Our favourite days out for families in Bath and Cardiff

It doesn’t matter whether you’re planning next weekend or your school holiday schedule, finding days out that’ll keep everyone entertained can be a little bit trial and error. Throw a few different age brackets into the mix and it can become an absolutely minefield!

Whether you’re in Wales looking for Cardiff activities, over the bridge looking for Bath activities or somewhere in between, there are plenty of brilliant things to do and places to see. I’ve rounded up some of our favourites that the kids will love (and you will too!)

Days out for families Bath 

Roman Baths and Museum, Bath
If you find yourself needing to keep curious minds entertained, this should be at the top of your list. It’s a history lesson in disguise (I won’t tell them if you won’t!) full of fascinating facts from both the romans themselves and through audio tours designed just for young visitors.

My top tip – Pushchairs do need to be left at the entrance if you have toddlers in tow but, to keep it accessible for the whole family, there are backpack-style baby carriers available to borrow.

The Makery, Bath
Creative kids (and parents) will be in their element at The Makery. There are various workshops on throughout the week and their shop is full of materials for you to take home and continue to practice your new skills. With a variety of seasonal classes to take part in, it’s a brilliant, hands-on way to learn new skills and most importantly, have fun at the same time.

The Little Theatre Cinema, Bath
The cinema is a brilliant back up for when rain scuppers your plans but I think this one is worth a visit whatever the weather. Many of its original 1930s features are still there today, providing a fascinating look at how cinemas used to be. There’s regular showings of family favourites through ‘The Little Theatre’ and ‘Kids Club’ screenings and new parents are catered for too. Their ‘Big Scream’ showings screen films with the volume a little lower so that your baby can accompany you too. Perfect if you can’t find a babysitter!

Spy Mission Treasure Trails, Bath and Cardiff
I know when I tell my kids that we’re going on a sightseeing tour I’m likely to be met with moans, groans and dragged heels. They are always a little bit more enthusiastic to take on their very own spy mission though!  The spy mission treasure trails take you on a tour of each city with clues hidden on buildings and monuments and amongst stunning scenery in parks and gardens. Grown-ups get to appreciate all the cultural highlights and younger visitors will leave wanting to be the next James Bond. (Blissfully unaware that they’ve been on a sightseeing tour!)

Days out for families Cardiff

Cardiff Castle, Cardiff
Cardiff Castle is a giant, living time capsule. There’s plenty to explore within its walls and you can easily turn a few hours into a full day out. The main house and apartments are a fantastic insight into how the other half lived throughout the 18^th & 19^th centuries and if the weather isn’t keeping you indoors, the Norman Keep and Roman Wall will transport you even further back into the castle’s 2,000-year history. There’s plenty of events throughout the year for families too, so it’s worth checking the website to see what’s on before you visit.

Cardiff International Sports Village
Adventurous families will absolutely love the range of water sports available at Cardiff International Sports Village including kayaking and white water rafting. 

Mountain View Ranch, Cardiff
Even if you’ve got children in different age groups, you won’t go far wrong with visit to Mountain View Ranch. Older children will be in their element as they take on the high ropes course and Segway circuit or, if high-octane isn’t high on your list of requirements (yep mum I’m looking at you), there’s a more relaxing nine-hole golf course to make your way around. Younger guests are catered for brilliantly too, with a whole host of activities including the chance to meet their favourite characters on a guided tour of the Gruffalo trail.

St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff
St Fagans is one of the best open-air museums in Europe and is a must-visit if you’re anywhere near Cardiff. The museum itself is a collection of over 40 historical buildings that allow you to quite literally walk through Welsh history. Inside the buildings, you’ll find a variety of traditional crafts and activities taking place. There’s a blacksmith, ironmonger and even a clog maker working on site. Many of the craftsmen sell the goods they produce too so, if anyone’s in the market for new school shoes, it’s the right place to head to!

Final thoughts – When it comes to cities, Bath and Cardiff are both on the smaller end of the scale but don’t let that fool you into thinking that they’re lacking in places to go and things to see with kids. Both cities are rich in history and big on fun so, wherever you find yourself, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is trying to fit it all in.

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Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post.