FREE walking tour for Bristol Walk Fest
Things to Do in Bristol - Guided walking tour in Fishponds
A fascinating guided tour in Fishponds
As part of the Bristol Community Festival programme of events around the city we're hosting another instalment of our popular walking tour.
Starting at Glenside Hospital Museum we'll take you on a hidden history tour of the former hospital grounds.
Tickets essential.
Fishponds, Bristol (BS16 1DD)
Easy to access from central Bristol.
Discover the history of Bristol Lunatic Asylum
Originally built as Bristol Lunatic Asylum in 1861, these spacious grounds were created to aid mental health and wellbeing.
Satisfy your curiosity by unearthing the rich history hidden within the walls of the old hospital, which later became known as Glenside Hospital. This group walking tour in Bristol is perfect for those curious about niche local history around the city.
In a pre-medication era the only options available to manage mental illness were lifestyle interventions such as a good quality diet, plenty of exercise and a meaningful occupation, followed by adequate sleep. The extensive Glenside site was developed to provide an uplifting and spacious environment, both indoors and out.
Whether you have personal connections with the hospital, or are simply looking for a unique family day out in Bristol this June, our Fishponds walking tour offers something truly different.
Visiting information for Glenside Hospital Museum
Explore the history of mental health care in Bristol
Glenside Hospital Museum is open Wednesdays 10am-1pm and Saturdays 10am-4pm. As Bristol museums go, we're often classed as a hidden gem!
The main body of the museum is fully accessible, and includes an accessible toilet.
Our current art exhibition 'What brings me Joy' is running for the duration of Bristol Community Festival. This colourful display is very popular with children and families, as is our quirky Tea in the Turret experience, hidden up a secret spiral staircase (pre-booking is required).
Scroll down for more info.
Location & Parking in Fishponds
On Saturdays we offer free parking outside the museum, in the small car park (subject to availability of spaces).
The car park is not available on Wednesdays, but on-street parking can be located on nearby streets.
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Walking terrain & duration
The walking trail is an easy route to navigate, on flat ground with a mixture of paths and grass. It should take around 60 minutes but sometimes runs a little longer as it's a leisurely pace and allows for questions from our visitors.
Tea in the Turret experience
This quirky afternoon tea experience takes you on an adventure up a secret spiral staircase and into the hidden balcony area, giving an aerial view of our museum while you relax with a cup of tea and slice of cake in amongst a creative display.
Booking required.
Pair your walk with other museum events
We have a full programme of events at Glenside Hospital Museum, which you can enjoy alongside walking this historic trail. Check out our calendar to match your perfect pairing.
Future events and experiences
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