Paradise Bottom was designed by landscape gardener Humphry Repton in the 18th Century. It was a picturesque pleasure garden created to impress guests and lead to a vista of the river Avon. The gardens have been restored by the Forestry Commission.
Our Paradise Bottom Bristol dog walk begins by following the path down the valley. The woodland paths provide access to a varied forest scenery, including a Giant Redwood and Fulham Oak. Many of these exotic tree plantings were imported in the 1860’s.
We continue down to a large pool of water. There is a waterfall and streams leading to smaller pools. The streams eventually join the Avon. Read more here about the Paradise Bottom stone dock and how it was used to facilitate the building of Leigh Court.
In spring there is a colourful display of bluebells and ramsons. There are many interesting scents for a dog to sniff.
Paradise Bottom is one of our favourite Bristol dog walks, especially in the summer when the dogs enjoy the shade and paddle in the pools. We can easily make the walk longer by picking up the path that goes into the rest of Leigh Woods.
Paradise Bottom is situated on the north side of Leigh Woods. There is a car park on site. **June 2020 update** The onsite car park is now closed. You will need to use the main Leigh Woods car park and walk to Paradise Bottom.
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