Castle Park, Bristol's Historic Urban Oasis
Discover Bristol’s historic heart and peaceful riverside green space at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet vibrant urban life.
Castle Park is a spacious and tranquil green space located in the heart of Bristol city centre. It features the remains of Bristol Castle, St Peter's Church, a bandstand, and beautifully maintained gardens. The park offers a peaceful retreat with riverside views, walking paths, and a small café, blending history and nature amid the urban bustle.
A brief summary to Castle Park
- Broad Weir, Bristol, BS1 3XB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Vaulted Chambers Café for a relaxing break with indoor and outdoor seating near the church.
- Explore the interpretation panels throughout the park to learn about Bristol Castle’s rich history.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns or benches, especially near the flower gardens and riverside.
- Use the Galleries car park opposite the park for convenient paid parking during your visit.
- Walk across the winding bridge to access additional shops and restaurants along the river.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Restrooms
Getting There
-
Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Bristol city centre with stops near Broad Weir, approximately a 5-10 minute walk to Castle Park. Bus journeys from central Bristol locations typically take 10-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 depending on distance.
-
Car
Driving to Castle Park is convenient via city centre roads with parking available at the Galleries car park opposite the park. Parking fees apply, typically £2-£4 per hour. Traffic can be busy during peak times.
-
Walking
Castle Park is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Bristol city centre landmarks. Walking times range from 5 to 15 minutes depending on starting point. Terrain is mostly flat, suitable for all mobility levels.
-
Train
Bristol Temple Meads station is about 1.5 km from Castle Park, a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride. Trains connect Bristol to regional and national destinations. Walking routes from the station are mostly flat and well signposted.
Castle Park location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Castle Park
A Living Link to Bristol's Past
Castle Park occupies the site of the former Bristol Castle, whose keep, walls, and vaults remain as evocative ruins within the park. These Grade II listed remnants offer a tangible connection to the city's medieval history and the Norman era. Interpretation panels scattered throughout the park provide insights into the archaeological significance of the site, tracing the castle's rise and eventual destruction during World War II. The park is also home to St Peter's Church, a Grade II* listed building, whose historic presence enhances the cultural depth of the area.Urban Green Space in the City Centre
Despite its central location, Castle Park provides a surprisingly peaceful green refuge from the surrounding city hustle. The park stretches roughly half a kilometer in length and offers expansive lawns, mature trees, and flower gardens, including a physic garden maintained by local community groups. The riverside edge of the park runs alongside the River Avon, offering scenic waterside walks and a winding bridge that connects to further shops and restaurants across the river. Benches and picnic spots are plentiful, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the open air.Community and Leisure Facilities
Castle Park is a hub for local events and leisure activities. The bandstand hosts music sessions and community gatherings, contributing to the lively atmosphere during warmer months. Nearby, the Vaulted Chambers Café provides a cozy spot for refreshments with both indoor and outdoor seating. While the park itself does not have public restrooms, facilities are available in adjacent shopping areas. The park is well maintained, with areas occasionally closed for grass reseeding to preserve its lush appearance.Floral Beauty and Memorials
The park features beautifully designed flower beds, including a dedicated flower garden near St Peter's Church, bursting with seasonal blooms. A notable memorial within the park is the row of seven Silver Birch trees, planted in remembrance of the seven beaches involved in the D-Day landings, adding a poignant historical layer to the natural beauty. Water features near the church create a serene environment, popular with families during warmer months.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Castle Park is open 24/7 with free admission, making it accessible at any time. While some areas have steps, much of the park is accessible for visitors with mobility needs. Parking is available nearby in the Galleries car park, which requires payment. The park's central location makes it an ideal spot for a midday break during shopping or sightseeing, offering both tranquility and a glimpse into Bristol's layered history.Exploring Beyond the Park
Paths from Castle Park lead into Bristol’s vibrant town centre and along the river towards the harbour front, making it a convenient starting point for further exploration. The nearby winding bridge offers easy access to additional shops and eateries, blending the natural and urban experiences seamlessly. Whether for a quiet walk, a cultural outing, or a family day out, Castle Park stands as a versatile and cherished green space in Bristol’s cityscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bristol Castle
0.0 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
Fermentation Buildings
0.2 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.2 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Old City Walls
0.3 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Cheese Lane Shot Tower
0.3 km
Bristol's brutalist shot tower—where gravity shaped ammunition and history shaped preservation.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.3 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Medieval Vaults
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Bristol Bridge
0.3 km
A historic Georgian stone bridge spanning Bristol’s floating harbour, blending medieval roots with modern pedestrian charm.
The Nails
0.4 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Old Post Office
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Templar Stone
0.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Bristol’s 12th-century Temple Church, a landmark steeped in Knights Templar history and medieval mystery.
