Cabot Tower

Historical landmark · West End

Cabot Tower

Historical landmark · West End

2

Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol BS1 5RR, United Kingdom

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Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null
Cabot Tower by null

Highlights

360° city and coastal views from historic tower  

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Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol BS1 5RR, United Kingdom Get directions

bristol.gov.uk
@bristolcouncil

Information

Static Map

Brandon Hill Park, Park St, Bristol BS1 5RR, United Kingdom Get directions

+44 117 922 2200
bristol.gov.uk
@bristolcouncil
𝕏
@bristolcouncil

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Oct 26, 2025

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@travelleisure

20 Cool Destinations to Escape the Summer Heat

"Sitting atop a prominent hill in the city, this castle-like tower is a landmark viewpoint where visitors can take in panoramic urban and coastal vistas as part of a broader stroll or evening out in the town." - Andrea Romano Andrea Romano Andrea Romano is a writer and editor in New York City. For the last eight years, she has been a lifestyle journalist for Mashable, Brit+Co, Reviewed, Bustle, and Travel + Leisure. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/summer-vacations/cool-destinations-to-avoid-summer-heat
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@nomadicmatt

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol in 2025

"Built in the 1890s on Brandon Hill Park to celebrate John Cabot's 400th anniversary, the 32-meter sandstone tower has a narrow staircase you can climb for sweeping views over the city." - Matthew Kepnes

https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-things-bristol/
View Postcard for Cabot Tower

iman shahsamandi

Google
Today, I had the pleasure of visiting Cabot Tower in Bristol, and it was truly a remarkable experience. The tower itself is a beautiful historic structure, offering a unique glimpse into the city's past. Built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to North America, the tower stands as an iconic landmark in the heart of the city. Climbing up the narrow spiral staircase was an adventure in itself, but the effort was well worth it. Upon reaching the top, I was greeted with breathtaking 360-degree views of Bristol. The panoramic scenery was absolutely stunning, showcasing different parts of this vibrant city from every angle. The picturesque landscapes, combined with the tower's historical charm, made for an unforgettable visit. If you're ever in Bristol, I highly recommend stopping by Cabot Tower. It's a perfect spot to appreciate both the history and the beauty of the city.

Adam White

Google
Amazing views of the city - the docks, the cathedral, St. Mary Redcliffe, the Wills Building, the museum, and all the other landmarks of the city. It's free which is a huge plus and open quit late I think so could be good for the sunset. Not too many steps - maybe about 150 or so, but it is on a hill so the views are great as it's quite high. Could be a little difficult just to get up the hill though - I approached it from behind so it wasn't too bad. The only real problem with it being free and unstaffed is there were a few beer bottles left on the floor at the top which was a shame but it was Hobgoblin mainly so at least a good beer!

Yaprak C. ivan (Цвета)

Google
Cabot Tower is an absolute gem in Bristol! Perched atop Brandon Hill, this 105-foot red sandstone tower offers breathtaking 360° views of the city, including landmarks like the harbourside, Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Bristol Cathedral. The climb up the narrow spiral staircase is a bit of a workout, but the panoramic vistas at the top are well worth the effort. Surrounded by the serene Brandon Hill Park, it’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. Best of all, it’s free to visit! A must-see for anyone exploring Bristol.

Andy Savage

Google
It was over a mile walk up a hill to the base of this tower and then wasn't sure if I had the energy left to climb it but I did and I'm so glad I did as what an amazing view you get and its FREE ! I didn't seen another person when I was there, it was 9am on Friday. The stone stairs are quite narrow, especially to the top section. I have added some 360 degree photos. I can highly recommend a visit to this. Take you time to take in the great views.

Riri McCollum Lynch

Google
Easy to get to and an interesting perspective from the top. The tower itself is beautiful and well maintained. The staircase up is narrow but a tall/wide person still has plenty of width and comfort. It takes very little time to get up this tower. You do not need to be a fit person.

