The Clifton Suspension Bridge, across the River Avon at about 300ft, was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1830. Work started in 1836 but came to a halt in 1843 due to lack of funds. The bridge was eventually completed in 1864, five years after Brunel's death.

The chains came from the old Hungerford Bridge in London which was replaced when the railway line and bridge to Charing Cross Station were built.