Clifton Rocks Railway Tour

Thousands of people pass the bottom entrance to the Clifton Rocks Railway as they drive along Bristol's Portway, with most not knowing what secret is buried in the rock of the Avon Gorge. Constructed with great difficulty inside the cliffs of the Avon Gorge in order to reduce its visual impact on the picturesque surroundings, this water powered 'funicular' railway opened on 11 March 1893 and operated for 40 years against diminishing trade. Its closure in 1934 did not mark the end of its useful life as it became a secret transmission base for the BBC during WWII. It has been empty and disused since the BBC moved out after the war.

The Tour

Due to the popularity of this tour we will be running two tours in conjunction with each other. One tour will start in the top station before going down the tunnel, passing the air raid shelters and the BBC rooms before entering the bottom station.

The second tour will commence in the bottom station and run in reverse.

There are 300 steps to go down and up again. The tour then takes in all of the artefacts uncovered so far. It is advised that attendees wear trousers due to the surroundings.

How to Book

Please note that places are extremely limited on this tour so early booking is advisable. Please note that this event is open to CII Members only