Brandon Hill Park: Bristol’s Historic Urban Oasis
Bristol’s oldest park with panoramic city views, a nature reserve, and family-friendly spaces just minutes from the city centre.
Brandon Hill is Bristol’s oldest municipal park, located just off Park Street near the city centre. This hilly green space features panoramic city views from the iconic Cabot Tower, a nature reserve rich with wildlife, a children’s play area, and peaceful picnic spots. Open year-round with no admission fee, Brandon Hill offers a tranquil escape blending natural beauty, heritage, and stunning vistas over Bristol’s skyline and Harbourside.
A brief summary to Brandon Hill
- Park St, Bristol, Bristol, BS1 5RR, GB
- +441179222000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 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 as the park is quite hilly with some steep paths.
- Visit Cabot Tower for 360-degree panoramic views of Bristol and the Harbourside.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas, but follow BBQ rules to protect the grass.
- Explore the nature reserve trails to spot local wildlife and seasonal flowers.
- Public transport or walking is recommended due to limited parking nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Park Street, a short walk from Brandon Hill. Buses run frequently from Bristol city centre, with travel times around 10–15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2–£3. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Walking
From Bristol city centre, a scenic 10–15 minute walk leads to Brandon Hill via Park Street or Great George Street. The route includes some steep sections and uneven paths, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The walk is accessible for most but may be challenging for wheelchair users.
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Car
There is no dedicated parking at Brandon Hill. Nearby street parking is limited and can be expensive, especially during weekdays. Several public car parks are available within a 10-minute walk, with rates typically £1.50–£3 per hour. Parking restrictions apply in surrounding residential streets.
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
A Storied Green Landmark in Bristol’s Heart
Brandon Hill is believed to be one of the oldest municipal open spaces in England, granted to Bristol Corporation in 1174. Originally used for grazing and hay-making, the hill has evolved into a cherished public park that blends natural beauty with rich history. During the English Civil War, it served as a defensive key point, with remnants of fortifications still visible near the summit. Today, Brandon Hill stands as a green sanctuary nestled between the Clifton and Hotwells districts, just minutes from Bristol’s bustling centre.Cabot Tower and Panoramic Cityscapes
Dominating the summit is the striking Cabot Tower, built to commemorate John Cabot’s voyages of discovery from Bristol. Visitors can climb the tower’s steep steps to enjoy sweeping 360-degree views across the city, the River Avon, and the Harbourside. The vistas are especially spectacular at sunset, when the cityscape is bathed in golden light. The tower itself opens daily from 8am, with seasonal closing times varying through the year.A Thriving Nature Reserve and Wildlife Haven
Brandon Hill Nature Reserve, managed in partnership with Avon Wildlife Trust since 1980, transforms five acres of the park into a vibrant wildlife habitat. The reserve is a vital stopover for migrating birds, sheltering species like redwings and fieldfares in winter. In spring and summer, wildflowers such as cowslips and oxeye daisies attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The reserve’s pond hosts frogspawn and toads during breeding season, while foxes and bats can be spotted at dusk. Well-maintained trails wind through diverse flora, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.Family-Friendly Facilities and Recreational Activities
At the base of the hill lies a dog-free play area designed for children under 12, featuring a sandpit, swings, climbing frames, and nautical-themed rigging. The park also hosts two outdoor exercise stations for fitness enthusiasts. Picnic areas and benches are scattered throughout, inviting visitors to relax amid the greenery. Barbecues are permitted in designated zones under strict guidelines to protect the grass and wildlife. Regular community activities include Tai Chi classes and a tree trail developed by local supporters.Access, Amenities, and Community Engagement
Brandon Hill is accessible from several entrances including Great George Street, Park Street, Jacob Wells Road, and Berkeley Square. While the park is quite hilly, pathways connect the play area and nature reserve, though steep terrain may challenge wheelchair users. There is no dedicated parking on-site, but street parking and nearby car parks are available. Facilities include toilets near Cabot Tower, which operate daily from 8am to 6pm except on major holidays. The Friends of Brandon Hill community group actively supports the park’s upkeep and events, fostering a strong local connection.A Year-Round Urban Escape with Changing Seasons
Open at all times throughout the year, Brandon Hill offers a different experience with each season. Spring brings a burst of wildflowers and wildlife activity, summer invites picnics and panoramic views, autumn colors the trees in warm hues, and winter shelters migrating birds. The park’s elevated position provides refreshing breezes and clear skies for stargazing on crisp nights. Whether for a quiet stroll, family outing, or photography session, Brandon Hill remains a beloved green jewel in Bristol’s urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Statue of Cary Grant
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Cascade Steps
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Statue of Edmund Burke
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King George V Memorial Fountain
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The Matthew of Bristol
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M Shed
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Bristol Ferry
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Prince Street Bridge
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Bristol Harbour Railway
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St John's Church
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Queen Square
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Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
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Old Post Office
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
0.3 km
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Village
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The Clifton Arcade
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Discover unique gifts, art, and fashion at The Clifton Arcade in Bristol – a must-visit for every traveler seeking local charm.
Mint Velvet Bristol
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Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Something Elsie
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Fig1
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About Face
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Memories
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bag of Nails
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The Eldon House
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Hyde & Co
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The Brass Pig
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Be At One - Bristol
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The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
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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
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Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
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Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Barrelhouse
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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
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Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
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The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
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The Architect
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Shakespeare Tavern
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The Milk Thistle
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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
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From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
La Rocca
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The Pearl NightClub
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Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Antix
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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
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Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
OMG
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Bristol Lola Lo
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Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
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Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
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Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Lizard Lounge
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A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
PRYZM
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Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
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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
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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
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
