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BRISTOL CITY COUNCIL
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The Council House
College Green
BS1 5TR
General enquiries
8.30am - 5pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am - 4.30pm Friday
 www.bristol.gov.uk/
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Telephone:
0117 922 2000
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SOMERSET
COUNTY
COUNCIL
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County Hall, Taunton,
TA1 4DY Wessex
 www.somerset.gov.uk
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Telephone : 01823 355455
Fax : 01823 355 156 |
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Centre
Harbourside, Anchor Road, WildWalk At Bristol,
Bristol. BS1 5DB |
Tel: 0906 711 2191
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WESSEX POLITICS
THE WESSEX SOCIETY
is
dedicated to preserving and developing the cultural and linguistic
heritage
of Wessex. For more information please contact : WESSEX SOCIETY, 121
Worthing
Road, Patchway, BRISTOL
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THE
WESSEX
REGIONALIST PARTY/WESTSEAXE LANDRICESTAEFA
is dedicated to the
setting
up of self government for WESSEX. For membership information or general
enquiries
please contact :
James Gunter, Secretary-General, WESSEX REGIONALISTS, 5 Rickyard
Cottages,
Broad Hinton, Swindon,
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THE
WESSEX
CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
is an all party
group that is forwarding
the
exciting plans of all the people of WESSEX to have their own
parliament,
with powers equal to those of Scotland. For more information please
contact : WESSEX CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION, 1/2 Atlantic Road South
Until borders
are agreed with all the
various
regionalist groups in England WESSEX for our purposes consists of the
counties
of Somerset, Wiltshire, Dorset, Devon, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire
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SOMERSET HERITAGE CENTRE
 Somerset Heritage Centre
Brunel Way, Langford Mead, Norton Fitzwarren
Taunton, TA2 6SF
Telephone 01823 278805 (enquiries)
01823 337600 (appointments)
Please make an appointment if you need a guaranteed place in the
searchroom.
Fax 01823 347459
Email archives@somerset.gov.uk
http://www1.somerset.gov.uk/archives/
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We
exist to find, preserve and make available written records of
Somerset's people and communities.
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The Somerset Archives and Local
Studies Service offers:
 Free access for you to do your own
research, using archives such as parish, family, school and
business records
Accepting
documents relating to Somerset.
An archives
online catalogue.
An Education
and Learning Service, taking history to schools, colleges and the
wider community.
A Research
Service if you can't visit in person.
Talks and
exhibitions
A consultation and advice service in
North
Somerset libraries.
Advice on document
repair, handling and storage.
Please note that our
searchroom is currently very busy, and so on some days we cannot
accommodate microfiche or document users who have not made an
appointment. To avoid disappointment, please book a place by contacting us
a few days before
you would like to come in.
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The Somerset Archives and Local Studies Service is provided by Somerset County
Council and holds many millions of original documents, ranging in
date from the eighth century AD to the present day. It forms part
of the
Somerset Heritage Service, with
Historic Environment,
Museums and the
Victoria County History, all of which are housed at the Somerset
Heritage Centre. |
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If your site is
not included or has mistakes please contact
us
Great British Heritage Pass
- Visit Britain with the Great British Heritage Pass - the best of
British sightseeing and historic Britain for UK visitors. Get free
entry to almost 600 British heritage tourist attractions around
England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
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ATTRACTION
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Picture or CLICK
HERE
for a Map of the sights
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Address & Opening Times
and Click Through Website Link
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Tel/
Fax
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BRISTOL
With an approximate
population of 410,950, and urban area of 550,200, it is England's
sixth, and the UK's ninth most populous city and the
most populous city in South West England. It received a royal charter in 1155 and was granted
county status in 1373. For half a millennium it was the second or third
largest English city, It has a short coastline on the
estuary of the River Severn, which flows into the Bristol Channel. Bristol
is
the
largest centre of culture, employment and education in the
region. From its earliest days, its prosperity has been linked to that
of the Port of Bristol, the commercial port, which was in the city
centre but has now moved to the Severn Estuary coast at Avonmouth and
Portbury, to the western extent of the city boundary. In more recent
years the economy has been built on the aerospace industry and the city
centre docks have been regenerated as a centre of heritage and culture.
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Centre
Harbourside, Anchor Road, WildWalk At Bristol, Bristol. BS1 5DB
Bristol
City
Council
BBC Bristol
Bristol at the Open Directory Project
Visit Bristol
Panoramic
photographs
of
Bristol
Bristol travel guide from
Wikitravel
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Tel: 0906 711 2191 |
3D GALLERY
Located close to the heart of Bristol city centre, this gallery has a
good reputation for exhibiting some of the finest collections of art
that are to be seen in this area of the country. Carrying an eclectic
collection of paintings and sculptures by local and much further flung
artists, the gallery is a prized possession of the cities cultural
scene.
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13 Perry Road,
Bristol
BS1 5BG
3-D
GALLERY CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 929 1363
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@BRISTOL
There is so much to discover for all the family with At-Bristol!
Join Morph and friends for a journey through animation past and present
and become an animator for the day. Be awed by icy bodies and cosmic
rays, play music through your headbones, activate the Vein Ray and see
your own veins, create your own TV show or cover yourself from head to
toe in your own giant bubble! With hundreds of hands-on exhibits to
explore, live shows and a Planetarium, At-Bristol is one of the UK’s
biggest and most exciting interactive science centres. Voted Visitor
Attraction of the Year 2011 by Bristol Tourism and Hospitality, we have
also been listed one of VisitBritain's top 10 family attractions, and
are one of The Guardian's top 20 family-friendly museums in the UK!
Book tickets now or see what’s on!
Change of exhibition Please note, from 6 February 2012 our
fossils and funnybones exhibition will be removed from the ground floor
to make way for our very special touring exhibition In the Zone.
Fossils and funnybones will return to the ground floor at the beginning
of March 2012.
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Anchor Road,
Harbourside,
Bristol
BS1 5DB
@BRISTOL
CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 9155000 - Fax: +44 (0)117
9157200
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ABBEY
GATEHOUSE
Once Britain was dotted with monasteries, each enclosed behind high
walls with strong gates. The bigger the abbey, the more magnificent its
gatehouse would be. Bristol has one of the few survivals. It once led
into the courtyard of the Abbey of St Augustine. The large Norman
archway was for horses and wheeled traffic, while the narrow arch was
for pedestrians. Above are rooms added by Tudor abbot John Newland, now
used as Bristol Cathedral Office. Notice the double roses, symbol of
the Tudors.
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College Green,
Bristol BS1 5TJ
ABBEY GATEHOUSE CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 926 4879
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ACTON COURT
This house was built for the pleasure of Henry VIII when he visited
this area of the world. Designed by Nicholas Poyntz, one of the most
eminent architects of his time, this is a beautifully conserved example
of a grand Tudor home. Visitors are invited to tour the grounds and
enjoy marvelling at the intricate craftsmanship both inside and out.
Acton Court is believed to be the most ‘original’ Tudor house in
Britain. In order to maintain the integrity of the building, as far as
possible, it has been left in its original state. The empty house has a
mysterious beauty that we have tried to preserve. Due to the fragile
nature of the construction, only small, escorted groups can view the
rooms at any one time. The house is a Grade I Listed Building and both
house and grounds are Scheduled Ancient Monuments, which ensures that
no digging or building can take place without permission and that the
site is preserved for future generations to enjoy.
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Latteridge Road,
Iron Acton,
Bristol BS37 9TL
ACTON COURT CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)1454 228 224
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THE ARCADE
Shopping malls are nothing new. It all began with the first shopping
arcade in late eighteenth-century Paris. A covered pedestrian alley
provided comfortable, stylish and safe shopping away from the dirt and
clatter of the street, not to mention the rain. Soon British cities
were discovering their pleasures. Bristol had two arcades designed by
James Foster in 1824. One was lost in the Blitz, but the survivor is as
elegant as ever. The design was inspired by Burlington Arcade in London.
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Horsefair to Broadmead,
Bristol BS1
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THE
ARCHITECTURE CENTRE
Anyone fascinated by buildings should feel at home here. The Bristol
Centre for the Advancement of Architecture was founded in 1996. An
18th-century warehouse beside the Floating Harbour was converted to
provide two exhibition galleries, a meeting room and a shop. A visitor
can browse the latest books on architecture or peruse plans of new
developments. The Centre also offers guided tours, visits, discussions,
workshops and lectures. The Arnolfini gallery, café and bar is
one of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts, all housed
in a converted warehouse that's idyllically situated in the heart of
Bristol’s Harbourside area. The Arnolfini is supported by the Arts
Council, so entrance to the galleries is free. The arts centre features
a regularly-changing programme, including exhibitions, cinema,
performance, dance, talks and events.
What’s more the Arnolfini’s converted warehouse building contains one
of the country’s best arts bookshops. And if that wasn’t enough, the
centre also has a vibrant café bar, with quayside seating that
is fantastic place to hang out in the summer sun. Free entry and
closed on Monday's.
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Narrow Quay,
Bristol
BS1 4QA
THE
ARCHITECTURE
CENTRE CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 922 1540 - Fax: +44 (0)117 922
1541
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ARNOLFINI
One of Europe’s leading centres for the contemporary arts, it has been
housed since 1975 in Bush House, a former tea warehouse. Arnolfini’s
international artistic programme presents progressive and experimental
visual arts, live art and performance, dance, cinema, literary readings
and a busy education programme of tours, talks and events.
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16 Narrow Quay,
Bristol
BS1 4QA
ARNOLFINI CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 917 2300 - Fax: +44 (0)117 917
2303
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ASHTON COURT
MANSION & ESTATE
Two miles from Bristol city centre is this historic country house and
park. Once the home of a family of wealthy Bristol merchants, it is now
owned by Bristol City Council. The mansion is a venue for conferences
and banqueting, but there is a visitor centre and cafe in the stable
block. The estate covers 850 acres of woods and grasslands, with deer
parks and golf courses. Its wide acres accommodate major open-air
events, such as the International Balloon Fiesta, Bristol Community
Festival and the Kite Festival.
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Long Ashton,
Bristol
BS41 9JN
ASHTON
COURT MANSION & ESTATE CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 963 9174 - Fax: +44 (0)117 953
2143
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AVON VALLEY
RAILWAY
This railway is a real experience for the casual user or the train
enthusiast. It offers a six mile journey through this beautiful area of
the countryside, bringing visitors the joys of the age of steam, a
luxurious form of travel that one hardly gets to experience anymore.
The views from the railway are unique and the panorama of the Avon
River itself id impossible to achieve from anywhere else. The Avon
Valley Railway is more than just a train ride, offering a whole new
experience for some or a nostalgic memory for others. It's a real treat
for the whole family!
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Bath Road,
Bitton,
Bristol
BS30 6HD
AVON VALLEY
RAILWAY CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 932 5538 - Fax: +44 (0)117 932
5538
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BANKSY & BRISTOL'S STREET ART
It's in Bristol that
Banksy made his first steps as a graffiti artist and you can still find
classic pieces like 'Mild Mild West' and 'Hanging Man' around the city
today. The book 'Banksy's Bristol - Home Sweet Home' chronicles much of
his early work in Bristol. In 2009 he returned to Bristol with his
biggest exhibition to date, entitled 'Banksy versus Bristol Museum',
with over a 100 pieces on display. Because of it's placement the
picture on the right has to be the most viewed and photographed Banksy
piece in Bristol. You can find at the bottom of Park Street.
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BANKSY
& BRISTOL'S STREET ART |
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BERTHOLD
LUBETKIN'S HOUSE
Berthold Lubetkin was born in Georgia and studied architecture in
Moscow and Leningrad where he witnessed first hand the Russian
Revolution unfold. It is thought that much of his modern design style
came from the deconstruction he saw during that period. Lubetkin moved
to England and lived in Bristol for some time, introducing modernist
design to Britain in the early 1930s.
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113 Princess Victoria Street,
Bristol, BS8
BERTHOLD
LUBETKIN CLICK
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BLACKFRIARS
These are the only surviving friary buildings in Bristol. The Order of
Friars Preachers (Dominicans) were evangelists with a mission to towns.
They were known as black friars from their black habit. Their friary in
Bristol was a large one, founded around 1227. It took up the whole area
now known as Quakers’ Friars. All that remains is part of its lesser
cloister, much altered. It is now part of Bristol Register Office.
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Quakers’ Friars,
Bristol
BS1 3A
BLACKFRIARS
CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 903 8888 - Fax: +44 (0)117 903
8877
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BLAISE CASTLE
The 650-acre Blaise Castle Estate has been a public pleasure-ground
since it was bought by Bristol Council. Paths wind along wooded slopes
and beside brooks. The house was built in 1796-98 for John Scandrett
Harford, a wealthy Bristol banker. He engaged noted landscape gardener
Humphrey Repton to lay out the grounds. Repton’s red book of plans is
on view in the house, now a museum of everyday life. Don’t miss
fairytale Blaise Castle - built as summer house in 1766.
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Blaise Castle
House Museum and Estate
Henbury Road
Henbury Bristol BS10 7QS
Monday ,Tuesday
,Wednesday , Saturday , Sunday &
Bank Holiday 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday & Friday - Closed
Fax: 0117 922 2047
BLAISE
CASTLE
CLICK |
Tel:
0117
903
9818 |
BLAISE HAMLET
These enchanting cottages around a green were built c.1811 for retired
employees of John Scandrett Harford, who owned Blaise Castle House.
Each of the nine cottages has its own character. The hamlet was
designed by John Nash, master of the Picturesque style. He had worked
for Harford on other buildings. The cottages are now owned by the
National Trust, but they are still occupied and not open to the public.
Access is to the green only.
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Henbury,
Bristol
BLAISE
HAMLET CLICK
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Tel : 01275 461900
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BRANDON HILL PARK
Brandon Hill is Bristol’s oldest park. Granted to the city corporation
by the Earl of Gloucester in 1174, for centuries it was let to farmers,
but from 1625 it has been a public space. Now it is a lunchtime haven
for city workers. It offers water gardens, a nature park and children’s
play area. There are stunning views over the city, especially from
Cabot Tower on the crest of the hill. This landmark was built in 1898
to commemorate John Cabot’s voyage of discovery to America.
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Brandon Hill,
Clifton,
Bristol
BS8
BRANDON
HILL CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 922 3719
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BRILLIANT WEEKENDS IN BRISTOL
Stag Weekends, Hen Weekends, Activity
Breaks, Corporate Weekends, Birthday Celebrations, Golf Weekends. An
amazing place to have fun, Bristol is one of the UKs fastest growing
cities. Not only that its the home of Brilliant Weekends! We're based
here in Bristol so we get the best hotel, activity and club deals
available All types of vibrant daytime activities are available
.Bristol is just 90 minutes from London, Exeter and Birmingham so it's
easy to get to. The nightlife scene in Bristol is at the forefront of
UK Clubbing
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Brilliant
Weekends Limited,
Mardyke House, 18 Hotwell Road, BRISTOL, BS8 4UD
Monday 8.30am -
6.30pm
Tuesday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Wednesday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Thursday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Friday 8.30am - 6.30pm
Saturday 10am - 3.00pm
Sunday closed
BRISTOL
BRILLIANT WEEKENDS CLICK |
tel:
0870
75
85100 |
BRISTOL & WEST PROGRESSIVE
SYNAGOGUE
The Bristol and West Progressive Jewish Congregation is celebrating its
50th anniversary this year. It is a lively congregation of around 140
members including families, single, student and associate members as
well as friends. Our Synagogue is in Bristol, though our members live
in a wide area of the South West of England and South Wales and we are
affiliated with the national Liberal Judaism movement. The Synagogue
building was bought in 1975 and it was combined with the property next
door in 1988 and expanded again in 2003. Services are held in the
Sanctuary which can be extended into the adjoining area to accommodate
larger numbers at communal events and includes a newly-equipped home
cinema system. We have a substantial library housing more than one
thousand volumes, several classrooms, offices for both Rabbi and
Teachers as well as a Judaica Shop and a well-equipped vegetarian
kitchen. The building has wheelchair access and an induction loop
system for those with a hearing aid.
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43/47 Bannerman Road
Bristol,
BS5 0RR
B & W PROGRESSIVE
SYNAGOGUE CLICK
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Tel: 44 117 9541937 Fax: 44 117 907 3454
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BRISTOL
AQUARIUM
The spectacular Bristol Aquarium in Bristol's historic Harbourside area
takes you and your family and friends on a spectacular undersea safari.
