Clifton Suspension Bridge

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Clifton's most famous (and photographed) landmark is the 76m-high Clifton Suspension Bridge, which spans the Avon Gorge. It was designed by master engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel with construction beginning in 1836, although Brunel died before its completion in 1864. It's free to walk or cycle across; car drivers pay a £1 toll.

There's a visitor centre near the tower on the western, Leigh Woods side. The free bridge tours are excellent.

Although initially designed to carry light horse-drawn traffic and foot passengers, these days the bridge carries around 12,000 cars every day – testament to the vision of Brunel's design.

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Nearby Bristol attractions

1. Clifton Observatory & Camera Obscura

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Set in a striking 18th-century windmill, Clifton Observatory features a viewing platform, a rare camera obscura and the cliff-side Giant's Cave. Together…

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A natural cavern set beneath the Clifton Observatory & Camera Obscura. The cave mouth is set into the side of the cliff, offering spectacular views over…

3. The Downs

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The grassy parks of Clifton Down and Durdham Down (often referred to as just the Downs) fan out from the Clifton Suspension Bridge and make a fine spot…

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