The history-packed walk highlights the landscape of early nineteenth-century Somerset, from the banks of the River Avon, past Georgian terraces, to the Repton-inspired Ashton Gatehouse built by the Smyths of Ashton Court.
Much of the land in between – Bedminster, Ashton and Southville – was owned by the Smyths. Fine houses once stood alongside farmsteads, pear orchards, scattered coal pits and the ancient industries of brewing, tanning and iron smelting.
Dates
- Tuesday 21 November, 10am
- Tuesday 19 December, 10am
Route
M Shed – Dame Emily park – Greville Smyth park – Ashton Gatehouse
Route Journey
The following buses run from Blackmoors Lane bus stop (approximately three minutes’ walk from the Gatehouse) at the roundabout at the bottom of Blackmoors Lane to Anchor Road bus stop (six minutes’ walk from M Shed): 71, X1, X3, X4, X6, X7, X8, X9.
These buses leave approximately every seven minutes.
The journey from the Gatehouse to M Shed should take no more than 16 minutes in total.
Adult fares for a single bus journey are £2. Alternatively, walking back along the quickest route is approximately 1.6 miles and should take around half an hour.
Additional information
Volunteer guides will meet you at M Shed information desk 5-10 minutes before the walk is due to begin. There will be breaks at key locations where the volunteers will point out sites of key interest and talk about their significance.
Lunch may be bought at three or more venues about 15 mins walk from Ashton Gatehouse using return footpaths via Ashton Bridge and Spike Island. The journey can then be continued to M Shed, on foot or from Nova Scotia ferry point (full adult fare £2.40).
Further details available at the Gatehouse. The majority of the tour is suitable for wheelchairs but some areas may be difficult to navigate
Suitable clothing
Although the routes are not strenuous, please be aware that surfaces may be uneven and could be slippery when wet. We strongly recommend that you dress appropriately for the weather with warm/waterproof clothing and comfortable footwear.
For your safety
Please take care when crossing busy roads and always use the designated crossings where indicated. Please be aware of other road users and pedestrians, particularly by leaving space on pavements for people to cross safely.