The £4 million re-development of the building showcases native
and tropical marine and freshwater creatures from around the world in
naturally-themed habitats, all designed to inspire deeper understanding
and appreciation of the natural world. Visitors embark on a fascinating
journey from the British coast through warmer waters to exotic tropical
seas. Highlights include a life-size recreation of a sunken ship, a
Bristol harbour scene, a 'walk-in' seahorse display and a wooden
footbridge, over the open-top giant coral seas display, which are home
to tropical sharks and stringrays. From the hidden world of UK waters,
the Bristol Aquarium transports visitors to the spectacular underwater
gardens of the Mediterranean and the stunning beauty of tropical
waters, which are home to everything from sea horses and puffer fish to
living corals and tropical sharks. Other displays recreate mangroves,
giant rock pools, Amazon rainforest pools and a South American fishing
village. Part of the aquarium is also contained within a giant
glasshouse, which is home to a huge variety of living plants and trees.
The centrepiece of the aquarium is the coral seas display, where
visitors can enjoy the closest of undersea encounters in an underwater
walk-through tunnel through the reef, from inside a glass cavern and
via bubble-helmet viewing points. More than forty other
naturally-themed displays reveal the sheer variety of life in the deep,
from crabs and lobsters to the amazing octopus and the bizarre
shape-shifting cuttlefish, as well as piranhas and archer fish.
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Anchor Road
Harbourside
Bristol
BS1 5TT
BRISTOL AQUARIUM
CLICK
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Tel: 0117 929 8929
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BRISTOL BLUE
GLASS
The celebrated Bristol Blue Glass has been made in the city for
centuries. Glassmaking died out in Bristol soon after the Second World
War, but was revived in 1988 by James Adlington. His glassmaking works
uses traditional techniques to create new designs, including the
dolphin range, made to aid The Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society.
There is a shop and visitor centre. From a gallery above the workshop,
you can watch glass being blown or view a display of the whole history
of glass. 2012 is the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, marking 60
years on the throne. To celebrate this amazing achievement we are going
to produce some commemorative glassware to add to your collections.
These will be available soon from all our outlets and this web site,
but watch out for some fantastic offers in the Bristol Evening Post....
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Unit 7, Whitby Road,
Bristol
BS4 3QF
BRISTOL
BLUE
GLASS CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 9720818
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BRISTOL
CATHEDRAL
After Henry VIII closed England’s monasteries, he found a new use for
Bristol’s great Abbey of St Augustine. In 1542 it became the Cathedral
Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity. The new diocese found itself
with only half a church. The wealthy abbey had been gradually
rebuilding its church on magnificent lines, and
was working on a new
nave when it was closed. The nave was finally added in Victorian times.
Don’t miss the fine Norman chapter house.
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College Green,
Bristol
BS1 5TJ
BRISTOL
CATHEDRAL CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 926 4879
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 Bristol City Football Club - The
Robins
Championship
1894:
Bristol South End Football Club are formed and play their games at St.
John's
Lane, Bedminster
1897:
The club is renamed Bristol City Football Club and made into a limited
company
after a famous meeting in the Albert Hall, Bedminster. A decision was
made
to employ a manager, so contact was made with Sam Hollis at Woolwich
Arsenal.
One of his first assignments at Bristol City was to assemble a squad of
players
to take part in the Southern League - he was given a trans fer
fund of £40! |
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Bristol
City Football Club
Ashton Gate Stadium
Ashton Road
Bristol
BS3 2EJ
BRISTOL
CITY
FOOTBALL CLUB CLICK |
Tel:
0117 963 0630 |
BRISTOL
CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
The idea of the Cultural Development Centre is to offer ways for the
people of the city and surrounding area to develop their cultural
talents in partnership with the authorities. The centre concentrates on
visual arts and performance, and has a number of projects in operation
across the large metropolitan area. There are also pieces of art on
display at the central offices, where you can find out more about what
the centre can achieve.
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Leigh Court,
Abbots Leigh,
Bristol
BS8 3RA
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BRISTOL
HIPPODROME
The Bristol Hippodrome, the city’s very own West End theatre, opened
its doors on the 16th December 1912 when the curtain rose for the first
time on what was generally agreed to be Oswald Stoll’s most magnificent
provincial theatre.
It is a superb example of the grand architecture of the late Victorian
era and is one of the masterpieces of design by Frank Matcham, the most
eminent theatre architect of his time.The theatre has diversified over
the years to encapsulate the full spectrum of live theatrical
entertainment. From top West End shows; Cats, Les Miserables,
Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, Blood Brothers and Grease,
to name more than a few, through to regular visits from the best in
Opera (WNO & Ellen Kent) and Ballet (ENB & Ballet
International), Comedy, Children’ Shows, Concerts and even the
Circus! They have all thrilled audiences over the years and
continue to do so today.
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St. Augustine’s Parade,
Bristol
BS1 4UZ
BRISTOL HIPPODROME CLICK
See Our Theatre Website
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Phone: +44 (0)870 6077500
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BRISTOL
ICE RINK
Bristol’s rink opened in 1966, to the delight of young Bristolian Robin
Cousins, who had a yen to skate. The future Olympic gold medallist
trained here for seven years. In those days the rink was owned by Mecca
and called Silver Blades. Mecca added an ice hockey arena in 1981. Now
part of John Nike Leisuresport, it offers skating lessons, a junior ice
hockey programme and ice karting. Facilities include a fully licensed
bar and cafeteria.
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Frogmore Street,
Bristol
BS1 5NA
BRISTOL ICE RINK CLICK
See Our Winter Sports Website
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Phone: +44 (0)117 9292148 - Fax: +44 (0)117
9259736
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BRISTOL
LIBRARY
The main library in the heart of Bristol is housed in a fantastic and
beautifully preserved building. It is filled with a massive archive of
texts, audio and visual materials, much of which is available for loan,
as well as for private studying. However, the library is also a place
for exhibitions and shows, and on a fairly regular basis there are
local history shows and art shows.
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College Green,
Bristol
BS1 5TL
CENTRAL
LIBRARY CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 903 7227 - Fax: +44 (0)117 922
1081
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THE BRISTOL
OLD VIC
In 1766, over one hundred philanthropic merchants, lawyers and
politicians clubbed together to open an illegal, back-street theatre,
down an alley and through a courtyard off King Street in the Bristol
docks’ district. Some people were appalled: they believed the theatre
ran the “risk of ruining the morals of our youth, impoverishing our
tradesmen and artisans, promoting the arts of intrigue and of seducing
the innocent, reducing many perhaps to bankruptcy, injuring the credit
of others and diffusing a habit of idleness, indolence, and debauchery
throughout this once industrious and virtuous city”. In 1778, King
George III granted the theatre a Royal Licence. Thus the new theatre in
Bristol’s King Street became one of a number of Theatre Royal, formally
embraced by the establishment. Throughout the 19th century, the theatre
enjoyed mixed fortunes. By the early 20th century, then energy of the
city had moved away from the docks and up the hill to the fashionable
residential areas.By the Second World War, the theatre was in decline.
However, surviving the bombing of Bristol’s city centre, it was saved
for the nation by a coalition of civic, corporate and citizen
lobbyists. Then, in 1943, the theatre became Britain’s first
state-subsidised theatre. And in 1946 it gained its first resident
company, an off-shoot of London’s Old Vic Theatre – hence a new name:
Bristol Old Vic. In 1972 the theatre opened its Studio Theatre and
additional front-of-house areas incorporating the 18th-century
guildhall, the Coopers’ Hall.
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Old
Vic
Theatre/Theatre Royal/New Vic
King Street, Bristol. BS1 4ED -
THE BRISTOL OLD VIC CLICK
See Our Theatre
Website
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Tel : 0117 987 7877
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BRISTOL
RECORD OFFICE
Bristol Record Office was established in 1924. It was the first
borough record office in the country and at the time there was only one
other local record office in existence.
'B' Bond, the home of Bristol Record Office, is one of three former
bonded warehouses standing in Cumberland Basin at the entrance to
Bristol's Floating Harbour. It was built in 1908 during the
tobacco import boom of the early 20th century. The Record Office
occupies five floors of 'B' Bond's nine storeys on the western
side of the building. The eastern half of the building is
occupied by the CREATE Centre which was set up by the city council to
promote environmental awareness. |
 |
Smeaton Road,
Bristol
BS1 6XN
BRISTOL RECORD
OFFICE CLICK
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Tel: 0117 922 4224
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BRISTOL
REGISTER OFFICE
Civil registration has literally taken over from the church here. In
1670 the Quakers of Bristol built the first meeting house on this site.
William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, married Bristolian Hannah
Callowhill there in 1696. The building was considered beyond repair by
1747, so a new meeting house was created by the Quaker carpenter George
Tully. It is simple and serene, in keeping with Quaker principles. The
interior was re-modelled in the 1960s. However it was moved to Corn
Street in 2006.
|
 |
The Register Office
The Old Council House
Corn Street
Bristol
BS1 1JG
BRISTOL
REGISTER OFFICE CLICK
|
Tel :
0117-922 2800 (Bristol City Council Call Centre)
Fax:
0117 903 8877
|
 Bristol
Rovers Football Club - The Pirates
League Division 2
The
Memorial Stadium has been owned by Bristol Rovers since 1998, when it
was
purchased from the old Bristol Rugby Club, who were in administration
at
the time. Founded in 1998 they have been members of the Football League
since
1920, having won the Southern League in 1904/05. |
 |
Bristol
Rovers Football Club
The Memorial Stadium
Filton Avenue, Horfield
Bristol, BS7 0BF
BRISTOL ROVERS CLICK |
tel:
0117 9096648 |
 BRISTOL
RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB
Bristol Rugby
(or
Bristol Football Club as it was formerly known) was formed in 1888
and
over the years some of the greatest names in the game have played for
the
Club from Len Corbett, Sam Tucker, Jack Gregory, John Pullin and Alan
Morley
through to Jason Little and Agustin Pichot in recent years. Now one of
the
leading Rugby Clubs in the Guiness Championship. |
 |
The
Memorial Stadium
Filton Avenue
Horfield
Bristol
BS7 0AQ
BRISTOL
RUGBY
CLUB CLICK |
Ticket
Hotline
0117 952 0500 |
BRISTOL SPA
PUMP ROOMS
Located on the edge of Clifton village in the city, overlooking the
great gorge and the Clifton Suspension Bridge, this site was originally
that of the great pump rooms in Bristol. The facility was put in place
to draw water to the famous Bristol Spa where visitors would bath.
Today it is still possible to access spa water from the pump via the
official museum nearby
|
 |
Sion Hill,
Bristol,
Somerset BS8
|
|
|
BRISTOL
TREASURE HUNT
No
Experience of Bristol is required as all
clues are solved by observation. Both young and old will be
fascinated
whilst getting out for a couple of hours seeing the sites and solving
the clues. Children will enjoy beating adults to solve the clues!
We
even supply a map just in case you get lost. The answers are at
the
back of the book so you can check any unsolved ones before you leave.
The hunt starts at the
Tourist Information
Centre , Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB.From Bristol
or just visiting, you will be surprised at how much you walk past
without even noticing. We so often walk around blinkered without
appreciating the great features which make our towns and cities
fabulous. By following our hunt these things will be highlighted rather
than hidden away.Our Bristol treasure hunt packs contain
all the necessary elements for you need including maps, clues, answer
sheet, and tips on how to get things going.
|
 |
Local stockists
of single hunts
Stanfords
BRISTOL
TREASURE HUNT CLICK |
|
BRISTOL UNIVERSITY THEATRE
COLLECTION
Established in 1951, Bristol University Theatre Collection is housed
within the Department of Drama, the first dedicated department of its
type in a UK university. The collection is rich and varied, bringing
together photographs, costumes, literature, texts and recordings from
several hundred years of theatre. The focus of the collection is
particularly inclined towards the South West of England.
|
 |
Cantocks Close,
Bristol,
BS8 1UP
BRISTOL
UNIVERSITY THEATRE COLLECTION CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 331 5086 - Fax: +44 (0)117 331
5082
|
BRISTOL
ZOO
At Bristol Zoo Gardens you can enjoy an amazing world of animals,
all within our award-winning 12 acre gardens. With over 400 species and
nine animals houses under cover, you'll enjoy your visit whatever the
weather. We suggest you allow 2-5 hours for your visit to really take
in eveything we have to offer, find out what's on when you plan
to visit us here. By visiting Bristol Zoo you will be directly
contributing to the conservation of endangered species and habitats.
Our admission prices include a 10% voluntary donation to help support
our conservation projects.
|
 |
Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8 3HA
BRISTOL ZOO CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 974 7399 - Fax: +44 (0)117 973
6814
|
BRISTOL'S
INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM
Bristol Industrial Museum was a museum in Bristol, England,
located on Prince's Wharf beside the Floating Harbour, and which closed
in 2006. On display were items from Bristol's industrial past –
including aviation, car and bus manufacture, and printing – and
exhibits documenting Bristol's maritime history. The museum was managed
by Bristol City Council along with nearby preserved industrial relics
along Prince's Wharf, including the Bristol Harbour Railway, cranes and
a small fleet of preserved vessels. There are no plans to decommission
or remove the railway, cranes or vessels.The museum closed its doors to
the public on 29 October 2006. M Shed, the new Museum of Bristol has
been created on the site, keeping the same façade and many of
the exhibits. It opened 17 June 2011 .
|
 |
Wapping Road,
Bristol
BS1 4RN
BRISTOL'S INDUSTRIAL MUSEUM
CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 925 1470 - Fax: +44 (0)117 929
7318
|
|
BRITISH EMPIRE &
COMMONWEALTH MUSEUM
Experience
the
drama
of the biggest Empire the world has ever known
The Main galleries at the museum are now CLOSED, due to the planned
relocation to London.
|
 |
Station Approach,
Temple Meads, Bristol BS1 6QH
Situated right next to Bristol's main railway station,
the Museum is served by the City's principal public transport services.
BRITISH EMPIRE &
COMMONWEALTH MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel : 0117 925 4980
Fax ; 0117 925 4983 |
BRUNEL HOUSE
This handsome structure was once a landmark in hotel planning. It was
the first hotel built especially for railway passengers. Isambard
Kingdom Brunel planned a terminus for his Great Western Railway north
of the cathedral close, convenient for the docks. Passengers from
London could stay in the Royal Western Hotel before embarking on the
Great Western for America. In the event the station was built
elsewhere, and the hotel closed in 1855. Appropriately enough it now
houses Bristol City Council’s planning department.
|
 |
St George’s Road,
Bristol
BS1 5UY
BRUNEL HOUSE CLICK
|
|
THE BRUNEL
INSTITUTE
The Brunel Institute is a world-class conservation and education centre
alongside Brunel’s masterpiece, the ss Great Britain. It comprises a
conservation suite and archive, major reference library, lecture
theatre and seminar rooms, education space, teaching offices and a new
ticket and reception area serving the whole site.The Brunel Institute
safely displays, and makes accessible, the ss Great Britain Trust’s
collections including:
Over 6,000 maritime books, 2,500 ship plans, 100 ship models, 35,000
maritime photographs Diaries and personal letter relating to passengers
and crew of the ss Great Britain Over 50 films of historic maritime
craft Hundreds of works of art In addition, it houses the
National Brunel Archive, the world’s finest collection of original
Brunel sources. These collections are used to deliver inclusive and
innovative learning programmes where the focus is Brunel, maritime
history, archaeology, science and engineering. The Brunel Institute is
open to the public 10.30am – 4.30pm Tuesday to Saturday.
|
 |
Great Western Dockyard
Bristol
BS1 6TY
THE BRUNEL INSTITUTE CLICK
|
Tel: 0117 9260680
|
BRUNSWICK
COURT
The former Brunswick Congregational Chapel dominates the square. It was
designed by William Armstrong in 1834. The huge Ionic columns of the
portico hint of Greek and Roman temples, but there is no extravagant
decoration. Instead interest is created by elegant lines, contrasting
textures and the pattern of raised and indented features. The building
now houses a clutch of voluntary organisations.
|
 |
Brunswick Square,
Bristol
BS2 8PE
BRUNSWICK COURT CLICK
|
|
BUCKINGHAM
CHAPEL
Despite being housed in an imposing mock gothic church building, this
church is actually renowned as one of the friendliest and welcoming in
the Clifton area. Home to a large congregation of committed Christian
the church is open several times throughout the week for public worship
and most of the time for private prayer. The congregation take a keen
role in social affairs.
|
 |
Queen's Road, Clifton,
Bristol, BS8 1LQ
BUCKINGHAM CHAPEL CLICK
|
Tel: 07957 147838
|
CREATE
CREATE is an environment centre that has been established in Bristol to
highlight the many issues that are associated with the way the world is
developing under the somewhat flawed stewardship of mankind. The centre
illustrates to visitors some of the issues that we need to tackle as a
people and what we as individuals can do to help improve the
environment in which we live.
|
|
Smeaton Road,
Bristol,
BS1 6XN
CREATE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 925 0505
|
CARLING
ACADEMY BRISTOL
Opened in 2001, the Carling Academy Bristol has a capaciy of 1,900 for
club nights or 1,600 for gigs. This popular music venue has entertained
the likes of Basement Jaxx, The Charlatans, Supergrass, Travis,
Stereophonics and the Sugababes. Street parking in Brisol is limited so
the Trenchard Street Car Park, which is next to the venue, is
recommended.
|
 |
Frogmore Street,
Bristol
BS1 5NA
CARLING ACADEMY BRISTOL CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)905 020 3999
|
CARY GRANT
STATUE
A life-sized bronze statue of the Hollywood legend Cary Grant. The
statue was unveiled in December 2001 by his widow Barbara Jaynes to
commemorate the Bristol-born actor's achievements.
|
 |
Millennium Square
Harbourside
Bristol
BS1 5DB
CARY GRANT
CLICK
|
|
CASTLE PARK
From the ashes of disaster sprang this green lung for the city centre.
