Clifton Suspension Bridge: Bristol’s Iconic Engineering Marvel
Discover Bristol’s iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Victorian engineering masterpiece spanning the Avon Gorge with stunning views and rich history.
Spanning the dramatic Avon Gorge, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a celebrated symbol of Bristol and a masterpiece of Victorian engineering. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and completed in 1864, this wrought-iron suspension bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views, a free pedestrian crossing, and a fascinating visitor centre with exhibits, tours, and a museum that reveal its rich history and ongoing maintenance.
A brief summary to Clifton Suspension Bridge
- Bristol, GB
- +441179744664
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Walking or cycling across the bridge is free; tolls apply only to vehicles.
- Visit the free Visitor Centre on the Leigh Woods side for interactive exhibits and a film about the bridge.
- Join free weekend guided tours at 2pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays to learn about the bridge’s history.
- Book a seasonal hard hat tour to explore the underground vaults beneath the bridge’s towers for a unique experience.
- For the best photos, visit at sunrise or sunset and explore nearby Clifton Village for dining and shopping.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take the number 8 bus from Bristol Temple Meads station to Clifton Village. Buses run frequently with a journey time of approximately 20-30 minutes. The stop at Clifton Village is a short walk from the bridge’s pedestrian access. Tickets cost around £2-£3 one way.
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Walking
From Bristol city centre, enjoy a scenic 45-minute walk to the bridge, passing through Clifton Village and along the Avon Gorge. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most fitness levels, with some cobbled streets in Clifton.
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Car
Driving from central Bristol takes about 15 minutes. Parking is easier on the Leigh Woods side, with several public car parks available. Note there is a £1 toll charge for vehicles crossing the bridge. Parking fees vary by location.
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Cycle
Cycle lanes lead to both sides of the bridge, making it accessible and safe for cyclists. Bike parking is available near the Visitor Centre and Clifton Village. Cycling across the bridge is free.
Clifton Suspension Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Clifton Suspension Bridge
A Landmark of Victorian Ingenuity and Design
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is one of England’s most iconic landmarks, designed by the legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Though Brunel conceived the project in his early 20s, construction began in 1831 and was only completed in 1864, five years after his death, as a tribute to his vision. The bridge spans 412 meters (1,352 feet) across the Avon Gorge, suspended 75 meters (245 feet) above the river by 81 wrought-iron rods anchored to majestic sandstone towers. Its elegant design combines both form and function, symbolizing the ingenuity of the Industrial Revolution.Experiencing the Bridge and Its Surroundings
Walking or cycling across the bridge is free and offers spectacular views of the gorge, the city of Bristol, and the lush greenery of Leigh Woods and Clifton Down. The quarter-mile crossing is a gentle stroll suitable for most visitors, with cycle lanes on both approaches. The base of the Clifton tower is a popular photo spot, capturing the bridge’s striking silhouette against the sky. Nearby green spaces invite picnics and leisurely exploration, making the area a serene and scenic escape within the city.Immersive Visitor Centre and Museum
On the Leigh Woods side, the Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre and Museum open daily from 10am to 5pm with free entry. The centre offers engaging exhibits, archival artifacts, and a film detailing the bridge’s construction, engineering, and maintenance. Interactive displays and educational workshops provide insight into Brunel’s pioneering work. The museum is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who share stories about the bridge’s history and significance to Bristol’s community.Guided Tours and Hidden Vaults
Visitors can join free weekend tours led by volunteer guides, lasting 45 minutes to an hour, which include crossing the bridge and concluding at the museum. These tours delve into the bridge’s history, construction challenges, and ongoing preservation. For a deeper experience, hard hat tours of the underground vaults beneath the Leigh Woods tower run seasonally from Easter to October. These tours explore two of the twelve massive vaulted chambers, offering a unique perspective on the bridge’s engineering and hidden spaces.Preservation and Cultural Importance
Managed by the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust, a charitable organization established in 1953, the bridge is meticulously maintained to preserve its structural integrity and heritage. It remains a vital transport link for vehicles, with a toll for cars but free access for pedestrians and cyclists. The bridge’s cultural resonance extends beyond its engineering, serving as a symbol of Bristol’s identity and a testament to Victorian creativity and ambition.Visiting Tips and Nearby Attractions
Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the bridge, visitor centre, and museum. The best photographic opportunities occur at sunrise and sunset. Nearby Clifton Village offers charming cafes and shops to complement your visit. Public transport options include regular buses from Bristol Temple Meads station, and parking is more accessible on the Leigh Woods side. The bridge is open 24/7 for pedestrians, while the visitor centre operates daily with free admission.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Lookout Lectern
0.2 km
Historic vantage point with sweeping views of Brunel's iconic bridge and Bristol's storied past.
William Draper Memorial
0.5 km
Explore Britain’s oldest war memorial, honoring 18th-century soldiers on scenic Clifton Down in historic Bristol.
