The Red Lodge Museum
Step behind a red door into a 16th-century Tudor lodge and discover 400 years of Bristol’s history, from merchant grandeur to Victorian reform, in a free, atmospheric city-centre museum.
Tucked behind a bright red door on Park Row, The Red Lodge Museum is a beautifully preserved 16th-century Tudor lodge in central Bristol. Step into a world of ornate wood panelling, historic rooms and a tranquil Elizabethan knot garden, where centuries of Bristol’s social history unfold across seven intimate galleries. Once a grand merchant’s lodge and later a girls’ reform school, the house now offers a free, atmospheric journey through time in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to The Red Lodge Museum
- Park Row, Bristol, BS1 5LJ, GB
- +441179211360
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check opening days in advance – the museum is only open Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 4pm, and closed midweek.
- Allow at least an hour to fully appreciate the seven rooms and the knot garden; more if you enjoy chatting with the knowledgeable volunteers.
- Be prepared for many stairs – the house is spread over several floors with no lift, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Georgian House Museum or a walk along Park Street and the historic city centre.
- Look out for the original Tudor panelling, the ornate Bath stone fireplace and the tranquil Elizabethan knot garden for some of the most memorable details.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
On foot from city centre
From central Bristol, walk along Park Street towards the city centre; the museum is a short distance along Park Row, just off the main thoroughfare. Allow 10–15 minutes on foot from Broadmead or College Green, following the main pedestrian routes.
-
Public transport
Take a local bus to the Park Street or College Green area in central Bristol, then walk a few minutes along Park Row to the museum. Services run frequently from Temple Meads station and the city centre, with journey times of 10–20 minutes depending on starting point.
-
From Temple Meads station
From Bristol Temple Meads station, walk or take a short bus ride to the city centre, then proceed along Park Street to Park Row. The walk from the station takes about 20–25 minutes on level ground, or 10–15 minutes by bus plus a short walk.
-
Driving and parking
Driving into central Bristol can be challenging; on-street parking near Park Row is limited and expensive. Use a city centre car park such as Cabot Circus or NCP on Park Street, then walk 5–10 minutes to the museum along Park Row.
The Red Lodge Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Red Lodge Museum
A Tudor Lodge in the City
Behind a modest red door on Park Row lies one of Bristol’s oldest surviving houses, The Red Lodge. Built around 1580 for John Yonge, a wealthy merchant and former mayor, this timber-framed lodge was originally part of a much grander estate that once stood near what is now Colston Hall. Though the surrounding mansion is long gone, the Red Lodge remains a rare and intimate example of Elizabethan domestic architecture in the city. Its Great and Small Oak Rooms, with their richly carved panelling and original Bath stone fireplace, transport visitors back to a time when Bristol was a thriving port and centre of trade.Layers of History Under One Roof
The house has worn many hats over the centuries. After its early life as a nobleman’s lodge, it later became a Georgian townhouse, with elegant parlours and a print room reflecting the tastes of the 18th century. In the 19th century, it took on a very different role as the Red Lodge Girls’ Reform School, founded by the pioneering social reformer Mary Carpenter. Today, the museum’s Exhibition Room honours this chapter, exploring the lives of the girls who lived and worked here. The New Oak Room, furnished with panelling and a fireplace salvaged from other historic Bristol buildings, adds another layer to the story of preservation and reuse.Stepping Through Centuries
The museum’s seven rooms are arranged to tell the building’s evolving story, from Tudor grandeur to Victorian reform. Visitors descend into the cellar to see the remains of a 16th-century well, a quiet reminder of the house’s deep roots. Upstairs, the bedrooms and reception rooms are furnished to reflect different eras, with period details that bring each period to life. Knowledgeable volunteers often dress in costume and interpret specific centuries, offering a vivid sense of how people lived, worked and socialised in this house over more than 400 years.A Hidden Garden and Quiet Corners
One of the Red Lodge’s most delightful surprises is its Elizabethan knot garden, visible from the upper windows. This formal garden, laid out in a traditional geometric pattern, provides a peaceful green oasis in the middle of the city. The garden and the surrounding courtyard create a sense of stepping away from modern Bristol into a quieter, more contemplative space. It’s a place where the past feels close at hand, and where the sounds of traffic give way to birdsong and the rustle of leaves.A Free Journey Through Bristol’s Past
Now a branch of Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, The Red Lodge Museum is free to enter, making it an accessible and rewarding stop for anyone interested in history, architecture or social change. The experience is intimate rather than overwhelming, perfect for a thoughtful hour or two. Its central location means it can easily be combined with a stroll through the city centre, a visit to nearby museums or a wander through Bristol’s historic streets and hidden courtyards, all of which echo the layered history found within the Red Lodge itself.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.2 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Cascade Steps
0.4 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime 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.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.4 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.4 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
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.
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.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.6 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old City Walls
0.6 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Bristol Bridge
0.6 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
0.6 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Millennium Square
0.6 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and cultural richness of Millennium Square, Bristol's premier urban park and social hub.
