From “have-a-go” rugby sessions with local clubs to climbing walls, cricket, ice hockey and creative workshops, the Fan Zone promises an action-packed programme for families to get involved with. Visitors can test their skills with the Bristol Bears Community Foundation, South Bristol Girls Rugby, University of Bristol Women’s Rugby, Chipping Sodbury RFC, Thornbury RFC Women and Ashley Down Old Boys Women RFC, all offering fun, free rugby-based activities. A dedicated “Have a Go” zone will give children and young people the chance to get hands-on with the sport and discover just how inclusive rugby can be.
Press Releases - Women's Rugby World Cup
Bristol reveals first wave of action-packed Fan Zone lineup for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025
Free family-friendly event to feature grassroots sport, circus acts, creative science and more in celebration of community and inclusivity
01/09/2025
Bristol’s Harbourside will transform into a hub of sporting action and family fun this September as the city gears up to host the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. Alongside live screenings of the tournament’s knockout matches, four of which will take place at Ashton Gate Stadium, the official Fan Zone will feature a packed programme of interactive activities to create a welcoming day out for families.
Taking place at the Bristol Amphitheatre, the free-to-enter Fan Zone will run across two weekends – Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September, followed by Friday 19th and Saturday 20th September – aligning with the knockout fixtures. Delivered in partnership with Visit West, Bristol City Centre BID, Bristol City Council, West of England Combined Authority, Redcliffe & Temple BID and a host of local businesses, the Fan Zone will showcase the city’s commitment to inclusion, sport and culture.
Alongside rugby, there will be a variety of opportunities for people of all ages to try something new. Airhop Bristol will bring its high-energy Cardio Wall, while the Bristol Pitbulls will give visitors a taste of ice hockey with an inflatable shooting tunnel. Cricket lovers can test their aim with Sixes Social Cricket and Empire Fighting Chance will create an inclusive, non-contact boxing zone filled with games to build confidence and connection. For those looking for adventure, the Mendip Activity Centre’s mobile climbing wall will offer a challenge for all abilities, while Bristol Run Club will lead relaxed community runs to celebrate the social side of sport.
Families can also enjoy a wide range of creative and cultural activities woven into the programme. We The Curious will host free craft sessions exploring the science behind spinning rugby balls, while the Roman Baths will bring costumed characters to share stories and Roman-inspired games. The National Trust will showcase its ‘Ripple Effect’ project alongside VR tours of local landscapes and Her Game Too will invite children to design their own kits, enjoy fun puzzles and reflect on equality in sport. Adding to the atmosphere, Circus City performers will roam the site throughout the day to surprise and delight audiences.
The Fan Zone will be hosted by former England international Amber Reed and Welsh rising star Jenna De Vera, who will keep the crowds energised across the weekends.
Sabrina Shutter, Project Events Manager BID, said:
“The Women’s Rugby World Cup is an incredible moment for Bristol, and the Fan Zone is our chance to showcase the very best of the city. We’re so proud to have so many brilliant Bristol businesses involved, creating a true city-centre celebration where visitors will feel the energy, creativity and welcome that Bristol is known for. This is about more than just rugby – it’s about bringing people together, supporting our local economy and showing the world what makes Bristol such a special place to visit.”
Further details, including live entertainment, food and drink traders and cultural highlights, will be announced in the lead-up to the event.
For more information, visit https://visitbristol.co.uk/rwc25/ or follow @bristolbid on social media.