Once a great Norman castle stood here and a quarter of the medieval
town. Oliver Cromwell had the castle demolished. That created an
opportunity to expand the city’s fashionable shopping district, but the
whole district was destroyed in the Blitz. It was laid out as a park in
the 1970s. Twenty years later works of art, attractive fittings and a
herb garden gave Castle Park an imaginative new look.
|
 |
Bristol
BS1
CASTLE PARK CLICK
|
|
CHRIST CHURCH
The Quarter Jacks of Christ Church still ring out the quarter hour.
Carved in 1728, the Jacks were made for the medieval church of Holy
Trinity which stood on this site. It was demolished in 1786 to widen
Broad Street. The Jacks vanished, but were found years later in a
builder’s yard in Bath. They were returned to the new church, completed
in 1791. This fine Georgian church was designed by William Paty.
|
 |
Broad Street,
Bristol BS1
CHRIST CHURCH CLICK
|
|
CHRISTMAS
STEPS
This quaint corner of Bristol is like a time capsule. Climbing the
steps you pass reminders of every age from medieval to modern. The
lampposts recall Victorian gaslights. Tiny shops with charming
bow-fronted windows take you back to Georgian days. At the top is the
15th-century chapel of Foster’s Almshouse. Once this was a precipitous
lane down to the Frome Bridge. Jonathan Blackwell, a wealthy wine
merchant, thoughtfully paid for steps to be installed in 1669.
|
 |
Bristol
BS1
CHRISTMAS STEPS CLICK
|
|
CHURCH OF
ALL SAINTS
This old church is a patchwork of styles. It has Norman pillars at the
west end, while the east end is 15th-century. The most striking feature
though is its elegant Georgian tower, topped by a cupola. The church
once housed Bristol’s oldest public library, created in 1464. Books
were kept on chains in a room over the north aisle. Don’t miss the tomb
of wealthy merchant Edward Colston, who died in 1721, with its memorial
by the distinguished sculptor Michael Rysbrack.
|
 |
Corn Street,
Bristol
BS1
CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS CLICK
|
|
CHURCH OF
ST.PHILIP & ST.JACOB
First mentioned in 1174 as St Jacobus-in-the-market, the church changed
its dedication to St Philip and now has both saints as patrons,
affectionately known as Pip ’n Jay. The present building dates from the
early 13th century, but has been much changed. The nave still has its
wagon roof with carved bosses, made from oak donated by Richard II. In
1962 the Bishop of Bristol decided to close the church, but a group of
young evangelical Christians kept it open.
|
 |
Tower Hill,
Bristol
BS2 0ET
CHURCH
OF ST.PHILIP & ST.JACOB CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 929 3386 - Fax: +44 (0)117 929
3386
|
CHURCH OF
ST.JOHN THE BAPTIST
This unusual church was built into the old town wall, with its tower
over the north gate. Chapels over town gates were not uncommon. But a
church across the whole width of the wall would weaken a town’s
defences. Bristol was protected by a new wall beyond the old one before
St John’s was built in its present form around 1380. It is a two-storey
church, since its vaulted crypt served as the chapel of the Guild of
Holy Cross. The Churches Conservation Trust now own this redundant
church.
|
 |
Tower Lane,
Bristol
BS1
CHURCH
OF ST.JOHN THE BAPTIST CLICK
|
Tel: 44 (0) 20 7213 0660
|
CHURCH OF
ST.THOMAS
Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral after he
had defended the rights of the Church against the Crown. Europe reeled
in shock and Thomas was rapidly declared a saint. A church was built to
his memory here soon afterwards. All that remains of the medieval
church is its tower. The rest was rebuilt in 1792-3 by local mason
James Allen. Now redundant, the church is in the care of the Churches
Conservation Trust.
|
 |
St. Thomas Street,
Bristol
BS1
CHURCH OF ST.THOMAS CLICK
|
Tel: 020 7213 0660
|
CITY MUSEUM
& ART GALLERY
Bristol’s major museum has a splendid Edwardian Baroque showcase. The
building was a gift to the city by tobacco baron Sir William Henry
Wills. Its opulent design by his cousin Sir Frank Wills does justice to
the important collections within. A working replica of the Bristol Box
Kite of 1910 hangs above the entrance hall. There are outstanding
collections of antique glass and oriental ceramics. Geology,
archaeology and natural history are all well represented. Only a
fraction of the huge art collection is on display. Admission is free.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery tells the story of our world in every
display, from the beginning of time to the present day. 19
galleries over 3 floors reveal fascinating cultures, ancient
civilisations, human invention and creativity, as well as showcasing
our beautiful and fragile natural world. With thousands of amazing
objects on display, one visit just isn't enough! World-class
collections of art, archaeology, geology and natural history are
displayed inside this beautiful Edwardian building at the top of Park
Street and the bottom of Whiteladies Road. The Museum also has dynamic
exhibitions and events programme throughout the year and a shop and
cafe.
|
 |
Queen’s Road,
Bristol
BS8 1RL
CITY MUSEUM & ART GALLERY CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 922 3571
|
CLIFTON
CATHEDRAL
This boldly modern Roman Catholic Cathedral was consecrated in 1973.
Commissioned from the Percy Thomas Partnership just as the Second
Vatican Council was meeting, the cathedral’s design was among the first
to respond to its decree that a congregation should have a good view of
the high altar. Its solid blocks of reinforced concrete and Aberdeen
granite are largely unbroken by side windows. The light washes down
from roof lights. But there are two glowing stained glass windows by
Henry Haigh.
|
 |
Clifton Cathedral House,
Clifton Park,
Bristol BS8 3BX
CLIFTON CATHEDRAL CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 973 8411
|
CLIFTON
COLLEGE
"There’s a breathless hush in the close tonight." Poet Sir Henry
Newbolt’s memorable line recalls his schooldays at Clifton College.
Opened in 1862 in emulation of the old-established public schools, it
looks the part. Architect Charles Hanson took as his model the Tudor
buildings at Eton and Winchester Colleges. Headmaster John Percival
rapidly made Clifton one of England’s leading public schools. It now
hosts the summer Prom on The Close - a major open-air classical music
event.
|
 |
32 College Road,
Clifton,
Bristol
BS8 3JH
CLIFTON COLLEGE
CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 3157 000 - Fax: +44 (0)117
3157 101
|
CLIFTON DOWN
& DURDHAM DOWN
The Downs are a huge open space beside the Avon Gorge. Grassland ideal
for football and kite-flying is interspersed with woodland and wild
flowers. The deep gorge is a unique wildlife site. A footpath runs
along the top of it, from which there are dramatic views of Clifton
Suspension Bridge. The 440 acres were turned into a public park in 1861
by the Society of Merchant Venturers, who owned Clifton Down, and the
Corporation of Bristol, who owned Durdham Down.
|
 |
Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8
|
|
CLIFTON
LIBRARY
Clifton Library is a large public library at the heart of Clifton
village in Bristol. The facility has a large collection of both fiction
and non-fiction books available for loan as well as an extensive range
of reference titles that can be viewed within the library. There is a
large selection of audio vide material available for hire and on
occasion the library is used for public lectures and exhibitions.
|
 |
Princess Victoria Street,
Clifton,
Bristol
BS8 4BX
CLIFTON LIBRARY CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 9038572
|
CLIFTON
OBSERVATORY
This camera obscura is superbly placed. High above the Avon Gorge, it
provides panoramic views of the dramatic scenery. The observatory was
originally a windmill. After a fire in 1777 damaged the building, it
stood derelict until rented to the artist William West in 1828. West
installed the camera obscura which is still in working order and open
to the public. West also cut a tunnel through the cliff to St Vincent’s
cave, which looks out over the Gorge.
|
 |
Clifton Down,
Clifton,
Bristol
BS8
CLIFTON
OBSERVATORY CLICK
|
|
CLIFTON
ROCKS RAILWAY
This railway gives local people and visitors to the area the chance to
experience the great experience of a traditional and historic funicular
railway. The railway gives some fantastic views of the historic city of
Bristol and its surrounds as it climbs the side of this old rock face.
Run by a group of enthusiasts and volunteers, the railway offers a fun
day out for all the family.
|
 |
Princes Buildings,
Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8 4LD
CLIFTON ROCKS RAILWAY CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 962 0223
|
CLIFTON
SUSPENSION BRIDGE
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, spanning the picturesque Avon Gorge, is
the symbol of the city of Bristol. For almost 150 years this Grade I
listed structure has attracted visitors from all over the world. Its
story began in 1754 with the dream of a Bristol wine merchant who left
a legacy to build a bridge over the Gorge. 24 year old Isambard Kingdom
Brunel was eventually declared the winner and appointed project
engineer – his first major commission.Work began in 1831 but the
project was dogged with political and financial difficulties and by
1843, with only the towers completed, the project was abandoned.
Brunel died aged only 53 yrs in 1859 but the Bridge was completed as
his memorial and finally opened in 1864. Designed in the early 19th
century for light horse drawn traffic it still meets the demands of
21st century commuter traffic with 11-12,000 motor vehicles crossing it
every day.
|
 |
Bridge Road
Leigh Woods
Bristol
BS8 3PA
CLIFTON SUSPENSION
BRIDGE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 9744664 - Fax: +44 (0)117
9745255
|
COLSTON HALL
The people of Bristol have been enjoying music at Colston Hall for
almost 140 years. As part of our redevelopment project we've begun
research into the keypoints of the four Colston Halls that have stood
on Colston Street, as well as the many musical highlights experienced
along the way. |
 |
Colston
Hall
Colston Street, Bristol. BS1 5AR -
COLSTON HALL CLICK
See Our Theatre Website |
Tel : 0117 922 3683 |
COLSTON
ALMHOUSE
Gracious ranges are grouped around the courtyard of this almshouse
built in 1691. The clock and belfry mark its barrel-vaulted chapel. It
was founded for the poor by Bristol merchant Edward Colston, who made a
fortune from the slave trade. The 12 men and 12 women residents had to
be Bristol-born and attend the chapel regularly. It still provides a
home for elderly Bristolians, run by the Society of Merchant Venturers.
So it is not generally open to the public.
|
 |
St. Michael’s Hill,
Bristol
BS2 8DY
COLSTON
ALMHOUSE CLICK
|
|
THE
COMMERCIAL ROOMS
The merchants of late Georgian Bristol wanted somewhere exclusive to
meet. So they built themselves this elegant club in 1810. Impressed by
the Lyceum at Liverpool, the committee commissioned London architect
Charles Augustus Busby to design something similar. Within the
classical portico is the symbolic story of Bristol’s wealth from trade.
A frieze shows Neptune presenting all quarters of the world to
Britannia. The imposing club room has been converted into a pub, while
the panelled basement houses Lords Restaurant.
|
 |
43-45 Corn Street,
Bristol
BS1 1HT
THE COMMERCIAL ROOMS CLICK
|
|
CONCORDE
The West’s world famous visitor attraction starred Concorde 216 – Alpha
Foxtrot – who made her spectacular final flight home into Filton,
birthplace of supersonic travel, on 26 November 2003, the final flight
of a Concorde. Thousands of people turned out to welcome her home, and
many more thousands of people from around the world have visited
Concorde at Filton over the next six and a half years. Many people
visited more than once, and our Frequent Flyer notched up 32 visits.
Concorde at Filton is a facility within the Airbus site, and was made
available by them for public visits to this iconic aircraft. Ownership
of Concorde Alpha Foxtrot remains with British Airways, who have an
agreement with Airbus at Filton this special Concorde must receive
regular maintenance and care.In autumn 2010, Airbus withdrew Concorde
Alpha Foxtrot from display for inspection by aircraft engineers who
will undertake any work required. There is currently no foreseeable
date for the reopening of Concorde at Filton. Concorde at Filton is a
temporary home for Concorde 216. Local organisations and companies are
supporting the creation of a major aviation heritage centre, where
Concorde 216 will be under cover as the centre-piece of displays and
exhibits that detail the story of the region’s long-standing role in
the world of aerospac
|
 |
Filton,
Bristol,
BS99 7AR
CONCORDE
CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 936 5485
|
COUNCIL HOUSE
Bristol’s largest neo-Georgian building dominates College Green. The
massive sweep of the Council House curves around the west side of the
green and vies with the cathedral beside it in looming presence. The
council, needing larger premises than their building in Corn Street,
commissioned a new hub of local government from Vincent Harris in 1935,
but war intervened and it was not finished until 1956.
|
 |
College Green,
Bristol
BS1 5TR
COUNCIL HOUSE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 922 2000
|
DESPERATE
MEN INTERNATIONAL STREET THEATRE
Desperate Men is an international touring street theatre company based
in Bristol, UK. (We can get desperate, but we're not all men...)
Started in 1980 in Berlin, the company's performance history is
legendary and notable for never being formulaic or 'safe'. Whether on a
street, in a theatre, in a school, in a bar or on a hillside, our
purpose has always been clear: To produce original, accessible comic
theatre. Feel free to explore our website - there's stuff here
illustrating all aspects of our work - past, present and future.
|
 |
PACTS,
Epstein Buildings, Mivart Street,
Easton, Bristol, BS5 6JL U.K.
DESPERATEMEN
CLICK
See Our
Theatre Website
|
Tel +44 ( 0) 117 939 3902
Mobile +44 0777 5911 620
|
EARTH
SCIENCES MUSEUM
he Geology Museum at The University of Bristol houses over 100,000
specimens, some of international importance others unique to the
Bristol area and essential for the understanding of local
geology. The collections have been built up gradually, since 1876
and reflect the history of the School of Earth Sciences and its past
and current research and teaching interests. The museum was established
and "fully registered" (Registered Museum No. 200) under the Museum and
Galleries Commission's Museum Registration Scheme in 2000. We are
planning to apply for accreditation under the Arts Councils Museum
Accreditation Scheme in 2012/2013.
|
 |
Wills Memorial Building,
Queen's Road,
Bristol,
BS8 1RJ
EARTH
SCIENCES MUSEUM CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 928 9000 - Fax: +44 (0)117 925
3385
|
EDWARD
COLSTON STATUE
Colston (1636-1721) was a man of contradictions. Much of his wealth was
founded on the slave trade. He was an ardent supporter of the Tory
party and the established church, to the point of intolerance of all
dissent. Yet he gave generously to causes close to his heart. His
native city gained much from his philanthropy, including the school and
almshouse which still bear his name. This bronze statue by John Cassidy
was unveiled in 1895.
|
 |
Colston Avenue,
Bristol
EDWARD
COLSTON STATUE CLICK
|
|
EDWARD
EVERARD'S PRINTING WORKS
This remarkable Art Nouveau façade was designed in 1900 for the
printing works of Edward Everard. Either side are Johann Gutenberg,
father of printing, and William Morris, reviver of craftsmanship. In
between the Spirit of Light spreads glorious wings over arched windows.
Below is Everard’s name in the Art Nouveau typeface he designed. The
brilliant colours remain as fresh as ever, since the decoration is not
painted on, but made of glazed tiles.
|
 |
Broad Street,
Bristol
BS1
PRINTING
WORKS CLICK
|
|
THE EXCHANGE
The Exchange is considered the finest Georgian building in Bristol. It
was the work of Bath architect John Wood the Elder and opened in 1743.
Wood was asked to design a grand structure around an open court where
merchants could meet for business. Deals could be closed by payment on
brass tables called nails - the origin of the saying ’pay on the nail’.
