• Sitemap
• Text Only
• Full Graphics

• Managing Organisation:

  Bristol City Council

• Contact:

  Gordon Milward

• Telephone:

  01179223717 
• Click here to visit website
• Click here for winner's location
• Submit feedback for this park

Information about this open space

Clifton and Durdham Downs (The Downs) is a fascinating 442-acre green space perched on the edge of the Avon Gorge, close to Brunel’s famous suspension bridge.  It has been enjoyed by the residents of Bristol as a place of recreation for over 300 years though there is evidence of much earlier activity as shown by the iron-age fort and Roman road (both scheduled ancient monuments). There are stupendous views of the Avon Gorge and cliffs from the limestone grassland that was once regularly grazed by the commoner’s sheep. It is now criss-crossed by avenues of trees and either used to play football or managed to allow the flowers to bloom and attract butterflies and other insects to delight the visitor. Access by car or public transport is easy and there are toilet, cafe and food kiosk facilities available. There are also quiet secluded areas sheltered by trees or scrub where many people picnic. A children’s playground is available and there are public benches available from where visitors can watch wildlife such as peregrine falcons, or people enjoying themselves playing family games of rounders, flying kites or throwing Frisbees. There are also organised events for entertainment such as the Bristol Flower Show, fairs or firework displays. Botanists can search for rare endemic plants, families and individuals can either relax or jog to ‘keep fit’ to enjoy themselves in an historic and almost rural setting that is a stone’s throw from the city centre.