Redcliffe Caves: Bristol's Hidden Underground Heritage
Explore Bristol’s mysterious underground network of historic sandstone caves, once vital to glassmaking and now a captivating cultural venue.
Redcliffe Caves, nestled beneath Bristol's Redcliffe district, are a fascinating network of manmade tunnels carved from red sandstone. Originally excavated to supply sand for the city's historic glass and pottery industries, these caves have served diverse roles over centuries—from hermit dwellings and storage spaces to wartime shelters. Today, they offer a unique glimpse into Bristol’s industrial past and are occasionally open for guided tours, special events, and immersive art installations.
A brief summary to Redcliffe Caves
- Phoenix Wharf, Redcliffe Way, Bristol, Redcliffe, BS1 6SR, GB
- +441179222200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the official schedule before visiting, as the caves are only open during special events and guided tours.
- Book tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially for popular events like Bristol Open Doors weekend.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and dress in layers due to uneven floors and cool cave temperatures.
- Bring a flashlight or headlamp to explore darker sections and appreciate the full atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Number 8 or 9 bus from Bristol city center to Redcliffe Way; the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening or weekend service. A single fare costs around £2.50.
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Walking
From Bristol Temple Meads railway station, a walk of about 25 minutes through mostly flat urban terrain leads to Redcliffe Caves. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the entrance can be uneven and damp.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Bristol city center to Redcliffe Caves takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect fares around £7-£10. Taxis provide convenient access, especially during events when public transport may be busy.
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 and Industrial Legacy
The Redcliffe Caves are a labyrinth of underground tunnels carved from Triassic red sandstone beneath the Redcliffe area of Bristol. Their name derives from the distinctive red sandstone cliffs that characterize the district. Excavated primarily between the 14th and 18th centuries, the caves supplied sand essential for Bristol’s flourishing glassmaking and pottery industries. This industrial heritage is etched into the very walls of the caves, which once formed the backbone of local manufacturing.Historical Uses Beyond Industry
Beyond their industrial purpose, the caves have a rich and varied history. In the Middle Ages, they provided shelter for hermits, with some caves near St Mary Redcliffe Church bearing evidence of such solitary inhabitants. Later, during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, parts of the caves were reportedly used to detain prisoners of war. The caves also functioned as storage spaces for trade goods arriving from Africa and the West Indies, reflecting Bristol’s maritime connections.Decline and Rediscovery
As glass production waned in the 19th century, the caves fell into disuse and were repurposed for storage and waste disposal, including refuse from the nearby Redcliffe Shot Tower. Bombing during World War II caused damage that led to some sections being sealed off. Despite this, a portion of the caves served as an air-raid shelter until 1942, equipped with beds and heaters. Over time, much of the cave system became inaccessible, with only about an acre of tunnels explored and mapped.Modern Revival and Cultural Role
Today, Redcliffe Caves are a hidden gem beneath the city, occasionally opened to the public during special events such as the Bristol Open Doors weekend. They host a variety of cultural activities, including underground film screenings, theatre productions, art installations, and immersive soundscapes. Their atmospheric, dimly lit passages have also made them a popular filming location for TV dramas and sci-fi series, doubling as settings from flooded mines to alien landscapes.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Exploring the caves offers an evocative journey into Bristol’s past, with narrow walkways and vast caverns that reveal layers of history. The caves maintain a cool, consistent temperature year-round, often feeling quite chilly, so visitors are advised to dress in layers and wear sturdy footwear due to uneven, damp floors. Lighting is limited in some areas, enhancing the mysterious ambiance but making a flashlight a useful companion.Access and Preservation
Access to Redcliffe Caves is generally restricted, with entry permitted mainly during guided tours and special events. The full extent of the tunnels remains unknown, partly due to safety concerns and the fragile nature of some sections. Conservation efforts continue to protect this unique subterranean heritage site, balancing public interest with preservation of its delicate environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Prince Street Bridge
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The Matthew of Bristol
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King George V Memorial Fountain
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Royal Talbot Buildings
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Cascade Steps
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Bristol Bridge
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Statue of Cary Grant
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Medieval Vaults
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Historic England - Bristol Office
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Fermentation Buildings
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Templar Stone
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Old City Walls
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Old Post Office
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St Mary Le Port Church
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The Nails
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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
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Bristol Ferry
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Queen Square
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A serene Georgian square in Bristol’s center, blending historic charm with peaceful green space and vibrant cultural life.
Bristol Harbour Railway
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Step aboard Bristol Harbour Railway’s heritage steam train for a scenic 15-minute journey through the city’s historic waterfront.
Welsh Back
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Historic waterfront street in Bristol, blending maritime heritage, abolitionist history, and vibrant cultural life along the Floating Harbour.
Narrow Quay
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TimeTrail
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Step into history with TimeTrail, an immersive live-action adventure on Bristol’s historic King Street that challenges your wits and teamwork.
Floating Harbour
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Explore Bristol’s historic Floating Harbour—a vibrant waterfront blending maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and lively harbourside charm.
M Shed
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Discover Bristol’s vibrant history and harbour heritage in the dynamic and free M Shed museum on Princes Wharf.
Bristol Old Vic
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Pero's Bridge
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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
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Watershed
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Bristol Aquarium
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The Bristol Wheel
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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
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Riverstation
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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
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Casa Bristol
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Pasture
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Adelina Yard
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La Panza
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MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
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Rick's
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The River Grille
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Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
Three Brothers Burgers
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Waterfront burgers of genuine quality in Bristol's vibrant harbourside district.
Tare Restaurant
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Aqua Welshback
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Harbour & Browns
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Gambas
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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
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Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Something Elsie
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my a2space
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Fig1
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Over Here
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This Feeling
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Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
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uchi clothing co
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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
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Memories
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Quadrant Trading
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Japonicat
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Urban Fox
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Orendo
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Zhyper
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Architect
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Kongs of King Street
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Small Bar
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The Boardroom
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The Clockwork Rose
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Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
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The Library Bristol
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Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Thekla
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PRYZM
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Popworld - Bristol
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The Loco Klub
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Basement 45
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OMG
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Antix
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Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
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Motion
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La Rocca
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The Pearl NightClub
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Bristol Lola Lo
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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
- Vintage Styles
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
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
