5 FAMOUS BRISTOL HOUSES AND WHERE TO FIND THEM

Bristol is full of iconic views, local landmarks and incredible historic houses: from classic regency homes in Clifton, to the famous rainbow row in Totterdown.

We’ve compiled a list of 5 famous properties in and around Bristol, each with a story to tell...

1. 20 CHARLOTTE STREET, BRANDON HILL, BS1 5PZ

   Childhood home of influential activist Lady Emmeline Pethick Lawrence
   20 Charlotte Street on Brandon Hill was the childhood home of Lady Emmeline Pethick Lawrence: a influential women’s rights activist and suffragette.
   
   This property is just a short walk from Cabot Tower and Brandon Hill, with its incredible views across the city. If you visit today you’ll spot the blue plaque to the front of the property to commemorate Lady Lawrence.

2. THE RED LODGE – BRISTOL CITY CENTRE 

   One of the best surviving examples of Tudor architecture in the UK
   The Red Lodge in Bristol City Centre is one of the best surviving examples of Tudor architecture from the 16th century. Built in 1568, for courtier John Young, the Red Lodge was originally part of the larger Great House, where Queen Elizabeth I once stayed.
   
   Restored many times throughout its 450 year history, many of the original features still remain. There are seven rooms in total but the Tudor Rooms - the Great and Small Oak rooms are considered to be the most impressive. The house is also home to the recently restored knot garden which is a tranquil haven in the heart of the city. To visit head to bristolmuseums.org.uk.

3. 3. VALE STREET, TOTTERDOWN, BRISTOL

   Home to Banksy’s latest Bristol artwork ‘Aachoo’
   In 2020 this home on Vale Street found itself the subject of many news headlines when the notorious Banksy chose it as the target for his latest work: ‘Aachoo’. 
   
   The Bristolian artist painted an elderly woman sneezing, creating the illusion that the force of her sneeze had knocked over the houses built above it on the steep Totterdown Street.
   
   Unfortunately, the art was removed and sold at auction but there are plenty of other houses adorned with Banksy art all around Bristol. To name just a few, you could head to: Albion Docks at the Harbourside or The Canteen in Stokes Croft. 

4. ACTON COURT – LATTERIDGE ROAD, IRON ACTON, BRISTOL, SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE, BS37 9TL

   An original Tudor manor, visited by: Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn 
   Acton Court is renowned for being perhaps the most ‘original’ Tudor house in the UK. In 1535 the owner, Nicholas Poyntz built a magnificent new East Wing on to the existing moated manor house in honour of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn’s visit to the West Country. 
   
   Nicholas went to a lot of trouble and expense to decorate the apartment lavishly, making it a home fit for a king’s visit. The hard work paid off as it is believed that Nicholas was knighted during the royal visit!
   
   Acton Court opens its doors to the public for tours and open days throughout the year. Head to actoncourt.com to find out more.

5. BLAISE CASTLE ESTATE, KINGS WESTON ROAD, BRISTOL BS10 7QS 

   There is so much to discover at Blaise Castle Estate, built in the Gothic Revival style overlooking Bristol, Avonmouth and the Avon Gorge, with beautiful views that stretch across to South Wales on a clear day.
   
   Made from local ashlar stone and limestone dressings Blaise Castle has three turrets with parapets. The castle is so beautiful it was even mentioned by Jane Austen in Northanger Abbey!
   
   It is now owned by Bristol Council, this popular attraction is opened occasionally to visitors. However, the surrounding grounds are always popular with families and dog walkers and, it’s right on the doorstep of Brabazon!