Bristol Harbourside Moderate

Bristol Harbourside and the Clifton Suspension Bridge

City stroll Circular Dog friendly

Past the SS Great Britain and up to Brunel's bridge over the Avon Gorge, returning by Cabot Tower.

Distance
7.3 km
Ascent
230 m
Time
2–3 h
Grade
Moderate
Route
Circular
High point
89 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.

About this walk

Bristol Harbourside and the Clifton Suspension Bridge is a moderate 7.3 km circular walk with 230 m of ascent, taking 2 to 3 hours. It starts at Millennium Square, Bristol (grid reference ST 583 724). The start can be reached by public transport.

Bristol's Floating Harbour runs through the middle of the city, and its quaysides make a fine walk west to Brunel's SS Great Britain. Beyond the harbour locks at Hotwells, the route climbs steeply into Clifton for the view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge spanning the Avon Gorge.

The return passes through Clifton and over Brandon Hill, where Cabot Tower gives one of the best views over the city, before dropping back to the harbour.

Lochs & lakes History Great views Kid friendly Dog friendly Reachable by public transport

Route

  1. 1

    The harbour

    Walk along the harbourside to the SS Great Britain.

  2. 2

    Clifton

    Climb from Hotwells into Clifton to see the Suspension Bridge.

  3. 3

    Brandon Hill

    Return over Brandon Hill past Cabot Tower to the harbour.

Summit

Questions about this walk

How long does Bristol Harbourside and the Clifton Suspension Bridge take?
Most walkers take 2–3 hours for the 7.3 km route, which has 230 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
It starts at Millennium Square, Bristol (grid reference ST 583 724). City-centre car parks (charge).
Can I get there by public transport?
Bristol Temple Meads station is a 20-minute walk away, or take a harbour ferry. Check times on Traveline.
How hard is it?
It's graded moderate. Harbourside paths and pavements, with a steep climb to Clifton and steps on Brandon Hill.
Can I take my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Keep them on a lead near livestock.

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