The nails now stand outside in Corn Street. The court was later roofed
over and now houses part of St. Nicholas Market.
|
 |
Corn Street,
Bristol BS1
THE
EXCHANGE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 922 4017
|
FLOATING
HARBOUR
Bristol grew wealthy on trade through its harbour. Yet for centuries
strong tides left vessels half buried in mud at low water. The problem
was solved in the early 19th century, when a stretch of the River Avon
was enclosed to create a deep water pool. Since the commercial docks
moved to Avonmouth, the Floating Harbour has been transformed into a
leisure marina. It is thronged each year for the Bristol Harbour
Festival. Tall ships visit for the colourful event.
|
 |
Bristol
BS1
|
|
FORKBEARD
FANTASY
Forkbeard Fantasy is a theatre and film company who have been touring
their shows, films, exhibitions and special events since the
mid-1970's. Their theatre shows combine comedy with special effects,
wild mechanical sets, outsize characters and their unique trademark
interactive mix of film, animation and cartoon live on stage.
Their shows tour the length and breadth of the U.K. and they have
appeared at festivals as far afield as Mexico, Columbia, Poland and
Canada as well as all over Europe.
|
 |
Forkbeard Fantasy
P.O. Box 1241,
Bristol BS99
2TG
FORKBEARD
FANTASY CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
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FRENCHAY
MUSEUM
Frenchay Museum is a small but fascinating place of history to visit,
charting the growth and development of this suburb of Bristol. Although
once an independent and quite isolated community, throughout the years,
the great city of the south west has begun to swallow it up. This makes
the protection of the heritage at this museum even more important.
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Begbrook Park,
Frenchay,
Bristol,
BS16 1SZ
FRENCHAY MUSEUM CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 957 0942 - Fax: +44 (0)117 957
0942
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GEORGIAN
HOUSE
The Georgian House is an 18th
century, six storey townhouse that has been restored and decorated to
its original glory.
The house was built in 1790 for John Pinney, a wealthy slave plantation
owner and sugar merchant, it was also where the enslaved African, Pero
lived. It is displayed as it might have looked in the 18th century and
provides an insight into life above and below stairs. Imagine the busy
kitchen where servants prepared meals, taking a dip in the cold-water
plunge pool and relaxing in the elegant upstairs rooms.
There are 11 rooms spread over four floors, including;
- The
basement, where you can see the kitchen, housekeeper's room, pantry and
John Pinney's cold water plunge pool.
- Formal rooms
including John Pinney's office, two dining rooms, a library and two
drawing rooms.
- The
second floor bedroom.
- A small
exhibition on the Pinney's involvement in the sugar trade and John
Pinney's slave, Pero.
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The Georgian House
7 Great George Street
West End Bristol BS1 5RR
GEORGIAN
HOUSE CLICK
Fax: 0117 922 2047 |
Tel:
0117
921
1362 |
GERTRUDE
HERMES
Gertrude Hermes lived a significant amount of time in this charming old
house on the edge of Clifton village in Bristol, close to the
suspension bridge. Hermes was one of the best known painters and
sculptors of the 20th Century in Britain and was especially known for
her carving. Work of Hermes can still be seen in museums and galleries
across the world including the Tate in London.
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5 Sion Hill,
Bristol,
BS8
GERTRUDE
HERMES CLICK
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GLENSIDE
HOSPITAL MUSEUM
The Glenside Hospital Museum is filled with interesting artefacts and
historical documents that help visitors to understand the history of
this hospital, and the way that medicine has progressed throughout the
years. A subject that has always been at the forefront of social and
political agendas, sometimes we take the amazing healthcare that is
available in the world for granted, and should look closer at its
development.
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Glenside Campus,
Stapleton,
Bristol,
BS16 1DD
GLENSIDE
HOSPITAL MUSEUM CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 965 2688
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GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB
The
County Ground
is the headquarters
of Gloucestershire
County Cricket Club located in Bristol north of the City Centre. The
grounds
are conveniently situated just a short distance from the M32 with
access
to the M4 & M5. The grounds are now known as a highly rated venue
for
first class international cricket. The Bristol ground is the second
largest
playing area in England.
Gloucestershire
County Cricket Club is the most successful one-day side of the last 10
years, our achievement in winning seven trophies in just five years is
second to none.This has transformed Gloucestershire, who are now
recognised by the public,
media and business community as a successful and ambitious
organisation. With
screenings of One Day Internationals and domestic matches, sponsors and
advertisers
receive maximum exposure on both Sky TV and Channel 4, as well as
fantastic
regional and national coverage in the media.By promoting successful
partnerships
with corporate clients we are able to create success for both parties.
Gloucestershire
County Cricket Club can provide a package of promotional opportunities
designed
to develop brand awareness and create sales for associated products
where
required.A partnership is one of the most successful ways of benefiting
from
an association with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club. We can package
different
corporate opportunities to help you achieve your own company's
objectives. loucestershire
County Cricket Club currently play at three different venues, Bristol,
Cheltenham and Gloucester. The majority of matches are played at the
Club's headquarters in Bristol, but for a week in June the Club play a
festival in Gloucester and for 2 weeks in July and August the Club play
the most successful festival in the world in Cheltenham. Listed are all
three venues.
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venues.
BRISTOL
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
COUNTY CRICKET CLUB
THE COUNTY GROUND , NEVIL RD
BRISTOL BS7 9EJ
Cheltenham
College
The C&G Cheltenham Cricket Festival
is well over 100 years old and is played at the College Ground in
Cheltenham. Situated in the heart of the Cotswold town, with probably
the most picturesque and recognisable backdrop to a ground, the College
has seen some of the most exciting cricket played in Gloucestershire.
Gloucester
Festival
The Gloucester
Festival is played in the heart of Gloucester City
Centre, at the King's School playing field, Archdeacon Meadow. The
matches at King's School often produce high scoring and fascinating
games
See Our Cricket Website
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tel:
0117 9108000 |
THE GRANARY
It was built in 1869 by Archibald Ponton and William Venn Gough with
red Cattybrook brick with black and white brick and limestone dressings
as a granary but has been used as offices. It is probably the best
preserved example of the Bristol Byzantine style. It has also been
known as Wait and James' Granary
It housed a nightclub, also known as The Granary, from 1968 to 1988.
Initially opened as a jazz club by Ted Cowell under the guidance of
Acker Bilk in 1968, it started hosting regular rock nights in 1969,
becoming an all-rock club by 1978. Many well-known rock acts
played there, including Yes, Genesis, Status Quo, Motörhead and
Iron Maiden.
The building was owned by Bristol City Council who invited competitive
bids from developers for its renovation and conversion. Barton Willmore
produced the designs which supported the winning bid to convert the
building into apartments.
It has been designated by English Heritage as a grade II* listed
building.
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Queen Charlotte Street
and Welsh Back,
Bristol
BS1
THE
GRANARY CLICK
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THE
GREYHOUND INN
The Greyhound was once a bustling coaching inn. It was built about
1620, but refronted in the 18th century. Coaches left the Greyhound for
Chippenham and points east. The stage coach era ended with the coming
of the railways in the 1840s, but the Greyhound was still a working pub
until 1975. Its frontage then became an entrance to the Galleries
shopping mall.
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Broadmead,
Bristol
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THE HATCHET
INN
The Hatchet Inn is an historic public house situated on Frogmore
Street, Bristol, England a few minutes walk from the city centre. The
name is thought to originate from the axes/hatchets that the local
woodsmen used in Clifton Woods. It dates from 1606 but has undergone
significant alteration since and is a grade II listed building.
Since the 1980s the Hatchet has long been associated as one of Bristols
few Alternative pubs and remains popular with followers of alternative
lifestyles. The pub has a pool room located upstairs as well as a venue
which is used for clubs and can be hired for private bookings. There is
a beer garden located on the side of the property, facing the O2
Academy venue. Located behind the pub was the old Cannon Cinema,
which closed down in 2000. The building is now an Academy Night
Club/gig venue were many well known bands have played. There are
regular DJs on Friday and Saturday evenings. In the 18th Century
there was a Rat Pitt at the rear of the building. * Local legend has it
that the front door, beneath the paint and tar is covered with human
skin. Like many listed buildings the pub is allegedly to be
haunted, particularly in the old cellars and the older parts of the
building. In September 2006 the Hatchet celebrated its 400 year
anniversary. The streets nearby were closed, staff and some regular
customers dressed up in historic costumes.
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27 Frogmore St,
BRISTOL,
BS1 5NA
HATCHET INN JOKE OF A
WEBSITE
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Tel: 0117 929 4118
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HEART
OF
WESSEX
RAIL ALE TRAIL
Welcome
to
the
Heart of Wessex Line Rail Ale Trail. We've modelled this guide
on the highly successful branch line trails created by the Devon and
Cornwall Rail Partnership. The Heart of Wessex rail line runs from
Bristol to Weymouth through 87 miles of lovely rural scenery, and our
trail consists of 28 pubs in 18 different locations along the route.
We've concentrated on character pubs (and that often applies to the
locals, too!) serving real ales in the centre of the towns and villages
served by the rail line. There are some truly unique pubs on our trail,
and some fascinating corners of rural Wessex to discover on the way.
Whether you use this site to help you plan a holiday or just for a day
out, we hope you'll enjoy our picturesque and friendly local rail line
as a route to discovering some truly superlative real ales! |
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Catherine
Phillips,
Rail Partnership Officer,
c/o Council Offices,
Churchfields,
Wincanton BA9 6AG.
For train times and fares call National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49
50. Cheap day returns are available from 9.30am (in a few cases
earlier) on weekdays, and all day at weekends.
the longest journey - Bristol to Weymouth (87 miles)
WESSEX
RAIL
ALE
TRAIL CLICK |
Tel
01963
435058 |
HIGH CROSS
Bristol High Cross was a monumental market cross erected in 1373 in the
centre of Bristol. It was built in Decorated Gothic style on the site
of an earlier Anglo-Saxon cross, to commemorate the granting of a
charter by Edward III to make Bristol a county, separate from Somerset
and Gloucestershire. In 1780 it was moved to the gardens of
Stourhead, a country house in Wiltshire. The Victorian citizens of
Bristol sought to regain their cross but the original was now too
fragile to be moved again. They commissioned architect John Norton to
build a replica which would again stand upon College Green. Norton
inspected the original closely to copy its design and then engaged John
Thomas, the celebrated mason and stone carver who had recently worked
upon the new Palace of Westminster, to construct the body of the cross.
The funds for the work were exhausted after only one statue had been
completed — Edward III — and so the replica stood for many years with
the other alcoves remaining empty. The remaining statues were
eventually installed in 1889, having been commissioned from a prolific
craftman of the region, Harry Hems. The remains of the replica
cross can be seen in nearby Berkeley Square, where they were
transferred in about 1950.
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Berkeley Square,
Clifton,
Bristol BS8
HIGH
CROSS CLICK
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ISAMBARD KINGDOM BRUNEL STATUE
Isambard Kingdom Brunel (1806-1859), the famous engineer, by John
Doubleday, was originally erected at the end of Marsh Street, but was
moved to outside Osborne Clarke offices in Temple Back East.
Although Isambard Kingdom Brunel was not born in Bristol, much of his
work was carried out here. The son of Marc Brunel, a noted engineer, he
first came to Bristol in 1828, convalescing after an accident in tunnel
construction under the Thames, when he had dived to rescue some of
those trapped.
Learning of the competition for a bridge over the Avon, Brunel
submitted four designs. The chosen one was Egyptian-influenced,
although the eventual construction was shorn of some of the original
embellishments. A Bristol newspaper of April 1831 recommended a viewing
of the two coloured drawings of the proposed bridge on display in the
Commercial Rooms and described the construction as 'admirably adapted
to the beautiful scenery of the enchanting spot'
The Clifton Suspension Bridge was begun in July 1831, estimated cost of
£57,000, but was not completed until 1864, due to lack of
funding. Sadly Brunel had died by this time, but the bridge is a
lasting testimony to his capabilities.
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Junction of Broad Quay and Marsh Street, Bristol BS1
ISAMBARD
KINGDOM BRUNEL CLICK
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JESUS GREEN
Jesus Green is situated at the heart of Clifton village in Bristol. It
is a large open expanse of public land that is popular with local
people and visitors. Just a stone's throw from Clifton Suspension
Bridge, the green attracts many tourists in the summer months to take a
walk or have a picnic. The area has been a place of public rest for
many generations.
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Bridge Road,
Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8
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JOHN ADDINGTON SYMONDS HOME
John Addington Symonds was born and bred in Bristol. He lived
throughout the 19th Century and was known as one of the best and
outspoken poets and literary critics of his age. Well known for his
advocacy of all male relationships, Symonds courted controversy
throughout his career and life. His work is still well respected and
remains studied across the English speaking world. Clifton Hill House
was designed by Isaac Ware and built in 1747 for Paul Fisher, a linen
draper and ship owner..The date can still be seen above the entrance,
as well as Paul and Mary Fisher's initials. The mason and carver was
Thomas Paty, later a famous Bristol architect.In a sale notice in 1830
the house was described as haviing two handsome freestone fronts with
six bed and dressing rooms on the first floor and eight more bedrooms
above.The gardens at the rear slope down the hill and in days gone by
you would have been able to see the ships in the harbour from here. Now
belonging to Bristol University, the house was once the home of John
Addington Symonds, a Victorian poet and essayist who is
little-remembered today. In 1855 while he was living there, a
thunderbolt fell in the grounds during a terriic storm, but fortunately
it did no damage.
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Lower Clifton Hill,
Clifton,
Bristol
BS8 1BX,
JOHN
ADDINGTON SYMONDS HOME CLICK
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Tel: +44 (0)117 903 5190
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JOHN CABOT
STATUE
John Cabot (known in Italian as Giovanni Caboto; c. 1450 – c. 1499) was
an Italian navigator and explorer whose 1497 discovery of parts of
North America is commonly held to have been the first European
encounter with the continent of North America since the Norse Vikings
in the eleventh century. The official position of the Canadian and
United Kingdom governments is that he landed on the island of
Newfoundland.
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Narrow Quay,
Bristol,
BS1
JOHN CABOT
CLICK
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JOHN
FOSTER'S ALMSHOUSES
Salt merchant John Foster founded this almshouse when he was Mayor of
Bristol in 1481. It has been rebuilt several times. Oddly enough the
present Victorian building - in a picturesque Burgundian Gothic style -
was designed by another John Foster. The adjoining chapel is original
though. Its dedication to the Three Kings of Cologne is unique in
Britain and seems to refer to a shrine of the three wise men in Cologne
Cathedral. Since Foster’s is still a home for the elderly, public
access is rarely available.
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Colston Street,
Bristol
BS1
JOHN FOSTER'S ALMSHOUSES CLICK
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Telephone:
01179 300 303
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JOHN
WESLEY'S CHAPEL
The oldest Methodist building in the world. John Wesley’s headquarters
when he began open air preaching in Bristol in 1739. This extraordinary
building enables visitors to sense the atmosphere of the earliest days
of Methodism when the ‘room’ was used not just as a preaching house but
as a dispensary and a school. Above the chapel are the rooms where
Wesley and his preachers lived. Entry to the chapel and the preachers
rooms upstairs is free.
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36 Horsefair,
Bristol
BS1 3JE
JOHN
WESLEY'S CHAPEL CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 926 4740
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KINGS WESTON
HOUSE
Kings Weston House is a privately owned Grade 1 listed
Georgian Mansion House set in 28 acres of parkland on the outskirts of
Bristol . Kings Weston House - as it stands today - was designed
by Sir John Vanbrugh for Edward Southwell (I) circa 1710. It is built
of locally quarried stone and the exterior is Vanbrugh’s best-preserved
medium sized house. This house replaced an earlier Tudor house.
The Manor of Kings Weston was once part of the Berkeley Estate, which
was granted to Robert Fitzharding by Henry II. In 1570 Sir William
Berkeley sold the Kings Weston portion of the estate, it changed hands
several times and in 1679 was purchased by Sir Robert Southwell. Born
in Ireland in 1635 Sir Robert, at the age of 29, was made Clerk of the
Most Honourable Privy Council by Charles II.The vaulted Tea Shop at
Kings Weston House serves a range of food and drink including wine and
beer and is is open every day of the year (except Christmas day) from
9.30am to 4pm.
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Kings Weston Lane,
Kings Weston,
Bristol
BS11 0UR
KINGS WESTON HOUSE CLICK
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Tel: 0117 938 2299
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KINGS WESTON
ROMAN VILLA
A Roman villa was a country house, usually the centre of an estate.
This one was discovered during the construction of Lawrence Weston
housing estate in 1947. Remains of the walls can be seen from the
street, but the mosaic floors of the west wing are under cover,
together with remains of the bath house.Explore where Romans used to
live right on Bristol's doorstep. See the only Roman bath suite in
Bristol, mosaic floors and discover Roman central heating! During the
summer we hold a series of free villa open days bringing the history of
the area alive. You can obtain a key from Blaise Castle House
Museum during seasonal opening hours or from the City Museum and Art
Gallery.
