Stoke Park Estate, Bristol
Historic and expansive parkland in Bristol with iconic landmarks, diverse wildlife, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage.
Stoke Park Estate is a vast historic parkland in Bristol spanning 270 acres, featuring diverse landscapes including woodlands, grassy fields, a fishing lake, and panoramic views over East Bristol. It is home to the iconic yellow Dower House, ancient monuments, and WWII gun emplacements. Managed in partnership with conservation bodies, it offers walking trails, wildlife habitats, and cultural heritage in a serene natural setting.
A brief summary to Stoke Park Estate
- M32, Bristol, Duchess Gate, Bristol, BS16 1BX, GB
- +441179223719
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 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
- Wear sturdy shoes as paths can be uneven and muddy, especially off the main trails.
- No dedicated parking is available; plan to use free street parking nearby and allow time to walk to the park.
- Visit higher points in the park for panoramic views over East Bristol and excellent photo opportunities.
- Explore the wooden sculpture trail and watch for grazing cattle and goats in designated fenced areas.
- Check for free guided walking tours offered seasonally to learn about the estate’s history and wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First West of England bus services 1 or 2 towards Bristol city centre from nearby stops; journey times vary between 20 to 35 minutes depending on starting point. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evenings and weekends. The nearest stops are a 10-15 minute walk from the park entrances.
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Car
Driving to Stoke Park Estate is convenient via the M32 motorway. Free street parking is available on roads such as Romney Avenue and Long Down Avenue in Cheswick Village, approximately 5-10 minutes’ walk from the park. Note there is no dedicated car park on site, and parking spaces may be limited during peak times.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby, walking to Stoke Park Estate is a pleasant option. From Cheswick Village or Snuff Mills Park, expect a 15-25 minute walk over varied terrain including some hills and uneven paths. Suitable for most fitness levels but wear sturdy shoes.
Stoke Park Estate location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Stoke Park Estate
A Landscape Shaped by Centuries of History
Stoke Park Estate, covering 270 acres on the eastern flanks of Purdown in Bristol, is steeped in history dating back to medieval times. Originally part of the Berkeley family holdings from the 14th century, the estate evolved significantly in the 16th and 18th centuries. The yellow Dower House, built in 1563 by Sir Richard Berkeley, stands prominently atop a hill overlooking the park and the M32 motorway. This Grade II listed building was remodeled in the 18th century by Norborne Berkeley and renowned landscape designer Thomas Wright, whose garden design remains the only surviving example of his work. Throughout the estate, remnants of medieval field systems and pillow mounds—artificial rabbit warrens—reflect the land’s historical use for sustenance and hunting.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Conservation
Stoke Park Estate is designated as a Site of Nature Conservation Interest and a Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Site. Its varied habitats include species-rich grasslands, woodlands, scrub, ponds, and the fishing lake known as Duchess Pond. Conservation efforts include restoration of grasslands, hedgerow planting, and orchard cultivation with traditional apple and pear varieties. Grazing by cattle and goats is used to manage scrub and encourage wildflowers, supporting a diversity of wildlife including great crested newts, dragonflies, and glow worms. The estate’s natural environment offers a tranquil escape with multiple walking trails and woodland sculpture trails that engage visitors with both nature and art.Historic Monuments and Wartime Legacy
The estate holds several historic landmarks, including the Hermitage Tunnel and Purdown BT Tower. Notably, it contains well-preserved World War II gun emplacements on Purdown Ridge, known as Purdown Percy, which served as anti-aircraft batteries protecting Bristol during the Blitz. These concrete structures with octagonal gun emplacements and ammunition bays stand as a testament to the city’s wartime history. Additionally, the obelisk on Star Hill commemorates Elizabeth Berkeley, who tragically died on the estate in the 18th century. These monuments add layers of cultural heritage to the natural landscape.Recreational Opportunities and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Stoke Park Estate can enjoy a variety of activities including walking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park offers three main walking routes—Stoke Park Walk, Barn Wood Walk, and Hermitage Walk—each showcasing different aspects of the estate’s landscape and history. An all-weather accessible path improves inclusivity, while the wooden sculpture trail provides a playful element for families and children. The park’s hilly terrain and extensive footpaths make it popular for dog walking and jogging, with panoramic views of Bristol rewarding those who explore its higher elevations.Community Engagement and Conservation Partnership
The estate is managed through a partnership between Bristol City Council, Natural England, and Historic England, supported by public funding such as the Countryside Stewardship Scheme. This collaboration focuses on habitat restoration, landscape improvement, and public engagement through free walking tours and educational activities. The estate’s proximity to local communities and campuses like Frenchay and Glenside enhances its role as a green space for wellbeing and outdoor recreation. Conservation grazing and habitat management continue to balance ecological health with visitor access.Practical Information for Visitors
Stoke Park Estate is open year-round with no admission charge. There is no dedicated car park, but free street parking is available nearby. Facilities include scattered benches, limited trash bins, and the nearest public toilets located at Snuff Mills Park within walking distance. The terrain varies from accessible paths to more rugged, hilly areas, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The estate’s large size means visitors can spend anywhere from an hour to several hours exploring its diverse offerings, from peaceful lakeside walks to historic monument visits and woodland adventures.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bristol Rocks
3.7 km
Discover the beauty and adventure of Bristol Rocks, the ultimate destination for rock climbing enthusiasts and nature lovers in the heart of Bristol.
