Castle Park and Round Pool: Bristol’s Historic Urban Oasis
Discover Castle Park’s blend of medieval ruins, peaceful gardens, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Bristol city centre.
Castle Park in central Bristol is a serene urban green space rich in history, featuring the ruins of Bristol Castle, St Peter’s Church, and the tranquil Round Pool. This park blends medieval heritage with peaceful gardens, winding paths, and commemorative trees, offering visitors a unique mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Round Pool
- Bristol, BS1 6WF, 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 early in the morning for a quieter, more reflective experience amid the ruins and gardens.
- Bring a picnic blanket to relax on the lawns near the Round Pool and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Explore the Castle Park Tree Trail to discover over 300 trees and learn about the park’s biodiversity.
- Check the events calendar for live music sessions at the bandstand and community activities.
- Don’t miss the historical interpretation panels that reveal the fascinating archaeological layers beneath the park.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Several bus routes serve the city centre near Castle Park, with stops within a 5-10 minute walk. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with ticket prices typically ranging from £2 to £4 depending on the route and operator.
-
Train and Walk
Bristol Temple Meads railway station is approximately 1.5 km from Castle Park, about a 20-minute walk through the city centre. The walk is mostly flat and accessible, passing through vibrant urban areas.
-
Car and Parking
There is no dedicated parking at Castle Park, but several metered car parks are nearby, including the Galleries car park opposite the park. Parking fees vary but generally range from £1.50 to £3 per hour.
-
Ferry
Passenger ferries operate between Castle Park Landing and Bristol Harbourside, providing a scenic and leisurely access option. Ferry schedules vary seasonally, with fares around £4 to £6 for a single trip.
Round Pool location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Round Pool
A Living Tapestry of Bristol’s Past
Castle Park is a remarkable open space nestled in the heart of Bristol city centre, where layers of history unfold across its grounds. Once the site of Bristol Castle, a Norman fortress destroyed in the 17th century, the park preserves relics such as the castle keep, vaulted chambers, and walls that whisper stories of medieval defence and city life. The roofless shell of the 12th-century St Peter’s Church stands as a poignant memorial to those who lost their lives in the Bristol Blitz during World War II, blending history with remembrance. Nearby, the ruins of St Mary-le-Port, a Saxon-founded church, hint at the area’s deep roots stretching back over a millennium.Tranquil Green Spaces and Living Memorials
Beyond its historical features, Castle Park offers lush lawns, winding pathways, and peaceful gardens that invite relaxation and reflection. The Normandy Garden of Peace, planted with seven silver birch trees, commemorates the beaches of the D-Day landings, creating a living tribute within the urban landscape. The Castle Park Physic Garden cultivates medicinal plants, maintained by local community groups, adding botanical interest and a touch of natural heritage. The Round Pool, a serene water feature within the park, enhances the tranquil atmosphere, providing a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or gentle strolls.Art, Community, and Nature Intertwined
Castle Park is not only a historical and natural haven but also a vibrant community space. The bandstand hosts music sessions and events, enriching the cultural fabric of the city. Artistic touches, such as the geometric stone sculpture "Beside the Still Waters" by Peter Randall-Page, add a modern layer of creativity to the park’s landscape. The park’s tree trail guides visitors through a diverse collection of over 300 trees, highlighting the biodiversity and ecological value embedded within this urban setting.Setting and Surroundings
Bordered by Bristol Old City, the Bristol Shopping Quarter, and the Floating Harbour, Castle Park is perfectly positioned for visitors to explore both nature and city life. The nearby Castle Bridge offers pedestrian access to the historic Redcliffe neighborhood, while passenger ferries connect the park to Bristol Harbourside, linking this green oasis seamlessly with the city’s waterways. Despite being centrally located, the park maintains a peaceful ambience, making it a cherished retreat from the urban bustle.Recent Developments and Future Vision
Ongoing regeneration efforts aim to enhance Castle Park’s role as a social and ecological hub. Designs focus on integrating biodiverse gardens, stepped terraces, and communal spaces that foster neighbourly interaction and connect the park more closely to the Floating Harbour. These improvements reflect Bristol’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring Castle Park remains a vital and welcoming green space for future generations.Visitor Experience and Practical Highlights
Visitors can enjoy a mix of historical exploration, nature walks, and cultural events within Castle Park. The park is open at all times with no admission fee, offering easy access to its many features. While there is no dedicated parking, nearby metered car parks and public transport options make it accessible. Facilities include a café near the vaulted chambers and information boards that interpret the rich archaeological and cultural heritage of the site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bristol Castle
0.1 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
0.2 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.2 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
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.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Cheese Lane Shot Tower
0.3 km
Bristol's brutalist shot tower—where gravity shaped ammunition and history shaped preservation.
The Nails
0.3 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
0.6 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
0.6 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.
Cascade Steps
0.7 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
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 Park
0.1 km
Discover Bristol’s historic heart and peaceful riverside green space at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet vibrant urban life.
Castle Wharf
0.1 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.
Alcotraz Bristol: Cell Block Two-Two-Six
0.2 km
Discover the immersive cocktail experience at Alcotraz Bristol, where every drink tells a story in a unique prison-themed setting.
BRISTOL
0.3 km
Broadmead: Bristol’s bustling historic shopping quarter blending heritage charm with vibrant retail and cultural experiences.
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.
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.
St Nicholas Market
0.3 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.
The Lanes
0.3 km
Bristol’s ultimate destination for boutique bowling, live music, karaoke, and great pizza in a lively, vibrant setting.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.4 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
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 John's Church
0.4 km
A medieval church built into Bristol’s city walls, St John on the Wall is the last of five gate churches, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s fortified past and spiritual life.
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.
Floating Harbour
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour—a vibrant waterfront blending maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and lively harbourside charm.
Essential places to dine
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.3 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
0.4 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Aqua Welshback
0.4 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.4 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.4 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Pasta Ripiena
0.4 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.
Adelina Yard
0.6 km
Modern European fine dining on Bristol’s historic Welsh Back, where seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes create an intimate, Michelin-recognized experience.
Bambalan
0.6 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Pieminister
0.6 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
0.6 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine, tropical cocktails, and lively reggae vibes in Bristol’s vibrant Broad Quay district.
Caribbean Croft
0.6 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
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)
0.2 km
Bristol's award-winning ethical design hub showcasing 150+ independent makers in a gallery, workshop, and community space.
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.
Fig1
0.2 km
Discover stylish Scandinavian-inspired homewares and gifts in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Broadmead shopping district.
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.
Urban Fox
0.3 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
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.
Beyond Retro - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover unique, hand-picked vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Bristol’s bustling Broadmead shopping district.
Menkind
0.3 km
Bristol's premier destination for unique gifts, gadgets, and toys that delight all ages.
uchi clothing co
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Memories
0.3 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.3 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
This Feeling
0.3 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.3 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
Over Here
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Library Bristol
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.4 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Flight Club Bristol
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Bristol
0.5 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
0.5 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.
Thekla
0.8 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.
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.
Basement 45
0.8 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.
OMG
0.9 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
PRYZM
0.9 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Antix
0.9 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
0.9 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
1.0 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Dare to Club
1.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
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
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
