show. All exhibits are on display in an all weather undercover hangar. See the website for prices, current opening days/times and special events. Coming up over the summer is A Dalek Invasion, a Dino Weekend, Magic at the Museum and World Helicopter Day.

Check the website for Open Cockpit Days, usually held at least once a month, or book a helicopter flight.

The Helicopter Museum is only 5 minutes drive from the M5 (Jct. 21).

Weston Museum

Burlington Street, Weston super Mare, BS23 1PR

Visit Weston Museum to discover the history of Weston super Mare and the surrounding area, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum covers geology, archaeology, art and social history. During school holidays there are children’s activities and workshops, plus there are visiting exhibitions throughout the year. Check out the up coming events, including family craft sessions.

Oakham Treasures

Oakham Farm, Portbury Lane, Portbury, Bristol BS20 7SP

Step back in time when you visit Oakham Treasures, and see the Aladdin’s Cave of memorabilia dedicated to the history of farming and retail. There are lots of artefacts from everyday household items, clothing, agriculture, vintage cars and motorbikes, shops and more. There is a cafe on site too. Check website for prices and opening times.  If you’re visiting on holiday, there is even a campsite here where you can stay.

Museums in Bristol

The Clifton Observatory and Camera Obscura

Litfield Place, Bristol, BS8 3LT

Just a short skip from North Somerset over the Clifton Suspension Bridge, is the Clifton Observatory. There are 3 floors to the museum. You can climb to the top of what was originally a windmill, for the spectacular views over Bristol, the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge. You must have a look at the amazing Camera Obscura, built in 1828, which is at the top of the observatory. The kids (and adults) will love turning the handle to rotate the camera for 360 degree views of the surrounding area. Afterwards, become an adventurer and explore the depths of the Giants Cave. The views from the other side of the caves are not to be missed!

Blaise Museum and Estate

Henbury Road, Bristol, BS10 7QS

Blaise House Museum is set in beautiful parklands on the Blaise Estate in North Bristol. It is only a 10 minute drive from the M5 (Jct. 17/18). Parts of the 19th Century house are open to the public as a museum of everyday life, highlighting domestic and social history. Admire the domed glass ceiling of the restored Picture Room, the toy collection ranging from the 18th to 20th century featuring dolls houses and toy trains, and a fashion collection consisting of around 10,000 pieces dating back to the 1730s.  It is free to visit and there are often events for children in the school holidays. If there is a break in the clouds, there is an amazing playpark for the children, as well as woodlands to escape in.

See our Blaise Castle Circular Walk.

For more Bristol Museums and Art Galleries, click here.

Swimming Pools in North Somerset

Strode Leisure Centre, Clevedon

Strode Way, Clevedon BS21 6QG

Visit Strode Leisure Centre for family swim sessions. There’s a main pool (25m) and kids pool. During school holidays look out for kids activities such as Aqua Run and the Fun Splash Float Session. Check the timetable, prices and booking online here. 

Hutton Moor Leisure Centre, Weston super Mare

Hutton Moor Road, Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, BS22 8LY

Two swimming pools: 25m main pool and a learner pool.

Backwell Leisure Centre

Farleigh Rd, Backwell, BS48 3PB

Two swimming pools: 25m main pool and 15m kids pool.

Brean Splash Water Park, Burnham on Sea

Brean Leisure Park, Brean, TA8 2QY

Located at Brean Leisure Park near Burnham on Sea you’ll find a 25m pool and baby pool, regular inflatable sessions, indoor splash zone fun pool and slides. Older kids (8+) will love the rainbow rings and disco slides.

Parish Wharf Leisure Centre, Portishead

Harbour Road, Portishead, BS20 7DD

Younger children will love the splash pool and mini slide (under 8’s). The older children will want to try the aquatic obstacle course available during weekend sessions. All the family will love the large 25m pool and jacuzzi.

See our Clapton in Gordano Round Circular Walk.

Indoor Attraction in North Somerset: Cinema and Theatre

A trip to the cinema or theatre is an excellent way to entertain the children and avoid getting wet on a drizzly afternoon. There are several great options in North Somerset.

The Curzon Cinema, Clevedon

46 Old Church Road, Clevedon, BS21 6NN

Step into the Curzon cinema, and step back in time as you walk into the oldest purpose-built continually running, independent cinema in the country. Built in 1912, the first screening raised money for the victims of the Titanic disaster. It’s survived two world wars, there’s evidence of bomb damage on its facade from 1941. See here for what’s on. Come along to Curzon Kids, watch the film and join in afterwards to create works of art inspired by the screening. Nappy Mondays are Monday morning screenings dedicated to carers with babies and toddlers, giving you a chance to see the latest releases and cult classics in a relaxed family environment. Kids aged 3 and under come for free. 

