Clifton

from Visit Bristol Official Visitor Guide 2022

Tours

Georgian terraces, fine dining, boutique shopping and one gurt big bridge

VILLAGE EXPERIENCE

With its chic boutiques, Bath-stone terraces and leafy garden squares, Clifton is one of Bristol’s most beguiling neighbourhoods. Discover the sweeping curve of Royal York Crescent, one of the longest terraces in Europe; spy on the world from a magical camera obscura at the summit of the Clifton Observatory; or gaze at the spectacular Avon Gorge from the dizzying heights of the Clifton Suspension Bridge: a feat of engineering designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and completed in 1864. Walk or cycle across (only drivers pay the toll) to reach the visitor centre at the gateway to Leigh Woods.

THINGS TO DO

Check out the Victorian Clifton Arcade with its quirky independent shops. Nicolas Wylde Jewellers is home to the Wylde Flower Diamond®. Each one has 81 precisely cut facets, including eight perfectly cut on the base to reveal a stunning flower, visible from above. On Oakfield Place, the old Clifton Lido has been beautifully restored to offer year-round outdoor swimming, spa treatments and award-winning dining. Visit 400 species of exotic animals at the historic Bristol Zoo Gardens before the site closes in September.

GREEN SPACES

An area of protected parkland on the northern fringes of Clifton, the Downs is home to the University of Bristol Botanic Garden with its Mediterranean Collection, Tropical Zone and West Country habitats. Just across Clifton Suspension Bridge is the 850acre Ashton Court Estate. Clifton Village boasts an adventure play park for families. The Mall Gardens is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the village.

FOOD & DRINK

360 Café The glass café at Clifton Observatory with a spectacular roof terrace. Ashwell & Co Vintage boutique and tearoom. The Clifton Sausage Modern British food in a relaxed setting. Coppa Club A stylish spot for all-day dining, from brunch to evening cocktails. The Ivy Clifton Brasserie The first Ivy outside London is right at home in Clifton Village. KIBOU A contemporary taste of Tokyo in Clifton Village. The Lido (pictured below) Poolside dining with a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired menu. No.4 Clifton Village Award-winning à la carte at The Rodney Hotel. Papadeli Award-wining deli, takeaway and cookery school. Racks Bar & Kitchen A top spot for Sunday roasts. White Lion Bar Informal gastro pub at Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin with amazing views of Clifton Suspension Bridge.