Clifton Suspension Bridge: 1-Hour Hard Hat Tour

Clifton Suspension Bridge Bristol
Available until 31 December 2025

Up to 5% discount with promo code DAYSOUT

Book tickets now for the one hour Hard Hat Tour at the Clifton Suspension Bridge!

The adventures of Bristol's Suspension Bridge don't end in the sky - this is your chance to take a look inside Brunel's hidden vaults, deep underground!

Coined as one of Bristol's top things to do 

When the Bristolian bridge began construction in 1831, Isambard Kingdom Brunel's plan was to build the highest and longest bridge in the world. His passing during 1859 bought a bitter end to this ambition - but it left many secrets to uncover. 

Discover these hidden secrets on Bristol's One Hour Hard Hat Tour:

  • Arrive at Bristol's famous bridge and get ready for one hour of adventuring
  • Begin the tour on the abutment above and enjoy the views before you learn the history
  • Descend the ladder into Brunel's vaults and find out why they were undiscovered until 2002
  • Take a look inside hidden vaults, rediscovered by an intrepid team of engineers
  • Learn about Brunel's life through the passionate and knowledgeable guides 
  • Hear about the construction and influence of the South West's famous bridge

Important: Please read the Hard Hat Tour Restrictions in More Info

Location

Clifton Suspension Bridge

Clifton Suspension Bridge,
Bridge Road,
Leigh Woods,
Bristol,
BS8 3PA
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How to find us

Address: Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bridge Road, Leigh Woods, Bristol BS8 3PA

What3Words: noses.navy.asserts

By Car:

  • Use postcode BS8 4AW for parking
  • Travel across the bridge costs £1
  • Parking in Clifton is pay and display
  • Parking in Leigh Woods is pay and display

By Bus:

  • The No 8 Circular Bus from Bristol Temple Meads drops off at Clifton Village
  • The X3 and X3A services journey between Bristol and Portishead and will stop at the Clifton Lodge entrance

By Foot:

  • Follow the Avon Trail from Bristol City Centre
  • Follow the Brunel in Bristol trail
Facilities
  • Visitor Centre
  • Accessibility
  • Toilets
More Info
What are the Hard Hat Tour Restrictions?

Due to health and safety regulations, the one hour Hard Hat Tour have a handful of restrictions to abide by:

  • Tours are suitable for 7+, under 18's must be accompanied by an adult
  • Minimum height limit is 1.2m
  • Wear sturdy shoes - heels, flip-flops and open-toed shoes are not allowed
  • Ensure you are physically capable of climbing a vertical ladder
  • Ensure all electronic devices are packed away securely whilst climbing
  • Only small rucksack type bags are permitted
  • Wear suitable clothing - the vaults can be wet and muddy!
  • Please arrive in advance of the tour
Can I walk across the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Somerset?

Yes, the Clifton Suspension Bridge has a footpath on either side, allowing visitors to enjoy the views over the city and river. 

There is an advised one way system in the place.

Is the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol wheelchair accessible?

Yes, folding stools are available inside the Visitor Centre. An enclosed lift is available to take you to the first floor. 

Due to the nature of the environment, the Vaults Tours are not wheelchair accessible. 

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