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Towns

Things to Do

Bristol

Grundy Commons in Bristol, PA, a town along the D&L Trail

The southern terminus of the D&L Trail was first settled by Europeans in 1681. Bristol’s prime location helped make it a busy port and industrial town in the 1800s. Coal yards and warehouses sprang up along the canal, as did large mills that manufactured carpets, woolens and other textiles. Later, shipyards thrived, and the neighborhoods still showed signs of modest worker housing, along with elegant Victorian homes. The last portion of the Delaware Canal flowed through town into the basin near Bristol Marsh.

Bristol is the oldest town in Bucks County and the third oldest in Pennsylvania. Its Delaware Riverfront resembles a New England seaport due to the influence of the Merchant Shipbuilding Corporation, which arrived in the town in 1917. During World War II, the shipyards were converted for use in the manufacturing of aircraft. By the 1960’s though, the factories stood abandoned and the following years brought slower development. The growth that did occur was largely due to the generosity of Joseph Ridgway Grundy, industrialist and politician.

Today, Bristol hosts special events near the river, providing a perfect opportunity to stroll, shop, or dine within the 50-site Radcliffe Street Historic District. Along the restored riverfront you’ll find Victorian mansions, including the Margaret R. Grundy Museum.

The Spurline Trail offers visitors a wonderful way to enjoy the town’s improved waterfront. Nearby you’ll find the Silver Lake Nature Center (1306 Bath Rd., 215-785-1177). This 235-acre sanctuary offers a variety of activities for individuals, families and groups. There are three miles of trails that carry you through the habitat of more than 160 species of birds, raccoon, muskrats, opossum, deer, among many others.

Things to Do

1

Bristol Cultural & Historic Foundation

Bristol Cultural & Historical Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving over 300 years of Bristol's history and increasing cultural opportunities for all residents of the community. It promotes historical reference through educational programs, and conducts tours which attract... More

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2

Grundy Library and Garden

Margaret Grundy was devoted to the Bristol Free Library where she served on the book selection committee. Her generosity was a primary funding source for the local library. Margaret's lifetime of dedication to the small town library inspired her brother, Joseph,... More

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3

Grundy Museum

Come for a visit and experience life in the late Victorian period through objects and furnishings that the Grundy family themselves used. All ages are invited to take a free guided tour and learn about the life of one of... More

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4

Historical Society of Bensalem

The Historical Society of Bensalem Township was founded and incorporated in 1977 and has collections of pictures, postcards, deeds, books and other artifacts pertaining to Bensalem’s history and surrounding areas. The Society's biggest event is the annual Civil War Reenactment in... More

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5

Neshaminy State Park

Neshaminy State Park is located along the Delaware River in lower Bucks County. The park takes its name from Neshaminy Creek, which joins the Delaware at this point. The park measures 339 acres, and the picnic areas and swimming pools... More

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6

Silver Lake Nature Center

The Silver Lake Nature Center is part of the Bucks County Park System and is operated by the Department of Parks and Recreation. Major highways and public transportation easily access the Center, a 235-acre complex within the Mill Creek Valley... More

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