Women of Bristol

The role of women in history is so often downplayed or even completely ignored. Our walk today is about celebrating the roles that eight women played in the story of Bristol. With many, many women to choose from here are just eight women from very different backgrounds and different historical times who caught our attention.

Our journey of discovery will begin in Castle Park with the story of Eleanor of Brittany, who was imprisoned by her uncle King John of England in 1203 to prevent her producing heirs to the throne.

Touring the early modern city we will meet a passionate religious reformer who fought for her beliefs and those of other women.

Moving on in time we will hear of Mary Carpenter and the great good she did for the poor children of Bristol.

We will meet female pugilists in the place where they fought. We will hear of the Contagious Diseases Act of 1864 and the impact it had on the most destitute of the city’s working class women.

A story of heroinism during the Blitz of World War Two and a visit to the Bristol City Museum to explore the world of the Godmother of Egyptology will conclude out walk.

As is our custom a set of written notes will be emailed out to walkers after the walk. This will allow you to hold on to what you have picked up from our exploration of the role of women in the development of the City of Bristol.

A Walk in the Past is a friendly group where regulars and newcomers are always welcome. Our aim is to combine a good walk with pleasant company in historical landscapes.