Cabot Tower
Cabot Tower is a Grade II listed structure situated in Brandon Hill park, in the Clifton and Hotwells area of Bristol.
The tower was built to commemorate John Cabot, a navigator and explorer, who in 1497 sailed in the ‘Matthew’ to discover parts of North America and Canada. Work began 400 years after John Cabot set sail, with the foundation stone placed on 24th June 1897, and completion of the tower in July 1898.
At the top of the tower stands the angelic ‘Lady of Commerce’ statue. Bristol sculptor Ralph Miller was commissioned to create the statue, and asked his 11 year old daughter Bessie to sit for him, with her likeness being captured in stone.
Standing 32m high, the red sandstone and cream Bath Stone tower is a beautiful landmark. However, in 2007, the tower was closed for safety reasons, as cracks in the ironwork and brickwork had affected the structural integrity. The tower reopened on 16th August 2011 after repair works costing approximately £420,000 were completed.
Two spiral staircases connect to two viewing platforms, the upper of which gives a 360 degree view over the Bristol area. The “SS Great Britain” can be seen, along with the Clifton Suspension Bridge in the distance. The top platform stands 79m above the harbour it overlooks.
There is much wildlife to be seen in Brandon Hill park as it hosts a small nature reserve. The ponds are breeding grounds for frogs, toads and newts, and the butterfly garden supplies food for caterpillars and many kinds of butterflies.
Birds such as jay, bullfinch and blackcap are seen in the reserve, along with numerous friendly squirrels.
There is also a children’s play area for under 12s.
Brandon Hill park can be accessed from Great George Street, Berkeley Square, Upper Byron Place and opposite Constitution Hill on Jacob Wells Road. The park is open all year round.
Entry to the tower is free, and is open everyday apart from Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Opening times are early morning until dusk (approx. 8am to 7pm during summer and 8am to 4pm during winter).
The Cache
The cache is a magnetic micro hidden in an easy location near Cabot Tower. It allows for a quick grab while walking past but please be discreet. Please also sign the log and replace as found.