Floating Harbour
0.6 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Bristol at the Floating Harbour, a captivating marina filled with history, dining, and artistic treasures.
Queen Square
0.6 km
Experience the serene beauty and historical charm of Queen Square, a stunning green oasis in the heart of Bristol, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
St Peter's Church
0.7 km
Haunting ruins of St Peter’s Church in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant memorial to the victims of the WWII Bristol Blitz.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bristol Beacon
0.1 km
Bristol Beacon: Where historic charm meets vibrant live music and cultural celebration in the heart of Bristol.
Christmas Steps
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s enchanting Christmas Steps, a historic cobbled lane blending medieval charm with vibrant arts and rich local stories.
Banksy’s Well Hung Lover
0.2 km
Discover Banksy’s cheeky and iconic Well Hung Lover mural, Bristol’s first legal street art and a symbol of urban culture and defiance.
The Christmas Steps
0.2 km
Step back in time on Bristol’s historic Christmas Steps, a charming medieval street rich in culture, history, and cozy local character.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.3 km
Bristol’s intimate boutique magic theatre pub blending comedy, live music, and classic ales in a cozy, theatrical setting.
The Centre
0.3 km
The Centre, Bristol: where history, transport, and culture converge in a vibrant urban open space.
The Georgian House Museum
0.3 km
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.
St George's Bristol
0.3 km
Historic Georgian church turned world-class concert hall with superb acoustics and a vibrant cultural programme in the heart of Bristol.
haunted and hidden bristol walking tour
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s spooky secrets and cinematic history on this award-winning haunted walking tour led by a charismatic local guide.
St John's Church
0.3 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.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant British dining in a stunning former banking hall at the heart of Bristol’s Old City.
Wills Memorial Building
0.3 km
A towering neo-Gothic icon of Bristol and the heart of the University of Bristol’s academic and ceremonial life.
Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre
0.3 km
Explore Palestinian heritage and culture at Bristol’s vibrant Palestine Museum & Cultural Centre, a hub for history, art, and community events.
Statue of Queen Victoria
0.4 km
Explore the grandeur of the Statue of Queen Victoria in Bristol, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's royal heritage and charm.
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.
Essential places to dine
Bambalan
0.2 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with rooftop views, lively DJs, and a spirited social scene in the heart of Bristol.
Ciao Amici Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with handmade pizzas and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the heart of Bristol’s cultural scene.
Hat Bistro
0.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and warm hospitality at Hat Bistro, Bristol’s cozy Mediterranean gem with locally sourced flavors.
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.
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.
Four Wise Monkeys
0.4 km
Lively pan-Asian fusion dining with retro Tokyo vibes and bold flavours in Bristol’s city centre.
The Ox
0.4 km
Charcoal-grilled steaks in an atmospheric basement vault with cocktails and old-money elegance.
No.1 Harbourside
0.4 km
Bristol's independent waterside gem serving bold burgers, local drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Pasta Ripiena
0.4 km
A tiny Bristol gem where every bite of handmade stuffed pasta bursts with seasonal Italian flavour.
San Carlo - Bristol
0.4 km
Elegant Italian dining in Bristol with sumptuous seafood, grand interiors, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
Under the Stars
0.4 km
Discover exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails at Under the Stars in Bristol's scenic waterfront area – where culinary delight meets vibrant ambiance.
Marmo Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.4 km
Michelin-recognized Italian cooking with organic wines in Bristol's vibrant restaurant quarter.
Harbour Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Stylish seafood dining with British seaside soul in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Corn Street.
The Bristol Stable
0.4 km
Sourdough pizzas, West Country ciders, and lively Harbourside vibes combine at The Bristol Stable for a quintessential Bristol dining experience.
Botanist Bristol
0.4 km
Plant-filled gastropub celebrating seasonal British cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in Bristol's City Centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Alices Secret Empourium
0.2 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
0.2 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Blaze
0.2 km
Unique gifts and artisanal treasures in Bristol's creative heart—perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs on Colston Street.
Ganesha
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
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.
uchi clothing co
0.5 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.5 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered 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.
This Feeling
0.5 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
my a2space
0.5 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Over Here
0.5 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Will's doss pit
0.5 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Zhyper
0.7 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Milk Thistle
0.3 km
Bristol's multi-level speakeasy masterpiece: inventive cocktails, taxidermy charm, and intimate lounges in a historic townhouse—pure nightlife alchemy.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Gold Bar
0.4 km
Experience Bristol’s ultimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar with opulent décor, masterful mixology, and vibrant weekend entertainment.
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
0.5 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
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.
The Rummer
0.5 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
0.5 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Silk Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.2 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
0.2 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Antix
0.2 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.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.2 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
OMG
0.3 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Popworld - Bristol
0.4 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
0.4 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
The Pearl NightClub
0.5 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
La Rocca
0.5 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Bristol Lola Lo
0.5 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
0.6 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
PRYZM
0.6 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
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.
Lakota
1.0 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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
