Brandon Hill Park, Bristol

Brandon Hill Park is a popular outdoor space in Bristol, situated near the city center between the Clifton and Hotwells districts. At the summit of Brandon Hill lies Cabot Tower, a famous landmark that was built in 1897 to commemorate John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to Newfoundland in 1497. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

The park itself is a steep hill that covers the upper part of Brandon Hill. It has been divided into informal gardens, a small nature reserve, and open grassland. The wildflower meadow is particularly noteworthy, with its abundance of ox-eye daisies, yellow rattle, and knapweed. The pond in the reserve is also home to several species of amphibians, including frogs, toads, and smooth newts, making it an excellent place for nature enthusiasts to explore.

In addition to the nature reserve, the park also features a butterfly garden that supplies food for caterpillars and many kinds of butterflies. The area is a popular spot for bird watching as well, with species such as jays, bullfinches, and blackcaps frequently spotted in the reserve. The park's native trees and shrubs have been carefully planted, and the meadow is cut for hay every July.

The lower slopes of the hill are home to several historic sites, including Saint George's Church on Great George Street, Berkeley Square on the northern edge, and the school buildings of Queen Elizabeth's Hospital on the western side. Brandon Hill has a rich history, having been granted to the council in 1174 by the Earl of Gloucester. It was initially used for grazing, but it became a public open space in 1625, possibly making it the oldest municipal open space in the country.