If there’s one Bristol park that truly deserves the description of ‘hidden gem’, it’s Royal Fort.
Tucked away a short walk from Park Street and Whiteladies Road, the parkland and Georgian house at Royal Fort is part of the University of Bristol but open to the public, although many people still don’t know it’s there.
With sweeping lawns, wildlife ponds, sculptures and landscaped flower gardens, Royal Fort is simply one of the most beautiful and timeless parks in the city.
Steeped in history, many of the buildings there are now used by the university but when the sun shines, there is no better place in Bristol to enjoy a picnic or sunbathe.
Here are 12 photos of Royal Fort gardens, still one of Bristol’s best-kept secrets.
1. Secluded
Mature trees and shrubs around the garden maintain an element of seclusion and peace despite the close proximity to Park Street and Queens Road. | Mark Taylor
2. Henrietta’s garden
Sculptor and landscape gardener Helen Wilson Roe created the landscaped public garden outside the main house and the majority of plants, shrubs and trees are red, which was the favourite colour of Henrietta Lacks whose statue is nearby. | Mark Taylor
3. Timeless
The sweeping lawns surrounding the house are a popular spot for picnics in summer and a peaceful spot throughout the year. | Mark Taylor
4. Pond life
The pond at the bottom of the Humphry Repton garden is teeming with wildlife all year round. | Mark Taylor