Join in on a one-hour guided tour to explore two of Brunel’s twelve vaulted chambers at the Clifton Suspension Bridge, an iconic symbol of Bristol and a masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
Join your knowledgeable guide to discover two vaulted chambers. The tour will begin on the abutment above. Then, once you’ve descended the ladder, your guide will share some of the most interesting features and explain why it took until 2002 for the Clifton Suspension Bridge vaults to be rediscovered.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a renowned landmark in Bristol designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Although construction commenced in 1831, various setbacks delayed its completion until 1864. Brunel passed away in 1859 and the bridge was finally finished in his honour. However, many of the bridge’s secrets, such as the hidden vaulted chambers within the abutment, were lost when Brunel died.
April - October: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays
Departure at 14:30 hrs at the Clifton Bridge Visitor Centre
1 hour
English
Volunteer guide, admission to the bridge
Tours are suitable for age 7+ and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult.
There is a minimum height limit of 1.2m.
Please wear sturdy shoes with good grip such as hiking boots or trainers. You will not be allowed to join the tour in heels, flip-flops or open-toed shoes.
This tour includes climbing a vertical ladder and passing through a low corridor.
Please ensure that you are physically capable of doing so.
Please ensure that any camera, phone, or device you bring will fit in your pocket or bag so that you have two hands free to climb the ladder.
Only small rucksack type bags worn over both shoulders or bags with cross-body straps will be permitted inside the vaults. Large bags, handbags, umbrellas and so on can be stored securely at the Visitor Centre during the tour.
Be aware that the vaults can be wet and/or muddy inside, particularly after heavy rain. Please wear suitable clothing and ensure that cameras or mobile phones are protected from the calcite saturated water which may fall from the ceiling.