Mythical Bristol Giants Walking Tour

About

Britain is no stranger to tales of Giants and the legendary havoc they wreaked across the country in days gone by - with some quite tremendous consequences. Some of the most stunning gorges, causeways and natural landscapes in the UK have been blamed on Giant activity in ancient folklore.

Bristol has not escaped their grasp and the mythical story of the Bristol Giants, Goram and Ghyston describes the creation of some of the city's most iconic landmarks thanks to these legendary beings. Fire youngsters' imagination and plan an exciting stay in Bristol, delving into ancient legend, travelling back in time and unearthing the tale of these old Giants. 

Start off with a visit to the beautiful Blaise Castle Estate. Here you'll find Goram’s Chair, Soap dish and ‘tantrum’ footprint. Popular with dog-walkers and perfect for a leafy autumn stroll, there’s also a fantastic children’s play area, museum and folly castle to visit.

For stunning views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge, head to Clifton Observatory and Camera Obscura whose steep steps wind down through the cliff to Ghyston’s Cave, snuggled in the rock. Head out onto the balcony, perched halfway down the cliffside for breath-taking views across the gorge. Whilst you're in the area, why not brave the natural rock slide on the Clifton side of the bridge and combine with a stroll through pretty Clifton Village.

A short scenic walk away from the observatory is the White Lion Bar, settled on the edge of the Avon Gorge and exceptionally popular on a summer's day thanks to its outside sun terrace overlooking some of the city’s best views. Make like the Giants - albeit stylish, comfortable ones - and stay a night in the newest hotel suites which are built on gorge bedrock at the Avon Gorge by Hotel de Vin.

Nicely rested, stroll across the exceptionally photogenic Clifton Suspension Bridge (it's free for pedestrians) to Ashton Court Estate. Wander your way along neat pathways that criss cross 850 acres of enchanting wide-open green space and woodland. Near the keeper's lodge you'll find a sculpture of Goram the Giant.

For further inspiration on tracing the Bristol Giants trail around the city, you'll find further, more up-to-date stories of the Bristol Giants in a set of wonderful books. In the tales you'll learn how they use Brunel's SS Great Britain (a fantastic family attraction which sits on Bristol's Harbourside) as a sleigh and Luke Jerram's art installation featuring a flotilla of abandoned boats in Leigh Woods (National Trust protected woodland just down the road from Ashton Court Estate).