Clifton Suspension Bridge Clifton Suspension Bridge

A trip to Bristol is incomplete without visiting one of the city's most recognised and praised structures, the Clifton Suspension Bridge. This bridge is like no other; it is very significant for the city and the country. Some see it as the turning point in the history of engineering.

History of Clifton Suspension Bridge | How to get there | Places to stay near the Clifton Suspension Bridge | Clifton Suspension Bridge tours | More information on Clifton Suspension Bridge

History of Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge was designed by the renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Construction first began in 1831, but due to political unrest and funding issues, the project was put on hold. Sadly, Brunel died in 1859 and never saw his work come to life. However, in 1862, engineers William Henry Barlow and John Hawkshaw revived and modified Brunel’s original design, resuming construction. The bridge was finally completed in 1864 and opened to the public.

Construction on this masterpiece took 33 years. Although Brunel did not live to see his work, the bridge now stands as a lasting tribute to his engineering legacy.

Now, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is an important crossing over the Avon Gorge, accommodating both pedestrians and vehicles. According to the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust, approximately 2.5 million vehicles cross the bridge each year—an average of 6,850 per day. Hundreds and thousands of people also walk across the bridge annually.

Getting to Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is located in the West of Bristol. It links Clifton, in Bristol, to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. Depending on how you plan your journey to Bristol, here are several ways to get to the Clifton Suspension Bridge.

1. Visiting the Clifton Suspension Bridge by car

If you're driving, use the postcode BS8 3PA for navigation. The bridge is located on the River Avon, just off the B3129, which connects the Clifton side of Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. Parking is available on both sides of the bridge, but spaces may be limited, especially during busy times.

2. Visiting the Clifton Suspension Bridge by public transport

If you’re already in the city, you can easily get to the bridge using public transport. You can get the number 8 circular bus from Bristol Temple Meads railway station or at the Centre Promenade opposite the Hippodrome Theatre. Stay on the bus for roughly 25 minutes until you reach Clifton Village or Christ Church in Clifton, where it’s a short walk to the bridge.

3. Walking to the Clifton Suspension Bridge

If you’re already in Bristol and fancy getting some hard-earned steps in, why not walk to the Clifton Suspension Bridge? Follow the Avon Trail from Bristol City Centre or the Brunel in Bristol Trail. Both of these are uphill walks, so make sure you’re wearing comfortable walking boots.

Places to stay near the Clifton Suspension Bridge

If you’re looking for an ideal place to stay near the Clifton Suspension Bridge, check out our Cheddar Mendip Heights Club Site. This campsite is less than 35 minutes away from the bridge, and it’s a great place to unwind and relax after a long day of exploring.

The campsite is located in the heart of the beautiful Mendip Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and accommodates all unit types. Whether you’re camping with your family or your canine companion, you’ll love your time at this incredible campsite.

Clifton Suspension Bridge tours

Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve passed this iconic landmark many times, experience the bridge like never before by booking an underground tour. Put on a helmet and climb down the ladder to see the hidden vaults that help support the bridge. You’ll learn about the history of Clifton Suspension Bridge, see the magnificent engineering behind it, and get a unique perspective by seeing the bridge from the inside.

Click here for more information on Clifton Suspension Bridge tours.

More information on the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Do you have to pay to cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge?

All vehicles, including motorcycles, must pay a £1 fee to cross the bridge. Drivers pay at the toll with contactless payment only. If you frequently cross the bridge, you can purchase a bridge card, which can save you money.

Walkers, cyclists and horse riders do not have to pay anything and can move across freely.

What are the opening times of the bridge?

The bridge is open every day and hour throughout the year. Occasionally, there are planned closures due to maintenance, which you can find here.

Does the Clifton Suspension Bridge have a height or weight limit?

The bridge has a weight limit of 4 tons gross weight or 2.5 tons axle weight. No matter which side you’re driving from, there is a weighbridge on your approach. If your vehicle is too heavy, then the barriers will lock, and you won't be able to cross over. The bridge has no height restrictions, but the maximum vehicle width is 2.4 metres.