Brandon Hill is Bristol’s oldest park. Granted to the city corporation by the Earl of Gloucester in 1174, for centuries it was let to farmers, but from 1625 it has been a public space. Now it is a lunchtime haven for city workers. It offers water gardens, a nature park and children’s play area. There are stunning views over the city, especially from Cabot Tower on the crest of the hill. This landmark was built in 1898 to commemorate John Cabot’s voyage of discovery to America.