When: Open Tuesday to Friday, with a regular programme of activities and social opportunities.
Type of break: Extended Breaks
Location: The Withywood Centre, Queens Road, Withywood, Bristol, BS13 8QA
Cost: Funded places available via Bristol City Council for those meeting criteria; private places also offered. Contact for details.
Care need: Age-Related Conditions
Provided by: Age UK Bristol
New Beginnings, run by Age UK Bristol, provides a friendly and supportive environment for older people to enjoy a variety of activities such as exercise, arts and crafts, singing, baking, gardening, and visits from local schoolchildren. Each day includes a freshly prepared two-course hot meal in the onsite café.
The centre creates a lively, social atmosphere with 15–25 attendees per day and offers taster sessions to ensure the service suits individual needs. Transport is available for those living in and around the Withywood area.
This service is ideal for those seeking companionship, stimulation, and a safe space to stay active and connected.
Most referrals come through Bristol City Council Social Services.
For preventative care needs or private places, contact 0117 987 8406 or email [email protected].
Age UK Bristol is a caring, local charity that helps people aged 55+ in Bristol live better, more connected lives — by offering free, tailored information and advice on benefits, housing, care and legal matters; a warm and lively day centre filled with activities like dance, arts, singing and gardening; home support to help with everyday tasks and companionship; and a wide network of social groups and community programmes (including Tai Chi, walking, and cafes) to reduce isolation and build friendships.
Venues across South Gloucestershire
Enjoy a safe, welcoming day of activities, companionship, and a freshly prepared lunch at Age UK South Gloucestershire’s Activity Day Centres – designed to boost wellbeing and reduce isolation for older people.
Break type: Extended Breaks
Cost: This is a chargeable service. Financial support may be available through South Gloucestershire Council. Contact Age UK for details.
When: Downend: Wednesdays, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Warmley: Thursdays, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Thornbury: Fridays, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Countrywide
Free one or two night hotel stays across the country for unpaid carers. To be eligible you must be over 18 and a full time carer providing 30 hours or more care per week.
Break type: Extended Breaks
Cost: £38 admin fee
When: 2 per year
Cambrian Green Day Centre, Yate
A welcoming day centre in Yate offering specialist dementia care, meaningful activities, and respite for carers in a safe and supportive environment.
Break type: Extended Breaks
Cost: Free with assessed support needs; lunch available at additional cost
When: Open Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm (closed on bank holidays and 27 December)