We The Curious: Bristol's Interactive Science Playground
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
We The Curious is Bristol’s vibrant science centre located at Millennium Square on the harbourside. Featuring over 200 interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium, it invites visitors of all ages to explore science through play and experimentation in a lively, inclusive environment. Open Tuesday to Sunday during term time and daily in school holidays, it offers a hands-on, playful experience where science meets art and creativity.
A brief summary to We The Curious
- 1 Millennium Square, One Millennium Square, Anchor Rd, Bristol, BS1 5DB, GB
- +441179151000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and save up to 15%, especially during weekends and school holidays.
- Add a 3D Planetarium show to your visit for a unique immersive space experience; note age restrictions apply.
- Children under 12 must be supervised at all times, including in the Planetarium.
- Enjoy vegetarian food and handcrafted coffee at the onsite Double Puc Café.
- Use Millennium Square Car Park underneath the venue for convenient parking, mindful of the Bristol Clean Air Zone fees.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Bristol bus services to Millennium Square, with frequent routes from the city centre and surrounding areas. The journey typically takes 10–20 minutes depending on your starting point. Bus tickets cost around £2–£4 one way. The stop is a short walk from the venue.
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Car
Drive to Millennium Square Car Park located directly beneath We The Curious. Parking fees apply and vary by duration, typically £2–£5 per hour. Note the venue is inside Bristol’s Clean Air Zone, so check if your vehicle incurs a charge. The car park offers direct access to the venue via lifts.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Bristol city centre, walking to We The Curious takes approximately 15–25 minutes over mostly flat, paved urban terrain. The route is accessible but can be busy during peak times.
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Cycling
Bristol is cycle-friendly with dedicated bike lanes leading to Millennium Square. Secure bike parking is available near the venue. Cycling times vary but typically range from 5–15 minutes from central locations.
We The Curious location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about We The Curious
A Dynamic Hub for Science and Creativity
We The Curious stands as a beacon of interactive science and creativity in the heart of Bristol’s Millennium Square. This unique venue blends science, art, and culture, creating an atmosphere more akin to an indoor festival than a traditional museum. Visitors are encouraged to touch, experiment, and engage with over 200 exhibits spread across two floors, covering topics from bubbles and brains to robots and rainbows. The centre’s ethos is about breaking down barriers between disciplines and making science accessible, playful, and collaborative.The UK's Only 3D Planetarium Experience
A highlight of We The Curious is its exclusive 3D Planetarium, the only one of its kind in the UK. The planetarium offers immersive, presenter-led shows that take visitors on journeys through space, suitable for a wide range of ages. Daytime shows can be added to general admission tickets, providing an awe-inspiring experience of the cosmos. The venue also hosts special evening events, including Planetarium Nights for adults and film screenings, enhancing the centre’s role as a cultural and educational landmark.Engaging Workshops and Educational Programs
Beyond exhibits, We The Curious offers a rich program of workshops, talks, and creative activities designed to deepen understanding and spark curiosity. These sessions cover practical STEM topics and creative science projects, making it a popular destination for school groups and families alike. The centre supports home educators and offers fully equipped laboratories and classrooms, emphasizing its role as an educational charity dedicated to inspiring lifelong learning.Inclusive, Welcoming, and Family-Friendly Environment
The venue prides itself on being welcoming and accessible to all visitors. It is designed to be inclusive, with facilities and programs that cater to diverse audiences, including children, families, and individuals with special needs. Children under 12 must be supervised, and certain age restrictions apply for 3D Planetarium shows to ensure safety. The onsite Double Puc Café serves freshly prepared vegetarian food and coffee, complementing the visitor experience with relaxed dining options.Location and Visitor Experience
Situated on Bristol’s scenic harbourside, We The Curious benefits from a lively urban setting with easy access to public transport and nearby amenities. The venue operates within the Bristol Clean Air Zone, with parking available underneath the building at Millennium Square Car Park. The centre’s bright, colourful interiors and interactive exhibits create an engaging sensory experience, inviting visitors to spend several hours exploring, learning, and having fun in a vibrant atmosphere.Supporting Science Through Charitable Work
As a registered charity, We The Curious relies on visitor support to fund its educational projects and maintain its innovative programming. Ticket sales contribute to sustaining the centre’s mission of connecting people through shared creative science experiences. Membership options allow year-round access and support ongoing initiatives, reinforcing the venue’s community-focused and educational goals.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Cary Grant
0.1 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.2 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.3 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Cascade Steps
0.3 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Prince Street Bridge
0.3 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.3 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.4 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Old Post Office
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Capricorn Place
0.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty of Capricorn Place in Bristol, a hidden gem that showcases the city's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
The Nails
0.6 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.7 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and history of Palestine at the Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre in Bristol, a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts.
Wills Memorial Building Tower
0.7 km
Climb Bristol's iconic 68-metre tower for breathtaking city views and explore a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture.
Medieval Vaults
0.7 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Bristol Bridge
0.7 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
St John's Church
0.7 km
Experience the architectural wonder and serene atmosphere of St John's Church in Bristol, a must-visit tourist attraction rich in history and beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Bristol Wheel
0.0 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Bristol Aquarium
0.1 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
Millennium Square
0.1 km
A lively modern city park in Bristol’s harbourside, known for public art, water features, and festive events like the Vintage Winter Wonderland.
Harbourside
0.1 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Bristol Cathedral
0.1 km
Explore Bristol Cathedral’s majestic medieval hall church with soaring vaults, Gothic Revival nave, and centuries of rich history in the city’s heart.
Pero's Bridge
0.2 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
0.2 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Watershed
0.2 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Narrow Quay
0.2 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.2 km
Explore the grandeur of the Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's royal heritage and charm.
Lloyds Amphitheatre
0.2 km
A landmark postmodern amphitheatre and public space at Bristol’s harbourside, blending architectural heritage with vibrant cultural events.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.3 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
Bristol Ferry
0.3 km
Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
Hannover Quay
0.3 km
Discover Hannover Quay, Bristol’s vibrant harbourside district blending historic charm with modern waterfront living and cultural buzz.
Essential places to dine
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.1 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
The Bristol Stable
0.2 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Rick's
0.2 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The River Grille
0.2 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Steak of the Art
0.2 km
A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
Under the Stars
0.2 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
No.1 Harbourside
0.2 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Hat Bistro
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
New MoOn On The Quay
0.3 km
Eclectic tapas and global flavors served in a quirky riverside setting with garden charm and inclusive menus in Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Pieminister
0.4 km
Award-winning British pies, piled high with mash, peas and gravy, in a lively harbourside restaurant with views of Bristol’s fountains and waterfront.
Tare Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
The Olive Shed
0.4 km
Mediterranean tapas and seafood with stunning harbour views in a cozy, waterside Bristol setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Orendo
0.2 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
0.2 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
my a2space
0.3 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.3 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Something Elsie
0.4 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.4 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Fig1
0.4 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Ganesha
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.5 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Over Here
0.6 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
This Feeling
0.6 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.6 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
uchi clothing co
0.6 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Memories
0.6 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.1 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.1 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.1 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.1 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
The Architect
0.2 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Shakespeare Tavern
0.2 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
Small Bar
0.4 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Kongs of King Street
0.4 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
The Clockwork Rose
0.5 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Bag of Nails
0.5 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.6 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Revolution Bristol
0.6 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PRYZM
0.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
OMG
0.3 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Basement 45
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.4 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Popworld - Bristol
0.4 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.4 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Antix
0.4 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Thekla
0.4 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Silk Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.5 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
La Rocca
0.8 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
0.8 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.8 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.9 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
The Loco Klub
1.2 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly