Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife

The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down, Durdham Down and Leigh Woods are just a few miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they’re home to a wealth of wildlife. With stunning views, rare plants, ancient woodland, nesting peregrine falcons and awe-inspiring geology this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.

Late autumn is here and it’s a beautiful time of year on the Downs and in the Gorge. We’ve some fun events happening to take us through to Christmas.

NoticeboardWhitebeam in the Gully

As we go into late autumn we’re enjoying the fabulous colours of the leaves on the trees as they begin to fall. The birds have started singing again beautifully after their long summer quiet period & it’s a joy to listen to them. Take in the calm between the storms on a tranquil Downs or gaze out over the stunning Gorge..
“Both speakers passionate and extremely knowledgeable about the subject.” Guardians of the stream talk 2024
“Libby Houston had such great knowledge and experience of the area teamed with enthusiasm.” Scrambling among botanical jewels 2024
“Very experienced and informative leader.” Tweet talk birdsong workshop 2024
“…excellent and welcoming, really enjoyed it and have booked again.” Little kids on the Downs 2024
“Clare knew where to go, how long it would take and had made 5 fantastic stories.” Saints, sinners and false diamonds 2024
“Very good educational information given by our knowledgable and friendly guide.” Deep dive into the Downs 2024
Pedunculate oak Observatory close up 3
Join us on the launch of our new Treeburt Family Tree Trail this Friday 1st November between 10am-1pm. Our new trail is on the Promenade & the Observatory on Clifton Down, & we’ll be in the children’s playground showing you how it works. There’ll be lots of fun activities to take part in as well for half term!
– Little kids on the Downs – our pre-schooler nature club starts again for the late autumn term on 6th November.
– our yearly Buds, bark and beauty winter tree ID walk takes place on 17th November on Clifton and Durdham Downs.
– back again due to popular demand – our fabulous Family Stargazing Party on 12th December with Explorer Dome!
Little kids on the Downs pre-school events

Book now on our What’s On page for autumn 2024 events.

Discover our fabulous wildlife and geology in this section.

Explore our discovery walks, wildlife talks, in-depth courses, exciting children’s and family events that we run throughout the year.

Find out about the fantastic learning opportunities available on both sides of the Avon Gorge.

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Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife is a partnership of Bristol City Council, Natural England, the Society of Merchant Venturers, Downs Committee, University of Bristol, Bristol Zoological Society, National Trust and Forestry England.

Photographs: Juvenile peregrine facing forward (© Sam Coppard), Buttercups on the Downs (© Simon Muir), Spiked speedwell (© Libby Houston), Meadow on the Downs (© Denice Stout), Adult peregrine falcon (© Helen Hall). All other photos © Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project and © Phil Jearey.