After seven years, Blaise Castle Estate is set to celebrate the completion of its £5.6m Heritage Lottery Fund restoration project.

The celebrations begin today at 2pm. Later in the afternoon Bristol's Lord Mayor, Councillor Royston Griffey will cut a ribbon with a large pair of shears to officially open the recently restored historical dairy garden and unveil a plaque commemorating the multi-million pound project.

Up to 50 invited guests, including Councillor Rosalie Walker, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure and representatives from Heritage Lottery Fund are expected to attend the event. During the celebrations, Mark Gundry, Bristol City Council’s Parks Project Manager, will give a short presentation of the work undertaken during the seven-year restoration.


To end the day, young visitors can enjoy a Halloween celebration performance by popular children's entertainer Mr. Brown’s Pig (by ticket only). This will take place in the restored historic dairy garden area with its newly-designed grass amphitheatre and scenic backdrop.

Councillor Rosalie Walker, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "I love Blaise Castle Estate. From the days when I took my children, to now when I take my grandchildren I have seen tremendous change and improvement. And now the restoration works have finally been completed you can see just how wonderful it really is.

"There's something here for everyone to enjoy – from the children's play area, to the museum to the magnificent grounds and walk ways. And, while you’re here, you can enjoy a cup of tea in the award-winning café.

"Thanks must go to the Heritage Lottery Fund for their support and thanks to all the officers who have worked so hard over the years. The Blaise Castle Estate we see today is a testament to everyone’s hard work."

(JM)