Queen Square: Bristol's Historic Georgian Oasis
A serene Georgian square in Bristol’s center, blending historic charm with peaceful green space and vibrant cultural life.
Queen Square is a grand Georgian park in the heart of Bristol, England, known for its spacious lawns, classic architecture, and rich history. Surrounded by elegant Georgian townhouses and featuring the statue of King William III, it offers a tranquil retreat amid the city bustle. The square hosts cultural events and reflects Bristol’s resilience after the 1831 riots that shaped its character.
A brief summary to Queen Square
- Queen Square, Bristol, BS1 4LH, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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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 early morning or late afternoon for the calmest atmosphere and best light for photography.
- Check the local event schedule as Queen Square often hosts outdoor concerts and theatre performances.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, especially on sunny days when the square is lively yet tranquil.
- Explore the surrounding Georgian architecture and nearby Harbourside area for a fuller Bristol experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several bus routes serve stops within 500 meters of Queen Square, including routes from Bristol Bus Station and Temple Meads Station, with journey times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 one way. Services run frequently throughout the day but check schedules for evening times.
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Train and Walk
From Bristol Temple Meads railway station, Queen Square is a 15-minute walk through the city center on mostly flat terrain, suitable for most visitors. The walk passes through historic streets with cafes and shops, offering an enjoyable approach without transport costs.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing
A taxi or ride-hailing service from central Bristol locations or Temple Meads station to Queen Square takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £5 to £10. This option is convenient for travelers with luggage or mobility needs.
Queen Square 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 Queen Square
A Georgian Heritage in the Heart of Bristol
Queen Square stands as a magnificent example of Georgian urban design, covering approximately 2.4 hectares in central Bristol. Originally marshland and a rubbish dump until the early 17th century, it was transformed into a tree-lined promenade and recreational space by 1622. The square took its present form around 1700 and was named after Queen Anne in 1702. Its perimeter is lined with elegant Georgian townhouses, many of which have been preserved or carefully restored, creating a harmonious architectural ensemble that frames the park.The Statue of King William III and Historical Significance
At the center of Queen Square is the striking statue of King William III, sculpted by Peter Scheemakers and erected in 1736. This statue is a focal point symbolizing the square’s historical importance. Queen Square witnessed dramatic events, most notably the Bristol Riots of 1831, when violent protests against the rejection of the Reform Bill led to widespread destruction. Nearly 100 buildings around the square were burned, including key civic structures. The aftermath saw decades of rebuilding, which shaped the square’s current appearance and reinforced its place in Bristol’s civic memory.A Tranquil Urban Retreat with Cultural Vibrancy
Today, Queen Square offers a peaceful green space with level lawns, wide gravel paths, and mature trees, providing a calm oasis amid Bristol’s bustling city center. It is a favored spot for relaxation, picnics, and quiet reflection. The square’s open layout and scenic surroundings make it a popular venue for outdoor theatre, concerts, and community events, enriching Bristol’s cultural life. Its proximity to the Harbourside and Old City areas enhances its accessibility and appeal.Architectural and Environmental Features
The square is notable for its classic Georgian architecture, with cobbled streets and period buildings that often serve as filming locations for television and movies. The park’s design includes tarmac walks, a cobbled roadway, and paved pavements, ensuring accessibility. Although there is no dedicated parking, the area is well served by nearby public transport. The square is dog-friendly and equipped with seating areas, making it welcoming for families and visitors seeking a leisurely urban escape.Community and Visitor Experience
Queen Square is embraced as a community hub where locals and tourists alike gather for events or to enjoy the outdoors. The square’s open access at all times encourages spontaneous visits, while occasional event restrictions are clearly managed. Its atmosphere balances historic grandeur with a casual, friendly vibe, appealing to a wide range of visitors including families, solo travelers, and cultural enthusiasts.Preservation and Accessibility
Efforts to maintain Queen Square’s heritage and green space are ongoing, with attention to accessibility for all visitors. The park features level paths and is listed on accessibility guides, ensuring it is usable by people with mobility challenges. Its central location and integration into Bristol’s urban fabric make it an essential green lung and historic landmark within the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.2 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Prince Street Bridge
0.3 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.
Cascade Steps
0.3 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.4 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Bristol Bridge
0.4 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.4 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
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.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.4 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.5 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Medieval Vaults
0.5 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
The Nails
0.5 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Old City Walls
0.5 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.5 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.5 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.5 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bristol Ferry
0.2 km
Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
Bristol Old Vic
0.2 km
Experience the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, where history and innovation meet on Bristol’s King Street.
Narrow Quay
0.2 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Welsh Back
0.2 km
Historic waterfront street in Bristol, blending maritime heritage, abolitionist history, and vibrant cultural life along the Floating Harbour.
Pero's Bridge
0.2 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
TimeTrail
0.2 km
Step into history with TimeTrail, an immersive live-action adventure on Bristol’s historic King Street that challenges your wits and teamwork.
Floating Harbour
0.2 km
Explore Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour—a vibrant waterfront blending maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and lively harbourside charm.
Watershed
0.3 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Redcliffe Caves
0.3 km
Explore Bristol’s mysterious underground network of historic sandstone caves, once vital to glassmaking and now a captivating cultural venue.
Bristol Aquarium
0.3 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
Bristol Harbour Railway
0.3 km
Step aboard Bristol Harbour Railway’s heritage steam train for a scenic 15-minute journey through the city’s historic waterfront.
The Bristol Wheel
0.3 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Harbourside
0.3 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
The Centre
0.4 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
We The Curious
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
Essential places to dine
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.1 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Hole In The Wall Bristol
0.1 km
Historic Bristol gastropub offering classic British fare, vibrant atmosphere, and a charming beer garden in the heart of Queen Square.
Adelina Yard
0.2 km
Modern European fine dining on Bristol’s historic Welsh Back, where seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes create an intimate, Michelin-recognized experience.
The River Grille
0.2 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Riverstation
0.2 km
Stylish harbourside dining in Bristol with dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic river views from a smart, nautical-inspired restaurant and bar.
Rick's
0.2 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Harbour House - Restaurant, Bar & Terrace
0.2 km
Historic waterfront restaurant celebrating southwest seafood and seasonal produce with stunning harbour views.
Under the Stars
0.2 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.2 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
The Bristol Stable
0.3 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Aqua Welshback
0.3 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
No.1 Harbourside
0.3 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Turtle Bay Bristol Broad Quay
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Pieminister
0.3 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.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Will's doss pit
0.1 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
my a2space
0.2 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Over Here
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
This Feeling
0.4 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.4 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Something Elsie
0.4 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
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
0.5 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.5 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Urban Fox
0.5 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Fig1
0.5 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.
Orendo
0.6 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
0.6 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.6 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Kongs of King Street
0.1 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Small Bar
0.1 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Shakespeare Tavern
0.2 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Architect
0.2 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.3 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
The Clockwork Rose
0.4 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Revolution Bristol
0.4 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.4 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
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.
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 Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Thekla
0.2 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.
PRYZM
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Basement 45
0.5 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
0.6 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.6 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Antix
0.7 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
0.7 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.7 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
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.
La Rocca
1.1 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
1.1 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
1.1 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
1.1 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- 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
