Located on a peninsula on Rhode Island’s picturesque Mount Hope Bay, the town of Bristol has a colorful history. Because of its strategic location, it was the site of the first battle of the King Philip War in 1675. Bristol remained a town in Plymouth County, MA until 1747 . Bristol’s sailing ships were active in the slave and rum trade bringing wealth for their captains and merchants allowing them to build magnificent homes on the tree-lined streets. The town’s oldest tree, a 200 year old European Linden, is located at the corner of Hope and Church Streets. During the Revolutionary War, British troops attacked the town, marched down Hope Street setting fire to buildings, and taking prisoners to Newport. From its sailing and ship building days to the Great Immigration Wave of the early 20 th century when many of its large manufacturing buildings were erected, Bristolians show their pride and love of their town.
The walk route traverses the town center with its magnificent homes, beautiful gardens, and tree-lined streets. Noted for its town-wide Fourth of July celebration, the parade’s route is painted with red, white and blue stripes. Leaving town via the recreation trail into Colt State Park, there are breath-taking views of Narragansett Bay.
On flat, paved surfaces, this walk’s AVA rating is 1.0, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
START/FINISH: Sip 'N dip Donut Shop 775 Hope Street Bristol, RI 02809 Tel: 401-253-7970 START/FINISH TIMES: Daily after sunrise and before sunset Sip 'N Dip open 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily Walk during daylight hours only!