Cineworld, Weston super Mare

7 Central Walk, Weston super Mare, BS23 1FF

Immerse yourself in all the biggest blockbuster movies today at Cineworld. Movies For Juniors is a discounted weekly screening bringing you a selection of family films from just £2.50 per ticket. This multiplex cinema chain also offers unlimited cinema for one monthly price. Cineworld is in the same building as Clip and Climb and only a short walk from the Grand Pier on Weston seafront.

The Playhouse Theatre, Weston super Mare

126-130 High Street, Weston super Mare, BS23 1HP

We’re lucky to have this gem in north Somerset, showing a wide selection of live performances, from kids shows, comedy, music, dance and musicals. There is always a great selection of children’s shows at The Playhouse and with it being so central, it’s really easy to get to. There are shows all year round but our favourite is the Christmas pantomime. This year’s performance is Beauty and the Beast. To see what’s on, click here.

Indoor Crazy Golf in North Somerset

Revo Glo Golf, Weston super Mare

Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare BS23 1BE

A super-fun rainy day activity for all ages on the seafront in Weston super Mare. The old sea aquarium building has now been converted into a 9-hole, glow in the dark, indoor crazy golf course, with a stylish kitchen and bar. Each hole has a different theme – from the graveyard shift to Terminator and junk yard. You also have the chance to win a free round if you can successfully land the ball during the final hole. Current prices are £6/adults, £4 children and £5/concessions. Walk-ins only (no booking needed)
.

North Somerset Climbing Walls

Clip and Climb, Weston super Mare

5 Central Walks, Dolphin Square, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1FF

This indoor climbing experience is fun whatever the weather. The climbing sessions are accessible for children age 4+, with no upper age limit and no previous climbing is experience needed. There is a fantastic variety of 10-metre walls with different grips, layouts and difficulties. For you thrill-seekers, try the drop slide and leap of faith. For younger climbers age 2-3, there are special sessions. Click here for booking, prices, and more information. 

Ten Pin Bowling in North Somerset

Bowling makes for a fun family day or night out whatever the weather. There are a few options in North Somerset and within a short drive of North Somerset listed below.

All Stars Sports Bowl, Weston super Mare

Dolphin Square, 17-19 Central Walk, Weston-super-Mare BS23 1FF

 Immerse yourself in the ultimate bowling experience, with 12 state of the art bowling lanes, plus other games such as shuffleboard, pool, and arcade machines. Click here to view and book games.

All Stars Sports Bowl, Bridgwater

Northgate Yard, Mount Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3FQ

A fun activity whether it’s raining or not. Bring the kids here for bowling, shuffleboard, pool and arcade games. Click here for booking, prices and more information.

Hollywood Bowl, Cribbs Causeway

The Venue, Merlin Road, Patchway, Bristol, BS10 7SR

With 26 lanes to bowl along, a designated VIP area, an american themed diner, a vibrant bar and a thrilling amusements area. Book online here and look out for early bird offers.

Hollywood Bowl, Taunton

Heron Gate, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 2LP

Make great memories at Hollywood Bowl, which has 22 lanes to bowl along, an exclusive VIP area, an American inspired diner, a relaxing bar and a fun amusements area. Click here for booking, prices and more information.

Somerset attractions rainy day activities indoors

Wookey Hole 

Wookey Hole Caves, The Mill, Wookey Hole, BA5 1BA

Explore the vast underground chambers of Wookey Hole’s cave system and meet the legendary Witch of Wookey Hole. There is a lot to do undercover if the weather isn’t kind – a cinema experience, visit the paper making museum, watch the Wookey Hole circus school and play the vintage penny machines. Click here for prices, booking and more information.

Cheddar Gorge and Show Caves

The Cliffs, Cheddar, BS27 3QF

 While away a few hours at the spectacular show caves at Cheddar Gorge, explore secret caverns and be amazed by the amazing stalagmites and stalactites. Visit the Museum of Prehistory and discover more about Cheddar’s history including the famous Cheddar Man – the oldest complete human skeleton ever found in Britain. More more details, prices and booking click here.

See our Cheddar Gorge Circular Walk

Indoor play in North Somerset

We have a few nice indoor play options in North Somerset and within a short drive. All offer party packages, and have a cafe for a drink and a bite to eat. Soft play centres are an easy way to wear out younger kids when it’s chucking it down outside.

