Which famous suspension bridge, opened in 1864, spans the Avon Gorge in Bristol, England?

The Clifton Suspension Bridge, opened in 1864, spans the Avon Gorge in Bristol, England.

The bridge was designed by engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, although he died in 1859 before construction was completed. The final design and construction were overseen by William Henry Barlow and John Hawkshaw. Its deck hangs about 75 metres above the River Avon at high tide.

The crossing connects Clifton in Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset. It was built from wrought iron and uses masonry towers at each end, with chains carrying the suspended roadway. The dramatic gorge setting helped make it one of Britain’s best-known landmarks.

A common mix-up is calling it a Victorian bridge solely designed and completed by Brunel. Brunel won the original design competition and remains its most famous associated engineer, but the completed structure reflects later work by Barlow and Hawkshaw. The bridge is still used as a toll crossing and is also a major visitor attraction.