Bristol’s Parks
The city of Bristol and its surrounding area boasts a population of over one million people. With that many residents, one would be quick to assume that the city is choked and clogged with buildings, traffic and other typical urban features. To be sure, there are plenty of buildings and traffic in Bristol – but they are more than made up for with huge expanses of open, green space. Bristol is a park lover’s dream; learn more about five of the most notable parks below.
Ashton Court – As the largest park in Bristol, Ashton Court receives plenty of attention. Spread out over an area that measures approximately 850 acres, it is a massive and very inviting place to explore. Mountain biking and horse riding trails can be found here, as can an impressive mansion house and a deer park.
Blaise Castle – About eight kilometres north of the city centre lies Blaise Castle, a pleasant and very popular Bristol park. The mansion house is now home to a branch of the Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery; a small gorge and a woodland provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventure seekers. At approximately 650 acres, Blaise Castle is an impressive and noteworthy park to spend time in when visiting Bristol.
The Downs – The Downs in Bristol are actually made up of two sections: Clifton Down and Durdham Down. Near the southern end of Clifton Down, visitors can enjoy the Clifton Suspension Bridge; it overlooks the Avon Gorge, providing plenty of delightful views. A main road runs between the two sections of The Downs, and helps delineate where one ends and the other begins. No trip to Bristol is complete without a stop at The Downs.
Brandon Hill – Brandon Hill is a park that is situated on a hill that lies between Hotwells, Clifton and the city centre. At its summit sits Cabot Tower, which was erected in honour of explorer John Cabot. Brandon Hill is centrally located near many hotels in Bristol, making it a convenient option on a pleasant afternoon.
Castle Park – Also known as Castle Green, Castle Park was designated after wartime bombings destroyed many of the mediaeval buildings that once stood here. With its prime location across from Broadmead shopping centre, Castle Park is within walking distance of several Bristol hotels and offers a little bit of something for anyone who is visiting the city.