Although we don’t recommend you visit the bridge during this week’s heat warning, here’s some helpful advice and useful information for those of you in the area.
Despite the heat causing disruption to some travel services, we plan to keep the Clifton Suspension Bridge open as normal for commuter traffic during the hot spell.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum is fully air conditioned and will remain open from 10:00am to 5:00pm daily. Refrigerated tap water is available free of charge, and still and sparkling bottled water is available from our shop. Entrance is FREE.
We are aware that several attractions in the area have been forced to close due to the heat. If you are planning to bring a large group (such as a school residential), please telephone 0117 974 4664 in advance to ensure we can accommodate you.
The walk from Harbourside, College Green or Hotwells involves climbing a steep hill. We advise that you consider using public transport. The No.8 bus provides a frequent service between Clifton Village and the City Centre.
Services to the X4 bus stop (next to Ashton Court Gatehouse) have been suspended due to ongoing roadworks. Your map app or satnav may still recommend this route – but be aware that it is incorrect.
It takes approximately ten minutes to walk across the bridge from the Chapter & Holmes Kiosk (where ice cream is served) to the Museum. There is very little shade during the walk, but there are benches at the base of each tower where you can sit and rest. Although we often experience windy weather in the Avon Gorge, remember your hat and sun protection.
In Clifton Village there are plenty of shady spots to stop and enjoy a cold drink or ice cream. Sit under the trees on nearby Clifton Down, or visit one of the many cafes in the Village.
Leigh Woods is a residential area. The Chapter & Holmes refreshment stand will be CLOSED due to the red weather warning.
Please consider the wellbeing of your dog before deciding whether to bring them along on a hot day. Drinking bowls for dogs are located at each toll house. While dogs are not allowed inside the museum itself, during the heatwave dogs are welcome to cool down in our foyer area.
The Dogs Trust have advice on caring for a dog in hot weather.