With hills in abundance, beautiful Georgian architecture, and sprawling parks it’s no surprise that Bristol plays host to some of the most beautiful and recognisable views in the country

They say the best things in life are free, and with Bristol’s breath-taking views, this is definitely the case. From the panoramic vistas of Cabot Tower to the regal sweep of Royal York Crescent, with so much to do in Bristol sometimes it’s best to just stop and take it all in. Here’s our guide to doing just that.

Cabot Tower

In the middle of Bristol’s oldest park, Brandon Hill, nestled amongst the green open spaces, pond, and nature conservation area, rises the iconic Cabot Tower. Built in 1897 to commemorate the 400^th anniversary of John Cabot’s discovery of what we now call Canada, the tower is 105 feet high and provides some of the most stunning views across Bristol.

Cabot Tower Panorama by Jack Tanner

Park Street

Just a short walk from Brandon Hill, Park Street is a one-stop-shop for independent boutiques, vintage clothes and art in Bristol (that also happens to run up quite a hill). From the University of Bristol’s Wills Memorial Hall at the top to Bristol Cathedral at the bottom, whether you’re walking up or hurtling down, the views are iconic. Not to mention that the street was once turned into a water-slide for a day. 

Park Street Waterslide by Paul Townsend

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Straddling the imposing cliffs of the ice-age Avon Gorge stands Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s masterpiece of Victorian engineering, The Clifton Suspension Bridge - one of the most instantly recognisable landmarks in Bristol. Enjoy a stroll to The Observatory across the wide-open green spaces of The Downs to look down on the gorge and off into the distance, or enjoy the less conventional view from below in Hotwells.

Clifton Suspension Bridge by Hershel Shah

Royal York Crescent

The sweeping grandeur of the pastel fronted townhouses of Royal York Crescent, once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe, provide quite a view themselves. Perched on the hillside in Clifton, the wide expanse of Regency and Georgian splendour itself provides stunning vistas across the harbour. 

Royal York Crescent by Shrinkin'violet

The Bristol

Not to be outdone, The Bristol itself has a couple of tricks up its sleeve. Our 6^th Floor picture window provides views across the river towards Millennium Square and up to the countryside beyond with the gorgeous grounds of Ashton Court, the location for Bristol’s world famous Balloon Fiesta. Alternatively, you can stay a little more grounded and take in the hustle and bustle of Bristol Harbour-side from the comfort of The Bristol’s fully glass-fronted restaurant. Perfect for people watching.

The River Grille @ The Bristol

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Images taken from Flickr.