Clifton Suspension Bridge was designed by the great Isambard Kingdom Brunel. It was his favourite project, but he died before it was finished in 1864.
If ever you’re in the area, for £1 toll fee you can drive over, but walk instead for free and enjoy the view of the Avon gorge.
1885, 22 year old Sarah Henley jumped off the bridge, but her dress billowed around her and acted like a parachute, gliding her to a safe landing. She lived into her mid eighties.
Between 1974 and 1993, 127 people committed suicide there. Barriers are now installed, but still around four people die each year, how terribly sad.
This is my entry for the weekly photo challenge of bridge.
Lucid Gypsy 
I agree, the walk os well worth it. xx
The view inland is gorgeous x:-)x
This bridge has quite a history. It’s sad that so many have chosen to use such a beautifully architectural structure for their demise. Thankfully they’ve tried to fix that with barriers.
Excellent choice, Gilly, for the challenge.
Issy 😎
Thanks Issy, it’s far lovelier than the photo shows, Brunel was a world changing engineer, I wonder if you’ve heard of him over there?
No, I haben’t heard of him. I will have to Google him. Thanks for adding his name. I’m always fascinated with unsual architecture. Nice capture … I liked your point of view. 😎
Ah, years since I saw that bridge….you have conjured up an old memory of family friend driving on that bridge in a Hillman imp…..
Way before I was old enough to drive I wanted an Imp, thanks for the memory 🙂
Me too!
Some interesting stories behind the bridge. Breathtaking capture of the gorge, Gilly!
Great photography, Gilly. But unfortunately a very sad place.
Definitely not! You’d hurt yourself for sure but what a beautiful place to say farewell. In a bar desperately trying to follow Rafa. Hot but extremely lovely. Hugs darlin xx
Hugs back babe, I’d rather be outside in that sun but as long as you’re having fun that’s good, and he is rather cute!
Wonderful photos and history to go with. I am not fond of heights but do really love the architectural design of bridges. Sad so many have jumped but it seems that some would think that is what a bridge is for. I think the story of the first jumper sailing to safety was probably telling her this was not an answer. Thank You!
First time I hear of Mary and I love het already 🙂 and Sarah should have been a parachute instructor
I enjoyed this history, though sad. 🙂
Good on you, Mary Griffiths! Four people a year from one bridge is a lot.