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Clifton Suspension Bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bridge Road, Leigh Woods, Bristol, Avon, BS8 3PA.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is the symbol of the city of Bristol. For almost 150 years this Grade I listed structure has attracted visitors from all over the world. Its story began in 1754 when a Bristol wine merchant left a legacy to build a bridge over the Gorge. The first competition in 1829 was judged by Thomas Telford, the leading civil engineer of the day. Telford rejected all the designs and submitted his own but the decision to declare him the winner was unpopular and a second competition was held in 1830. 24 year old Isambard Kingdom Brunel was eventually declared the winner and appointed project engineer – his first major commission. The foundation stone was laid in 1831 but the project was dogged with financial difficulties and by 1843 the project was abandoned.
Brunel died prematurely aged 53 yrs in 1859 but the Bridge was completed as his memorial and finally opened in 1864. Visitors can cross the bridge on foot while groups can book a guided tour.
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Opening Times:
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All Year Round |
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Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat |
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Opening
times listed were correct at the time of entry but should be checked before
departure.
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