On a sunny but bitingly cold afternoon a group of intrepid ramblers set off for a stroll around Bristol Downs ably led by our regular guide, Katie. During a two hours walk she introduced us to areas of the downs that many of us had not previously seen whilst delivering an entertaining and informative commentary on the history of this priceless Bristol amenity.
The grassy area now accommodates over 30 football ptiches (according to the Guiness Book of Records) on a terrain that was previously pockmarked with quarries which were filled and levelled with alluvium from the harbour development some 200 years ago. The downs were primarily used for sheep grazing until around the late 18th century when the citizens sought to use it for recreational purposes. It had a racecourse and landing-strip where early aircraft amazed spectators with flying displays and a driveway was put down to allow the gentry to drive their carriages to enjoy the views over the Avon Gorge.
Across the busy Westbury Road lies a wedge of land leading to the White Tree roundabout. This is known as Granny Downs and is believed to be named after the residents of an adjacent old folks home who were wheeled onto the down to enjoy the sunshine. An arboretum is now situated here with many species from all over the globe providing interest and spectacular exhibitions of colour, particularly in the spring.
We learned about goats being employed to control the vegetation on the steep slopes at the Avon end of the downs, of the board of trustees who are responsible for ensuring and protecting the Downs future as a public recreation area on behalf of the residents of Bristol. We also discovered a statue of two ladies in a garden by the public toilet block commemorating Victoria Hughs. She was the kindly caretaker of the block who for 33 years, until she retired in her 80's, additionally provided support and some medical welfare for the local prostitutes who worked on the Downs at the time. She is depicted along with one of her clients.
All in all this was a wonderful way to recommence our regular club walks and we now look forward to a varied program of similar events. If you would like to join us please contact Keith Bonham at the Clifton Rotary Club.