Clifton Suspension Bridge Tours and Activities

Clifton Suspension Bridge showing a sunset, a bridge and a river or creek
Clifton Suspension Bridge showing night scenes, a bridge and a sunset
Clifton Suspension Bridge which includes night scenes, a bridge and a sunset
Clifton Suspension Bridge showing landscape views, a bridge and a sunset
Clifton Suspension Bridge showing a bridge, landscape views and a sunset


Both striking and practical, this bridge has long been the symbol of the city of Bristol.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge spans the River Avon and links Clifton, a shopping district in Bristol, to Leigh Woods in the county of Somerset. Opened in 1864, the bridge is the brainchild of renowned mechanical and civil engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It has become a major landmark of the area, and is worth visiting even if you don’t need to cross it.Brunel was just 24 when he won the commission to build the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Although construction began on the bridge in 1831, the project was abandoned 12 years later, due to poor funding and political issues. Only following Brunel’s death in 1859 was it decided the bridge would be completed as a memorial to him. The Clifton Suspension Bridge is held up by 81 wrought-iron rods. The towers at either end are made from local pennant sandstone. The bridge is 1,352 feet (412 meters) long, and hovers 245 feet (75 meters) above the Avon. The bridge can only carry a limited weight at any one time, and is closed for major annual events. Still, more than 8,000 vehicles cross it every day.The bridge has its own visitor center, on the Leigh Woods side. Here you can see exhibits and a film about the bridge’s construction. There’s also a gift shop. Free guided tours of the bridge are given weekend afternoons and bank holidays. There’s no need to book. The visitor center is open daily, except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.It’s fairly easy to get to the bridge by public transport. Buses run regularly from the main station, Bristol Temple Meads. Cycle lanes are on the approach to both sides of the bridge. By car, the bridge is a 15-minute drive from the center of Bristol. It’s free to walk or cycle across the bridge, but there is a toll for cars. Parking is much easier on the Leigh Woods side.

Popular places to visit


Top Clifton Suspension Bridge Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin

Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin

4 out of 5
Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol, England
Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin
The Bristol Hotel

The Bristol Hotel

4 out of 5
Prince Street, Bristol, England
The Bristol Hotel
Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol City Centre

Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol City Centre

4 out of 5
2 Lower Castle Street, Old Market, Bristol, England
Delta Hotels by Marriott Bristol City Centre
Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel

4 out of 5
College Green, Bristol, England
Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel
Clayton Hotel Bristol City

Clayton Hotel Bristol City

4 out of 5
Broad Street, Bristol, England
Clayton Hotel Bristol City
Victoria Square Hotel

Victoria Square Hotel

3 out of 5
29 - 30 Victoria Square, Bristol, England
Victoria Square Hotel
ibis Bristol Centre

ibis Bristol Centre

3 out of 5
Explore Lane, Bristol, England
ibis Bristol Centre
The Washington

The Washington

3 out of 5
St Pauls Road, Clifton, Bristol, England
The Washington
OYO the Regency, Clifton Bristol

OYO the Regency, Clifton Bristol

3.5 out of 5
40 - 44 St Pauls Road, Clifton, Bristol, England
OYO the Regency, Clifton Bristol
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a stunning landmark in Bristol, perfect for sightseeing and photography. Nearby, you can enjoy theatre performances, boutique shopping, and vibrant entertainment options. Don't miss out on the enchanting Christmas lights during the festive season, and consider joining an evening tour to experience the bridge’s beauty under the stars. This iconic site offers a unique blend of history and leisure activities for every traveller.

Shopping

The closest shopping spot is The Clifton Arcade, only 644m away, offering a mix of unique shops and local crafts. St Nicholas Market and Broadmead Shopping Centre, both 3.2km away, provide vibrant city vibes with diverse shopping experiences. If you're up for a drive, explore more options further afield!

Recreation

At Ashton Court Country Park, enjoy serene walking trails and lush gardens that promote relaxation and wellness. For a vibrant atmosphere, visit O2 Academy for live music events, or catch the sporting spirit at Ashton Gate Stadium, where excitement and activity abound.

Adventure

The Wave, located 9.7km from Clifton Suspension Bridge, offers thrilling water sports for adrenaline seekers. For a family-friendly experience, West Country Water Park, 11.3km away, provides entertainment and adventure. Don’t miss Bath Maze, a fun-filled maze 19.3km from the bridge, perfect for the whole family.

Nightlife

Enjoy a night at the Old Vic Theatre, just 1.6km from the bridge, for an entertaining show. For family fun, visit Clifton Downs and Observatory, 483m away, or unleash your adventurous side at Skirmish Paintball Bristol, also a mile from the bridge.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Clifton Suspension Bridge

Exploring the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol offers a blend of culture and outdoor experiences. You can visit nearby urban parks, modern universities, and historic churches. Don't miss the Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust for insights into this iconic landmark and its history. Whether you're keen on scenic views or local attractions, the area promises a delightful experience for all travellers.

  • University of Bristol: This modern university boasts a vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture. With its impressive campus and rich history, visitors can enjoy exploring the grounds and soaking in the academic spirit that permeates the city.
  • Queen Square: A beautifully landscaped urban square, Queen Square offers a relaxing retreat in the heart of Bristol. It's a great spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying local cafés, making it a popular gathering place for both locals and tourists.
  • Ashton Court Mansion: This grand venue is perfect for events and conferences, set within picturesque parkland. The mansion's historical charm and serene surroundings provide a unique atmosphere for gatherings, making it an essential stop for those seeking a blend of history and nature.

Best time to go to Clifton Suspension Bridge

The best time to visit Clifton Suspension Bridge is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
October53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Clifton Suspension Bridge

For your visit to Clifton Suspension Bridge, consider travelling between January to March for lower accommodation prices compared to the peak months of June to July and September. Monday is the cheapest day to book, while Saturday tends to be the priciest. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels, apply filters for eco-certified options, and consider package deals to save on flights and activities. Additionally, keep an eye out for discounts and loyalty programs to further reduce costs during your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Clifton Suspension Bridge are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Clifton Suspension Bridge is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Clifton Suspension Bridge is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near the Clifton Suspension Bridge with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.