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
0.8 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Cascade Steps
0.8 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Round Pool
0.1 km
Discover Castle Park’s blend of medieval ruins, peaceful gardens, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Bristol city centre.
St Peter's Church
0.1 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of St Peter's Church, a beloved landmark in Castle Park, Bristol, steeped in centuries of heritage.
Castle Wharf
0.2 km
Modern waterside living in Bristol’s Redcliffe district, with views across the Floating Harbour to Castle Park and the city centre.
Bristol Shopping Quarter
0.2 km
Explore Bristol Shopping Quarter, where historic charm meets modern retail in a vibrant city-centre shopping and leisure destination.
BRISTOL
0.2 km
Broadmead: Bristol’s bustling historic shopping quarter blending heritage charm with vibrant retail and cultural experiences.
John Wesley's New Room
0.3 km
Step into the world’s oldest Methodist chapel, where faith, history and social justice meet in the heart of Bristol.
Alcotraz Bristol: Cell Block Two-Two-Six
0.3 km
Discover the immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz Bristol, where every drink tells a story in a unique prison-themed setting.
Bristol city centre
0.3 km
The vibrant heart of Bristol, blending rich history, culture, shopping, and scenic waterfront charm in a lively urban setting.
Cabot Circus
0.4 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Bristol with over 130 stores beneath a stunning glass roof, blending modern design and historic charm.
St Nicholas Market
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan crafts, and global street food in a charming Georgian arcade.
Bex's Hall Of Mirrors
0.4 km
Discover a mesmerizing world of reflections and illusions at Bex's Hall Of Mirrors, a captivating interactive attraction inside Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
The Lanes
0.4 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
Temple Church
0.4 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Temple Church, a stunning landmark in Bristol that showcases the city's rich heritage.
The Bearpit
0.4 km
A sunken urban plaza in Bristol blending brutalist design with vibrant community markets and cultural events.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.5 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
Essential places to dine
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
Mugshot Restaurants Bristol
0.4 km
Experience 1920s vintage glamour and interactive hot stone steak dining in the heart of Bristol’s historic old town.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.4 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
The Ox
0.5 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Aqua Welshback
0.5 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.5 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.5 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Pasta Ripiena
0.5 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.5 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
Caribbean Croft
0.6 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
Adelina Yard
0.7 km
Modern European fine dining on Bristol’s historic Welsh Back, where seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes create an intimate, Michelin-recognized experience.
Bambalan
0.7 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
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.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.7 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Pasture
0.7 km
Premium West Country steaks cooked over charcoal in a vibrant Victorian warehouse with live music and craft cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Prior Shop - Cabot Circus (Independent Superstore)
0.1 km
Bristol's award-winning ethical design hub showcasing 150+ independent makers in a gallery, workshop, and community space.
Fig1
0.1 km
Discover stylish Scandinavian-inspired homewares and gifts in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Broadmead shopping district.
Garmden of Eden
0.2 km
A Bristol vintage clothing gem where retro style meets sustainable fashion in a welcoming, independent shop on Union Street.
Everything one pound shop
0.2 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a vibrant shopping experience at Everything One Pound Shop in Bristol’s The Galleries.
Menkind
0.3 km
Bristol's premier destination for unique gifts, gadgets, and toys that delight all ages.
Beyond Retro - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover unique, hand-picked vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Bristol’s bustling Broadmead shopping district.
& Other Stories
0.3 km
Discover contemporary women’s fashion and accessories blending Scandinavian design with urban style in Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
The Ethical Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s charming boutique for sustainable, fair-trade gifts and eco-friendly treasures in the heart of Broadmead.
Urban Fox
0.4 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Wild Thing
0.4 km
An independent Bristol boutique for alternative, festival and dopamine fashion with an ethical heart.
uchi clothing co
0.4 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Memories
0.4 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.4 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
This Feeling
0.4 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Library Bristol
0.4 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
The Rummer
0.4 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.4 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Gold Bar
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
The Boardroom
0.4 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
0.4 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
0.5 km
Bristol's dazzling cocktail bar on Corn Street, blending royal elegance, masterful martinis, bottomless brunches, and electric nights in the heart of Old City.
Revolution Bristol
0.5 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.5 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Flight Club Bristol
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.5 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
The Milk Thistle
0.5 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
The Clockwork Rose
0.5 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Bristol
0.6 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
0.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Lakota
0.7 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
The Loco Klub
0.8 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Thekla
0.9 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.
Basement 45
0.9 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.9 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
PRYZM
1.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
OMG
1.0 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Silk Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
1.0 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.
Dare to Club
1.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
1.0 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Motion
1.1 km
Bristol’s legendary warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground electronic music and community spirit in an iconic industrial setting.
Bristol Lola Lo
1.3 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
