The Red Lodge is a historic house museum and its 400-year history gives it an obvious '101-Must-Visit' recommendation. Originally a lodge to the Great House where Queen Elizabeth I once stayed, it is often described as Bristol's hidden treasure. As you step up the winding staircase and enter through the porch of the Great Oak Room, you will marvel at the magnificent oak panelling, the plasterwork ceiling and the magnificent carved stone chimneypiece. Downstairs, the Reception Room, Print Room and staircase are all fine examples of Georgian architecture. 

The beautiful garden is laid out with low hedges in a traditional Elizabethan knot garden pattern. The design was taken from the plasterwork on the ceiling of the master bedroom and the garden has become a haven for bees. In 2010, workmen discovered a 40ft deep well that was covered by a brick capping. It was so well hidden that nobody had known of its existence. The well was probably dug at the same time as the house was built in 1580.

A visit is a perfect way to add a splash of history and culture to a day in the city centre as it tucked away near to the buzz of the busy shopping areas.