Redcliffe Caves: Bristol’s Hidden Underground Heritage
Explore Bristol’s mysterious underground network where history, art, and industry converge beneath the Redcliffe district.
Redcliffe Caves are a fascinating network of man-made tunnels beneath Bristol’s Redcliffe district, originally excavated from red sandstone to support the city’s historic glass and pottery industries. Today, these atmospheric underground spaces host special events, art installations, and guided tours, revealing centuries of history from medieval mining to wartime uses. Access is limited to scheduled openings, making each visit a rare glimpse into Bristol’s subterranean past.
A brief summary to Redcliffe Caves
- Phoenix Wharf, Redcliffe Way, Bristol, Redcliffe, BS1 6SR, GB
- +441179222200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the official schedule for special events or guided tours, as the caves are rarely open for general access.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear due to uneven and sometimes damp cave floors.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp to explore darker sections safely, even during lit events.
- Dress in layers to stay comfortable in the caves’ cool and consistent temperature year-round.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Train
From Bristol Temple Meads station, the caves are approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Trains connect Bristol with regional hubs, with fares typically ranging from £5 to £20 depending on origin.
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Bus
Local bus services run along Redcliffe Way and Cumberland Road, with stops within 5-10 minutes walking distance. Tickets cost around £2 to £4 for single journeys. Evening and Sunday services are available on the M2 Metrobus route.
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Car
Visitors driving can use nearby public car parks such as Redcliffe Parade or Portwall Lane. Parking fees vary by duration but typically range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Note that vehicle access for loading is available at Phoenix Wharf.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the caves offers a pleasant urban stroll through the Redcliffe district. Terrain is flat and accessible, taking approximately 15-20 minutes from central Bristol landmarks.
Redcliffe Caves location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Redcliffe Caves
Origins Carved in Red Sandstone
Redcliffe Caves owe their name and existence to the distinctive Triassic red sandstone cliffs of Bristol’s Redcliffe area. Beginning in the Middle Ages, these caves were excavated to extract sand essential for glassmaking and pottery, industries that thrived in Bristol due to its strategic port and access to raw materials. Over the centuries, the tunnels expanded beneath the city, creating a labyrinth of passages that once connected various buildings and industrial sites.A Multifaceted Past Beneath the City
Beyond their industrial role, the caves have served diverse purposes. In the 14th to 17th centuries, some tunnels housed hermits seeking solitude. Later, during the 18th and 19th centuries, the caves were used for storage of trade goods arriving from Africa and the West Indies. Historical evidence also suggests that prisoners of war were confined here during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The caves’ function evolved further in the 20th century, briefly considered as air-raid shelters during WWII, with some sections outfitted for civilian protection.Modern Rediscovery and Cultural Revival
After falling into disuse following the decline of glass production, Redcliffe Caves were largely forgotten and partly sealed off due to bomb damage and urban development. In recent decades, they have been rediscovered as a unique cultural venue. Though not generally open to the public, the caves host occasional guided tours, art exhibitions, film screenings, and immersive events, often linked to Bristol’s vibrant creative scene. Their dark, atmospheric interiors have also made them a popular filming location for TV dramas and sci-fi series.Exploring the Caves Today
Visitors can explore about an acre of mapped tunnels during special open days such as the Bristol Open Doors weekend or curated events. The uneven, sometimes damp floors and low ceilings require sturdy footwear and caution. The caves maintain a cool, consistent temperature year-round, so dressing in layers is advisable. Informational displays and guided commentary provide insights into the caves’ historical significance and the lives of those who once worked or lived underground.Community and Future Prospects
Situated near Phoenix Wharf and close to Bristol Temple Meads station, the caves are part of a broader vision to revitalize the Redcliffe area as a dynamic cultural hub. Local authorities and event organizers seek sustainable ways to manage and open the caves more regularly, balancing preservation with public engagement. The surrounding neighborhood’s recent investment in homes and businesses complements efforts to integrate this subterranean heritage into Bristol’s urban fabric.Unique Atmosphere and Hidden Stories
Redcliffe Caves offer a rare chance to experience Bristol’s layered history beneath the surface. From medieval mining to wartime shelter, from industrial hub to creative venue, the caves embody stories of resilience and transformation. Their mysterious passages invite curiosity and discovery, making each visit a memorable journey into the city’s hidden depths.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prince Street Bridge
0.3 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
The Matthew of Bristol
0.5 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.6 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Cascade Steps
0.6 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Bristol Bridge
0.6 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.6 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
Medieval Vaults
0.7 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Historic England - Bristol Office
0.7 km
Discover Bristol's rich history and heritage at the Historic England office, a key player in preserving the city's architectural treasures.
Fermentation Buildings
0.7 km
Grade II-listed former brewery warehouses reborn as a creative office and waterfront dining hub on Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Templar Stone
0.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Bristol’s 12th-century Temple Church, a landmark steeped in Knights Templar history and medieval mystery.
