This fully guided tour includes both the Clifton Suspension Bridge Tour and Underground Vaults Experience.
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.
Join one of our knowledgeable volunteer guides on this tour which includes both the Clifton Suspension Bridge tour and Underground Vaults experience. This is a comprehensive journey through the history, construction and maintenance of the bridge!
Beginning at the Clifton Toll Booth on the Bristol side of the bridge, crossing over the bridge to the Visitor Centre. You’ll then don a hard hat, descend the ladder, and learn all about the people who built and rediscovered the vaults. It’s set to be a real adventure!
General Admission 12+ £20
Tours take place at 14:00 on the last Thursday of every month between April and October.
Tickets for September and October will be released at the end of July.
Click here to see our other tours.
Hard Hat Tour Restrictions:
Please ensure that all members of your group are aware of the following restrictions. For safety reasons, we may not be able to allow members of your party to access the vaults if they have not complied with the following:
- Tours are suitable for age 7+ and under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. For school and youth groups we’d recommend a ratio of 1:5, but if you’re planning a friends and family trip parents/guardians should be responsible for the safety of their own children. Ideally a ratio of 1 adult to 2 children is preferred.
- There is a minimum height limit of 1.2m.
- Please wear sturdy shoes with good grip such as hiking boots or trainers. You will not be allowed to join the tour in heels or open-toed shoes.
- This tour includes climbing a vertical ladder and passing through a low corridor. Please ensure that you are physically capable of doing so. Find more information at www.cliftonbridge.org.uk/vaultsbooking
- Please ensure that any camera, phone, or device you bring will fit in your pocket or bag so that you have two hands free to climb the ladder.
- Only small rucksack type bags worn over both shoulders or bags with cross-body straps will be permitted inside the vaults. Large bags, handbags, umbrellas and so on can be stored securely at the Visitor Centre during your tour.
- Be aware that the vaults can be wet and/or muddy inside, particularly after heavy rain. Please wear suitable clothing and ensure that cameras or mobile phones are protected from the calcite saturated water which may fall from the ceiling.
- Although we will do our best to accomodate late arrivals, this may not always be possible due to the nature of the tour.
Our volunteer Hard Hat Tour Guides are winners of the 2023 Heritage Collaboration Award, a national celebration of the UK’s best heritage volunteers.
