Bristol , United Kingdom

Discover Clifton's Past with a Local

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About this experience

Explore the hidden history of Clifton with a local!

Discover the stories that bring Clifton to life: from Clifton's hidden railway, to the site of the world's first bungee jump, to Bristol's forgotten spas.

Led by a passionate local guide, this relaxed 90 minute walk brings Clifton's rich history to life.

Perfect for visitors, locals and curious minds!

Learn about:

- Bristol’s most notorious cricketer
-The criminal architect who featured on a bank note
-The world’s first bungee jump
-Bristol's most famous suffragette
-The ground-breaking Victorian shopping mall
-The lost spas of Bristol

We'll visit key sites in Clifton, including Royal York Crescent, Clifton Mall, Clifton Suspension Bridge and Clifton Observatory.

Distance: around 2km/1.25 miles
Gentle pace, suitable for most fitness levels. Note: the route does involve steps and a few steep inclines.

Available options

Discover Clifton's Past with a Local

What's included

Walking tour

Detailed itinerary

Learn the story of this historic Victorian shopping arcade ass we pass through Clifton Village

Visit one of the longest crescents in Europe, and learn its stories

Hear stories of Bristol's iconic bridge

Hear the story of Clifton's quirky observatory (note that entrance is not included as part of this tour. As the tour finishes here, you can visit the observatory afterwards).

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet at the bus stop next to Can't Dance Coffee. I will be holding a sign saying "Visit Clifton"

About Bristol

Bristol is a vibrant and historic city in South West England, known for its maritime heritage, creative culture, and iconic street art. The city offers a unique blend of modern attractions and historic charm, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Bristol Harbour

Bristol Harbour is a historic harbor and a vibrant cultural hub, offering a mix of attractions, restaurants, and bars. The harbor is a great place to explore the city's maritime heritage and enjoy the waterfront.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, attractions vary

Clifton Suspension Bridge

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is an iconic landmark in Bristol, offering stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the surrounding countryside. The bridge is a popular spot for walks, photography, and picnics.

Architectural/Nature 1-2 hours Free

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Bristol Zoo Gardens is a popular attraction for families, offering a wide range of animals, beautiful gardens, and interactive exhibits. The zoo is home to over 400 species and is a great place to spend a day with the family.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day £20-£25 per adult, £12-£15 per child

Street Art Tour

Bristol is famous for its street art, and a street art tour is a great way to explore the city's creative side. The tour takes you to some of the city's most famous murals, including works by Banksy and other local artists.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free or guided tours available for a fee

We The Curious

We The Curious is a science and discovery center in Bristol, offering a range of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. The center is a great place to learn about science, technology, and the natural world.

Museum/Educational 2-3 hours £15-£20 per adult, £10-£15 per child

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bristol Cider

Bristol is famous for its cider, made from locally grown apples. The city has a rich cider-making tradition, and there are several cider bars and pubs where you can sample the local brews.

Drink Contains alcohol

Bristol Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic British dish, and Bristol is known for its excellent seafood. The city has several fish and chip shops, serving up fresh, crispy fish with a variety of sides.

Main Course Contains gluten and seafood

Bristol Cheese Toastie

A Bristol Cheese Toastie is a grilled cheese sandwich, made with local cheddar cheese and served on sourdough bread. It's a popular snack in the city, often served with a side of chutney or pickles.

Snack Contains gluten and dairy

Bristol Cream Tea

Cream tea is a traditional British treat, consisting of scones, clotted cream, jam, and a pot of tea. Bristol has several cafes and tea rooms where you can enjoy this classic dish.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Avon Gorge Cycling along the Bristol to Bath Railway Path Kayaking on the River Avon Picnicking in Brandon Hill Park Visiting the Bristol Botanical Garden Enjoying a spa day at the Bristol Harbour Hotel Visiting the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery Exploring the street art scene

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Bristol, with pleasant weather and a variety of outdoor festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (GMT+0) or BST (GMT+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bristol is generally a safe city for visitors, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Bristol Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from city center

By train

Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol Parkway

By bus

Bristol Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Bristol is comprehensive, with frequent services covering the city and surrounding areas. The First Bus network is the main provider, with a variety of routes and ticket options.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bristol Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Clifton Harbourside Stokes Croft Cribbs Causeway

Day trips

Bath

20 km (12 miles) • Full day

Bath is a historic city in Somerset, known for its Roman-built baths and Georgian architecture. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to several museums, galleries, and attractions.

Cotswolds

60 km (37 miles) • Full day to overnight

The Cotswolds is a region of England known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and historic attractions. The region is a popular destination for walking, cycling, and exploring the countryside.

Cardiff

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Cardiff is the capital of Wales, known for its castle, museums, and shopping. The city is a vibrant and cultural destination, offering a range of attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.

Festivals

Bristol International Balloon Fiesta • August (specific dates vary) Bristol Harbour Festival • July (specific dates vary) Bristol Pride • July (specific dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery for a fascinating look at the city's history and culture.
Explore the street art scene in Stokes Croft and the city center.
Take a boat tour of Bristol Harbour to see the city from a different perspective.
Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge for stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the surrounding countryside.
Sample the local cider at one of Bristol's many cider bars and pubs.