Brandon Hill Park and Cabot Tower, Bristol
Bristol’s oldest park with lush greenery, wildlife, and breathtaking panoramic views from the historic Cabot Tower.
Brandon Hill is Bristol's oldest public park, offering lush, hilly lawns, a nature reserve, and panoramic city views from the iconic Cabot Tower. Located near Park Street, this tranquil green space features well-maintained paths, a children's play area, wildlife habitats, and historical remnants from the Civil War. Visitors can climb the 105-foot neo-Gothic Cabot Tower for sweeping vistas of Bristol’s skyline and surrounding countryside, making it a beloved urban retreat.
A brief summary to Brandon Hill
- Park St, Bristol, Bristol, BS1 5RR, GB
- +441179222000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the moderate climb to Cabot Tower and around the hilly park paths.
- Visit in spring to enjoy the spectacular cherry blossoms that color the park.
- Use public transport or city car parks nearby due to limited parking around Brandon Hill.
- Bring some nuts to feed the friendly local squirrels that frequent the park.
- Check Cabot Tower’s opening hours before visiting, especially in winter or bad weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops near College Green, about a 10-minute walk from Brandon Hill. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares typically between £2 and £4. This is a convenient and affordable option avoiding parking challenges.
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Walking
Brandon Hill is a 10 to 15-minute walk from Bristol city centre. The route involves moderate uphill terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The walk offers an opportunity to explore nearby Park Street’s shops and cafés.
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Car
Limited street parking is available near Brandon Hill, but spaces are competitive. Several metered car parks in the city centre offer hourly rates from approximately £1.50 to £3.00. Parking restrictions apply, so plan accordingly.
Brandon Hill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Brandon Hill
Historic Roots and Urban Legacy
Brandon Hill is widely regarded as the oldest public park in Bristol and possibly one of the oldest in the country. The land was granted to the city council in 1174 and was used for grazing and hay-making until it became a public open space in the 17th century. Its strategic position made it a key defensive site during the English Civil War, with surviving earthworks and remnants of fortifications still visible near the summit. The park’s centerpiece, Cabot Tower, was constructed in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot’s historic voyage from Bristol to North America, symbolizing Bristol’s maritime heritage.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Haven
Spanning a hilly landscape, Brandon Hill offers a blend of manicured gardens, wooded areas, and a designated nature reserve managed by the Avon Wildlife Trust. The nature reserve supports diverse wildlife including toads, bats, foxes, and numerous bird species. Seasonal phenomena such as the springtime cherry blossoms paint the park in vibrant colors, enhancing its serene atmosphere. The park’s ponds and wooded edges provide peaceful spots for wildlife observation and relaxation amidst the urban environment.Iconic Views from Cabot Tower
Rising 105 feet above the park, Cabot Tower is a neo-Gothic landmark constructed from red sandstone with cream Bath stone detailing. Visitors can ascend its 109-step spiral staircase to reach two observation decks offering spectacular 360-degree panoramic views. From the tower’s summit, you can see key Bristol landmarks including the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Wills Memorial Building, and the Harbourside area, as well as the surrounding countryside and the winding River Avon. The climb is moderately challenging but rewarding, with benches along the way for rest.Recreational Facilities and Community Spirit
Brandon Hill is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and family outings. Facilities include a dog-free play area for children under 12, two outdoor exercise stations, and well-maintained toilets near the Cabot Tower. The park is supported by the Friends of Brandon Hill community group, which organizes activities such as a tree trail and Tai Chi sessions. Barbecue areas are designated with specific guidelines to protect the park’s environment. The park’s well-kept grounds and litter-free environment contribute to its reputation as a welcoming urban oasis.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The park is open daily from 8am to 6pm year-round, with free admission to both the park and Cabot Tower. While the hill’s steep terrain limits wheelchair and pushchair access, the park remains easily reachable by foot from Bristol city centre and nearby public transport stops. Limited street parking is available nearby, but visitors are encouraged to use public transport or city car parks. The tower is closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day, and opening hours vary seasonally.Brandon Hill’s Role in Bristol’s Cultural Landscape
Beyond its natural and historic significance, Brandon Hill serves as a cultural landmark within Bristol’s West End, nestled between the vibrant neighborhoods of Clifton and Hotwells. Its proximity to Park Street offers visitors a chance to explore vintage shops, independent cafés, and street art, including works by Banksy. The park’s elevated position and green space provide a peaceful contrast to the bustling city streets, making it a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike seeking both relaxation and panoramic cityscapes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.4 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.6 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Cascade Steps
0.7 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.7 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.7 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.8 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
M Shed
0.9 km
Explore Bristol's maritime past at M Shed, a vibrant museum with engaging exhibits, a delightful cafe, and a unique gift shop on the waterfront.
