If you are a regular reader of Bristol Mum, you will know that recently my family and I have been enjoying some great Winter walks in Bristol and beyond.
Following our visit to Stanton Drew Stone Circles and Abbots Leigh, we decided to explore Stoke Park Estate, which is 270 acres of beautiful green space and woodland in the heart of Bristol.
I am ashamed to say, despite being born and bred in Bristol, I had never before set foot on the estate and oh, how I have missed out!
Stoke Park Estate rolling green hills, amazing views, fresh air and nature in abundance and it feels like you are out in the middle of the countryside.
Stoke Park Estate includes two well-known Bristol landmarks: the yellow Dower House (the huge mustard colour mansion which you have probably seen on up the hill while on the M32), plus the Purdown BT Tower.
There is also a fishing lake – also known as Duchess Pond – plus a dew pond, a World War 2 anti-aircraft battery and a Hermitage Tunnel.
Stoke Park Estate is open at all times and is free to visit. You can access it via Romney Avenue in Lockleaze (BS7 area of Bristol), next to the adventure playground.
There are three different walks to go on to suit different ages and stages:
We went on the Hermitage Walk, which takes you through ancient woodland and which is also supposed to be a great bat-spotting place to visit at dusk!
In Stoke Park Estate there is a new Stoke Park Sculpture Trail consisting of carved creatures which have all been created from dead fallen wood so that no living trees have been damaged in the process.
Sculptures to discover include a snake, owls, mouse, a fox, a snail and more!
There is so much to see and discover at Stoke Park Estate; 270 acres is a lots of space to cover!
If you are looking to go on a family friendly walk with your kids, Stoke Park Estate would be great at any time of year.
Bristol Mum 