What is the Clifton Suspension Bridge?
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a famous suspension bridge spanning the Avon Gorge in Bristol. Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it opened in 1864 and has become a symbol of the city.
Brunel won a competition to design the bridge in 1831, when he was only 24. Construction began but stopped because of a lack of money.
Brunel died in 1859 before the bridge was completed. Engineers of the Institution of Civil Engineers finished it as a memorial to him, using chains from another bridge.
The bridge today
The bridge stands about 75 metres above the River Avon and spans about 214 metres. It carries cars and pedestrians, with a toll for vehicles.
A visitor center explains the bridge's history and engineering. Views of the bridge and the Avon Gorge are especially beautiful at sunset.
The bridge is lit up at night with thousands of lights. It is often used as a backdrop for the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge is a Grade I listed structure, the highest category of protection for historic buildings.