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    View of Bristol suspension bridge through the trees at Leigh Woods
    © National Trust / Annette Townsend
    Leigh Woods
    South-west side of the Avon Gorge, on the outskirts of Bristol
    Prehistory  Nature reserve  Iconic views or viewpoints  River or estuary  Woodland  1909 
    A wilderness of beauty and tranquility set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Avon Gorge and Brunel's world famous suspension bridge
     
    Don't miss
    • Ancient woodland and pasture with a rich variety of trees, including the rare Bristol whitebeam
    • Iron Age hill fort dating back to 300BC
    • Miles of paths to explore, including an all-ability trail
    • Diverse array of wild flowers, birds and butterflies
    • A great escape from the bustling city of Bristol
    Leigh Woods
    A sun-dappled path leading through the woodland at Leigh Woods
    Beautiful and diverse broadleaf woodland on the plateau above the famous Avon Gorge, boasting superb views across the city to downland beyond. Leigh Woods have been an intrinsic part of Bristolian life for centuries. ST560735

    Ancient woodland
    Designated pathways will lead you through oak, small leaf lime and ash forest. Springtime brings an abundance of bluebells and wood anemones, whilst the summer months offer relaxing, shady walks. The red and golden hues of autumn, combined with an interesting array of fungi, are particularly beautiful. ST558738
    Former woodland pasture
    Local breed of cattle. © Jim Twine
    A mixture of open grassy glades, surrounded by broadleaf woodland and many veteran oak pollards, where established footpaths lead to wonderful views of the suspension bridge and the city beyond. A scheme to reintroduce grazing with local breeds of cattle is in plan. ST558732
    Stokeleigh Camp
    This Iron Age hill fort once defended the crossing over the River Avon. Impressive ramparts and ditches enclose the interior of the camp, which dates back to 350BC. Breathtaking views across the gorge await. ST559732
    Stokeleigh Camp middle rampart, looking east from the clearing
    Avon Gorge (southside)
    Avon Gorge. © National Trust/Annette Townsend
    An easy surface pathway follows the base of the gorge, where the true scale of it becomes apparent. Look up to the soaring suspension bridge above and the beautiful broadleaf woodland, interspersed with areas of flower-rich limestone grassland around old stone quarries. Rockrose, Bristol Rock-cress and Black Knapweed are all native to this area. ST562734

      Opening arrangements
    Countryside
    Open all year Closed Mondays Closed Tuesdays Closed Wednesdays Closed Thursdays Closed Fridays Closed Saturdays Closed Sundays
    KEY: Dark blue=open

    Get in touch
    Reserve Office
    Valley Road
    Leigh Woods
    North Somerset BS8 3PZ

    0117 9731645 (General enquiries)
    0117 9743976 (Fax)

    Email: leighwoods@nationaltrust.org.uk


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