3 min readBristol is blessed with some amazing vistas and vantage points, here are a few of our favourites...
Clifton Suspension Bridge
The world-famous Clifton Suspension Bridge was built in 1864 and offers dramatic views down the Avon Gorge into the city and beyond. This iconic attraction is open to walk across daily to admire Bristol and the surrounding countryside. Guided tours also run regularly from the Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum if you’d like to learn more about the bridge’s history whilst taking in the view.
Image - Clifton Suspension Bridge
Leigh Woods
Walk across the Clifton Suspension Bridge and you’ll find National Park site Leigh Woods. Perched atop the Avon Gorge, there are impressive views down the river. A great place for a family day out or a spot of dog walking, Leigh Woods hosts regular events among the trees.
Image - View of Clifton Suspension Bridge from Leigh Woods
The White Lion
If you don’t make it across the gorge, take in the panoramic views with a drink at The White Lion’s heated terrace.
From the huge outdoor platform, you can admire the Clifton Suspension Bridge and look across the rolling Somerset hills.
Image - The terrace at The White Lion
Narroways Hill
More candidly known as ‘the mound’, Narroways Hill in St Werburghs is an area steeped in history and fondly looked after by locals. The mound, infringed by the city and allotments, looks over St Werburghs or out across railway tracks to the east of the city.
Image - The view from Narroways
Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower
Located just off Park Street, Brandon Hill offers spectacular views over the city and Harbourside, and if you climb Cabot Tower at the top of the hill these views are even better. Entrance to the 32 metre (105ft) tower is free and it is open daily, allowing you a 360 degree view of Bristol and beyond from the oldest park in the city.
Image - Cabot Tower
Victoria Park
Head south of the river to this large park bordering Bedminster and Totterdown, and enjoy views of the city skyline and landmarks. If you want to get into the warm, pop along to the nearby Victoria Park pub for views of Dundry Hill and the surrounding countryside from their large garden and heated terrace.
M Shed
Go along to Bristol’s free history museum, M Shed, to learn about the story of the city, then visit the roof terrace balcony to behold stunning views of the Habourside. See the cranes on the quayside, the ferries zipping around the harbour, and neighbouring replica of John Cabot’s famous ship, The Matthew.
Image - The terrace at M Shed
Bristol Cathedral
The beautiful and historic Bristol Cathedral on College Green offers tours all year round, and there are regular opportunities to climb the tower and view Bristol from its rooftop. This ancient structure offers great views up Park Street and down the river to South Bristol.
Image - The view from the roof of Bristol Cathedral
Dundry Hill
South of Bristol, Dundry Hill enjoys breathtaking views of the city. Sit next to the church at the summit to enjoy views over Bristol to the Severn Bridges and beyond.
Wills Memorial Building
Inside Bristol University’s Wills Memorial Building you can visit the 7th largest bell in the UK as part of their regular tours. Whilst on the tour, climb to the top of the 66 metre (215ft) tower and enjoy 360 degree views of Bristol. Tickets are £5 and all profits raised are donated to Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal.
Image - Wills Memorial Building
The basket of a hot air balloon
Potentially the most Bristolian way of getting a good look at the city is from the basket of a hot air balloon! Ascend into the sky for a few hours and peacefully float above the city in any direction the wind blows while you enjoy the view and sip on Champagne - what could be finer?
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