St Augustines Parade
Route
St. Augustine's Parade - Colston Avenue (formermally St. Augustine's Back or Bank) - Christmas Steps - Haymarket - St. Michael's Hill - Royal Fort - Park Row
Distance
2.1 km
Map
Up to 1892, a long time before Bristol’s first tramlines were laid in the city centre, ships sailed into the city on the River Frome and, until 1827, a drawbridge was in service to allow access to the other side of the river. During this time Bristol was enjoying the status of an international port, second only to London. It is said that, on busy days, it would be possible to cross the harbour using the decks of the moored ships.
St. Augustine’s Parade starts at the corner of Mark Lane. So-called because it was once possible to travel through the lane to St. Marks Church which is tucked behind the buildings.
Looking up, you will see that the 18th-century houses remain on St. Augustine’s Parade and are now predominantly commercial outlets at least on the ground floors.
Next is the Hippodrome, designed by the renowned Theatre architect, Frank Matcham, which opened for musicals and operas in December 1912. Matcham was best known for his work in London under Moss Empires, which included the designs of the Hippodrome (the one in the City of Westminster), Hackney Empire, Coliseum, Palladium and the Victoria Palace. In all he completed 21 theatres, taking in Leeds, Blackpool and Norwich, before retiring to Westcliff-on-Sea in Essex …
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