Cumberland Basin

Cumberland Basin is an artificial waterway in Hotwells that connects the River Avon to Bristol's Floating Harbour. The system operates through entrance locks and a network of bridges, including the prominent Plimsoll Swing Bridge that serves both vehicles and pedestrians.

Construction began in 1804 following William Jessop's plans to improve harbor connections and the basin opened in 1809. This engineering project strengthened Bristol's role as a major maritime port and shaped the city's waterfront development.

The basin reflects Bristol's shift from a spa destination to a working port, visible in how the space bridges leisure areas with active maritime zones. Local residents and visitors move between restored waterfront buildings and functional harbor spaces that coexist in daily use.

The basin area is accessible through several entry points, with the Plimsoll Swing Bridge serving as the main crossing for both vehicles and pedestrians. Walking along the quay provides good views of the locks and water systems, making it easy to understand how the harbor functions.

The Plimsoll Swing Bridge was originally a purely hydraulic structure, but its system was converted to electro-hydraulic operation in 2010. This transformation shows how the basin's heritage infrastructure has been modernized while keeping its historic appearance intact.

Location: Hotwells

Inception: 1804

GPS coordinates: 51.44810,-2.61944

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:23