We drove under the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol twice – once during the day and once at night. This feat of engineering spans the Avon Gorge and the River Avon, and is 412 metres long and 101 metres above high water level. I’ve included a day and night stock image to show the full expanse of the bridge across the river.

The bridge opened in 1864, and took almost 30 years to build. It was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, one of the world’s most prominent and innovative civil engineers, mechanics and inventors of the 19th century. Already learning his trade under the guidance of his father at the age of eight, he designed and built many major bridges, tunnels, railways and boats, revolutionising transport across the world during the industrial revolution. 

Some of Brunel’s other projects included Paddington Station in London, the Great Western Railway across England, the Thames Tunnel, and the SS Great Britain, which brought thousands of people to Australia between 1852 and 1875 – see related post.

Brunel died in 1859 at only 53, however his life’s work has continued to have a long-lasting impact on the world, with many of his creations still being used today. The Clifton Suspension Bridge for one is used by three million cars annually.