Bristol Ferry
0.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty of Bristol from the water with Bristol Ferry, a delightful ferry service showcasing the city's stunning waterfront and rich history.
Prince Street Bridge
0.9 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.
Bristol Harbour Railway
0.9 km
Experience the historic charm of Bristol Harbour Railway, a heritage railway offering scenic rides through Bristol's vibrant docks and maritime history.
St John's Church
0.9 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.
Queen Square
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Queen Square, a stunning green oasis in the heart of Bristol, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.9 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.
Old Post Office
0.9 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
The Nails
0.9 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cabot Tower
0.1 km
Discover the historic Cabot Tower in Brandon Hill Park, an iconic landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Bristol's maritime heritage.
St George's Bristol
0.3 km
Historic Georgian church turned world-class concert hall with superb acoustics and a vibrant cultural programme in the heart of Bristol.
The Georgian House Museum
0.3 km
Step back into 18th-century Bristol at The Georgian House Museum, a restored merchant’s townhouse rich with history and stories of life above and below stairs.
Capricorn Place
0.3 km
Modern riverside living in Bristol’s historic Hotwells district, blending scenic views with urban elegance on the vibrant Harbourside.
Wills Memorial Building
0.4 km
A towering neo-Gothic icon of Bristol and the heart of the University of Bristol’s academic and ceremonial life.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s rich heritage and art treasures in a stunning Edwardian Baroque museum with free entry and diverse exhibits.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.4 km
Discover Banksy’s cheeky and iconic Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a symbol of urban culture and defiance.
Being Brunel
0.4 km
Step into the mind of Isambard Kingdom Brunel in his original Dock Office, where personal artefacts and interactive galleries bring the genius of Victorian engineering vividly to life.
Guided Walking Tour - From Blackbeard to Banksy
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s rich history and iconic Banksy street art on a captivating guided walking tour from College Green.
Brunel's SS Great Britain
0.4 km
Step aboard Brunel's SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean liner, and explore Victorian maritime life and engineering genius in Bristol’s historic dockyard.
Bristol Cathedral
0.5 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.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.5 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.
We The Curious
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
Harbourside
0.6 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Essential places to dine
Botanist Bristol
0.3 km
Plant-filled gastropub celebrating seasonal British cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in Bristol's City Centre.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
Lost & Found Bristol
0.4 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
Steak of the Art
0.5 km
A bold Bristol steakhouse where art, design and expertly cooked meat come together in a vibrant Harbourside setting.
1 York Place
0.5 km
An intimate European bistro in Clifton offering seasonal dishes and a warm, stylish atmosphere for a refined dining experience.
New MoOn On The Quay
0.5 km
Eclectic tapas and global flavors served in a quirky riverside setting with garden charm and inclusive menus in Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.6 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
No.1 Harbourside
0.6 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
The Bristol Stable
0.6 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Bambalan
0.7 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Under the Stars
0.7 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Racks Bar & Kitchen
0.7 km
A vibrant Clifton hotspot blending historic cellar charm with gourmet British and Mediterranean cuisine in a lively, stylish setting.
Pieminister
0.7 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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ganesha
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.3 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
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.
Zhyper
0.4 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Orendo
0.5 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
my a2space
0.7 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.8 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Blaze
0.8 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Village
0.8 km
A compact, design-led gift shop in Clifton Village offering locally made homewares, stationery and small-batch finds with a quietly curated, neighbourhood feel.
The Clifton Arcade
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, art, and fashion at The Clifton Arcade in Bristol – a must-visit for every traveler seeking local charm.
Mint Velvet Bristol
0.9 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Something Elsie
0.9 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Fig1
0.9 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.
About Face
0.9 km
Discover curated gifts and artisanal treasures in Clifton's charming village heart, where unique finds meet personal service in a cozy Bristol gem.
Memories
0.9 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bag of Nails
0.2 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Eldon House
0.3 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
Hyde & Co
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s secretive speakeasy with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy vintage ambiance in the heart of Clifton.
The Brass Pig
0.4 km
Clifton's two-floor nightlife gem: cocktails from £3.50, DJ weekends, terrace vibes, and student deals in Bristol's Triangle hub.
Be At One - Bristol
0.4 km
Energetic cocktail bar in Clifton, Bristol, serving over 100 expertly crafted drinks with vibrant vibes and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
0.4 km
Step into Bristol’s Neverland-inspired Cocktail Club for expertly crafted drinks, quirky décor, and nights that never want to end.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.5 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.5 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Barrelhouse
0.6 km
Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.6 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.6 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
0.7 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
The Architect
0.8 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
0.8 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Milk Thistle
0.8 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.3 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
La Rocca
0.3 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
0.4 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
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.
Silk Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
OMG
0.4 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.4 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
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.
Basement 45
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Lizard Lounge
0.4 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
PRYZM
0.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
0.8 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
0.8 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Thekla
1.0 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.
Lakota
1.5 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
