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France/Things to Do in Bordeaux, with kids

Grosse Cloche (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Grosse Cloche?

59%Kids-Friendly
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What makes it 59% Kids-Friendly: Children older than six may enjoy climbing to the bell and tiny prison cells, but the staircase is narrow, the guide speaks only French, and parents must supervise closely in cramped rooms.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 6,189 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free exterior visit: You can explore the arch and turrets at no cost if kids are too young for the towers.
  • Imaginative play: Kids enjoy pretending to be medieval guards or prisoners under the gateway.

Challenges:

  • Narrow stairs: Steep, tight stone steps may be tough for younger or less steady children.
  • No child rate: Guided tour costs 6 € per person with no discount for kids over 6.
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🏖️ Explore Grosse Cloche with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Grosse Cloche. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Grosse Cloche?

  • A 15th-century medieval gate tower serving as Bordeaux’s principal city entrance
  • Crowned by a 7.75-ton bronze bell named Armande-Louise, suspended between two flanking turrets
  • Enclosed beneath Gothic arches with a former juvenile detention chamber within its fortified structure

What is so special about Grosse Cloche for with kids?

  1. Stand under a 15th-century gateway for family photos
  2. Hear the massive 7.75-ton bell ring on select days
  3. Climb narrow stairs for a short guided tour of belfry and cells
  4. Enjoy nearby cannelés as a fun snack break

Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours

Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore the exterior, take photos, and join a brief guided tour without tiring younger children.

(View Grosse Cloche on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Grosse Cloche

Stand under the medieval arch:

Let kids imagine guarding the gate under the twin turrets.

Tip: Visit in morning light for best photos and quieter streets.

Hear the giant bell ring:

Time your visit for the first Sunday at noon or major French holidays.

Tip: Check the Bordeaux Tourist Office website or call ahead for the ringing schedule.

Join the guided belfry tour:

Climb narrow stone stairs to see the 7.75-ton bell mechanism and old prison cells.

Tip: Reserve through the Tourist Office and ask if an English guide is available.

Grab cannelés at Cassonade:

Walk 2 minutes to this bakery for Bordeaux’s signature sweet treat.

Tip: Buy a few warm cannelés to enjoy as you return to Grosse Cloche.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Grosse Cloche

  1. Book tours in advance: Reserve your spot at the Tourist Office to secure an English-language guide.
  2. Combine with local treats: Plan a quick stop at Cassonade after the tour to keep kids happy.
🏖️ Tour Grosse Cloche like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Grosse Cloche. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Grosse Cloche

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Rae Zyon

Rae Zyon

Jan 2026

A significant eighteenth-century monument that highlights the medieval heritage of the city. This grand gate once served as a bell tower and a defensive structure, featuring a massive bronze bell that rings on special occasions. It is a well-maintained landmark that offers a clear look into historical urban design and remains a popular spot for photography.

Flo

Flo

Aug 2025

What a wonderful gate! The whole street leading to it is very very pretty

Dave

Dave

Jul 2025

Behold the majestic Grosse Cloche, a historic gem of Bordeaux, France! Originally part of the city’s medieval fortifications in the 13th century, this stunning tower once guarded the gates with pride, its sturdy stone walls standing as a symbol of strength and resilience. Over the centuries, it evolved into a beloved landmark, its grand clock and bell ringing out to mark time and celebrate the s...

Kat Fred

Kat Fred

Jul 2025

This is a neat bell tower to see, especially on the first Sunday of each month. That’s when they actually ring it at noon. There are neat book stores & eateries down the street from the bell. We sat outside and had breakfast with a perfect view of it. Also, about a block down Victor Hugo Rue there is a Falling Car poking out of a parking garage that’s fun to find and see!

Irina B

Irina B

May 2025

Such a lovely surprise in the middle of Bordeaux! The Grosse Cloche is a beautiful old bell tower that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. You can’t go inside most of the time, but even just seeing it from the street is magical. It’s not a big attraction — more of a “wow, look at that!” moment during a walk through the old town. Totally worth stopping for a photo and soaking up the hi...

When is the best time to visit Grosse Cloche (Bordeaux, France)?

In summer, climb early to avoid midday heat. In winter, dress in layers—winds gust under the arch. Check holiday dates when the bell rings six times a year.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Bordeaux on Trip.com

Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Guided tour (6 € per person, 4 people)EUR 24
Cannelés at Cassonade (2 € each, 4 pieces)EUR 8
Total EstimatedEUR 32

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Grosse Cloche

Address: Rue Saint-James, 33000 Bordeaux, France

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Looking for other Things to Do besides Grosse Cloche (Bordeaux)?

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About Grosse Cloche

Opening Hours

Monday:3:15 – 3:45 PM, 4:00 – 4:30 PM
Tuesday:Closed
Wednesday:Closed
Thursday:Closed
Friday:Closed
Saturday:10:30 – 11:00 AM, 11:15 – 11:45 AM, 12:00 – 12:30 PM
Sunday:Closed

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+33 5 56 00 66 00

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