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Long Cross,
Lawrence Weston,
Bristol
BS11 0LP
KINGS WESTON ROMAN VILLA CLICK
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Tel: 0117 922 3571
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LOT
LOT is housed in a 25000 square foot site over three levels, and
comprises an artist-led collaborative art project in Bristol. The main
exhibition spaces are naturally lit, offering a fine place to view the
range of diverse exhibitions that take place here throughout thee year.
The artists’ studios are open to the public, offering an interesting
insight into the way that many of the pieces are created.
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Broadmead,
Bristol,
BS1 4AW
LOT CLICK
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LEAD SHOT
TOWER
The process was invented by William Watts of Bristol, UK, and patented
in the late 18th century.[ Watts extended his house in Redcliffe,
Bristol to build the first shot tower in 1782. Shot towers
replaced the earlier techniques of casting shot in moulds, which was
expensive, or of dripping molten lead into water barrels, which
produced insufficiently spherical balls. Large shot which could not be
made by the shot tower were made by tumbling pieces of cut lead sheet
in a barrel until round. Shot towers were replaced by the "wind tower"
method by the end of the 19th century, which used a blast of cold air
to dramatically shorten the drop necessary. Today the Bliemeister
method is used to make smaller shot sizes, and larger sizes are made by
the cold swaging process of feeding calibrated lengths of wire into
hemispherical dies and stamping them into sphere When his tower was
demolished for road widening in 1968, it was replaced by this 140-foot
tall reinforced concrete landmark. It no longer makes shot, but as a
listed building will be preserved as part of Bristol’s skyline.
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Cheese Lane,
Bristol
BS2
LEAD SHOT TOWER CLICK
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LEIGH WOODS
Explore the beautiful and diverse broadleaf woodland on the plateau
above the famous Avon Gorge, boasting superb views across the city to
downland beyond. Leigh Woods has been an intrinsic part of Bristolian
life for centuries. Designated pathways will lead you through oak,
small leaf lime and ash forest. Springtime brings an abundance of
bluebells and wood anemones, whilst the summer months offer relaxing,
shady walks. The red and golden hues of autumn, combined with an
interesting array of fungi, are particularly beautiful. Former woodland
pasture offers a mixture of open grassy glades, surrounded by broadleaf
woodland and many veteran oak pollards, where established footpaths
lead to wonderful views of the suspension bridge and the city beyond. A
scheme to reintroduce grazing with local breeds of cattle is in plan.
Stokeleigh Camp is an Iron Age hill fort that once defended the
crossing over the River Avon. Impressive ramparts and ditches enclose
the interior of the camp, which dates back to 350BC. Breathtaking views
across the gorge await. An easy surface pathway follows the base of the
gorge, where the true scale of it becomes apparent. Look up to the
soaring suspension bridge above and the beautiful broadleaf woodland,
interspersed with areas of flower-rich limestone grassland around old
stone quarries. Rockrose, Bristol Rock-cress and Black Knapweed are all
native to this area
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Leigh,
Bristol
BS2 4RT
LEIGH WOODS CLICK
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Tel
: 0117 973 1645
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LLANDOGER
TROW
The Llandoger Trow is a historic public house in Bristol, south west
England. Dating from 1664, it is in King Street, between Welsh Back and
Queen Charlotte Street, near the old city centre docks. A trow was a
flat-bottomed barge, and Llandogo is a village 20 miles (32 km)
north-west of Bristol, across the Severn Estuary and upstream on the
River Wye in South Wales, where trows were once built. Trows
historically sailed to trade in Bristol.
The pub was partially destroyed by a bomb in World War II, but three of
the original five projecting gables remain. It is a grade II* listed
building. Tradition has it that Daniel Defoe met Alexander Selkirk, his
inspiration for Robinson Crusoe, here, and it was Robert Louis
Stevenson’s inspiration for the Admiral Benbow in Treasure Island. In
the Victorian era the pub was associated with the Theatre Royal, which
is across the road, and was visited by many performers and musicians
including Henry Irving. In 1962 it became a Berni Inn, but now belongs
to Whitbread and trades as a Brewers Fayre. Another notable Bristol
pub, The Old Duke, is situated opposite the Llandoger Trow.In 2007,
Llandoger Trow was one of the three locations seen in the Pirate's Cove
episode of Most Haunted Live!. The others were Blackbeard's houses and
Redcliffe Caves.
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3-5 King Street,
Bristol
BS1 4ER
LLANDOGER TROW CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 926 0783
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LLOYDS TSB
BANK
This building begs to be noticed. The astonishingly opulent
façade was modelled on that of the sumptuous Sansovino Library
in Venice. Two tiers of arcades are decorated with a mass of sculpture.
It was the brain-child of Bristol architect William Bruce Gingell,
while the figurework - full of allegory - was by sculptor John Thomas,
who worked on the Houses of Parliament. It was opened in 1856 as the
West of England and South Wales Bank and has remained a bank throughout
its history.
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55 Corn Street,
Bristol
BS1
LLOYDS
TSB BANK CLICK
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M SHED
Situated on the historic Harbourside, M Shed is the much anticipated
and exciting new history museum of Bristol that tells the story of our
city.The 1950s transit shed, originally called M Shed, on Bristol’s
historic wharf has been transformed into a brand new museum.
Thought-provoking and fun, M Shed challenges the perceptions of what it
has meant to live here over the centuries through the recollections of
the people who shaped the city.M Shed explores the city’s history from
prehistoric times to the 21st century. Stories about the city and its
people have been discovered through working with experts and
communities across the city – a process that will continue for the life
of the museum. Rich collections of objects, art and archives also play
an important part in bringing those stories to life. There are also
working exhibits on the harbourside including steamboats, trains and
cranes as well as a new café that opens out onto a public square
on the dockside. M Shed is a new kind of museum, one that challenges
traditional ideas. It works with the people of Bristol to create
displays which make everyone want to come and see. It is a living
museum, where the stories of the past spark discussions about the
future. M Shed is free to the public. Visit and you can explore over
2000 years of Bristol’s history, access over 150 restored and
digitalised films and uncover Bristol’s trading past and its role in
the transatlantic slave trade. Explore the city’s war-time experiences,
industrial heritage and engineering history. Discover things made in
Bristol from its music and art to industry and technology, see over
3000 objects from the city’s museum and archive collections including
favourites from the Industrial Museum. Come and enjoy a programme of
local, national and international exhibitions.
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Princes Wharf
Wapping Road
Bristol
BS1 4RN
M SHED
CLICK
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Tel: +44 (0)117 352 6600
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THE LORD
MAYOR'S CHAPEL
This little church is all that remains of St Mark’s Hospital, founded
c.1220 to feed 100 of the city’s poor. They were to be given one meal a
day of pottage and bread. By the 15th century it was more like a
monastery than a charity. So it came into Henry VIII’s hands in his
closure of the monasteries in 1539 and was bought from the Crown by the
Corporation of Bristol. In the late 17th century the Huguenots, who
came to Bristol to avoid persecution, were given the use of the chapel
as a place of worship.By the 1720's only the chapel remained of the
hospital buildings, and even that was in poor repair. Around this time
the Mayor fell out with the Cathedral authorities and decided to repair
St Mark's and use it as a civic chapel. It then became known as the
Mayor's Chapel, to be changed to the Lord Mayor's Chapel after Queen
Victoria bestowed the title on Sir Herbert Ashman.Open to the public
every day (except Mondays).
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College Green,
Bristol
BS1 5TB
THE LORD MAYOR'S CHAPEL CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 929 4350
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MALL
GARDENS
Mall Gardens are a beautiful set of public gardens at the very heart of
Clifton, close to the suspension bridge in Bristol. The gardens are
well maintained by the local authority and have a selection of flowers
and plants that are changed throughout the year to keep the gardens
looking their best through the four seasons. It is a place of rest and
relaxation within the city.
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Mall, Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8
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THE MATTHEW
This is a full-scale replica of the ship on which John Cabot sailed to
America in 1497. She was built in Bristol to celebrate the 500th
anniversary of his discovery of Newfoundland. Despite the lack of plans
or pictures of the original Matthew, it was possible to convincingly
reconstruct the ship from a few clues and knowledge of the caravels of
the time. The Matthew is usually berthed beside the SS Great Britain
and can be seen on the same ticket.
Over 500 years ago John Cabot and his crew set sail for Asia
aboard the original Matthew hoping to trade goods and commodities with
the people who lived there. However, he finally arrived on the coast of
Newfoundland and therefore was the original discoverer of America, not
Christopher Columbus as most people are led to believe.There is plenty
of history wrapped up in her timbers. Please look at the other sections
which will present some of the facts and stories surrounding the ship,
details of John Cabot and his original voyage, the historical
circumstances of the trip and what life was like on the original
Matthew.
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The Great Western Dockyard, Gasferry Road,
Bristol
BS1 6TY
THE MATTHEW CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 926 0680 - Fax: +44 (0)117 925
5788
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MERCHANT
TAILORS ALMSHOUSES
The guilds of Bristol looked after those in want among their members.
The elderly who could no longer work, or their widows, could find a
home in a guild almshouse. The Merchant Tailors were an old guild who
acquired a building here in 1575. This handsome almshouse was built in
1701. After housing the poor for two centuries, it was turned to other
uses. It now provides a restaurant at the Merchant Street entrance to
the Mall Galleries.
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Merchant Street,
Bristol
MERCHANT
TAILORS ALMSHOUSES CLICK
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MERCHANT
VENTURERS ALMSHOUSES
The powerful Society of Merchant Venturers controlled the seaborne
trade of Bristol for
centuries. It first provided for impoverished sailors - the elderly or
injured - at an almshouse in Marsh Street, just inside the city wall.
After King Street was developed on the other side of the wall, the
Merchant Venturers seized the chance to demolish part of the wall to
enlarge the almshouse. The new quadrangle opening onto King Street was
built in 1696. Sadly half was lost in the Blitz.
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King Street,
Bristol
BS1
MERCHANT
VENTURERS ALMSHOUSES CLICK
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Tel: 0117 973 8058
Fax: 0117 973 5884
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MILLENIUM
SQUARE
William Tyndale sits on a bench, translating the New Testament. We
expect to see statues commemorating local worthies in our city centres,
but Bristol’s latest square gives the tradition a playful new twist.
The statues seem to mingle with the visitors. The tragic young poet
Thomas Chatterton lounges on another bench, while actor Cary Grant
strolls along, clutching the script of To Catch a Thief. The square is
part of the rejuvenation of the harbourside with the @Bristol complex
of attractions.
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Harbourside,
Bristol
BS1
MILLENIUM
SQUARE CLICK
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NEVAC
The National Electronic and Video Archive of the Crafts is one of the
most unique collections of its type anywhere in the world, and is a
fascinating place to visit if you have any sort of interest in crafts.
Here, you will find a large collection of material, all of which in
some sense relates to craft, be that demonstration or design. Currently
the collection is home to over 284 hours of interviews on video with
over 130 different artists and craftspeople. National Electronic &
Video Archive of the Crafts - NEVAC - is based at the School of
Creative Arts at the University of the West of England, Bristol.
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Kennel Lodge Road
, Clanage Road,
Bristol,
BS3 2JT
NEVAC CLICK
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Phone: +44 (0)117 328 4746
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NEPTUNE
Neptune, god of the sea, presides over maritime Bristol. The lead
statue was cast in 1722 by John Randall to dignify the Temple Conduit.
It stood there for over a century. Since then Neptune has been shuffled
from place to place, but Bristolians won’t let this popular figure
stray too far out of sight. Neptune now looks over the tame trickle of
the Augustine’s Parade water feature. Originally the statue was painted
in flesh tint with a blue robe.
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St. Augustine’s Parade,
Bristol
THE
CENTRE BRISTOL CLICK
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NOAH'S ARK
ZOO FARM
With 12 indoor and outdoor adventure play areas including tube slides
and heated soft-play, Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is fun for all the family.
The 100 acre Bristol attraction also offers a truly hands on experience
for children and their parents: feed and stroke a variety of exciting
animals including donkeys, camels, deer, goats and lambs and then take
part in the free Birds of Prey flying display in the afternoon.
As well as the small and furry, Noah’s Ark is home to the big zoo
animals – watch the impressive lions and tigers being fed during the
daily Big Cat Talk and then take a stroll with the kids up to the
Giraffe and Rhino Houses to see the African animals up close! Swing by
the gibbons and let the little ones monkey around with the lemurs. With
the indoor Animal Village, play areas and exhibition rooms, there is
plenty for the children to do whatever the weather. Daily events
include the Animal Show, Meet the Reptiles and regular bumpy tractor
rides across the farm. After all the activity, relax in the popular
cafe for lunch and drinks. Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is open Monday –
Saturday, 10.30am – 5.00pm. Visit website for more info.
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Clevedon Road
Wraxall
Bristol
BS48 1PG
NOAH'S
ARK ZOO FARM CLICK
|
Tel: 01275 852606
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OCEANA
BRISTOL
Oceana Bristol is currently Bristol's biggest nightclub, with 2 Club
rooms, 3 Themed Bars and WooWoo opening its doors at 11pm, there is
definately something for everyone all under one roof! The first bar you
come to upon entry of Oceana is Wakayama! Monitors, neon and LEDs evoke
a frenetic atmosphere in this Japanese concept bar. Oceana also
has a fully recreated Ski Lodge with genuine, imported American
features and Canadian logs. In here we play a good mix of Rock, Indie
and the odd Frank Sinatra song is not out of the question. Aspen Ski
Lodge features unique, bespoke chairs, covered with imitation animal
hide and bear skins. Next to the ski lodge is Oceana's
Parisian Boudoir. The music style in here reflects the mood slow, sexy
and chill out. Flock wallpaper and velvet drapes adorn the walls and
central seating area, which has been designed to resemble a four poster
bed. Seating is complimented with velvet cushions, Art Nouveau
figurines and a marble topped chiffonier featuring a Tiffany
lamp. Upstairs is Oceana's very own Disco room. This room
features original New York memorabilia, acquired from across the globe,
and a Saturday Night Fever dancefloor with flashing glass panels. In
this room its all about party, cheese and of course the 1970's and
80's. Next to the Disco room is Harbourside. A bright, airy and
spacious room with an Australian theme and outdoor balcony, which is
also the second of our two smoking areas. The last bar is Icehouse,
located next to Wakayama. Icehouse is packed with state-of-the-art
technology. This is enhanced only by the music Icehouse plays an
energetic mix of current floor fillers, club classics and fresh future
tracks. T The audio system delivers an overwhelming sound and
makes for a first class audio experience.
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The South Buildings
Canons Road
Bristol
BS1 5UH
OCEANA BRISTOL CLICK
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PARK ROW
SYNAGOGUE
Bristol has had a Jewish presence since at least the 1750's and before
that that had been an important Jewish community there in medieval
times.The Bristol Hebrew Congregation’s Women’s Guild organises a
regular programme of social events either in the synagogue’s Frank
Cohen Hall or in members’ homes. Occasional events are organised
jointly with Bristol’s Bristol and West Progressive Jewish
Congregation. The congregation also has its own Chevra Kadisha (burial
society) which serves both its own members and unaffiliated Jewish
people in the area.Bristol Hebrew Congregation has a close relationship
with Bristol University’s Jewish Society, JSoc, and with students of
Bristol’s two universities. Important to this link is Bristol’s Hillel
Centre, The Ark and Dove, and the Western Region Jewish Chaplaincy
whose local Board administers the student chaplaincy service in a
region stretching from Reading to Plymouth, including South Wales.
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Park Row Synagogue
Park Row
Bristol Orthodox
BRISTOL
HEBREW CONGREGATION CLICK
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Tel: 0117 9422610
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PEEPOLYKUS
Peepolykus (pronounced people-like-us) is one of the UK’s most exciting
touring theatre companies, creating comic theatre with proven national
and international appeal. Over the last nine years, it has exported its
particular brand of humour to over 100 towns and cities across four
continents and enjoyed sell-out runs at, amongst others, the Edinburgh
Festival, The Lyric Hammersmith, the London International Mime Festival
and the British Festival of Visual Theatre. During this period the
company has received three theatre awards and has been regularly
selected for the British Council’s showcase in Edinburgh. An impressive
track record of touring and its rapidly expanding fan base are constant
proof of the company’s popularity and their unique ability to cross
age, language and cultural boundaries. International tours have
included Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Bangladesh, Turkey,
Cyprus, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Barbados, Ireland, Iran,
Greece, South Korea, Finland and Holland.
