National Trust's Prior Park Landscape Garden

Robert Bull

2 months ago

I visited this area today, it's Autumn and I have to say it was not as I expected. The buildings in the pictures stand grand over this park. They are impressive from a distance. Staff from the national trust I met were very polite and helpful The valley rolls down to the lakes with an ornate bridge. The bridge is beautiful against the landscape and lakes. The paths down wind through the trees and shrubs. The Pasteur down the valley is grassland, so it gives a clear view to the bridge, lakes and Bath. It's beautiful in its own way. It's not breathtaking. The paths reaching across the skyline walk are more breathtaking as to seeing over Bath. There accessibility is difficult as the paths are not very easy and some fairly steep. In some areas not suitable for prams. Limited viewing/ access for people in wheelchairs and disabled/ medical conditions. Playground was closed, even that was really lacking. No real play area for children. Just wooden shapes. Other areas I have visited have wonderful play areas. Space maybe a problem and steepness of site. This can be overcome with careful consideration for the landscape. Cafe, yes that was there and limited seating. Relaxing area with water cascading down to one side of this area. Seating in varied areas across site. I love the countryside, I believe it's great to have so many areas to visit. This area needs more for the family in my opinion. Parking is almost non existent. Enjoy the photos and please enjoy are wonderful heritage.

Adam Turner

9 months ago

A scenic hidden gem in the heart of Bath, Prior Park has lots to offer for all ages. Parking can be tricky. You can either park in the centre of Bath and walk up the hill towards the Nation Trust site, or you can park at the top on a side street and journey down to the entrance. As per most National Trust locations, you'll be greeted by a friendly staff member that can guide you to the points of interest. I would recommend visiting during the weekday to avoid masses of people should you wish to get the desired photos of the location. The pathway down to the iconic bridge is steep and at times narrow. It can be tricky pushing a wheelchair or push chair down this slope so be advised. Depending on when you are visiting, you'll be gazing upon the bridge with some construction work in the background. If you angle your camera right, you'll be able to avoid catching the machinery in your shot. Climbing back up to the top of the park can either be done via the meadows, or back up the sloped trail, depending on the weather conditions and your footwear. At the top, you can take a break at the café on site or continue on to the viewing point, showcasing breathtaking views of Bath City Centre and the surrounding cliffs. Overall, this location has plenty to offer, once the renovation of the woodland surrounding had been completed it will truly be a thing of beauty. AT.

Jim Broom

10 months ago

Very friendly welcome and greeting on arrival. Lovely walk around the hillside garden. On the day of my visit it was extremely quiet which I loved as I wandered around. The gardens has various view points for photo opportunities which was helpful. There is a small ‘tea shed’ selling refreshments on the upper level of the garden. However, this NT property has no gift shop. I believe that visitors need to be physically able to negotiate the steep paths. The Palladian Bridge is fabulous but is missing the water reflecting its grand splendour as the middle lake has been drained to assist with essential repairs. Please be aware there is no visitor car park, access is on foot from up or down Ralph Allen Drive or by bus

Conor

8 months ago

Beautiful walks in the grounds hard to imagine it is only a mile or two away from Bath city center some great views over bath from the top by the school. The guy who designed these grounds did so perfectly. Well sign posted not to get lost on the loop. Outdoor cafe so that you can have a coffee to recharge.

James Blair

6 months ago

Lovely little National trust park. Bit of a walk up the hill to the entrance, but great views of Bath when you are up there. Plus a nice pleasant walk down through the woods to the bridge at the bottom. Remember you don't have to walk back up to leave this, there's a hidden exit at the bottom.