Bristol attractions and their famous Engineer

Brunel’s Bristol

Although not born in Bristol much of the work of Isambard Kingdom Brunel was carried out here.
The son of Marc Brunel, a noted engineer, he first came to Bristol in 1828.  He had a strong connection with the city throughout his life and his influence can be seen across Bristol.

The railway and the docks

One of his significant positions was as Engineer of the Great Western Railway, which ran trains from London to Bristol. Appointed to this position at the age of 27, Brunel designed the 220 ft Great Train Shed with its 72 ft single roof span at Temple Meads Station. Brunel also worked extensively in the dock area of the city including designing locks, the Underfall and a dredger that kept the harbour free from slit.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

The bridge is one of his most famous works.  Suspended over the gorge high up in the Clifton area of Bristol, it is one of the most stunning of sites, and can be seen from several places in the city.  Brunel submitted four designs in the competition for a bridge over the Avon. The chosen one was Egyptian-influenced, although the eventual construction was missing some of the original embellishments. Started in July 1831, The Clifton Suspension Bridge was not completed until 1864. Sadly Brunel died before the bridge was completed, but the bridge is a lasting testimony to his great capabilities.  For more information visit www.clifton-suspension-bridge.org.uk

SS Great Britain

Step back in time when you board Brunel’s SS Great Britain.  Discover the true stories behind the ship that changed the world.  Experience the sights, sounds and smells of life on board for Victorian passengers and crew.  Descend under water below the glass ‘sea’ to touch the world’s first great ocean liner.  The SS Great Britain was the first ocean-going ship to have an iron hull and a screw propeller.  When launched in 1843 the SS Great Britain was the largest vessel afloat.  Originally carrying 252 first and second class passengers and 130 officers and crew.  When an extra deck was added the passengers increased to 730!  For more information visit www.ssgreatbritain.org

How to get to Brunel’s Bristol

The Whitehouse Guestrooms is ideally situated for a visit to Brunel’s Bristol, with the harbour only a 10 minute walk away.

• Walk to SS Great Britain in 15 minutes   
• Walk to Clifton Suspension Bridge in 40 minutes
• Drive to SS Great Britain in 5 minutes
• Drive to Clifton Suspension Bridge in 10 minutes

Hotel near Brunel’s Bristol

Book guestrooms at the Whitehouse Guestrooms, for good value bed and breakfast in Bristol, and use the comfortable, spacious guestrooms as your base for an exciting weekend in the city seeing all the Brunel sights.

• En-suite bathrooms in all guest rooms
• Colour TV with FreeView (40 channels) in all guest rooms
• FREE wi-fi broadband access in all guest rooms
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Double glazed windows
• Towels provided
• Continental breakfast served to all guests

The Whitehouse Guestrooms are situated in a quiet residential street close to the city centre, with FREE private parking for all residents.  This family run guesthouse is one of the best B&Bs in Bristol, so check availability now.