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Peepolykus
26 Eldon Terrace,
Windmill Hill,
Bristol BS3 4NZ
PEEPOLYKUS CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
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Phone/Fax: + 44 (0) 117 9539882
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PERO'S BRIDGE
This innovative footbridge opened in 1999 to link the waterfront
leisure facilities on either side of St Augustine’s Reach. In an
unusual collaboration, Irish artist Eilís O’Connell worked on
the design with engineers Arup. The sculpted horns are counterweights
which lift the central span clear for river craft. Pero was a black
slave brought to Bristol from the Caribbean island of Nevis in 1783 as
a servant of wealthy Bristol merchant John Pinney.
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St. Augustine’s Reach,
Bristol
BS1
PERO'S
BRIDGE CLICK
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PICTURE THIS
Picture This is a well-respected and innovative moving arts gallery
that commissions and exhibits a great deal of diverse and interesting
works throughout the year. The collection is designed to ignite an
interest in the arts amongst all who visit. There is a real passion for
art here, and the new and emerging talents of the area are given a
chance to bloom in a well-appointed space.
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40 Sydney Row,
Spike Island,
Bristol,
BS1 6UU
PICTURE
THIS CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 925 7010 - Fax: +44 (0)117 925
7040
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THE PRIORY
CHURCH OF ST.JAMES
This Norman church is Bristol’s earliest surviving building. The priory
was founded in 1129 by Robert, Earl of Gloucester, who also built a
great stone castle for Bristol. When the priory was dissolved, the nave
of its church was spared, as it had become a parish church. It is now a
Catholic church, open for silent prayer. It is run by the Little
Brothers of Nazareth together with the St James Priory Project for
homeless people with a substance dependency.
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Whitsun Street,
Bristol
BS1 3NZ
THE PRIORY CHURCH OF ST.JAMES CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 929 9100 - Fax: +44 (0)117 922
5980
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QUEEN ELISABETH'S
HOSPITAL THEATRE
QEH Theatre is an integral part
of Bristol's
Bluecoat School, and the home of the Drama Department.It was completed
in 1990 at the
cost of £1.3 million and opened by HRH Princess Anne as part of
QEH's
quatercentenary celebrations. QEH
Theatre is a striking modern building, with a comfortable three-sided
auditorium
seating 220, creating an intimate and dynamic atmosphere. It provides a
quality
learning environment for the teaching of Drama and other performing
arts
such as Music and Dance.
Acclaimed for the diversity of
its programme, QEH has promoted exciting and innovative theatre, music,
dance, comedy and poetry, particularly accessible to a school audience.
There are regular productions from leading national and regional
touring theatre companies, as well as many interesting Bristol-based
groups.Shows range from the classics – Shakespeare, Ibsen, Marlowe,
Sophocles – to new plays. The emphasis is on
promoting theatre and the Arts amongst QEH students, so visiting
productions are relevant and profitable to their learning.The Theatre
has a large foyer with changing exhibitions, and a friendly bar.
Patrons can park in the 24-hour car park opposite the Theatre. QEH has
full facilities for disabled patrons, and strives to be as accessible
as possible for everyone. QEH Theatre is also
available as a conference facility.
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Queen Elizabeth's Hospital Theatre
Berkeley Place
Clifton
Bristol
BS8 1JX
QUEEN ELISABETH
HOSPITAL THEATRECLICK
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QUEEN SQUARE
Spacious Queen Square has become a popular venue for outdoor events. It
was the first residential square outside London. Bristol Corporation
planned it as an elegant enclave for the wealthy. The houses were to be
solidly built of brick and stone. Commercial tenants and workers’
cottages were not allowed. Queen Anne visited Bristol in 1702, when the
square was being built, so it was named after her. Another royal touch
was added in 1736 - the superb equestrian statue of William III by
Michael Rysbrack.
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Bristol
BS1
QUEEN
SQUARE CLICK
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QUEEN
VICTORIA STATUE
Bristol Corporation commissioned this marble statue to mark Victoria’s
Jubilee in 1887. The artist selected was Sir Joseph Edgar Boehm,
sculptor to the queen, who designed the coinage for the Jubilee. After
50 years on the throne, half of them in mourning for her beloved
consort Albert, Victoria is shown in majesty and gravity, every inch an
empress. The statue was unveiled in 1888 by her grandson Prince Albert
Victor.
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College Green,
Bristol
BS1
QUEEN
VICTORIA STATUE CLICK
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RAJAH
RAMMOHUN ROY
Here stands a man far ahead of his time. Born in Bengal in 1772 to a
Brahmin family, Roy became a scholar and reformer. He campaigned
against child marriage and suttee. After a career in the East India
Company, Roy arrived in Britain in 1831 as the ambassador of the Mughal
Emperor. On a visit to Bristol in 1833 he died and is buried in Arno’s
Vale Cemetery. This bronze statue marks the golden jubilee of India’s
independence in 1997.
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College Green,
Bristol
BS1
RAJAH
RAMMOHUN ROY CLICK
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RED
LODGE
Open Saturday to Wednesday 10.00
to 17.00. All groups must be booked.A historic Elizabethan house, which
has been 'modernised' and restored several times thoughout its 400 year
history.Originally a lodge to the Great House where Queen Elizabeth I
once stayed, the Red Lodge is often described as Bristol's 'hidden
treasure' and houses the Great Oak Room, one of the finest rooms in the
West Country. As you step up the winding staircase and enter through
the porch of the Great Oak Room, you will marvel at the magnificent oak
panelling, the plasterwork ceiling and the magnificent carved stone
chimneypiece.Downstairs, the Reception Room, Print Room and staircase
are all examples of Georgian architecture.The Red Lodge has had several
uses, and was once used as a reform school for girls set up by Mary
Carpente. A room in the Lodge is dedicated to her memory. The walled
garden is one of The Red Lodge's best features and is an excellent
example of a re-created Elizabethan-style knot garden with herbaceous
borders.
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Park Row
West End
Bristol BS1 5LJ
Open Saturday to Wednesday 10.00 to 17.00
RED LODGE CLICK
|
Tel:
0117
921
1360
Fax: 0117 922 2047
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REDGRAVE
THEATRE
Not many schools can boast their own purpose-built theatre. The
Redgrave Theatre belongs to the successful public school Clifton
College. It was named after Old Cliftonian Sir Michael Redgrave, who
opened it in 1966. Naturally it hosts school productions. But local
amateur and professional companies also make use of this attractive
auditorium. The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School regularly performs here.
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Redgrave Theatre
2 Percival Road,
Clifton,
Bristol.
BS8 3LE
REDGRAVE
THEATRE CLICK
|
Telephone: 0117 3157600
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ROLLS ROYCE
HERITAGE TRUST
The Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust was established by a small group of
workers and enthusiasts in 1981, and on a small patch at the Bristol
factory, the trust has developed a fine museum of interesting pieces
related to one of the most famous car manufacturers on the planet.
Amongst the collection is a 390 brake horse power Bristol Jupiter, as
well as a collection of gas turbines from Theseus to Olympus.
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Gypsy Patch,
Bristol,
BS34 7QE
ROLLS
ROYCE HERITAGE TRUST CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 979 5494 - Fax: +44 (0)117 979
5281
|
ROYAL FORT
HOUSE
This elegant Georgian house has outstanding rococo plasterwork. Thomas
Stocking created the vines that curl up the stairwell, with birds
pecking the grapes and this fox looking hungrily on. The house itself
was designed by James Bridges for wealthy merchant Thomas Tyndall and
finished in 1761. It stands on the site of a Civil War fort, named the
Royal Fort in honour of Prince Rupert. The house now forms part of
Bristol University, and is only rarely open to the public, but is
available as a conference venue.
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Tyndall Avenue,
Bristol
BS8 1T
ROYAL
FORT HOUSE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 954 5501
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ROYAL WEST
OF ENGLAND ACADAMEDY
This was Bristol’s first art gallery, built in 1858. The Bristol
Society of Artists argued among themselves over its design. Should the
style be Greek or Italian? The winner was this flamboyant Italianate
façade by J.H.Hirst. The Academy has a large permanent fine art
collection and also houses touring exhibitions, concentrating on
contemporary arts. The New Gallery and Coffee Shop are open throughout
the year with free admission.
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Queen’s Road,
Clifton,
Bristol
BS8 1PX -
ROYAL
WEST OF ENGLAND ACADAMY CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 973 5129 - Fax: +44 (0)117 923
7874
|
ROYAL
YORK CRESCENT
Perhaps the most well-known of the terrraces is Royal York Crescent.
Set on the hillside, it is majestically visible from the gorge below
and across the harbour.Building began in 1791 over gardens and orchards
belonging to a mansion built by a 17th century landowner. In 1812 three
unfinished houses were being advertised in the London newspapers by a
builder named Westcott, stating that the situation was now better in
Bristol.In fact the crescent was not completed until 1820, due to money
problems brought on by war with the French. During this time the site
with its unfinished houses was bought by the War Department who
considered building barracks there. Persuaded by public opinion against
this scheme, they sold it to a developer who finished the work.
The front doors of the houses open out on to a raised pavement or
terraced walk. Beneath this are basements and vaults. The designs of
the houses vary slightly as different builders were involved.
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Clifton,
Bristol
BS8
ROYAL
YORK CRESCENT CLICK
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ST.ANDREWS
WALK
Clifton was once a village served by the medieval Church of St Andrew.
The small church could not cope with increasing numbers and was
rebuilt, only to be lost in the Blitz. It was not rebuilt again, as
Clifton had gained other churches as it grew. The churchyard remains
though, with its many memorials. This shady tree-tunnel through it is
also known as Birdcage Walk.
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Clifton,
Bristol
BS8
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ST.BARTHOLOMEW'S
HOSPITAL
Old houses hide a yet earlier history. Here stood the medieval St
Bartholomew’s Hospital. After it was converted into a school in 1532,
it seems that plots along the street front were granted to build
houses. For two centuries boys trotted to school through the medieval
archway. Many rebuildings have left little of the old hospital or
school to see, but it is worth a peep through the arch, which now leads
to private offices.
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17-19 Christmas Street,
Bristol
BS1
ST.BARTHOLOMEW'S
HOSPITAL CLICK
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ST.GEORGES
CONCERT HALL
St George’s Bristol has been a concert hall for the past 30 years.
Prior to that it had been a church. The building re-opened in October
1999 with a new look and a new name – St George's Bristol. The venue's
programme of events continues to go from strength to strength, known
locally, nationally and internationally for its artistic excellence and
diversity in the genres of jazz, classical, folk, world music and opera.
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St.Georges Bristol
Great George Street,
Off Park Street,
Bristol.
ST GEORGES BRISTOL CLICK
|
Tel: 0117 923 2359
|
ST.JAMES'S
GARDENS
The large churchyard of St James’s Priory became a public garden in
1882. A stone cross with a drinking fountain was donated, which has now
lost its head. Part of the garden itself was later lost to city
redevelopment, while the central walk has effectively divided the
remainder into two small gardens. Still these patches of green provide
a shady retreat from a busy shopping area.
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St. James’s Parade,
Bristol
BS1
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ST.JOHN'S
CONDUIT
Medieval Bristol was well-supplied with fresh
water, piped from springs on nearby hills to public conduits dotted
about the city. Water still gushes from a mossy lion’s mouth in the
wall of St John’s Church, beside the one remaining medieval city gate.
Until it was moved in 1827, St John’s Conduit was an ornate little
building squeezed against the opposite side of the church, on the inner
side of St John’s Gate.
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Nelson Street,
Bristol
BS1
ST.JOHN'S
CONDUIT CLICK
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ST.JOHN'S GATE
This is the one remaining city gate of Bristol. It was rebuilt by
Bristol merchant Walter Frampton around 1380 along with the church of
St John the Baptist beside it. Frampton’s tomb and effigy can still be
seen in the church. On the gate are the figures of Brennus and Belinus,
long imagined to be the founders of Bristol. The gate once had churches
on either side of it. St John’s remains but the church of St Lawrence
has gone along with the city wall itself.
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Tower Gate,
Bristol
BS1
ST.JOHN'S
GATE CLICK
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ST.MARY'S
REDCLIFFE
St Mary Redcliffe is a parish church the size of a cathedral. Such
splendour speaks of Bristol’s wealth. The city’s merchants could rival
the resources of a diocese. There was a church here in Norman times,
but the present building is largely 15th-century. Don’t miss the exotic
north porch. Its unusual hexaganol plan and richly carved seven-pointed
arch bring an air of Moorish Spain to the westcountry. The Undercroft
Cafe is open Monday to Friday 10.00am to 4.00pm.
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The Parish Office,
12 Colston Parade,
Redcliffe,
Bristol
BS1 6RA
ST.MARY'S
REDCLIFFE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 9291487 - Fax: +44 (0)117
9291487
|
ST.MARY-LE-PORT
nly ruins remain of this old church. The Blitz destroyed all but its
tower. The crumbling fragments of the rest were left on view as a
reminder of war’s destructive power. St Mary’s was one of the earliest
churches of Bristol. It was founded in Saxon times and enlarged after
the Norman conquest. Around it grew up a market. The Saxon name for a
market town was a port, which explains how St Mary-le-Port got its
name. The present tower is 15th-century.
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Castle Park,
Bristol
BS1
ST
MARY LE PORT CLICK
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ST.MARY ON
THE QUAY
This imposing church with its massive Corinthian portico stood on the
waterfront when it was completed in 1840, hence the name. The River
Frome in front of it was later covered over. The church was built by a
movement led by Edward Irving, known as the Catholic Apostolic Church,
but was taken over by the Roman Catholic Church a few years later. It
is served by priests of the Society of Jesus.
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20 Colston Street,
Bristol
BS1 5AE
ST.MARY
ON THE QUAY CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 926 4702 - Fax: +44 (0)117 927
6917
|
ST.MICHAEL'S
HILL
Once much of Bristol looked like this - though perhaps not as brightly
painted. The seventeenth-century city centre was a mass of
tightly-packed timber-framed houses, their upper stories jettied out
over the street. Most had gone even before the Blitz destroyed the most
famous of them. The city’s wealth has brought constant renewal. But
here we have a charming survival. The yellow house is now the Anthem
Restaurant, which offers an international cuisine.The timber-framed
houses near to St Michael's church are shown almost at the edge of
Millerd's 1673 map of the 'famous cittie of Bristoll and suburbs'
describing this area as 'where ye riseing of ye hill St Michael being
converted into comely buildings and pleasant gardens'.The steep climb
from the cramped alleys of the old city ensured that the area was high
above the insalubrious dockside smells, while a step beyond lay the
open countryside. To the merchants who moved to St Michael's Hill, it
was 'an area blessed with wholesome draughts of healing air.' Further
up the hill the houses date from the 18th Century.
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Bristol
BS2
ST.MICHAEL'S
HILL CLICK
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ST.NICHOLAS
ALMSHOUSE
The almshouse was one of the first buildings in King Street, a new
development then outside the city wall. It was built in 1652-6 beside
the Back Street Gate. The gate and most of the city wall has long gone,
but there still remains one bastion in the yards behind the almshouse.
Since it houses the homeless, St Nicholas Almshouse is only rarely open
to the public, but you may be able to see the delightful plastered
ceiling in the entrance hall on Doors Open Day.
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King Street,
Bristol
BS1
ST.NICHOLAS
ALMSHOUSE CLICK
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ST.NICHOLAS
CHURCH
The church beside Bristol Bridge is dedicated to the patron saint of
sailors. It was built into the town wall, with its chancel over St
Nicholas Gate. When the bridge was rebuilt in the eighteenth century,
the upper part of the church had to be demolished. A new church in the
Gothic style went up over the medieval crypt. St Nicholas was gutted by
bombs in the Blitz, but its shell now houses Bristol and Region
Archaeological Services.
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St Nicholas Street,
Bristol
BS1
ST.NICHOLAS
CHURCH CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 903 9010 - Fax: +44 (0)117 903
9011
|
ST.PAUL'S CHURCH
As late Georgian Bristol grew with a burst of squares and crescents,
the new districts needed churches. In fact the residents of Brunswick
and Portland Squares demanded a church of their own and the City
Council put up £1,000 for the building of St Paul’s. It was
finished in 1794 and services were held there until 1988. The
mock-Gothic design was by mason Daniel Hague, the architect and
developer of Portland Square.school?
A masterpiece of provincial 'Gothick’ architecture in an 18th-century
square, the 'wedding cake church’ of St Paul’s (so named because of the
way that the tower stacks up) was granted a new lease of life by the
CCT in partnership with Circomeda, a circus-training school. Featuring
a beautifully ornate Georgian plaster ceiling, stone columns and a
wealth of decorative stained glass, the historic interior is
complemented by state of the art aerial and trapeze equipment and a
pale maplewood semi-sprung dance floor. Whilst retaining its
original grandeur and the uplifting qualities of light and space, St.
