One of the most beautiful places in Bristol (Clifton Suspension Bridge (Clifton, Bristol))

Member Name: tomprosser

Product:	Clifton Suspension Bridge (Clifton, Bristol)
Date:	18/05/09 (103 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: views, architecture

Disadvantages: very windy

The suspension bridge is an iconic piece of bristol that is definitely worth a visit. The bridge stretches across the Avon Gorge linking Clifton/Redlands area to Leigh Woods/Ashton Court Estate. The bridge was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and was a ground breaking construction when it was built and today is as good as the day it was built.
The bridge has traffic and pedestrian crossings, there is a toll for cars but pedestrain access is free. The pedestrian crossing has breath-taking views along the gorge towards the Severn Estuary and Cumberland Basin/South Bristol. There is extensive CCTV and anti climb wire fencing, this is to prevent potential suicides as this seems to be a strangely popular place to do such things. It is also quite common to see rockclimbers ascend up the gorge side and base of one of the sides of the bridge as it is a popular 'unofficial' climbing route.
There is a small museum and gift shop on the Ashton Courtside of the bridge. It has the history of the design and building of the bridge, including the controversial design selection process.
The bridge can be very windy but the views are incredible and the bridge is a must if you are visiting Bristol. The best time to go is during the Balloon Festival in August so you can see the balloons passing overhead, then go for a drink at the Avon Gorge Hotel for a beautiful view of the Bridge from the Clifton-side.

Summary: beautiful views and major Bristol landmark