Skater bun

Google
A hidden gem in Bristol steeped in history. Awesome view of the city when you reach the top. Recommend you visit during a quiet time of day, if you enter the tower as there is a very narrow circular staircase to ascend with only one way access, no passing places. only attempt if you are in good fitness. Not suitable for babies, dogs or the elderly.

LUS D

Google
The tower is worth the 10min walk from the bottom. The stairs are a little tight but when you get to the first floor, the view is spectacular, with information about locations and their direction. The second floor is a bit tighter, only for one person at a time but again, the view is spectacular.

Bilal Abbas

Google
Mild level hike up the hill, tough-ish climb up the stairs but the view is priceless! Best part is there’s no ticket, though the attraction could do with some supervision/more safety measures
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Sarah P.

Yelp
Cabot Tower is a tower in Bristol, England, situated in a public park on Brandon Hill, between the city centre, Clifton and Hotwells. It is a grade II listed building. The tower was built in the 1890s to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the journey of John Cabot from Bristol to land which later became Canada. It makes for a pleasant walk through the park, although a steep climb if you go to the top.. Lovely views of Bristol once you are there.
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Jen L.

Yelp
When I asked where we were going, I was told to see the Folly. Who doesn't love a good folly? Turns out my friend was talking about Cabot Tower. The park surrounding the tower is lovely, even a dreary November day. The tower allows great views of the city. The only problem is getting up and down on a busy Sunday. The steps are narrow and I may have slipped and thought I was going to die. Definitely worth a tour around and hopefully you won't have to pass folks on the stairs as you go up and down.
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Jon B.

Yelp
A landmark on the Bristol skyline, the Cabot Tower is another thing to put on a tourist's tour of Bristol. Built in 1897 to commemorate the anniversary of John Cabot's discovery of the New World, it towers over the picturesque gardens of Brandon Hill. The views at the top are quite phenomenal, stretching over to South Bristol and the hills beyond, and up to the part of North Bristol that's immediately visible. I am, however, scared of heights, but once you get to the top it's not actually so bad. There's that usual feeling of nausea as you climb the stone spiral staircase, but once you've successfully negotiated them the views are well worth it, so unless your phobia is really strong I reckon it's worth a shot. Apart from the tower, the gardens themselves are beautiful, far stretching and definitely worth spending some time exploring. The tower is closed for maintenance at the moment, so keep a watch for when it's open again.
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Lisa B.

Yelp
Isn't it funny how you can walk around something so much and never see it until you're at a distance? I find this with Cabot Tower. It's right by Park Street, on Brandon Hill, which is a beautiful central Bristol Park, definitely worth a visit. The tower is rarely open, and was recently closed for repairs. But when you can get up here, the view is very awe inspiring. If you're in the South of the city, you will be able to see Cabot tower on the skyline, along with the Wills Building and the Cathedral Spire.
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Will P.

Yelp
Discoverer of the New World (ignore all that Christopher Columbus nonsense) John Cabot was a Portuguese man that sailed from Bristol and discovered Newfoundland (wasn't the most imaginative of namers, seemingly). Erected in his name, Cabot Tower stands at the top of Brandon Hill, and is a Bristol attraction that get surprisingly few visitors. From Park Street, go down one of road on the left hand (walking up) side onto Brandon Hill. From there you'll be able to see it. Climb the hill and then (if you've still got the energy) you can start climbing the twisting stairs up the the tower. You'll probably have a bit of a traffic jam at some point going up and down as the stairway is cramped. For that reason you shouldn't come here with lots of shopping. Every time I start counting the stairs I lose count, there's enough anyway. The view is fantastic, with Bristol panning out before you. They close up in the evenings, which is a shame, because it would be wonderful to see the lights of the city here. Obviously don't go if you're scared of heights. A prominent part of Bristol's sky line, Cabot Tower is worth the climb.
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Qype User (farawa…)

