Bristol Castle

Yabe

Norman remains 6th October 2008

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This is a tourist attraction that may not interest the average visitor to Bristol, but it is an important part of understanding the history of Bristol. Most people only see Castle Park as a nice, green oasis in which to have a picnic or rest from shopping in Broadmead and Cabot Circus. But there's some real history here....

Castle Park is a large, public open space in the heart of modern day Bristol. It was built on the site of the former Bristol Castle and incorporates the remains of the old Castle, which was first built in the 11th Century and mentioned in the Domesday Book.

Bristol Castle was built in typical Norman style in a strategic location, between the rivers Frome and Avon and played a major role in the subsequent civil wars. It was a big complex, situated on a vast mound, strengthened by a big wall and battlements, and came complete with towers and a moat.

The moat has been covered over, but very little is left of the Castle buildings and walls, except for some foundations and a few small pieces of wall. The remains of the banqueting hall have been preserved and incorporated in an existing building in Castle Park.

Apart from its interesting history, today's Castle Park is a brilliant place to catch the sun, eat a sandwich or go for a stroll. It is a 'green lung' in the middle of an increasingly choked, busy city. A lovely spot!