Historical Hard Hat Tour – Two Hour

When construction of the Clifton Suspension Bridge began in 1831, the eyes of the world were on Isambard Kingdom Brunel and his bold plan to build the highest and longest bridge in the world.

The ambitious young engineer encountered many difficulties with the project and many of the bridge’s secrets were lost when he died before the project was complete. In 2002 an intrepid team of engineers and construction workers rediscovered Brunel’s hidden vaults. This is your chance to take a look inside.

Join volunteer guide and historian, Gordon, who will explain how the design of Brunel’s bridge was shaped by the influence of others, and how the young newcomer was able to make his name. With the help of Gordon’s ever-expanding bag of props and artefacts, you’ll hear all about the people who built and rediscovered the vaults before donning a hard hat, descending a ladder and taking a look for yourself.

Type: Hard Hat Tour
Duration: Approx. 2 hour

Max. 15 people per group

To book a ticket on a public hard hat tour and find out when our next available tour is, visit our Hard Hat Tours page.

Our volunteer Hard Hat Tour Guides are winners of the 2023  Heritage Collaboration Award, a national celebration of the UK’s best heritage volunteers.