5
Things Bristol is Famous For
1. Clifton Suspension Bridge Clifton suspension bridge is probably Bristol’s most famous landmark. The Clifton Suspension Bridge was designed by the Victorian engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The bridge, which is about 1,532 metres long, connects Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. It can offer some amazing views when you walk, drive, or cycle across it – including when the hot air balloon festival is taking place. It was also the location of the first modern bungee jump in 1979, although the act itself wasn’t actually legal. Bristol has a lot to offer visitors, with many interesting facts to discover about the city, its history, and how you can enjoy Bristol today. 2. Maritime History Bristol is a port city, and the location of Bristol harbour made it the ideal place for maritime trade. Tobacco, wine, and cotton were some of the commodities that passed through the city. Of course, there is also a darker side to this history. From the 1600s to the 1800s, Bristol was also heavily involved in the slave trade. Many buildings and landmarks in the city have been named after Edward Colston, a prominent politician, philanthropist – and slave trader. However, they are slowly being changed, such as in the case of Colston Hall, a concert hall that has been renamed Bristol Beacon. Another interesting maritime fact is Bristol’s connection with piracy – that’s why pirates often sound like they have West Country accents! Blackbeard is thought to have been born in Redcliffe, near Bristol Harbourside. 4