Yelp
The Cabot Tower is a fairytale tower situated on Brandon Hill, not far from Park Street. Cabot tower was designed by Bristol architect William Venn Gough and was built in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Bristol Explorer John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to North America. You can climb a narrow staircase to the top of Cabot tower where you will see a panoramic view accross Bristol. There are signs on the window ledges in the tower pointing out Bristol Landmarks. Brandon Hill is also a nice area for a walk, there are pretty gardens and lots of tame squirrels!
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Qype User (localy…)

Yelp
Cabot Tower is a definite must-see for anyone visting the area (if you live in Bristol, why haven't you seen it already, get up there!) It was built in 1897 in memory of John Cabot and has been designated by English Heritage as a grade II listed building. (I had to look this up!) The tower is 32.4m (105 ft) high which doesn't actually sound a lot, but its views are so impressive that you'd think it was higher when you're at the top. You ascend the inside of the tower via a steep narrow spiral staircase to the first level and should you wish to go to the top the staircase continues up to the picturesque view across every part of Bristol city centre and outwards.
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Qype User (xathan…)

Yelp
A great landmark in Bristol, and a good spot for lovers of taking panoramic photos. Views right out over the whole of Bristol in every direction. A steep narrow spiral staircase takes you up to the top, and its quite a climb, but the views are worth it. Occassionally a dissapointment as the doors are randomly shut from time to time, but worth a visit. The park around the tower is also nice (although dosen't seem as well kept as it once was) with play areas for kids. A nice place to read a book and eat lunch during your lunch hour if you work nearby.
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Qype User (george…)

Yelp
Situated in the picturesque Brandon Hill Park between Park Street and Jacobs Wells Road, I can't believe I've lived in the area for 30 years and this is my first visit!! Be warned, the trek to the top is narrow and involves a lot of leg work but boy is it worth it, you MUST go on a sunny day like we did to get a some stunning views of the city, check out the Wiki page to see a great panoramic pic. Oh and it's free!! (thumbs up to the Council for the restoration work too)
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Luke T.

Yelp
Cabot tower is surprisingly well hidden from the everyday bustle of life, despite its size. The grade II listed building is 105 feet tall, and was built in 1898 as a tribute to the discovery of the North American continent 400 years beforehand. The tower is one of those places that you set aside time to go and see, spend an hour there just sitting down and reflecting on the views. Unfortunately you can't get up to the top of the tower anymore, however there is a grant being directed at the redevelopment of this landmark that should get people up there I the next few years. Be sure to go, it is a gem In Bristol's crown!

Ted Q.

Yelp
We started our day in Bristol here, and what a treat it was. The "crowds" were minimal, being all of one person with a dog. The park around the tower is beautiful. Climbing the stairs of the tower itself can be a bit of a task, but it is well worth the effort. The views of Bristol are stunning! If you have an hour or two available, make a point to visit.

Qype User (coffee…)

Yelp
A true Bristol landmark - always a good one to take visitors to Bristol to. The tower offers amazing views all over Bristol and even if you're not a fan of heights, then the gardens are great to wander around in, loads of different routes along gently curving paths with bridges and waterfalls and ponds. Great for summer days

Qype User (aime…)

Yelp
The Cabot Tower is located on Brandon Hill and is, as the name suggests, a large tower. Great views but inside the tower itself there are stairs which you can climb to the top to further enhance the beautiful views to be seen. there are picnic benches at the base of the tower in the tower gardens which are also worth a look.

Qype User (LemonJ…)

Yelp
Yessss its re opened, what great views in the middle of some superb gardens good to be back in Bris and able to enjoy this real gem in the city.

Qype User (Wander…)

Yelp
Brandon Hill has the best views of the city, down over Bedminster towards Dundry. The park is landscaped and steep, so no problems with people kicking footballs. The tower was built to celebrate the 300th anniversary of John Cabot sailing to Newfoundland, and was built by a Bristol architect who had emigrated to Canada. Since it is a tower, it involves a lot of climbing, it is in 3 stages, with gates on each level and the final stretch is very narrow, so only for the fit and determined. around the parapet are markers to show what you are looking at. Well worth the effort.