Southmead Round Barrow
3.9 km
Explore the ancient Southmead Round Barrow, a Bronze Age burial mound nestled within Bristol’s tranquil Badock’s Wood.
Bristol Castle
4.7 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
Cheese Lane Shot Tower
4.8 km
Bristol's brutalist shot tower—where gravity shaped ammunition and history shaped preservation.
Fermentation Buildings
4.9 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
4.9 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
St Mary Le Port Church
5.0 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old City Walls
5.0 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Templar Stone
5.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Bristol’s 12th-century Temple Church, a landmark steeped in Knights Templar history and medieval mystery.
Medieval Vaults
5.0 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Royal Talbot Buildings
5.0 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Bristol Bridge
5.0 km
A historic Georgian stone bridge spanning Bristol’s floating harbour, blending medieval roots with modern pedestrian charm.
The Nails
5.0 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
5.1 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Statue of Edmund Burke
5.3 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dragon Mushroom Castle sculpture
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Dragon Mushroom Castle sculpture—where mythical dragons and whimsical mushrooms unite in a magical woodcarving at Stoke Park, Bristol.
Rabbit Carving
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting world of rabbit carvings in Stoke Gifford, Bristol, where artistry meets nature in stunning wooden forms.
Beetle sculpture
0.6 km
Discover the commanding bronze Beetle sculpture by Nicola Hicks, a powerful symbol of nature’s strength in Bristol’s urban landscape.
Snuff Mills
0.8 km
Discover Bristol’s peaceful riverside park with historic mills, rich wildlife, and scenic woodland trails along the River Frome.
Bristol Wildlife Mural
3.0 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Bristol’s wildlife heritage and global conservation through bold street art in St Andrew's.
Bex's Hall Of Mirrors
4.3 km
Discover a mesmerizing world of reflections and illusions at Bex's Hall Of Mirrors, a captivating interactive attraction inside Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
Cabot Circus
4.4 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure destination in Bristol with over 130 stores beneath a stunning glass roof, blending modern design and historic charm.
Charles Wesley’s House
4.5 km
Step into the Georgian home where Charles Wesley crafted timeless hymns and shaped Methodist heritage in Bristol.
The Bearpit
4.5 km
A sunken urban plaza in Bristol blending brutalist design with vibrant community markets and cultural events.
BRISTOL
4.5 km
Broadmead: Bristol’s bustling historic shopping quarter blending heritage charm with vibrant retail and cultural experiences.
John Wesley's New Room
4.6 km
Step into the world’s oldest Methodist chapel, where faith, history and social justice meet in the heart of Bristol.
Bristol Shopping Quarter
4.6 km
Explore Bristol Shopping Quarter, where historic charm meets modern retail in a vibrant city-centre shopping and leisure destination.
St James' Priory
4.6 km
Explore Bristol’s oldest building, a Norman priory with nearly 900 years of history and stunning medieval architecture.
Castle Park
4.7 km
Discover Bristol’s historic heart and peaceful riverside green space at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet vibrant urban life.
Round Pool
4.8 km
Discover Castle Park’s blend of medieval ruins, peaceful gardens, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Bristol city centre.
Essential places to dine
The Lock Up
3.6 km
A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant in East Bristol serving seasonal modern British food with warmth and style.
Bianchis
3.8 km
Neighbourhood Italian trattoria serving refined Northern Italian cuisine and handmade pasta in Montpelier, Bristol.
Caper and Cure
4.0 km
Savor expertly crafted British cuisine in a historic Stokes Croft setting, where heritage meets vibrant, flavourful dining.
The Canteen
4.1 km
A vibrant vegetarian restaurant and live music venue in Bristol, blending ethical dining with a lively community spirit.
Nadu
4.1 km
Bold Tamil and Sri Lankan flavours in Bristol’s cultural heart, with fiery curries, giant dosas and creative rum cocktails in a vibrant Stokes Croft setting.
Caribbean Croft
4.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
Bulrush
4.5 km
A Michelin-starred tasting menu in a former greengrocer’s – inventive, intense, and unforgettable modern British cooking in Bristol’s Cotham.
Wilson's Restaurant
4.6 km
Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in Bristol’s Redland, blending seasonal British flavors with sustainability in a cozy bistro setting.
littlefrench
4.6 km
A cosy, authentic French bistro in Bristol’s Westbury Park, serving hearty classics and refined dishes with warm, friendly service.
