Bristol City Hall is the headquarters of Bristol City Council and plays an important role in the city’s civic life. It houses administrative offices and ceremonial rooms such as those used for weddings. The building replaced the Old Council House in the Bristol Old City area. Take a moment to appreciate the imposing structure of Bristol City Hall and admire the artwork of its interior.
The foundation stone of the building was laid in 1938 but it wasn’t complete until the early 1950s. Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh unveiled the landmark to the public in 1956.
Note the concave Neo-Georgian design of the hall, which dominates the western side of College Green. Architectural features include arched doorways, balustrades and Corinthian columns. An ornamental pond runs in front of the building and gilded unicorns stand on the roof at either end.
Decorating the Conference Hall is one of the biggest ceiling paintings in England, by Tom Monnington. Admire a historical portrayal of Bristol by John Armstrong and Mary Collet in the Council Chamber. The Lord Mayor’s Parlour stores the civic insignia. It includes four centuries-old swords, silver maces and Tudor-era livery collars.
A great time to visit the interior is in September, when the Bristol Doors Open Day free tours take place. More information is available on the event’s official website. At other times of the year access may be restricted due to official meetings and private events.
Located between Bristol City Centre and Bristol Harbourside, Bristol City Hall is easy to reach via public buses and passenger ferries. Bristol City Centre Landing ferry terminal is a 5-minute walk to the east. Metered parking is possible at the rear of the building.
There’s plenty to see and do in the vicinity of Bristol City Hall. Relax on the lush lawns of College Green and explore the 900-year-old Bristol Cathedral. Shop at the artisanal jewelers, vintage fashion boutiques and record stores on Park Street.
