Bristol: A Maritime City and Clifton Suspension Bridge
Bristol is a maritime in southwest England, just 13 miles or so from Bath, which you can reach via a traffic-free old railway path. This is a vibrant place with many independent shops and a green vegan vibe.
Yet you’re not too far from rolling countryside, and quite near to the Welsh border. Totterdown is a hip funky area (home to one of the steepest streets in England) and known for its colourful houses and quirky art (people even paint the drainpipes!)
Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe.
Clifton Suspension Bridge: Iconic Views and Green Walks
Rising above the Avon Gorge, the Clifton Suspension Bridge is hard to miss. This landmark is surrounded by sweeping hills, and you can walk across the bridge, for incredible views of the city.
Alas like Beachy Head in Sussex, this is a major suicide risk. Some attempts have not been successful. The best-known was a young woman who (losing her love) jumped off in Victorian times. But her billowing petticoat acted like a parachute and saved her.
She kept a photo of two children who also survived (from a deranged father throwing them off the bridge). She found love again, and lived into her 80s!
Clifton Village: Leafy Streets and Relaxed Atmosphere
Just a short walk from the bridge, Clifton Village offers leafy streets, Georgian terraces and lots of independent shops. The neighbourhood feels peaceful and natural, with mature trees lining the squares.
Take your time in Victoria Square, sip coffee at a pavement café, or wander through the community gardens. Clifton’s blend of architecture
Leigh Woods: Wild Forest and Hidden Paths
Just across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Leigh Woods provides a striking contrast to the bustling city. Managed by the National Trust, it’s a nature reserve known for bluebells in spring, tall ancient trees and peaceful walking trails.
The woods slope down to the dramatic edge of the Avon Gorge, with viewpoints peeking back towards Clifton and the bridge. Leigh Court Farm (an organic box scheme) is based here.
The Historic Harbourside Bristol
In centuries gone by, Bristol’s port was teeming with ships from across the globe. It all began as a humble port, and through sheer grit and ambition, it grew into one of England’s prime trading hubs.
The Harbourside’s strategic location made it a bustling centre not only for shipping goods but also for whisking people off to new adventures.
No tour would be complete without a stop at the Brunel’s SS Great Britain, a marvel of Victorian engineering. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this iron-hulled passenger ship was a beacon of progress in the 19th century.
Not far off, you’ll find the M Shed museum, a vibrant tribute to Bristol’s past with tales of daring sailors and the city’s evolution through time.
Bath and Bristol Railway Walk
The Bath and Bristol Railway Walk offers a peaceful route between two of the area’s most historic cities. The path follows a disused railway with plenty of flat, traffic-free stretches, so it’s safe for cycling or walking. Along the way, see wildflowers, woodlands, and old railway bridges.
The walk is well-signposted and connects small villages and cosy pubs, making it ideal for a day out and a taste of local countryside.
Totterdown: Vibrant and Colourful
Totterdown is one of Bristol’s most eye-catching neighbourhoods. The area is famous for its steep hills and rows of rainbow-painted Victorian houses. Artists, students, and families call Totterdown home, and a creative spirit fills the streets. Community-led festivals, local cafes, and quirky pubs make this a spot with warmth and personality. Walk up to the top of the hill for sweeping city views and photos of Bristol’s iconic skyline.
Maritime City: Bristol’s Harbourside
Bristol has a rich past as a port city, and its harbourside is now a lively spot for locals and tourists. Refurbished warehouses hold art galleries, bars, and restaurants. Iconic ships like Brunel’s SS Great Britain are docked here for you to climb aboard and explore. Take a ferry along the harbour, sip a drink at the water’s edge, or enjoy the Sunday market that brings fresh food and crafts every week.