Chris and Jo's Kitchen
4.9 km
A Bristol gem serving hearty, seasonal British food in a warm, unpretentious setting where every meal feels like a home-cooked feast.
Muiño
5.0 km
Cozy Spanish tapas with authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere in Bristol’s charming Redland neighborhood.
Bravas
5.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Bristol’s cozy and lively Bravas, where traditional flavors meet seasonal creativity.
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
5.0 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
San Carlo - Bristol
5.1 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
The Ox
5.1 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Esse's Dream Gift Shop
2.8 km
A charming independent gift shop in Bristol, full of carefully chosen cards, homewares, and local treasures for every occasion.
BAM Store + Space
2.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at BAM Store + Space, Easton’s vibrant hub for creativity and community.
iota bristol
3.3 km
Discover premium hi-fi audio and unique gifts at iota bristol, a boutique gem in Bristol’s vibrant Bishopston neighborhood.
USTUDIO Shop
3.4 km
A Bristol concept store blending Scandinavian and Japanese design in stationery, lifestyle goods, homewares, and self-care essentials.
Luxury Smell
3.5 km
Bristol's premier niche fragrance boutique offering expert consultations and exclusive luxury scents.
MAKE - Independent Clothing Store - Gloucester Road Bristol
3.6 km
Discover unique, sustainable fashion and local artistry at MAKE, Bristol’s independent boutique on vibrant Gloucester Road.
Born in Bristol
3.6 km
Discover unique local gifts and authentic Bristol charm at Born in Bristol, Redfield’s beloved independent gift shop.
Unique Word Collection
3.7 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts at Bristol’s welcoming Unique Word Collection, where originality meets charm in every item.
That Thing
4.2 km
Discover unique festival fashion and original designs at That Thing, Bristol’s vibrant independent boutique in the heart of Stokes Croft.
& Other Stories
4.4 km
Discover contemporary women’s fashion and accessories blending Scandinavian design with urban style in Bristol’s Cabot Circus.
Menkind
4.5 km
Bristol's premier destination for unique gifts, gadgets, and toys that delight all ages.
Wild Thing
4.5 km
An independent Bristol boutique for alternative, festival and dopamine fashion with an ethical heart.
Good Store Studio
4.5 km
A vibrant independent shop and creative hub in Bristol’s Old Market, showcasing eco-friendly products and supporting local artists.
Beyond Retro - Bristol
4.5 km
Discover unique, hand-picked vintage fashion treasures in the heart of Bristol’s bustling Broadmead shopping district.
Fig1
4.6 km
Discover stylish Scandinavian-inspired homewares and gifts in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Broadmead shopping district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
3.8 km
Step into Bristol’s Bootlegger for vintage cocktails, a cozy speakeasy vibe, and expertly crafted drinks inspired by the Prohibition era.
The Pipe & Slippers
4.0 km
A charming Bristol pub blending vintage style, excellent food, and lively local culture on Cheltenham Road.
To The Moon
4.4 km
A bohemian bar in Bristol’s Old Market, blending creative cocktails, live music, and artsy vibes for unforgettable nights.
The Whitmore Tap, Bristol
5.0 km
A lively Butcombe flagship pub on Whiteladies Road, blending classic ales, hearty food, games, and live sports in a welcoming Bristol setting.
The Rummer
5.0 km
A cozy, spirit-focused pub in the medieval heart of Bristol—fireside rooms, hundreds of gins and a distilled approach to cocktails.
The Gold Bar
5.0 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
The Library Bristol
5.0 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
Blame Gloria - Bristol
5.0 km
Dive into Bristol’s wildest retro cocktail bar with themed brunches, dazzling performances, and a party atmosphere like no other.
Dirty Martini - Bristol
5.1 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.
Alterego
5.1 km
A lively cocktail and sports bar in Bristol’s Redland, perfect for creative drinks, karaoke nights, and memorable social gatherings.
The Mothers' Ruin
5.1 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Milk Thistle
5.1 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
Flight Club Bristol
5.1 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant cocktails in Bristol’s lively, carnival-inspired cocktail bar on historic Corn Street.
The Boardroom
5.1 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
The Cocktail Club - Corn Street Bristol
5.1 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife with expertly crafted cocktails, galactic-themed interiors, and an unforgettable party atmosphere at The Cocktail Club Corn Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lakota
4.2 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
Dare to Club
4.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant, inclusive nightlife at Dare to Club, where diverse music and welcoming vibes create unforgettable nights.
Motion
5.0 km
Bristol’s iconic warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground beats and community spirit, celebrating decades of electronic music culture.
The Loco Klub
5.2 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.
Popworld - Bristol
5.2 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
5.2 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Silk Nightclub
5.4 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
5.4 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
5.4 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
5.4 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Antix
5.4 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.
Lizard Lounge
5.4 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
Bristol Lola Lo
5.5 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
OMG
5.5 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
The Pearl NightClub
5.5 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
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
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