Memorial Arch
0.9 km
A solemn Grade II listed arch honoring Clifton College’s fallen heroes of the World Wars, blending history, tradition, and architectural grace.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
1.8 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Cary Grant
2.0 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
The Bristol Wheel
2.0 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Bristol from The Bristol Wheel, an iconic attraction that offers a unique perspective of the city's vibrant skyline.
Bristol Aquarium
2.0 km
Discover the enchanting underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where marine life thrives in captivating exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Watershed
2.1 km
Experience Bristol's vibrant arts scene at Watershed, where cinema, food, and culture come together in a breathtaking riverside setting.
Cascade Steps
2.1 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
The Centre
2.1 km
Explore The Centre in Bristol, a vibrant tourist attraction and historical landmark, where culture, shopping, and scenic beauty converge.
Statue of Edmund Burke
2.1 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Pero's Bridge
2.1 km
A striking pedestrian bridge honoring an enslaved man's memory and Bristol's complex past with the slave trade.
The Matthew of Bristol
2.1 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
2.2 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
M Shed
2.2 km
Explore Bristol's maritime past at M Shed, a vibrant museum with engaging exhibits, a delightful cafe, and a unique gift shop on the waterfront.
Unmissable attractions to see
Giant's Cave
0.2 km
Descend into legend and emerge with views of Bristol's most iconic bridge from an unforgettable angle.
St Vincent's Rocks
0.2 km
Historic cliffside landmark in Clifton offering dramatic views, ancient caves, and rich cultural heritage above the Avon Gorge.
Butt polished rock
0.2 km
Discover the subtle geological wonder of Butt Polished Rock nestled in Bristol’s historic and scenic Clifton district.
Clifton Observatory
0.2 km
Historic observatory with one of the UK’s few working Camera Obscuras, Giant’s Cave adventure, and stunning views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Clifton Suspension Bridge Visitor Centre (Free Entry)
0.2 km
Explore the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge’s history and engineering at the free Visitor Centre with interactive exhibits and guided tours.
The Paragon
0.4 km
Discover the charm of The Paragon in Bristol, a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity for every traveler.
The Mall Gardens
0.4 km
A serene and charming green oasis nestled in Clifton, offering peaceful gardens framed by historic architecture and community spirit.
The Clifton Arcade
0.7 km
Discover Victorian splendour and indie treasures in Bristol's Clifton Arcade, where over 20 unique boutiques offer vintage finds, art, and artisanal gifts in a charming covered passage.
Victoria Square
0.8 km
Elegant Victorian square in Clifton, Bristol, blending historic architecture, tranquil gardens, and cultural heritage in a prestigious setting.
Bristol Docks
1.1 km
Historic Bristol Docks at Hotwells: Engineering brilliance and maritime heritage meet vibrant waterfront life.
Clifton Down
1.1 km
Expansive green parkland offering stunning views, wildlife habitats, and peaceful recreation in the heart of Bristol.
National Trust - Leigh Woods
1.3 km
Explore ancient woodland and breathtaking Avon Gorge views at Leigh Woods, a serene nature reserve near Bristol with trails for all abilities.
Capricorn Place
1.4 km
Modern riverside living in Bristol’s historic Hotwells district, blending scenic views with urban elegance on the vibrant Harbourside.
Arts Mansion
1.4 km
Historic Ashton Court Estate near Bristol blends centuries of architecture with 850 acres of scenic parkland and vibrant cultural events.
Brandon Hill
1.5 km
Bristol’s oldest park with panoramic city views, a nature reserve, and family-friendly spaces just minutes from the city centre.
Essential places to dine
Côte Clifton Village
0.4 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
The Ivy Clifton Brasserie
0.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Clifton, Bristol, blending local heritage with refined dining and vibrant afternoon teas.
Giggling Squid - Clifton
0.5 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of Clifton Village at Giggling Squid, Bristol’s beloved Thai restaurant.
New Moon Tapas
0.5 km
A stylish tapas spot in Bristol’s Clifton Village blending global flavours with inclusive, creative small plates and vibrant cocktails.
Clifton Sausage
0.5 km
Experience expertly crafted British sausages and seasonal local dishes in the warm, inviting heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
No.4 Clifton Village
0.6 km
Charming Georgian hotel in Bristol’s Clifton Village with cozy rooms, a private garden, and the acclaimed No.4 Clifton Village restaurant.
Coppa Club, Clifton
0.7 km
Stylish Italian dining and vibrant social hub in Clifton Village, Bristol, perfect for all-day meals and lively evenings.
The Pump House
1.0 km
Historic waterfront gastropub in Bristol’s Hotwells, blending heritage architecture with fine British dining and scenic harbour views.
1 York Place
1.0 km
An intimate European bistro in Clifton offering seasonal dishes and a warm, stylish atmosphere for a refined dining experience.
The Chef's Table
1.1 km
An intimate fine dining experience in Bristol’s historic docks, serving innovative modern British cuisine with expert wine pairings.
Racks Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
A vibrant Clifton hotspot blending historic cellar charm with gourmet British and Mediterranean cuisine in a lively, stylish setting.
