Cabot Tower

Cabot Tower rises above Brandon Hill in Bristol, set in a public park between the city center, Clifton, and Hotwells. This landmarked structure was built in the 1890s to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the voyage of John Cabot, who set sail from Bristol and later landed in Canada. Public donations paid for the project: the foundation stone was laid in 1897, and the tower was completed in 1898. Architect William Venn Gough designed the structure, which is built of red sandstone with decorative details in pale Bath stone.

A spiral staircase leads visitors up to two observation platforms fitted with wrought-iron railings. From the upper platform, about 102 meters (335 feet) above sea level, you get sweeping views over the city. Diagonal buttresses and an octagonal spire topped with a winged figure symbolizing trade complete the design. Commemorative plaques at the base honor the historical significance of the site and its ties to America. After a renovation that repaired cracks in the stonework, the tower is open to the public again.