Built by Norman conquerors, Bristol Castle was erected in the 11th Century. Just under a thousand years down the line, with two sieges, untold repairs and a demolition under its belt, the medieval site is being given new life.
The remaining ruins of the castle in the eponymous Castle Park have become home to a new café, transformed by Bristol City Council.
The Vaulted Chambers Café, found in the remains of what is believed to have originally been the entrance to the castle’s great hall, has opened its doors today (Friday, September 3).
Mayor Marvin Rees explained the importance of providing such amenities, highlighting park cafes as “focal points for the communities”.
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“Our parks and green spaces play an important role for the physical and mental health of the city,” he said, describing cafes as “hubs for many local groups”.
The mayor also celebrated the project as delivering a “unique and striking addition to a much-loved part of the city”.
An 18-month project, the Bristol Parks and Green Spaces team has been working alongside Historic England to restore the castle’s remnants, which are listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument – denoting nationally important historic buildings.
The formerly ruinous Vaulted Chambers building which houses the café, and gives it its name, is made up of two rooms, the Porch and North Chamber.
Becoming the eighth café and kiosk operated by Bristol City Council, this latest addition in the heart of the city has been celebrated by catering manager Jayne Grocock.
“It’s always exciting to add another Bristol Park Café to our group, especially one in such a significant location,” she said.
All of the council’s cafes use local food producers, priding themselves on offering both a sustainable and healthy menu, and the Vaulted Chambers Café will be no exception.
The café’s opening will be celebrated by an event at 9.30am on Friday, featuring a talk on the castle’s history by historical and archaeological specialist Pete Insole and a ribbon cutting ceremony from Deputy Mayor Asher Craig.
More than 400 years since the Bristol Castle last welcomed guests, the refurbished site looks set to once again become a centrepiece for the local community.
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