Paul's has been effectively adapted to incorporate all requirements for
a contemporary arts venue. It is now a stunning and well loved setting
perfect for a wide range of events – performances, professional
research and development, concerts, wedding receptions, open space
conferencing, awards ceremonies, AGMs and private parties. The
adaptations made to the building to enable Circomedia's use do not
prevent the beauty of the building being seen. The animated and elegant
plasterwork of the nave ceiling and chancel arch and a fine collection
of monuments including a memorial by Flaxman to Col. Spencer Thomas
Vassall, who was mortally wounded at the storming of Montevideo in 1807
are still clearly visible to see.
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Portland Square,
Bristol
BS2
ST.PAUL'S
CHURCH CLICK
|
Tel: 0117 924 7615
|
ST.PETER'S
CHURCH
Castle Park is dominated by the ruined shell of St. Peter’s. It was
among the Bristol churches gutted by bombs in the Blitz. Sadly it was
one of the oldest. Saxon in origin, it was rebuilt in Norman times and
again around 1400. The church had a near miss in an earlier war. As the
Royalists stormed the city in 1643, the Roundhead commander of Bristol
Castle ordered nearby St Peter’s to be demolished, to give his garrison
a clear line of fire, but was persuaded to forbear.
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Castle Park,
Bristol
BS1
ST.PETER'S
CHURCH CLICK
|
Tel: 0117 92 23719
|
ST.STEPHEN'S
CHURCH
Designated by English Heritage as a grade I listed building, Saint
Stephen’s church lies on the ancient riverside boundary of the Anglo
Saxon sacred city. Work on diverting the river Frome to form Bristol
Harbour was completed in 1248. In the same century Saint Stephen’s was
developed by a Benedictine cell from Glastonbury Abbey. The harbour
church was totally rebuilt in 1470 by the parishioners and the Abbey of
St Peter Gloucester. In 1703 the Great Storm (which blew down Eddystone
lighthouse and damaged Widecombe-in-the-Moor and Fairford churches
amongst many other buildings) damaged the roofs, clerestory and the
pews of the nave and south aisle. The storm also caused an immense high
tide which flooded the church to a depth of five inches. The uniform
appearance of the perpendicular town church was perfected again in the
various late 19th century restorations (1875-1898). These unaccountably
destroyed the original six-light east window, replacing it with the
current one of five lights.
The tower:
Saint Stephen’s tower- now peeping over Bristol city offices – used to
be a visible landmark to seafarers. It was built in 1470 by by
John Shipward (d.1473), four times Mayor of Bristol, the same year the
church was rebuilt.The tower’s parapet has been restored three times,
following storm damage in 1703 , in 1914 and again in 1970. The tower
is typical of Somerset churches, but with the addition of a
Gloucestershire crown of arcaded battlements, four angle pinnacles and
openwork parapet. There are similar examples at Gloucester Cathedral,
Cardiff St John and much more locally Thornbury and Dundry parish
churches.Without its 152 feet tall tower, the church would be visible
only from St Stephen’s street as office buildings hem it in – so the
tower is a modern landmark too.
|
 |
St. Stephen’s Avenue,
Bristol
BS1
ST.STEPHEN'S
CHURCH CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 927 7977
|
|
S.S.GREAT BRITAIN
Built and launched in Bristol in
1843, Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s maritime masterpiece was the world’s
first ocean-going, propeller driven iron ship.After a life as a luxury
liner, troop ship, cargo vessel and floating warehouse, she was
abandoned in the Falklands Islands in 1937. She was salvaged in 1970,
towed back to Bristol and has now been restored to her former glory.
The historic vessel is being conserved for future generations under a
‘glass sea’ in the very dockyard where she was built. Visitors are
encouraged to experience what life was like for her Victorian
passengers and crew, including a visit to the recently installed
three-storey tall moving engine.Tickets to Brunel’s ss Great Britain
allow free and unlimited return visits for a year from the date of
purchase. Tickets allow entry to the dry dock, museum, Maritime
Heritage Centre, and the replica of John Cabot's ship The Matthew when
she is in Bristol.
Visitors
are
invited
to use an Audio Guide whilst aboard the ship and these are
available in English, French & German and there are BSL Guides
Video Guides for the deaf.Brunel's ss Great Britain was the winner of
the Gulbenkian Prize for Museum of the Year 2006 - the Biggest Arts
Prize in the U.K.
|
 |
Brunel's ss Great Britain
Great Western Dockyard
Gas Ferry Road
Bristol BS1 6TY
Open 10.00 to 17.30 April to October, 10.00 to 16.30 November to March.
Fax: 0117 925 5788
S.S.GREAT BRITAIN CLICK |
Tel: 0117 926 0680 |
THE SUGAR
HOUSE
Sugar and tobacco were imported from the New World through Bristol. So
where better to refine sugar? It was an important industry in the city
for two centuries. Bristol had many sugar houses. Now this is only one
remaining. Not that it makes sugar these days. Until its conversion
into a hotel and bistro in 1999, it stood derelict for years. But we
can picture a Georgian sugar magnate living in the fine house beside
his factory.
|
 |
Narrow Lewins Mead,
Bristol
BS1 2NU
HOTEL
DU VIN CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 925 5577
|
TAILORS HALL
This fine door hood has the coat of arms of the Merchant Tailors Guild.
It protects the entrance to their one time guild hall, built in 1740-1.
The tailors were one of the 23 trade companies of the city, but lapsed
on the death of the last member in 1824. A gruesome touch is the
severed head of St John the Baptist. He was the patron saint of
tailors. His symbols of the lamb and staff appear as the crest of the
guild arms.
|
 |
Tailor’s Court,
off Broad Street,
Bristol
BS1
|
|
TEMPLE
CHURCH & GARDENS
Temple Church was founded c.1147 by Robert of Gloucester, the powerful
illegitimate son of Henry I, who held Bristol Castle and great estates
in the area. He granted land to the Knights Templar, who built upon it
one of the round churches for which they are famed. Medieval rebuilding
imposed a more conventional plan, though slipped up slightly with the
leaning tower. The church was gutted by bombs in 1942. Its shell can be
contemplated in the secluded Temple Gardens.
|
 |
Church Lane,
Bristol
BS1
|
|
TEMPLE MEADS
STATION
During the early Victorian railway rush companies sprang up to build
railway lines across Britain. Bristol was the meeting point of the
Great Western Railway and the Bristol and Exeter line. With the logic
of private enterprise, two terminuses were built almost side by side at
Temple Meads. When the two companies agreed to create a joint station,
the result in 1878 was this cheerfully unconvincing exercise in
nostalgia designed by Matthew Digby Wyatt.
|
 |
Temple Meads,
Bristol
BS1 6QF
TEMPLE
MEADS STATION CLICK
|
|
TOBACCO
FACTORY THEATRE
Housed in a converted tobacco factory building, the theatre started its
new life in the late 1990s as a makeshift performance space for Show of
Strength on the first floor of the building. Stripped of its Imperial
Tobacco office conversion to reveal the original structure, the venue
attracted the attention of Andrew Hilton who had harboured an ambition
to stage Shakespeare in an original and intimate manner. Architect
George Ferguson, the owner and creator of the Tobacco Factory, accepted
his proposal and the result far exceeded expectations with national
critical acclaim and full houses.
In 2001, Dan Danson was appointed as the Tobacco Factory’s first
Artistic Director, and with the help of the team has been busy
transforming this makeshift 'do it yourself' space into a properly
serviced theatre, in order to fulfill the organisation’s aim of
bringing a diverse, year round programme of performing arts to Bristol
audiences. The acclaimed Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory, presenting
2 plays each year from February – April
Tobacco Factory Productions, such as the much-loved Christmas shows
(Treasure Island, Jungle Book, The Secret Garden)
touring productions from some of the UK’s most dynamic and exciting
companies, including Spin Media, Gecko, Sound & Fury, Graeae and
ATC.
|
 |
Tobacco Factory
Raleigh Road,
Southville
Bristol
BS3 1TF
TOBACCO
FACTORY CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
|
Tel: 0117 902 0345
Fax: 0117 902 0162
|
TROOPERS
HILL NATURE RESERVE
Troopers Hill Nature Reserve is a local nature reserve in the St George
area of east Bristol, and is owned by Bristol Parks. It is a hillside
that has been quarried and mined in the past and overlooks the River
Avon.The hill contains a fascinating mix of history, wild plants and
animals. With heather and broom, rocky crags, spoil heaps and gullies,
stunning views and two listed chimneys, Troopers Hill Nature Reserve is
one of the most spectacular wildlife spots in the city. And to top this
all off, Troopers Hill Nature Reserve has won the prestigious Green
Flag Award every year since 2007.
|
 |
Troopers Hill Road
St. George
Bristol
BS5 8BU
TROOPERS
HILL NATURE RESERVE CLICK
|
Tel: 0117 947 5037
|
UNIVERSITY
OF BRISTOL BOTANIC GARDENS
2012 is the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, marking 60 years on
the throne. To celebrate this amazing achievement we are going to
produce some commemorative glassware to add to your collections. These
will be available soon from all our outlets and this web site, but
watch out for some fantastic offers in the Bristol Evening Post....
|
 |
The Holmes,
Stoke Bishop,
Bristol, BS9 1JB
BOTANIC
GARDENS CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 331 4912 - Fax: +44 (0)117 331
4912
|
VICTORIA
SQUARE GARDENS
This quiet, peaceful little park is a fab place to come and have a
picnic with friends, play some ball games, or just sit and read a book.
The square is the gateway to Clifton Village from Queens Road, and you
can feel life becoming more and more genteel as you walk through. I
particularly love the fact that there are two halves to the park, with
a pathway running down the middle leading directly to the Clifton
Arcade. It's very sweet and pretty, and absolutely the perfect place
for a romantic walk. It's not a big park, and it's a residential
square, so there is a general understanding between everyone who comes
to use it that behaviour should be moderate, voices low, and chatter
civilised. If you want somewhere a bit more open, where you can stretch
out and make a bit of noise with friends, I'd walk a bit further and
use all that open space up on the Downs. Save Victoria Square for your
quieter park moments.
|
 |
Clifton,
Bristol,
BS8
|
|
VIRGIN HOT AIR
BALOONING
Home to the world famous Bristol Balloon Fiesta, Ashton Court could
well lay claim to the title of Hot Air Ballooning Capital Of The World.
Nestled in the beautiful county of Somerset, the city boasts some of
the UK’s most stunning examples of history; there’s the familiar
structure of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and one of the world’s most
famous sailing ships; the S.S. Great Britain. Perhaps you’ll drift off
towards Bath or onwards to Weston-Super-Mare? Whichever way the wind
decides to take you, you can be sure that the Ashton Court launch site
will provide wonderful memories for years to come.
|
 |
Ashton Court Estate
Long Ashton
Bristol
BS41 9JN
Off the A369 enter the estate via the Bower Ashton entrance.
VIRGIN
HOT AIR
BALOONING CLICK
|
Phone
01952 212750 |
W G GRACE'S
HOUSE
William Gilbert Grace was better known by his initials WG and is
arguably one of the most famous names in English cricket. A pioneer of
the game and one of the most talented players of the Victorian age,
Grace lived in Bristol, working as a doctor and playing for
Gloucestershire. It is thought that Grace invented most of the modern
techniques of batting which are used today.
|
 |
15 Victoria Square
, Bristol,
BS8
W.G.GRACE
CLICK
|
|
WATERSHED
The story of Watershed is one of both idealism and pragmatism: In the
1970s an Arts Centre built by enthusiasts in King Square Bristol became
the first of the British Film Institute’s Regional Film Theatres. The
founders ran the venue with dedication and passion, but the building
was in a state of disrepair and due to a lack of funding its future was
uncertain. In the early 1980s, the City was looking to regenerate the
derelict harbourside area. In partnership with the British Film
Institute, JT Group, and Bristol City Council, funding was secured to
expand and relocate the Arts Centre into Watershed’s current home with
a new focus on media – particularly film and photography.
|
 |
1 Canon’s Road,
Harbourside,
Bristol
BS1 5TX
WATERSHED CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 927 6444
|
WESTBURY
CHURCH
Christianity goes back a long way in Westbury. There was a religious
settlement here by 715. It declined, but St Oswald, Bishop of
Worcester, sent 12 monks to make fresh start at Westbury in 961. Not
all his successors were as enthusiastic about the monastic life, and
eventually Westbury became a college of priests, with a dean and
canons. The fine collegiate church has Norman pillars in the nave and
an unusual 15th-century three-sided apse.
|
 |
Church Road,
Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol
WESTBURY CHURCH CLICK
|
Tel:
0117 950 8644
|
WESTBURY
COLLEGE GATEHOUSE
Bishop Carpenter built a new quadrangle in the 15th century for
Westbury’s college (community) of priests. It was like a miniature
castle, with a turret at each corner and a battlemented gatehouse.
Centuries later a Georgian house was tucked inside the wall, between
one turret and the gatehouse. Now housing for the elderly fills the
rest of the quadrangle. Only one other tower remains of the college.
The property is owned by the National Trust; access is by key, to be
collected from the vicar.
|
 |
College Road,
Westbury-on-Trym,
Bristol
BS9 3EJ
WESTBURY
COLLEGE GATEHOUSE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)1225 833977
|
WHITE HART
INN
This historic pub stands on the site of the gatehouse of St James
Priory. Its vaulted cellars apparently date to the medieval period. The
inn was first granted a license in 1672, but has been much altered. It
was refronted in the 19th century. The white hart was the emblem of
Richard II. It became so popular as an inn sign in his reign that many
later inns and taverns adopted it as a well-known sign. Looking for a
great pub in Bristol.... Look no further. Welcome to The White Hart - A
Traditional, Old Fashioned Pub in the heart of Bristol City
Centre. We serve traditional pub food and real ales. We've been
recently refurbished to a very high standard and offer all modern
facilities with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.Centrally located we
are right beside the Bristol Bus Station, BRI Hospital and the Eye
Hospital and easy walking distance to Cabot Circus, Broadmead, the City
Centre and the bars in the Waterfront. Perfect for a starting point if
you're on a night out or having an office party or even if you're just
visiting Bristol and wanting to pop in for a drink or two.
|
 |
Lower Maudlin Street,
Bristol
BS3 2LG
WHITE HART
INN CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 9268767
|
WICKHAM
THEATRE
As one of the best equipped Studio Theatres at British University, the
Wickham Theatre, named after Professor Glynne Wickham, founder of the
Department and of University Theatre Studies in this country, is used
for a wide range of activities.The exploration of live performance is
an important part of the way we approach the understanding of theatre.
Students in all years engage in performances exploring forms and
expressions in several theatrical traditions including experimental
contemporary practice.The Theatre is home to a regular programme of
visiting performers and companies working at the forefront of live
performance practice internationally.
The Theatre is also used extensively for research projects in a range
of forms and media. One example is its use for the Reconstruction of a
Jacobean Playhouse Developed by Professor Martin White and Theatre
Designer Jennie Norman from original drawings by the celebrated
Jacobean architect, Inigo Jones, a full-scale reconstruction of a
17th century Jacobean indoor playhouse, lit by candles, provides a
venue for an ongoing research project, public performances, a programme
of teaching, and public lectures.
|
 |
Wickham Theatre
Bristol University
Drama Dept. building, entrance along Cantocks Close, off Woodland Road
- two minutes from the top of Park Street.
WICKHAM
THEATRE CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
|
Tel: 0117 987 7877
|
YE
SHAKESPEARE
England’s greatest dramatist is honoured in quite a few pub names. This
house was built only 20 years after Shakespeare’s death, if we accept
the credible date of 1636 on the front. But it did not become the
Shakespeare until Victorian days. A major refit in 1950 left plenty of
exposed beams, but little of the original interior. Once it brewed its
own beer. Nowadays pub food is available.
|
 |
78 Victoria Street,
Bristol
BS1 6DR
YE SHAKESPEARE CLICK
|
Phone: +44 (0)117 9497708
|
WESTON
SUPER MARE
BRISTOL'S SEASIDE RESORT
Weston-super-Mare is a seaside resort,
town and civil parish in the unitary authority of North Somerset, which
is within the ceremonial county of Somerset, England. It is located on
the Bristol Channel coast, 18 miles (29 km) south west of Bristol,
spanning the coast between the bounding high ground of Worlebury Hill
and Bleadon Hill. It includes the suburbs of Oldmixon, West Wick and
Worle. Its population according to the 2001 census was 71,758. Although
there is evidence in the local area of occupation since the Iron Age,
it was still a small village until the 19th century when it became a
seaside resort, and was connected with local towns and cities by a
railway, and two piers were built. The growth continued until the
second half of the 20th century, when tourism declined and some local
industries closed. During the 21st century a regeneration programme is
being undertaken. Attractions include the Helicopter Museum,
Weston-super-Mare Museum, the Grand Pier and the SeaQuarium aquarium.