Jump N’ Jackz Indoor Play Centre, Weston super Mare

Units 2 & 4, Winterstoke Road, Weston-super-Mare BS23 3YS

Just a 10 minute drive from the M5 (Jct. 21) is Weston’s largest indoor soft play. They are open 7 days a week in school holidays and suitable for babies to young teens. Look out for toddler mornings and weekday after school offers. For opening times, prices and more information click here.

Puxton Park, Weston super Mare

Cowslip Lane, Hewish, BS24 6AH

Puxton Park is a 1 minute drive from the M5 (Jct. 21) and has a large indoor play area. It’s ideal for toddlers to pre-teens and is open all year. Puxton Park is more than just an indoor soft play, there are lots of outdoor attractions too, including animals, tractor rides, miniature railway, high ropes, a restaurant and cafe, farm shop and more. Check their website here for prices, booking and more information.

Ocean Adventurers, Cheddar

Unit 11, Cheddar Business Park, Cheddar, BS27 3EB

This award winning soft play has a baby sensory area (age 0-2), toddler zone (age 2-4), junior structure complete with an interactive Strike-Arena (age 5-12) and lovely role play village. Look out for their holiday clubs and after school offers. It’s perfect for a rainy day! For bookings, prices and opening times click here.

Jungle Run Soft Play

Smallway, Congresbury, BS49 5AA

Located next to The North Somerset Bird of Prey Centre, near Cadbury Garden Centre in Congresbury is a new soft play. It’s aimed at younger children age 0-6 years.

Prices are: Age 0-6 months and adults are free, 6-12 months £2 and over 12 months £4. There’s no booking system, just turn up and pay on entry. 

See our Cadbury Hill Nature Reserve Circular Walk.

Jolly Jumpers Playzone, Bridgwater

Market Way, Bridgwater, TA6 6DF

Ideal for children age 0-11 years, no booking is required. There are separate areas for different ages. Look out for the weekly events like messy play, cooking, toddler mornings and after school meal deals. 

Brean Play, Burnham

Brean Leisure Park, Coast Road, Brean, Burnham On Sea, TA8 2QY

Located at Brean Leisure Park just 10 minutes from M5 (Jct. 22) and is open all year round. Brean Play is the perfect place for your children to let off steam whilst you enjoy a nice cup of coffee or a bite to eat. Suitable for kids up to the age of 11, there are separate areas for different age groups. Click here for prices, booking and more information.

Little Town Adventures, Weston super Mare

Beach Road, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1TT

Little Town Adventures is where imagination meets play, theatre and make believe; creating a unique storytelling adventure that’s truly extraordinary! It’s a fully immersive experience featuring multi-level buildings, scripts, actors, music and more! Children will become a part of the story-telling adventure.

A mixture of escape room style activity, theatre and role play, ‘Little Town Adventures’ is a miniature recreation of Weston-Super-Mare even featuring a 5 metre tall Town Hall, Grand Pier, Cinema, Vets, Police Station, Fire Station, Supermarket, Café, Ice Cream Parlour and more!

Ninja Warrior UK, Cribbs Causeway

Unit 3/4, Block A, Cribbs Causeway Retail Park, Lysander Road, Patchway, BS34 5TX

Do you have what it takes to be a Ninja Warrior? Located just off the M5 (Jct 17) at Cribbs Causeway, it’s a short drive from North Somerset. There’s a mini ninja’s soft play suitable for ages 0-3 whilst the rest of the area is suitable for children age 4+ and adults of all ages. You can climb, balance, jump and swing across different obstacles using and developing your Ninja skills. There’s also a huge inflatable, Mount Sasuke to clamber up and fast slides too. For prices, booking and more information, click here.

Undercover Rides and attractions in Somerset

The Grand Pier, Weston super Mare

The Grand Pier is a pleasure pier on Weston seafront which has lots of undercover rides, attractions, arcades and places to eat. It’s open 7 days a week and costs £1 entry. You can buy an unlimited ride wristband when you get there or online beforehand. Some of the rides and attractions include F1 simulators, house of horrors, laser maze, soft play, helter-skelter and dodgems. Check here for prices, opening times, booking wristbands and additional attractions.

Hopefully this has given you a few ideas of where to take the kids in North Somerset on a rainy day. Don’t forget to check your local library for special events – I used take my girls to rhyme time and storytime at our local library when they were younger. National Trust properties are always excellent places to explore; check your local area for toddler groups; or church halls for Messy Play or music sessions; or even your local shopping centre for events going on there.