Day 2, Sunday 23 May
Restless…….. With a late-night last night, I thought I’d sleep well, a Sunday lie-in but I wake far too early and start work on y blog from yesterday which has to be in handwritten form for this tour. Breakfast is extra at the Swan but expecting to eat out later with Ellie and Leo, I just consume some food provisions I brough with me in reserve. After trying to get more sleep, I give up and start preparing for the day.
The Swan Hotel Review…….. It’s time to review my accommodation for this trip after my first night but my observations will be limited by the fact that I spent so little time here. I didn’t use their dining facilities and spent only a short time at the bar. The most appealing aspect of the Swan is its location. Although located on the A38 road to Gloucester which can be busy at times, the village of Almondsbury is in a rural setting with wonderful views of the Severn Estuary. It is also convenient to the M5 motorway. My accommodation in one of the outbuildings approached through a stone archway has been renovated while retaining some of its character. The room is comfortable, the bed particularly so but is rather on the small size. It is a little cramped for two people and the shower cubicle pigmy sized. On balance though, I’d say it was good value for money despite no breakfast included. I’d give it the 8 as per its rating.
Tour begins at Clifton Downs…….. I arrange to meet Ellie and Leo in Avonmouth where I park up on the industrial estate. Leo takes over now using his superior knowledge of the area as part of his patch as a driving instructor. I leave the itinerary for the day up to him and travelling up the Avon Gorge, we soon arrive t Clifton Downs and the spectacular viewpoint overlooking the gorge. This is a great photo opportunity to take in the surrounding landmarks including the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Brunel’s Suspension Bridge and Surrounds…….. I’ve never before had the opportunity to visit the suspension bridge itself but we’re soon parked up and ready to explore arriving the east end of this famous landmark. Just above is the observatory. Clifton Observatory is home to the 360 café, a museum featuring a rare Victorian-era Camera Obscura, and the atmospheric and mythical Giant’s Cave. Established in 1766, Clifton Observatory is an iconic landmark and an integral part of the Bristol landscape. The observatory has had a long and varied history, but one thing has remained consistent over the centuries: the spectacular and unforgettable views of Bristol, Avon Gorge, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Within the grounds I note that this elevated site is also the location of an Iron Age hill fort. Evidence of occupation at the site can be traced up to Medieval times. We now make our way down to the bridge itself and begin to take in its history. Approached from the eastern end, I note that the bridge is a toll way, now increased to £1. It does save time and money as the alternative is a long detour.
Of course, now we’re here we can cross over by foot and negotiate the strong wind blowing up the valley. The bridge is designed to flex to withstand high winds. It’s really only now you get a real sense of the scale of the engineering masterpiece of Victorian England. Of interest on the way across are the plaques on the tower wall giving a simple message; the number to call the Samaritans. Four-foot parapets exist at each end of the bridge to discourage suicides.
Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum…….. The museum is at the western end of the bridge and we wonder whether its open. Signs suggest you need to book to enter but when we enquire, we’re able to enter by signing in for test and trace and by waring facemasks. It’s free to enter and is devoted to the history of the bridge since its first conception and laying of the foundation stone in 1830. The information boards are well laid out and there are some interactive exhibits. There is a lot of interesting facts here and well worth at least 20 minutes or so you will need here.
Weather closes in at Temple Meads…….. Rather earlier than was expected, the rain returns and threatens to scupper the rest of the day. We head for the main railway station at Temple Meads and are allowed onto the platform. Some renovation work is being carried out but much of the splendid Victorian architecture is here for all to witness. Bristol Temple Meads is the oldest and largest railway station in Bristol. It is an important transport hub for public transport in the city. In addition to the train services there are bus services to many parts of the city and surrounding districts, and a ferry to the city centre.
Here at least is a good opportunity to get out of the rain and we consider what else we can achieve now that the rain has set in. Well, the most obvious option near here lies at the docks.
SS Great Britain…….. Bristol docks themselves are an attraction and I’m left wondering how such large ships travelled up the narrow gorge of the River Avon. The docks offer a relaxing view of the many craft both for leisure and commercial and at the present time, The Matthew, a replica of the Tudor ship sailed by John Cabot from Bristol, 'discovering' North America in 1497. However, it’s not the place to be with weather like this! With it looking like a late lunch, the only thing I’d like to achieve now is to get some photos shots of the SS Great Britain, easier said than done from near the berth on the southern bank. Finally, we make our way to the opposite bank and that proves more successful.
