Foster's Almshouses, Bristol

Foster's Almshouses is a brick building on Colston Street featuring ornate turrets, multiple chimneys, winding staircases, and balconies. The structure encloses a central garden and is accompanied by an adjacent chapel.

John Foster, a wealthy merchant and former Mayor of Bristol, founded this residence for the elderly in 1483. The building's quadrangle was constructed in phases between 1861 and 1883.

The chapel here honors John Foster's devotion to the Three Kings of Cologne, inspired by his pilgrimage to their shrine in Germany. This religious focus shapes how visitors understand the place as a site of charity and faith.

The building underwent renovation in 2007 and was later converted to private apartments, so access is limited today. Visitors can view the exterior architecture and garden from outside to understand the historical layout and design.

Each wing of the building was constructed separately between 1861 and 1883, with construction phases spread across more than 20 years. Despite this gradual building process, the result was a fully harmonious complex arranged around the central garden.

Location: City of Bristol

Inception: 1883

GPS coordinates: 51.45600,-2.59730

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:06