Bristol, England's eighth-largest city, sits at 11 meters (36 ft) above sea level at its harbour, but the city extends across dramatic limestone gorges and hills that rise to over 100 metres. Bristol's topography is among the most varied of any UK city.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Harbour / City Centre elevation | 5–15 m |
|---|---|
| Clifton area | 70–100 m |
| Highest point (Dundry Hill) | 245 m |
| Coordinates | 51.4545° N, 2.5879° W |
| Country / Region | England, UK |
Elevations by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Harbourside / City Centre | 5–20 m |
| Clifton / Redland | 60–100 m |
| Bedminster | 20–50 m |
| Kingswood (east) | 70–100 m |
| Filton / Northville | 70–95 m |
| Southmead | 50–75 m |
Compare: Bristol and Nearby Cities
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Cardiff | 10 m |
| Bath | 30 m |
| Gloucester | 10 m |
| Exeter | 20 m |
Interesting Facts About Bristol's Elevation
- The Clifton Suspension Bridge spans the Avon Gorge at 75 m above the River Avon – one of Britain's most dramatic engineering landmarks.
- Bristol's floating harbour was created in 1809 by diverting the River Avon, maintaining a constant water level regardless of the Severn Estuary's dramatic 13-metre tidal range.
- Brunel's SS Great Britain, the world's first ocean-going steam and screw-propelled ship, was built in Bristol's docks at sea level.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elevation of Bristol
What is the elevation of Bristol?
Bristol harbour and city centre are at about 11 metres above sea level. The Clifton area rises to 60–100 m, and the Dundry Hills to the south reach 245 m.
Is Bristol hilly?
Yes, Bristol has very varied terrain. The River Avon cuts through a dramatic limestone gorge (the Avon Gorge), and the Clifton area sits high above the water.
Why does Bristol have such dramatic scenery?
Bristol's dramatic gorges and hills were created by the River Avon cutting through the Carboniferous limestone of the Mendip plateau over millions of years.