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Cabot Tower Bristol

Enjoy panoramic views over the city

Cabot Tower is one of Bristol's best viewpoints, standing 105 feet tall on Brandon Hill, the city's oldest public park. Built in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to North America, visitors can climb the narrow spiral staircase to enjoy panoramic views across the city, Clifton Suspension Bridge and, on a clear day, as far as South Wales.

Located a short walk from Cabot Tower, Future Inn Bristol is the perfect base for exploring Bristol's attractions. Relax in a spacious bedroom with large Canadian-style beds, complimentary WiFi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. Plus, free parking. Enjoy delicious meals at Chophouse Restaurant & Bar, including generous breakfasts to fuel your day of exploring. Book direct for our best available rates. If you join Future Club Rewards, you'll also get up to 12% off your stay - join free today!

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Free things to do in Bristol

Enjoy the panoramic views of the city of Bristol and its Harbourside

Perched on top of Brandon Hill, Cabot Tower is one of Bristol's most iconic landmarks and one of the city's best free attractions. Climb the winding staircase to be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across Bristol, making it a must-visit for photographers, sightseers and anyone looking to see the city from a different perspective.

Cabot Tower History

Standing proudly on Brandon Hill, Cabot Tower is one of Bristol's most recognisable landmarks. The 105-foot tower was built in 1897 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to North America. Designed by architect William Venn Gough, the striking red sandstone and cream limestone tower has become an iconic feature of the city's skyline.

Climbing Cabot Tower

Visitors can climb the tower's narrow spiral staircase for free, with panoramic views across Bristol, the Harbourside, Clifton Suspension Bridge and, on a clear day, as far as South Wales. The climb is steep, but the spectacular views from the top make it well worth the effort.

Brandon Hill Park

Cabot Tower sits within Brandon Hill, Bristol's oldest public park, just a short walk from Park Street in the West End. The peaceful green space is perfect for a stroll and features winding paths, colourful gardens, a children's play area, a nature conservation area and plenty of spots to relax while taking in the city views.

Cabot Tower Opening Times

Cabot Tower is free to visit and is typically open daily:

  • Monday to Thursday: 8:15am – 4:30pm
  • Friday: 8:15am – 4:30pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8:15am – 4:30pm

Cabot Tower Tours

While there are no regular guided tours of Cabot Tower itself, the landmark is often included on Bristol walking tours that explore the city's history, architecture and famous landmarks. Alternatively, you can visit independently, climb the tower for free and explore Brandon Hill at your own pace.

Top Tips for Visiting Cabot Tower

  • Visit on a clear day to enjoy the best panoramic views across Bristol, the Harbourside, Clifton Suspension Bridge and even South Wales.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the spiral staircase is narrow, steep and can feel challenging for some visitors.
  • Go early or later in the afternoon if you want to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a quieter experience.
  • Allow time to explore Brandon Hill, Bristol's oldest public park, with its walking trails, wildlife, gardens and children's play area.
  • Bring your camera. Cabot Tower is one of the best free viewpoints in Bristol and a fantastic spot for skyline and sunset photos.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Park Street, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, Clifton Suspension Bridge or Bristol Harbourside, all within walking distance.
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Stay at Future Inn Bristol

Future Inn Bristol is a modern and comfortable hotel in Bristol city centre. It offers easy access to key attractions and vibrant areas. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe. Guests can also enjoy added comforts such as complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities, enhancing the overall experience. The biggest perk of staying at our Bristol hotel is the free parking at Cabot Circus, directly across the road from Future Inns.

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Future Club Rewards

For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant. Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!

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Bristol City Centre Restaurant

 

Chophouse Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes showcasing the best of the region's produce. From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike. Whether you enjoy a succulent steak, a hearty burger, or a fresh fish dish, every meal delivers bold flavours and satisfying portions.

Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum. Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.

If you are staying in the hotel, room service is available 24/7. 

Reservations can be made on 0117 304 1020‎ or by emailing chophouse@futureinns.co.uk.  Alternatively, you can book online:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Cabot Tower is over 125 years old. It was completed in 1897 to mark the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to North America.

The Cabot Tower height is 105 feet (approximately 32 metres) tall. The tower stands proudly on Brandon Hill and offers some of the best views across Bristol.

There are around 108 steps inside Cabot Tower. The spiral staircase is narrow and steep, but the climb is rewarded with panoramic views from the top.

Most visitors take around 5–10 minutes to climb Cabot Tower, depending on pace and how often they stop to take in the views. Allow extra time at the top to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.

Cabot Tower was built to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage from Bristol to North America in 1497. It celebrates the historic connection between Bristol and Cabot's famous expedition.

Cabot Tower was designed by Bristol architect William Venn Gough. It was constructed using red sandstone and cream limestone, creating the distinctive appearance seen today.

Cabot Tower was built in 1897 and opened as part of the celebrations marking the 400th anniversary of John Cabot's voyage.

Yes, visiting Cabot Tower is free. Visitors can climb the tower and enjoy the views across Bristol, the Harbourside and surrounding areas without paying an entrance fee.

There are no confirmed reports that Cabot Tower is haunted. However, like many historic landmarks, it has inspired local stories and legends over the years.

No, Cabot Tower is not the highest point in Bristol, but its position on Brandon Hill makes it one of the city's best viewpoints. The elevated location provides impressive views across the city skyline.

Cabot Tower is located in Brandon Hill Park, just off Park Street in Bristol's West End. It is within walking distance of Future Inn Bristol, Bristol city centre, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery and many other popular attractions.

Cabot Tower is named after John Cabot, an Italian explorer who sailed from Bristol in 1497 on an expedition that reached parts of North America.

Cabot Tower was built as a commemorative landmark rather than for a practical purpose. Today, it is a popular visitor attraction, offering one of the best free viewpoints in Bristol. Visitors often mention its views and accessibility in Cabot Tower reviews, making it a favourite stop for sightseeing in the city.

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