Brunel's SS Great Britain is one of the most important historic ships in the world. When she was launched in 1843, she was called 'the greatest experiment since the Creation'.
Japanese…….. As the rain continues, I enjoy a sightseeing tour around the city as my host contemplates what to do for lunch. When to impromptu tour ends with the avoidance of paying exorbitant parking fees at Berkeley Square a block away from Queen’s Road, we arrive at Wagarama's. This is a fashionable Japanese restaurant chain similar to Yoyo in Thailand and popular with the younger generation. Initially there is a queue here so we’re left standing in the rain. It’s bound to be busy and makes me uneasy despite a much lower risk of Covid now. The problem with eating out is that as a reasonable cook quite at home with Thai Indian and Continental food, I can be critical. Japanese food is not in my repertoire however; I only know ramen from occasional visits to Japanese restaurants in Thailand. Well, one thing I can say about this type of food in the UK is that it comes in as 10-15 times the food content, so much is the added value. Great news though if you’re on a diet like me right now. With the touring I don’t think I’ll have put on much weight this trip. It’s time to head back.
Relief for Chelsea…….. We return to the flat but earlier this time and I settle in with Leo to watch Aston Villa v Chelsea in the final round of Premier League games this season. There is much to play for, for three teams, only two of which will make Champion’s League qualification next season. Chelsea are the favourites of the three but they fall behind conceding two goals. It’s just when Chelsea looks like missing out that Spurs go on a goal spree at Leicester and send them out of contention instead.
Happy Ending…….. By early evening the rain has intensified and I need to get back to Almondsbury in the most dreadful conditions then relief as I make at back to The Swan Hotel. Back in the room I tune in to the F1 highlights from Monaco. Lewis Hamilton has not qualified well and when Max Verstappen wins leaving Lewis stranded back in the pack, Max finds himself leading the driver’s championship. Once a staunch supporter of Lewis, I’ve grown weary of his politics. Still only 8.30pm my body cries ‘enough’. I still have some food provisions and with a beer that'll do it for today.... Next Page.
Restless…….. With a late-night last night, I thought I’d sleep well, a Sunday lie-in but I wake far too early and start work on y blog from yesterday which has to be in handwritten form for this tour. Breakfast is extra at the Swan but expecting to eat out later with Ellie and Leo, I just consume some food provisions I brough with me in reserve. After trying to get more sleep, I give up and start preparing for the day.
The Swan Hotel Review…….. It’s time to review my accommodation for this trip after my first night but my observations will be limited by the fact that I spent so little time here. I didn’t use their dining facilities and spent only a short time at the bar. The most appealing aspect of the Swan is its location. Although located on the A38 road to Gloucester which can be busy at times, the village of Almondsbury is in a rural setting with wonderful views of the Severn Estuary. It is also convenient to the M5 motorway. My accommodation in one of the outbuildings approached through a stone archway has been renovated while retaining some of its character. The room is comfortable, the bed particularly so but is rather on the small size. It is a little cramped for two people and the shower cubicle pigmy sized. On balance though, I’d say it was good value for money despite no breakfast included. I’d give it the 8 as per its rating.
Tour begins at Clifton Downs…….. I arrange to meet Ellie and Leo in Avonmouth where I park up on the industrial estate. Leo takes over now using his superior knowledge of the area as part of his patch as a driving instructor. I leave the itinerary for the day up to him and travelling up the Avon Gorge, we soon arrive t Clifton Downs and the spectacular viewpoint overlooking the gorge. This is a great photo opportunity to take in the surrounding landmarks including the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Brunel’s Suspension Bridge and Surrounds…….. I’ve never before had the opportunity to visit the suspension bridge itself but we’re soon parked up and ready to explore arriving the east end of this famous landmark. Just above is the observatory. Clifton Observatory is home to the 360 café, a museum featuring a rare Victorian-era Camera Obscura, and the atmospheric and mythical Giant’s Cave. Established in 1766, Clifton Observatory is an iconic landmark and an integral part of the Bristol landscape. The observatory has had a long and varied history, but one thing has remained consistent over the centuries: the spectacular and unforgettable views of Bristol, Avon Gorge, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Within the grounds I note that this elevated site is also the location of an Iron Age hill fort. Evidence of occupation at the site can be traced up to Medieval times. We now make our way down to the bridge itself and begin to take in its history. Approached from the eastern end, I note that the bridge is a toll way, now increased to £1. It does save time and money as the alternative is a long detour.
