There are many venues in Bristol that have successfully created educational, imaginative, and sometimes even, relaxed spaces for those visiting. A space where children, parents, and guardians alike can come in from the cold and enjoy some time to create connections. Looking for a children’s soft play that’s more than just sticky surfaces and sugar rushes? Come along with CrossCountry as we explore the best indoor play areas within touching distance of Bristol Temple Meads.
Freedog Bristol
Birthday parties, half-term memory making, and after-school activities are what Freedog Bristol does best. Adults and children aged over five can enjoy the Open Bounce sessions, where they can be let loose on the trampolines, launch into the foam pit, and delight in the ninja course. Plus, adult-only open sessions are also available on Friday nights, so if you’re jealous of all the fun your little ones are having this is the perfect excuse to try something different with your friends.
If you’re visiting with younger children, there are still lots of opportunities for adventurous fun. Start off your morning with a visit to Puppy Play and wake up to an exciting mix of soft play and arts & crafts. Soft play is a great way to encourage creativity, language development, and social skills in your little ones so there’s even more reason to head to an indoor playground in Bristol.
Freedog is walking distance from Bristol Temple Meads, making it a great option for a day out in Bristol with the family.
Farrington's Farm
Farrington’s Farm is a little further out of Bristol city centre, but the short journey makes it a great option for escaping the hustle and bustle.
The farm is a dream to visit all-year-round but it especially shines in spring. Plus, the Playbarn is loved by kids of all ages as it provides a safe and exciting space for children to discover and explore.
There’s a padded area with mini space hopper animals, perfect for babies learning to walk and socialise. The toddler area is ideal for tiring out energetic little ones between two and four years old. For older kids, the indoor soft play (suitable for children up to twelve) features an exhilarating drop slide, rope skywalks, and countless nooks and crannies to discover. The Playbarn also houses its own café, serving delicious coffee and a variety of kid-friendly favourites.
Jump
Jump describes themselves as the ‘perfect place to play and party’, offering everything families need to enjoy every-day play and special occasions alike. With a large soft play area waiting to be explored, Jump offers hours of fun any day of the week. They also have a number of themed rooms for soft play parties, so your little one can fly off into space, explore the deep blue sea, or travel back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth.
Families can attend play sessions throughout the year, including as an after-school treat. Though sessions are extra special on weekends and holidays with all sorts of free activities taking place, such as dance competitions and treasure hunts. The venue also has a café where kids can fuel themselves on a tasty hot meal.
Jump is best accessed from Bristol Parkway, with buses available from the station. If you’re coming from Bristol Temple Meads, just hop on a CrossCountry service and you’ll arrive at Bristol Parkway in under ten minutes.
Boing!
Boing! is located in Lockleaze, North Bristol. It’s a small but mighty soft play centre that aims to build connections and encourage learning through play. Parents and guardians can enjoy a coffee and natter while children make the most of the colourful soft play area. The café runs multiple sessions throughout the week, including their toddler session - Tiddlers - as well as private party slots on the weekend.
The menu at Boing! is child-friendly without compromising on taste. Kids can enjoy a delicious and very affordable food platter that includes fruit, veg, a filled roll, and a sweet treat. Adults can warm their bellies with a hearty soup or jacket potato.
Boing! can be accessed from Bristol Temple Meads via a bus to Gainsborough Square, offered by alternative travel operators.
Wild Things Play Project
Offering much more than your typical soft play, Wild Things Play Project. has locations in both Bristol and Plymouth. They prioritise quality food and drink and an environment that’s actually enjoyable for both children and parents. With a commitment to sustainability, their indoor play area is made entirely from natural materials rather than plastic. The organisation believes that sensory play amongst nature is important for nurturing creativity and compassion in children, but in cities, it can be harder to get out into the great outdoors. At Wild Things, your little ones can get a dose of nature in the heart of Bristol.
Wild Things Play Project is located at Cribbs Causeway, close by to our previously mentioned venue, Jump. You can catch a bus from Bristol Parkway.
Skyboat Cafe
Skyboat Café might come as a refreshing change from your usual soft play favourite. The venue aims to promote a calm atmosphere that not only sparks creativity and healthy development amongst children but presents a safe and welcoming space for new parents to socialise, offload, and build a community with other families. The café is an important community hub around Redland and it’s a fabulous place to visit if you’re looking to build your own network.
You can find Skyboat Café a short walk from Bayswater Avenue. Just catch a bus from Bristol Temple Meads and you’ll be there in no time.
At the time of publishing, all information given is correct. Details of events, businesses, and locations included may be subject to change by third parties. Please make sure to check any details with organisers before you travel.
If you’re planning to take your kids to an indoor play area, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Seb