Medieval castle café to open in Bristol's Castle Park
The Vaulted Chambers Café sits within some of the few remains left above ground
From today onwards you'll be able to grab a coffee inside what remains of Bristol's medieval castle.
The Vaulted Chambers Café will open at 9:30am this morning in Castle Park.
The Vaulted Chambers, the Sally Port and several rampart ruins are the only parts of the castle to still survive above ground.
The building is thought to have originally been the entrance to the castle’s great hall and consists of two rooms known respectively as the Porch and North Chamber.
Over the course of the last 18 months Bristol Parks and Green Spaces has been working with Historic England to restore the Scheduled Ancient Monument, a status given to nationally important historic buildings.
Marvin Rees, Mayor Bristol, said “Our parks and green spaces play an important role for the physical and mental health of the city.
"We want Bristol’s parks to be places that are welcoming to all and provide spaces where people want to visit and enjoy. Park cafés provide focal points for communities and act as hubs for many local groups.
"I’m delighted to see this collaboration with Historic England deliver a unique and striking addition to a much loved part of the city."
The council already operates seven cafés and kiosks across Bristol, with the income used to help fund the cost of maintaining the city’s parks and green spaces.
The opening event will include a talk on the history of the castle from historical and archaeological specialist Pete Insole, as well as a ribbon cutting ceremony from Deputy Mayor Asher Craig and live music along with free menu samples.