Lost & Found Bristol
1.4 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
1.4 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
Botanist Bristol
1.5 km
Plant-filled gastropub celebrating seasonal British cuisine, craft cocktails, and live music in Bristol's City Centre.
Bravas
1.7 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Bristol’s cozy and lively Bravas, where traditional flavors meet seasonal creativity.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grace & Mabel Ltd
0.5 km
Discover handpicked elegance at Grace & Mabel Ltd, the Clifton Village boutique where three sisters craft a world of timeless fashion, quality, and personal style since 2007.
The Pod Company
0.5 km
Discover cutting-edge wellness with The Pod Company’s innovative ice baths and sauna pods in the heart of Clifton, Bristol.
Indira Rose Vintage
0.5 km
Discover mid-century magic across three floors in Clifton's chic village—timeless antiques and vintage furniture await in Bristol's premier trove.
Movement Boutique
0.5 km
Discover curated designer fashion, jewellery, and homewares in the stylish heart of Clifton, Bristol’s charming historic district.
About Face
0.5 km
Discover curated gifts and artisanal treasures in Clifton's charming village heart, where unique finds meet personal service in a cozy Bristol gem.
Mint Velvet Bristol
0.6 km
Discover relaxed glamour and personalized style at Mint Velvet Bristol, a chic ladies' boutique in Clifton's fashionable Regent Street.
Village
0.7 km
A compact, design-led gift shop in Clifton Village offering locally made homewares, stationery and small-batch finds with a quietly curated, neighbourhood feel.
Ashwell & Co
1.3 km
Retro elegance meets homemade indulgence: vintage treasures and legendary scones in Clifton's cozy tearoom.
Clifton Down Shopping Centre
1.6 km
Bristol's Clifton hub: supermarkets, shops, coffee, and convenience right by the station on leafy Whiteladies Road.
Inca
1.6 km
Discover artisanal wonders and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bristol's chic Clifton Down, where bohemian charm meets everyday elegance.
Soukous
1.7 km
Eclectic gift shop on Bristol's vibrant Cotham Hill, offering curated homeware and artisan treasures.
Ganesha
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts, clothing, and handicrafts at Ganesha, Bristol's treasure trove of artistic creations and local craftsmanship.
Uncle Sam's Vintage
1.7 km
Bristol's legendary American vintage superstore, curating authentic mid-century treasures since 1984.
Zhyper
1.8 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Alices Secret Empourium
1.8 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coronation Tap
0.4 km
Bristol's legendary ciderhouse near Clifton Suspension Bridge, famed for potent Exhibition scrumpy, live tunes, and timeless tavern vibes in cozy Clifton.
22 Clifton
0.5 km
A vaulted Clifton wine cellar mixing Georgian bones with a modern wine-bar programme, tastings and sharing plates in an intimate setting.
The Quadrant
0.6 km
Cosy Clifton wine bar with a curated drinks list, small plates and buzzy window seats in the heart of the village.
The Dirty Bird
0.6 km
A vibrant neon-lit cocktail lounge in Clifton Village, Bristol, mixing classic and creative drinks with a lively, intimate atmosphere.
The Last Word Clifton Village Bristol
0.7 km
Quirky Clifton cocktail haven spanning three cozy floors, perfect for masterful mixes and intimate evenings in Bristol's upscale village.
Barrelhouse
1.0 km
Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
The Eldon House
1.2 km
Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
The Cottage Inn, Bristol
1.2 km
Historic harbourside pub offering modern British classics, craft ales, and scenic waterfront vibes in the heart of Bristol.
The Brass Pig
1.4 km
Clifton's two-floor nightlife gem: cocktails from £3.50, DJ weekends, terrace vibes, and student deals in Bristol's Triangle hub.
The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
1.4 km
Step into Bristol’s Neverland-inspired Cocktail Club for expertly crafted drinks, quirky décor, and nights that never want to end.
Hyde & Co
1.5 km
Discover Bristol’s secretive speakeasy with expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy vintage ambiance in the heart of Clifton.
Bag of Nails
1.5 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
Be At One - Bristol
1.5 km
Energetic cocktail bar in Clifton, Bristol, serving over 100 expertly crafted drinks with vibrant vibes and unbeatable happy hour deals.
Steam
1.6 km
Bristol's premier beer hall in a historic station, serving craft brews, bottomless brunches, and pizzas on a festival terrace amid Clifton's charm.
Alterego
1.6 km
A lively cocktail and sports bar in Bristol’s Redland, perfect for creative drinks, karaoke nights, and memorable social gatherings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Rocca
1.4 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
Lizard Lounge
1.4 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
The Pearl NightClub
1.4 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.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
1.7 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
Silk Nightclub
1.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Antix
1.8 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.
OMG
1.8 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
1.9 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Basement 45
1.9 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
PRYZM
2.1 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
2.2 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
2.2 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
Thekla
2.4 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.
Lakota
2.8 km
Bristol's gritty heartbeat: underground raves, thunderous bass, and nights that blur into dawn at this St Paul's legend.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- 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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
