Ashton Court Estate

A short hop across the Clifton Suspension Bridge transports one to this beautiful estate, with its 850 magnificent acres (343.983 hectares) of park, woodland, and superb views across Bristol. The centerpiece of the estate is a rambling mansion that once belonged to the Smyth family. Over the years, as the pages of history turned, so did the roles of the mansion. It transformed from a residence, to a military hospital during the Great War, before finally falling under the protection of the Bristol City Council. While the main building has undergone a few alterations over the years, its sweeping surrounds reflect the original designs planned by Humphrey Repton, an acclaimed landscape designer. Amid these verdant landscapes, one can find excellent nature trails, deer grazing close by, a pitch and putt golf course, and a miniature railway, among others. The estate also hosts various events throughout the summer, including the annual Bristol Community Festival and the Balloon Fiesta. Hot air balloons launch from near the grounds that surround the Baronial Mansion House every Sunday afternoon when the weather at its finest.