Of course, now we’re here we can cross over by foot and negotiate the strong wind blowing up the valley. The bridge is designed to flex to withstand high winds. It’s really only now you get a real sense of the scale of the engineering masterpiece of Victorian England. Of interest on the way across are the plaques on the tower wall giving a simple message; the number to call the Samaritans. Four-foot parapets exist at each end of the bridge to discourage suicides.
Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum…….. The museum is at the western end of the bridge and we wonder whether its open. Signs suggest you need to book to enter but when we enquire, we’re able to enter by signing in for test and trace and by waring facemasks. It’s free to enter and is devoted to the history of the bridge since its first conception and laying of the foundation stone in 1830. The information boards are well laid out and there are some interactive exhibits. There is a lot of interesting facts here and well worth at least 20 minutes or so you will need here.
Weather closes in at Temple Meads…….. Rather earlier than was expected, the rain returns and threatens to scupper the rest of the day. We head for the main railway station at Temple Meads and are allowed onto the platform. Some renovation work is being carried out but much of the splendid Victorian architecture is here for all to witness. Bristol Temple Meads is the oldest and largest railway station in Bristol. It is an important transport hub for public transport in the city. In addition to the train services there are bus services to many parts of the city and surrounding districts, and a ferry to the city centre.
Here at least is a good opportunity to get out of the rain and we consider what else we can achieve now that the rain has set in. Well, the most obvious option near here lies at the docks.
SS Great Britain…….. Bristol docks themselves are an attraction and I’m left wondering how such large ships travelled up the narrow gorge of the River Avon. The docks offer a relaxing view of the many craft both for leisure and commercial and at the present time, The Matthew, a replica of the Tudor ship sailed by John Cabot from Bristol, 'discovering' North America in 1497. However, it’s not the place to be with weather like this! With it looking like a late lunch, the only thing I’d like to achieve now is to get some photos shots of the SS Great Britain, easier said than done from near the berth on the southern bank. Finally, we make our way to the opposite bank and that proves more successful.
Brunel's SS Great Britain is one of the most important historic ships in the world. When she was launched in 1843, she was called 'the greatest experiment since the Creation'.
Japanese…….. As the rain continues, I enjoy a sightseeing tour around the city as my host contemplates what to do for lunch. When to impromptu tour ends with the avoidance of paying exorbitant parking fees at Berkeley Square a block away from Queen’s Road, we arrive at Wagarama's. This is a fashionable Japanese restaurant chain similar to Yoyo in Thailand and popular with the younger generation. Initially there is a queue here so we’re left standing in the rain. It’s bound to be busy and makes me uneasy despite a much lower risk of Covid now. The problem with eating out is that as a reasonable cook quite at home with Thai Indian and Continental food, I can be critical. Japanese food is not in my repertoire however; I only know ramen from occasional visits to Japanese restaurants in Thailand. Well, one thing I can say about this type of food in the UK is that it comes in as 10-15 times the food content, so much is the added value. Great news though if you’re on a diet like me right now. With the touring I don’t think I’ll have put on much weight this trip. It’s time to head back.
Relief for Chelsea…….. We return to the flat but earlier this time and I settle in with Leo to watch Aston Villa v Chelsea in the final round of Premier League games this season. There is much to play for, for three teams, only two of which will make Champion’s League qualification next season. Chelsea are the favourites of the three but they fall behind conceding two goals. It’s just when Chelsea looks like missing out that Spurs go on a goal spree at Leicester and send them out of contention instead.
Happy Ending…….. By early evening the rain has intensified and I need to get back to Almondsbury in the most dreadful conditions then relief as I make at back to The Swan Hotel. Back in the room I tune in to the F1 highlights from Monaco. Lewis Hamilton has not qualified well and when Max Verstappen wins leaving Lewis stranded back in the pack, Max finds himself leading the driver’s championship. Once a staunch supporter of Lewis, I’ve grown weary of his politics. Still only 8.30pm my body cries ‘enough’. I still have some food provisions and with a beer that'll do it for today.... Next Page.
View of the Avon Gorge from Clifton Downs
Clifton Observatory and Site of Iron Age Settlement
Brunel's Suspension Bridge at Clifton
Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum
Bristol Temple Meads Railway Station
Bristol Docks
Replica of the Tudor Ship, The Matthew in Bristol Docks
SS Great Britain moored in Bristol Docks
Wagarama's, Queen's Road, Bristol