Old City Walls
0.7 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Old Post Office
0.7 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
St Mary Le Port Church
0.7 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
The Nails
0.7 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary Redcliffe Church
0.2 km
Discover Bristol’s iconic Gothic marvel with soaring spire, rich maritime heritage, and over 800 years of spiritual and architectural splendor.
Bristol Ferry
0.3 km
Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
Queen Square
0.3 km
A serene Georgian square in Bristol’s center, blending historic charm with peaceful green space and vibrant cultural life.
Bristol Harbour Railway
0.3 km
Step aboard Bristol Harbour Railway’s heritage steam train for a scenic 15-minute journey through the city’s historic waterfront.
Welsh Back
0.4 km
Historic waterfront street in Bristol, blending maritime heritage, abolitionist history, and vibrant cultural life along the Floating Harbour.
Narrow Quay
0.4 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
TimeTrail
0.4 km
Step into history with TimeTrail, an immersive live-action adventure on Bristol’s historic King Street that challenges your wits and teamwork.
Floating Harbour
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour—a vibrant waterfront blending maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and lively harbourside charm.
M Shed
0.4 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant history and harbour heritage in the dynamic and free M Shed museum on Princes Wharf.
Bristol Old Vic
0.4 km
Experience the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, where history and innovation meet on Bristol’s King Street.
Pero's Bridge
0.4 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
Lloyds Amphitheatre
0.5 km
A landmark postmodern amphitheatre and public space at Bristol’s harbourside, blending architectural heritage with vibrant cultural events.
Watershed
0.5 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Bristol Aquarium
0.5 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
The Bristol Wheel
0.5 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
Essential places to dine
Harbour House - Restaurant, Bar & Terrace
0.1 km
Historic waterfront restaurant celebrating southwest seafood and seasonal produce with stunning harbour views.
Riverstation
0.1 km
Stylish harbourside dining in Bristol with dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic river views from a smart, nautical-inspired restaurant and bar.
Hole In The Wall Bristol
0.1 km
Historic Bristol gastropub offering classic British fare, vibrant atmosphere, and a charming beer garden in the heart of Queen Square.
Casa Bristol
0.2 km
Refined Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist in Bristol’s historic Redcliffe harbourside, blending tradition and innovation.
Pasture
0.2 km
Premium West Country steaks cooked over charcoal in a vibrant Victorian warehouse with live music and craft cocktails.
Adelina Yard
0.2 km
Modern European fine dining on Bristol’s historic Welsh Back, where seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes create an intimate, Michelin-recognized experience.
La Panza
0.3 km
Authentic Italian trattoria celebrating unpretentious hospitality and exceptional seafood pasta in Bristol's Redcliffe.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.4 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Rick's
0.4 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The River Grille
0.4 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Three Brothers Burgers
0.4 km
Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Tare Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Aqua Welshback
0.5 km
Stylish Italian-inspired dining with seasonal British flair on Bristol’s scenic Welsh Back harbourside.
Harbour & Browns
0.5 km
Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Gambas
0.5 km
A vibrant Spanish tapas bar in a harbourside shipping container, serving excellent seafood and classic small plates with great views over Bristol Harbour.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Will's doss pit
0.4 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Something Elsie
0.4 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
my a2space
0.4 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Fig1
0.5 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Over Here
0.6 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
This Feeling
0.6 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.6 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
uchi clothing co
0.7 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop at Windmill Hill City Farm
0.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by Bristol artists at the vibrant Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop within Windmill Hill City Farm.
Memories
0.7 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.7 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Japonicat
0.7 km
Discover unique Japanese gifts and charming collectibles at Japonicat, nestled in Bristol’s historic St Nicholas Market.
Urban Fox
0.7 km
Unearth retro gems at Urban Fox, Bristol's vintage clothing nook in vibrant St Nicholas Market—quality finds with 25 years of expertise.
Orendo
0.8 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
Zhyper
0.8 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shakespeare Tavern
0.4 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Architect
0.4 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Kongs of King Street
0.4 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
Small Bar
0.4 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.5 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Revolution Bristol
0.6 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
The Mothers' Ruin
0.6 km
Bristol's dive bar legend: cheap pints, basement beats, live tunes, and pizza in a historic street nook – pure debauchery awaits.
The Boardroom
0.6 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
The Clockwork Rose
0.6 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.6 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
The Library Bristol
0.6 km
Bristol's enchanting chameleon: vintage tea parlour by day, exclusive cocktail lounge by night—where elegance meets mixology in a hidden urban gem.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.6 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.7 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Thekla
0.1 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
PRYZM
0.5 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Popworld - Bristol
0.6 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
The Loco Klub
0.6 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
Basement 45
0.8 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.8 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
OMG
0.9 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Antix
1.0 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Silk Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
1.0 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Motion
1.1 km
Bristol’s legendary warehouse nightclub, Motion, pulses with underground electronic music and community spirit in an iconic industrial setting.
La Rocca
1.3 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
1.3 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
1.4 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Quirky
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
