We are the West Wiltshire Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Please note: This is a city walk with an historical focus. It is aimed at walkers wanting to see the remaining sites associated with Bristol’s part in The Slave Trade and learn a little about them.
The walk starts at Bristol Harbour, meanders through the central part of the city and then proceeds over Brandon Hill and on to Clifton, ending with a crossing of the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
The issue of The Slave Trade and its legacy is clearly highly controversial (particularly so in Bristol), a ‘live’ issue in contemporary political and cultural debate. Inevitably the victims of the trade left next to no trace in the city as very few even saw it. What is visible are the surviving parts of the docks, the houses and cultural institutions built by merchants and investors who profited from it and the housing built out in Clifton as prosperity rose. Key sites will be pointed out and briefly explained – no long lectures or polemics! Alongside the history there are some fantastic views.
The walk will end at the far side of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. You can return by bus from Clifton Down Road, so remember bus passes/change/credit cards. Alternatively, you can independently walk back (about 2 miles).
No need for poles or walking boots. Choose whatever footwear makes you feel comfortable for city walking. There are a few steepish climbs (Christmas Steps!!!!). No prohibition on dogs – owners will be aware if city walking works for them (there are trees!). A never ending supply of coffee shops and frequent park areas for sandwiches. Refreshment stops will respond to the group’s request!!! Sensibly, I would suggest one stop in the city, perhaps at the 18thC Coffee House (no longer very 18thC) at just after 12.00 and a second in Clifton.
Please note: The Finish Time is an estimate and may vary.
Please TEXT the walk leader to book a place.
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT US USING THE EMAIL BUTTON ABOVE
The walk will start at 10.45 to allow for those wishing to come by train – trains from Chippenham, Bradford, Trowbridge and Frome arrive at Bristol Temple Meads in time.The late start time is to allow for the Frome train which arrives at 10.21. Parking is expensive in the city but can be made reasonable by car sharing. Trenchard Street car park charges £18 for over 4 hours. Bev Stapleton can take up to four passengers – contact him if you want to share a lift and we’ll make arrangements. Meet outside the main entrance of M Shed on Princes Wharf between the cranes.
