Overview

Castle Park is a sprawling public park with an interesting history. It once played host to a medieval castle, then spent time as the city's main shopping area before bombs during the Blitz laid waste to the area. The site was pretty much left in ruins until it was turned into a park and officially opened as Castle Park in 1978. You’ll still see some of that history around, like the roofless shell of St Peter’s Church, which now stands as a memorial to those who died in the bombings. These days, the park is a vibrant celebration of life, teeming with people stopping to enjoy the sun, making their way through the park or even heading to the local Floating Harbour. It's hilly but well worth a visit on a sunny day.

Transport & Parking

I arrived via Queen Street, where there are several Pay and Display parking spaces but no accessible parking spaces. The main bus stops are on Wine Street which is served by the 1, 2 and 2a citylines, 39 Aquae, 71, 172, 349, 374, 375, 376 Mendip Explorer, 376a, 522 and X39 Aquae services and Broad Weir where the Citylines 1, 2, 2a and P1 sevices operate. A ferry service to the nearby Castle Park landing is run by Bristol Ferry Boats and Netham, but these are not wheelchair accessible. There’s a JustPark at Union Gallery on Broadmead with accessible parking, though it is not free. Bristol Temple Meads Railway Station is about 1,100 metres away, so it’s a bit of a trek.

Access

Though situated on a hill, the park has plenty of tarmac paths snaking through it, which makes navigating the area with a mobility device a lot easier. However, there is a cycle path that goes through the park. There are clear markings for the bike lanes, but be careful not to step into the path of a speeding bike. There are a few hilly areas, but I managed to find routes that worked. Some staircases have tactile markings and handrails, but not all of them do. A few times, I found it easier to wheel my wheelchair across the dry grass due to the volume of people. Plenty of people were sitting out on the grass while I was there. There are a few benches dotted around, too, if you'd prefer to sit on one. It's worth noting that the entrance via Wine Street is a lot more level than other parts of the park. It'll also bring you right to the ruin of St Peter’s Church. There is signage near the Queen Street entrance to the park to aid navigation, but I didn't see any other alternative formats in use.

Toilets

I had read that there were accessible toilets in the park, but I was unable to find them.

Staff

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Around the back of the church, you'll find Edna's Falafel Kitchen, a kiosk selling falafel (of course) and other vegetarian delights. There are a few seats outside, but it's more of a food-to-go set up.

Photos