Arty Neighbours

Posted on November 9, 2017 by Fay Curtis.

By Lacey Trotman, Digital Apprentice

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery’s location, on Queens Road at the top of Park Street, is a prime spot for culture. We are surrounded by sites that not only hold incredible history, but great events too.

Now, we all know the walk up Park Street can be quite the trek – so how about stopping midway for a browse in the eclectic mix of shops and of course pay a visit to The Georgian House Museum, St. George’s and Cabot Tower situated in Brandon Hill.

The Georgian House Museum – With eleven period themed rooms spread over four floors, it reveals what life was like above and below stairs, from the kitchen in the basement where servants prepared meals, to the elegant formal rooms above. It also has the bonus of free entry. What’s On?

St. George’s – One of the country’s leading concert halls, it boasts a superb acoustic and unique atmosphere which attracts the world’s best artists. There’s a full and vibrant programme, with over 250 events each year. As a charity it’s dedicated to promoting high quality music to diverse audiences. What’s On?

Cabot Tower- The iconic landmark is situated in the hilly park of Brandon hill, a popular picnic spot with nature reserves. The tower celebrates the journey of John Cabot, famously known for discovering the coast of North America; it offers amazing views across Bristol and is open all week. What’s On?

When you’ve reached the top, and most likely stopped somewhere for a fancy coffee, you’ll have reached us! Not only that, but we’re next to Wills Memorial Building and you will be a short walk away from the RWA and Victoria Methodist Church too.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery – Free entry! Explore our collections of art, nature and history on display in this beautiful building. Take a trip though the last billion years of Earth’s history, explore the region’s natural wonders and discover more about peoples’ lives, past and present. What’s On?

Wills Memorial Building – Officially opened in 1925, it houses the University of Bristol’s School of Law and of Earth Sciences, in addition to hosting graduation ceremonies and public events. Tower tours allow the public to see behind the grand facade and experience the splendour of the Great Hall, Council Chamber and ornate libraries. Tours take place weekly on Saturdays, and the first Wednesday of the month. What’s On?

RWA – Bristol’s first art gallery, it’s located in a spectacular Grade II* listed building. Through its extensive programme of exhibitions, events, talks and lectures, it’s committed to providing great art for everybody, and to promoting the understanding and enjoyment of art for the widest possible audience. What’s On?

Victoria Methodist Church – Part of the wider Methodist Church of Great Britain they offer a warm welcome for drop in visitors or those looking for a more permanent spiritual home. A variety of activities go on during the week and it has recently refurbished its sanctuary.
What’s On?

Now you’ve reached the Clifton triangle, why not admire the grandeur of the Victoria Rooms.

Victoria Rooms – A familiar Bristol landmark, it first opened its doors to the public in May 1842. For many years it served as the most important and lively cultural centre in the West, early performers include Swedish Nightingale Jenny Lind and even Charles Dickens. Since 1996 it has been home to The University of Bristol’s Department of Music. What’s On?

Talking of Bristol University, we hear they have a great Student Union and public arts garden.

Bristol Students’ Union – Providing a buzzing social hub for students, everything from club nights to debates and conferences – it’s also home to Bristol’s cheapest bar! Its Anson Rooms has seen many famous faces perform there over the years including David Bowie, Amy Winehouse and Ed Sheeran – so keep an eye out for events open to the general public. What’s On?

Royal Fort Gardens Public Art – Although owned by the University of Bristol, the gardens are open to the public for the majority of the year. It contains a small pond, trees and habitats, to increase biodiversity, visitors can also appreciate a mirror maze (‘Follow Me’) designed by the internationally recognised artist Jeppe Hein and new installation ‘Hollow’ produced by Katie Paterson. What’s On?

Park Row is an alternative route you can take to get to us. With a more gradual incline than Park Street, it’s home to even more cultural fun.

The Ken Stradling Collection – Ken has been actively involved in the constantly changing world of design and domestic taste since 1948. His now superb collection of 20th and 21st century design began both as a pastime and a necessity. Entrance is free to the Design Study Centre. The collection can be viewed by appointment. What’s On?

The Bristol Theatre Collection – Open to everyone, with free entry although donations are welcome. There’s a small exhibition area, an open access reference library and extensive archival collections which are available for viewing in the reading room. What’s On?

The Red Lodge House Museum – Free entry! Step inside and experience more than 400 years of history in the museum where you feel you have left the modern world behind. From ‘royal party house’ of the 16th Century to Victorian reform school for girls, see how the lodge has changed over time. Home to three of the oldest rooms in Bristol. What’s On?

So there you have it. Maybe it is worth taking that extra time to explore what’s on and around Park Street and beyond.

If the climb really puts you off that much, there are multiple buses which run frequently up and down the road – so now you have no excuse!