The Paddle Steamer Waverley and MV Balmoral offer day sea trips from
Knightstone Island to various destinations along the Bristol Channel
and Severn Estuary. Cultural venues include The Playhouse, The Winter
Gardens, and The Blakehay Theatre & Community Arts Centre. Owing to
the large tidal range in the Bristol Channel, the low tide mark in
Weston Bay is about a mile from the seafront. Although the beach itself
is sandy, low tide uncovers areas of thick mud, hence the colloquial
name, Weston-super-Mud. These mudflats are very dangerous to walk in
and are crossed by the mouth of the River Axe. Just to the north of the
town is Sand Point which marks the lower limit of the Severn Estuary
and the start of the Bristol Channel. It is also the site of the Middle
Hope biological and geological Site of Special Scientific Interest. In
the centre of the town is Ellenborough Park, another Site of Special
Scientific Interest due to the range of plant species found there
|
|
Beach
Lawns,
Weston-Super-Mare,
BS23 1AT
Email: touristinfo@n-somerset.gov.uk
|
Tel: 01934 888800 Fax:
01934 64174 |
THE
BLAKEHAY THEATRE
The Blakehay Theatre is a community theatre in the centre of
Weston-super-Mare. At all levels the Blakehay Theatre aims to offer a
high quality, friendly and diverse arts experience to all its attendees
and staff. The Blakehay theatre is owned and run by the Weston Town
Council. The venue has recently undergone a refurbishment project that
has included the new Jill Dando Cafe & Theatre Bar, new Box Office,
theatre lighting, toilet facilities, external lighting and signage and
a new roof. The Blakehay Theatre is a community theatre in the centre
of Weston-super-Mare. At all levels the Blakehay Theatre aims to offer
a high quality, friendly and diverse arts experience to all its
attendees and staff. The Blakehay Theatre operates as being a live
events venue programming local and regional theatre, music and dance.
The Blakehay Actors Company runs a popular drama company with weekly
meetings. The venue is also home to the RAFA concert band and Weston
College Performing Arts department. Please see our regular hirers page
for more information. Situated next to Grove Park, the Blakehay Theatre
is an excellent place to visit during the day or evening to be
entertained, educated or even just to get a good cup of coffee!
|
 |
Wadham St,
Weston-super-Mare,
BS23 1JZ
BLAKEHAY
THEATRE CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
|
Tel: 01934 645493
|
CHRIST
CHURCH
Christ Church is a welcoming, friendly, family Anglican evangelical
church marked by informal services with a mixture of the best of the
old and new worship music.
|
 |
18 Montpelier
Weston-super-Mare
BS23 2RH
CHRIST CHURCH CLICK
|
Tel/Fax: +44 (0) 1934 641016
|
COURT FARM
COUNTRY PARK
Award-winning Farm Park. Largest farm visit centre in area. All aspects
of farming and countryside covered. Free Guided Tours and Tractor
Rides. All-weather facilities. Indoor Adventure Play. Bottle Feeding
and Animal Handling. Very hands-on.
|
 |
Court Farm Country Park,
Wolvershill Road,
Banwell,
Weston-S-Mare,
BS29 6DL
COURT
FARM COUNTRY PARK CLICK
|
Tel: 01934 822383
Fax: 01934 822383
|
DONKEY
RIDES ON WESTON BEACH
Enjoy a great day out for all the
family
Have your picture taken with your favourate Donkey Enjoy tea's,
coffee's & ice-creams from our Beach cafe's while enjoying all the
fun of Weston Super Mare Beach
Additional Beach Rides and
Services
Roundabouts | Trampolines| Bouncy Castles
Swing Boats | Buckets & Spades | Beach Cafes
Miniture Train Rides
All to be found on the Beach at Weston Super Mare
Also available for Private Hire, Events, Donkey Derbies & Parties
|
 |
Weston Super Mare
North Somerset
UK
DONKEY RIDES
CLICK
|
Tel/fax 01934 813769 or 07773 141494
|
GRAND PIER
The pier is privately-owned and is one of three piers in the town
together with Birnbeck Pier, which stands derelict awaiting possible
restoration and the much shorter SeaQuarium aquarium built towards the
south end of the seafront. It is supported by 600 iron piles,and is 400
metres (1,300 ft) long. It has been damaged by fire on two
occasions in 1930 and 2008. Following the latter fire, which completely
destroyed the pavilion, the pier was rebuilt at a cost of £39
million and reopened on 23 October 2010.
|
 |
Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare,
BS23 1AL
GRAND PIER CLICK
|
Tel: 01934 620 238
|
THE HELICOPTER MUSEUM
Britain's only
dedicated
chopper collection. See the world's oldest, fastest and ugliest
helicopters - over 50 rare aircraft from 1931 to the present day.
Pleasure flights from our
own heliport or trial lessons for the really adventurous.
|
 |
Locking
Moor
Road,
Weston-super-Mare,
BS22 8PP
HELICOPTER
MUSEUM CLICK |
Tel:
01934 635227
Fax:
01934 645230 |
HIGH ACTION
Dry Slope Skiing, Snowboarding,
Snowblading,
Tobogganing, Horse Riding, Archery, Rifle Shooting and Orienteering |
 |
Lyncombe
Drive,
Churchill,
North
Somerset. BS25 5PQ
HIGH
ACTION CLICK |
Tel:
01934 852335
Fax:
01934
853314
|
JILL DANDO
GARDEN
Jill Dando was born in Weston-super-mare North Somerset and educated
locally, she went on to work for the BBC for fourteen years as a
television presenter, she worked on many programmes such as Breakfast
News, BBC One o’clock News, Six o’clock News, the travel programme
Holiday, Crimewatch and occasionally Songs Of Praise. She was amonst
the highest profile BBC on screen staff and she had also been
personality of the year. Finish Jill Dando GardenBefore she
became known nationally one of the places she worked for locally was
the Weston Mercury newspaper where her father and brother also worked,
she was also a keen Thespian and a member of the Weston-super-mare
Amateur Dramatic Society. Jill was a much loved personality who was
sadly murdered on her doorstep on 26th April 1999 aged just 37, she was
living in Fulham at the time of her murder and the crime has never been
solved. The memorial garden at Weston’s Grove park is named simply
‘Jill’s Garden’ it took three days of hard work by the BBC Ground Force
team to design and complete and was opened on 2nd August 2001 by
Councillor Peter Bryant, this permanent tribute to Jill is a sensory
garden filled with plants and colours which were special to her such as
roses, clematis, lavender and a range of tree’s and climbers it also
contains a foaming fountain and a disabled ramp for easy access. Grove
Park is situated in the centre of Weston at the top end of the high
street with all day parking surrounding the area.
|
 |
Grove Park
Weston-super-Mare,
BS23 2QJ
Grove Park is situated in the centre of Weston at the top end of the
High Street with plenty of all day parking surrounding the area.
|
|
THE
PLAYHOUSE
The Playhouse was re-opened in 1969. The final cost was £230,000.
For the first time Weston had a theatre that could easily stage a wide
variety of productions, from ballet and music to opera and drama.
The stage is 59' x 28' and the cleverly designed orchestra pit may be
covered to form an apron stage or floored over at stalls level for
additional seating. The auditorium seats 658. The decorative panels on
the frontage were the conception of London sculptor, William Mitchell
who also commissioned work for Liverpool Cathedral. The first
production was Let Sleeping Wives Lie starring Brian Rix.
|
 |
Playhouse
High St, Weston Super Mare.
PLAYHOUSE THEATRE CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
|
Tel: 01934 627457
|
PUXTON PARK
Set in the beautiful Somerset countryside the 50 acre family adventure
park is one of the largest visitor attractions in the South West
providing fun and variety with something to offer everyone. From
a state of the art giant indoor play barn to the delightful Pets'
Village, adults and children alike can experience the joys of getting
up close and personal with the many animals we home. Alaca's, pygmy
goats, rabbits and guinea pigs - you decide. Or if you prefer something
a little more up close and personal, drop into our dairy where you can
see our cows being milked each day. A visit to the Falconry Centre is
another highlight. Home to owls, falcons and hawks this is a unique
opportunity to see birds of prey as never before with our daily
displays.
|
 |
Puxton Park,
Cowslip Lane,
Hewish,
BS24 6AH
PUXTON
PARK CLICK
|
Telephone: 01934 523500
Fax: 01934 523515
|
RISING SUN
AIKIDO
Rising Sun Aikido is a traditional Ueshiba style Aikido martial art
self defence club The Rising Sun Aikido Club & Rising Stars
Aikido Club now has over 100 members of all ages and abilities. Under
the tutorship of Sensei's Phil Benge (4th Dan), Helena Benge-Nilsdotter
(2nd Dan), John Creed (2nd Dan), Mike Higgins (2nd Dan), Chris Gee (1st
Dan), and Al Carchrie (1st Dan). Rising Sun Aikido currently hold three
Adult Aikido training sessions per week For youngsters of primary and
junior school age Rising Sun Aikido also runs a Saturday morning junior
Aikido club known as Rising Stars for children aged 5 to 12.
|
 |
The Campus
Bransby Way
Weston Village
Weston-Super-Mare
BS24 7DX
RISING
SUN CLICK
|
Tel: 07786 513 973
|
SEA AQUARIUM LIFE
The Weston-super-mare Seaquarium was
opened in 1995 built on the first seaside pier in Great Britain for
over 85 years and is surrounded by 3 miles of beach. The Seaquarium
contains amazing displays of sea creatures with an underwater tunnel
and visitors can get closer to the beautiful creatures in the ray zone
which features an open top display where the graceful creatures swim to
the surface, the sides of the display are see-through enabling visitors
to gaze underwater at the beautiful creatures. There are live
presentations and feeding demonstrations throughout the day, listen out
for the announcements.
External Picture of Sea AquariumAfter your marine journey you can relax
in the sea view tea room and don’t forget to visit the gift shop for a
souvenir of your visit. The Seaquarium is open daily from 10.00am and
children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
|
 |
Marine
Parade,
Weston-Super-Mare,
BS23 1BE
SEA
AQUARIUM
LIFE
CLICK |
Tel:
01934 613361
Fax: 01934 613371
|
SOVEREIGN
SHOPPING CENTRE
Weston-super-Mare's premier shopping destination for all the family!
- Thirty five of your favourite High Street brands.
- Places to eat-in or just take-away.
- Parking for eight hundred and fifty cars in our award winning
multi-storey car park.
- All located under one roof so you can enjoy your shopping, whatever
the weather.
- Situated just off the sea front, opposite the Grand Pier.
|
 |
Marine Parade
Weston-Super-Mare
BS23 1AH.
The Sovereign Shopping Centre is situated in the heart of the town
centre of Weston-super-Mare. We are just a ten minute drive from the M5
motorway, junction 21. if your travelling from the north. Alternatively
if you are travelling from the south west, then exit at junction 22 and
approach Weston from the south initially along the A38, and then the
A370.
SOVERIGN
SHOPPING
CENTRE
CLICK
|
Tel:
01934 644111
|
WESTON
MINIATURE RAILWAY
Our 7 ¼ inch gauge miniature railway operates on the Beach
Lawns, Marine Parade in the seaside town of Weston-Super-Mare. As well
as a gentle ½ mile train ride behind miniature locomotives,
there is plenty more to keep the whole family entertained. This
includes an excellent 18-hole putting green, a drive it yourself tram,
a gift shop and refreshment kiosk. We hope you enjoy looking around our
website, and will visit us soon at the Weston Miniature Railway.The
Weston Miniature Railway has a wide range of other attractions and
facilites on site. These include: Superb 18-hole putting green
for the whole family to enjoy.
Refreshment kiosk serving teas, ice cream and other refreshments.
A souvenir and gift shop packed with railway items, Thomas The
Tank Engine gifts and beach goods. For the under 10's, a
drive-it-yourself-train. Drive our tram down its own little line for
only £1! Parking on the seafront opposite Putters End
Station.
|
 |
Marine Parade
Weston-Super-Mare
Follow the brown tourist signs which can be found about 1/2 mile from
the railway. The railway is situated at the southern end of Marine
Parade.
View the railway from the right, coming from Weston town centre.
WESTON
MINIATURE RAILWAY CLICK
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Tel : 01934 643510
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WESTON-SUPER-MARE
LIBRARY
Pop in to read a newspaper, surf the internet and pick up a book, CD or
DVD. Joining is easy and it's free. You will find a range of
fiction and non fiction books on various subjects, DVDs, CDs and a
popular area for children and young people. There are computers
offering free internet access, and helpful staff to assist you.
The North Somerset Studies library is located on the upper floor.
As a member of Weston Library you can use over 100 libraries in the
LibrariesWest network.
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The Boulevard
Weston-super-Mare
BS23 1PL
WESTON-SUPER-MARE
LIBRARY CLICK
|
Tel : 01934 426 010
Fax:
01934 426 956
|
WESTON
SUPER MARE MUSEUM
The Weston-super-Mare Museum is a museum in Weston-super-Mare, North
Somerset, England. The museum, which charges a fee for entry, details
the history of Weston-super-Mare and the surrounding area from
pre-historic times up to the present day. The collection includes
archaeological exhibits, including those from Worlebury Camp an Iron
Age hill fort. Social history is also covered with a particular focus
on local industries including Royal Potteries in the town,[1] seaside
holidays, costume and domestic life. There are also replicas of a 19th
century chemist shop, and exhibits which explores life on the Home
Front for the people of North Somerset during the Second World War,
from air-raids to vegetable plots, and secret weapons developed on
Birnbeck Island .The museum ran an exhibition of lesbian, gay, bisexual
and transsexual history in the South West during May 2008. In August
2008, the museum added the Grand Pier exhibition, telling viewers about
the fire.
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Burlington Street
Weston-super-Mare
BS23 1PR
WESTON
SUPER MARE MUSEUM CLICK
|
Tel : 01934 621028
|
THE WHEEL
OF WESTON
The observation wheel has moved to its winter location in Glasgow. The
attraction is due to return in time for Easter 2012. Situated opposite
The Grand Pier on the beach lawns, the 40 metre tall Wheel of Weston is
an imposing site. The huge white structure opened in 2009 and is very
much a permanent attraction in Weston-super-Mare and is fast becoming
one of the many iconic images of the town.The 160 tonne wheel is
operated by Great City Attractions which have similar Wheels in
Liverpool, Manchester, Plymouth and Dublin. There are 30 booths
including a VIP capsule that can come with champagne.
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Beach Lawns
Weston-super-Mare
BS23 1AT
THE
WHEEL CLICK
|
Tickets:
01934 645544
|
WINTER
GARDENS
On 14 July 1927 the Winter Gardens and Pavilion were officially opened
by Ernest Palmer, deputy chairman of the Great Western Railway. This
ceremony was proceeded by one at which T.E. Macfarlane, Chairman of the
Council, opened the gate in Post Office Road with a golden key.In 1989
the Winter Gardens closed for multi-million pound development, complete
refurshibment and extension into the new Town Square Gardens
transforming the building into the one it is today. Whilst still
retaining the classic 1920's grandeur,the centre now boasts an
extensive modern Conference and Entertainment facility.
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Winter
Gardens
Royal Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset.
WINTER GARDENS CLICK
See
Our Theatre Website
|
Tel: 01934 645544
|
|
also
available on local DAB digital radio, in the Bristol and Bath area
This
station was formerly known as GWR & Radio West
NATIONAL
EXPRESS
Trains
serving Bristol
There
are two major rail stations serving Bristol – Bristol Temple Meads on
the eastern edge of the city centre and Bristol Parkway to the north of
the city in South Gloucestershire. 
CROSS COUNTRY
SOUTH WESTERN TRAINS
Southbound
Bristol’s
three Park & Ride services offer a comfortable, frequent and easy
way to travel into Bristol without the stress of city centre driving.
All Park & Ride services provide convenient access to employment,
shopping, leisure and tourist attractions in the centre of Bristol.
Unlike Sloanes, who cling to
their class background with goofy, panicky enthusiasm, Wessex Girls are
generally uninterested in social position. They are reasonably
well-bred, of course most of them were raised in the home
counties or in the smarter parts of the Chilterns but they have
discovered that, in modern Britain, overt snobbery is a career
liability. On the other hand, unlike Essex Girls, they have not the
slightest interest in drinking to excess, staggering about at parties
or using inappropriate language.
It's
Official Wessex Girl Comes down Fastest : 
