Brandon Hill is not only the perfect park for a summer picnic - it’s also home to one of Bristol’s most famous landmarks, Cabot Tower.
Surrounded by a forest-like landscape of parkland and accessible paths, the 125-year-old tower stands strong at 32m (105ft) in the northern part of Brandon Hill, between the city centre, Clifton and Hotwells.
Built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot’s famous voyage from Bristol and the continent of North America 400 years earlier, this is one of the jewels in the crown when it comes to Bristol attractions but you have to put in some effort to enjoy the views from the top.
The climb of 81 steps (or 107 if you want to reach the peak of the tower) is very much worth climbing and the views of the city are simply stunning. But be warned, the staircase is narrow and only has enough space to be travelled one way at a time.
I made my way up the tower on a Tuesday, around 10.30am. It was a quiet visit, and I only encountered one pair of visitors during the climb up and a family of four on my way out, so I was lucky to not encounter traffic on the stairs.
The first set of 81 steps will lead you to three large balconies where you can experience the first round of gorgeous views of Bristol from the cathedral and City Hall to Clifton Wood and the harbour, to name a few.
That is not all this floor has to offer, however. There is another set of steps next to the balconies, which can be easy to miss due to the unsigned door. This set of 26 steps is even narrower and I was cautious when using them since I feared I might trip due to the space also taken by my backpack.
The climb, however, is worthwhile since you can enjoy a 360-degree view of our stunning city. Unfortunately, it was very windy as I made my way up the tower. I feared my cap and phone would go flying if I did not hold them tight enough as I tried to capture the beautiful views with my phone.
It was also becoming a bit chilly due to the wind, which shortened my visit. Overall, a sunny day may have been a better pick to make the most out of the climb.
Cabot Tower is free to enter and is open Monday to Sunday from 8am and closes at 5.15pm in January, November and December, at 6.15pm in February, at 7.15pm in March and October, at 8.15 pm in April and September, and at 9.15pm in May, June, July and August.
Here are ten photos showing why it’s still worth every step of that steep climb to the top of Cabot Tower:
1. Carved figure
The winged figure on top of the tower built in memory of John Cabot represents commerce
2. City landmarks
The Wills Memorial Building Tower and Bristol Museum and Art Gallery are a stone’s throw from the tower
3. View from the top
At the top of the spiral staircase are two viewing platforms with ornate stone arches
4. Green scene
The ponds and trees of Brandon Hill are framed by the harbourside from this angle