Bridges have always been a big part of Bristol’s identity. The first stone bridge across the River Avon was built in 1247, but less permanent crossings are believed to have existed long before then. In fact, the name Bristol derives from the Old English name Brycstow, literally meaning ‘the place at the bridge’. So it seems fitting that one of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Clifton Suspension Bridge, spanning the Avon Gorge between Bristol and Leigh Woods.
Based on a design by the civil engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the Clifton Suspension Bridge was first opened to traffic back in 1864. Since then it’s become a quintessential Bristolian symbol used on postcards and tourist websites. It was the site of the first modern bungee jump in 1979, and in 2003 the last ever Concorde flight flew directly over the bridge before landing at Filton Aerodrome.
This design shows Clifton Suspension Bridge during Bristol’s annual Balloon Fiesta, when hundreds of hot air balloons are flown over the city’s rooftops. Whether you’re an engineering-enthusiast or a passionate Bristolian, this tea towel is just the thing for you.
