Tales Beneath the Bridge: Folklore in the Vaults
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EmailStep beneath the Clifton Suspension Bridge and into a world of myth, magic, and mischief.
Join Graeme Cooke, host of the acclaimed Tales of Britain and Ireland podcast, for an evening of captivating storytelling in the atmospheric surroundings of the bridge's hidden vaults.
From chivalrous knights and deadly goblins to encounters with the Devil himself, these tales drawn from British and Irish folklore are brought vividly to life with humour, suspense, and a deep love of the tradition. Expect wandering asides, unexpected twists, and - somehow- more cows than you might imagine.
Set within the cavernous underground chambers beneath one of Bristol's most iconic landmarks, this unique seated performance offers the perfect setting for stories that have echoed through generations.
Recommended for ages 16+ (adult themes and humour).
"Modern storytelling at its best, with cinematic scene-setting and moments of genuine tension."
"Storytelling for today. Quirky, clever, and so entertaining. If I had a castle, I would happily pay to keep this teller of tales at my hearth for the winter."
"Graeme has managed to make old British folk tales accessible without losing their original meaning"
Age restrictions: 16+
| Adult (16+) | £18 |
What people are saying
Aug 2026
Lovely evening, brilliant setting
Stories were interesting, more shorter tales rather than two l...
Jul 2026
super engaging and cool experience! i will be looking for some books on folklore to learn more :)
Jul 2026
Such a great host, I could have listened to that chap for hours more down there. My only note was...
Jul 2026
Its a very unusual venue which fascinated us. The story telling was gripping and very entertainin...
How to get there
Facilities
- Toilets
On the day
The performance begins at the Clifton Suspension Bridge Museum, where you’ll be fitted with a hard hat before descending a ladder into the rarely seen Leigh Woods Vaults. You'll be seated in the atmospheric surroundings of Vault 5, which has a constant temperature of 13 degrees.
Please wear boots or trainers, as well as clothing suitable for climbing a ladder and be aware that water may drip from the ceiling. If you wish to bring a cushion for your seat, please pack it in a small rucksack.
Changes happen, don't worry
You'll be hosted by
Clifton Supension Bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge is an icon of human ingenuity, British engineering and Bristolian identity. The Clifton Suspension Bridge Trust is a not-for-profit charity that acts as a custodian for this iconic landmark. Their mission is to converse and maintain the bridge to the highest possible standards. Join them in celebrating this unique cultural site and source of inspiration.
With the help of dedicated volunteers, uncover the history behind this unique iron chain suspension bridge - now one of Europe's few remaining - in one of the Trust's historical tours. Enrich your understanding and appreciation for this site.
Clifton Suspension Bridge's multi award-winning free-entry Visitor Centre attracts 80,000 visitors each year. Sharing the story of the ‘ornament of Bristol’, unravelling the lost techniques and engineering secrets used to construct this bridge in an engaging way.
Any questions?
Ask your question directly to Clifton Suspension Bridge.