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# Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife

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

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://avongorge.org.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Pages

- [Home](https://avongorge.org.uk/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Research and monitoring](https://avongorge.org.uk/conservation/research-and-monitoring/) - As much of the Gorge’s wildlife is rare and special, it is vital that wildlife monitoring and research is carried out to guide and inform management work.
- [Kids Zone](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Children and families](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover and Play](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/discover/) - Discover and play The Avon Gorge and Downs are close to the centre of Bristol, but they are home to some amazing wildlife! Explore our wildflower meadows on a butterfly hunt, visit our goats in the Gully or see if you can find the famous Bristol whitebeam, a special tree that grows here and nowhere
- [Play](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/discover/play/) - Play Explore the wildlife of the Avon Gorge and Downs with our puzzles, word searches and games! Click on the links below to download. Please note that this is a ‘work in progress’ – we will be adding more activities over time! Back to Kids Zone Perergine falcon word search Download Mammal word search Download
- [Learn and discover](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Playschemes and uniformed groups](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/playschemes/) - Playschemes and uniformed groups Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife offers FREE play scheme sessions adapted to the needs of your group while uniformed group sessions are £5 per child. Visit a fantastic wildlife site close to your playscheme, after school club or uniformed group. Experience the feeling of open countryside and have the chance to spot
- [Who we are and what we do](https://avongorge.org.uk/about-us-volunteering/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Conservation](https://avongorge.org.uk/conservation/) - Conservation Collectively the Avon Gorge, Downs and Leigh Woods are a very special area for wildlife and geology. In fact the Gorge has been internationally recognised as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and nationally designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Part of Leigh Woods is also a National Nature Reserve and
- [The Downs and Bristol side of the Avon Gorge](https://avongorge.org.uk/visiting-us/the-downs-and-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge/) - Clifton and Durdham Downs (known collectively as ‘the Downs’) lie on the eastern side of the Gorge. They are easily accessible by bus, train, bike, on foot or by car. From Observatory Hill and Seawalls there are spectacular views over the Gorge and from the Peregrine Watch point you might catch sight of our resident peregrines falcons.
- [Visiting us](https://avongorge.org.uk/visiting-us/) - Visiting us The Avon Gorge is an iconic landmark on the River Avon. Spanned by the famous Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Gorge is flanked by Clifton and Durdham Downs on the Bristol side and Leigh Woods on the North Somerset side. To find out how to visit each of these locations, see below. The Downs
- [Wildlife and geology](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/) - #Wildlife and geology The Avon Gorge is such an important place for wildlife that it has been internationally recognised as a Special Area of Conservation and nationally designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It is a Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Site. Part of Leigh Woods is also a National Nature Reserve
- [About us & volunteering](https://avongorge.org.uk/about-us-volunteering/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [The wildlife of the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/) - The wildlife of the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs In this section of the website you can get a more in-depth guide to some of the wildlife that you can find on the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs. If you want to get out and explore there
- [School sessions on the Downs](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/school-sessions-on-the-downs/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Primary sessions on the Downs](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/school-sessions-on-the-downs/spring-and-summer-sessions-on-the-downs/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Secondary school sessions on the Downs](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/school-sessions-on-the-downs/secondary/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [What's on](https://avongorge.org.uk/whats-on/) - What’s on Explore the amazing array of wildlife on your doorstep at the Avon Gorge, Clifton and Durdham Downs in Bristol. There’s plenty to do with discovery walks, wildlife talks and in-depth workshops, plus family and children’s holiday fun to choose from! × Join us to explore our wildlife activities taking place in 2026! Upcoming
- [Treeburt family tree trail](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Contact us](https://avongorge.org.uk/about-us-volunteering/contact-us/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Conservation on the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs](https://avongorge.org.uk/conservation/conservation-on-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/) - Conservation on the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs Find out how we are managing the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs for its special wildlife and geology. Conservation in the Avon Gorge Goats Conservation on the Downs Conservation in the Avon Gorge The Bristol side of the Avon
- [Get involved](https://avongorge.org.uk/about-us-volunteering/get-involved/) - Get involved There are numerous volunteering opportunities on the Downs and in Leigh Woods. From practical conservation work such as coppicing and dead hedging to helping with bird surveys or getting involved with our engagement programme, our volunteers play a vital role in helping to protect and promote these fantastic sites. Volunteer on the Downs
- [Partner profiles](https://avongorge.org.uk/about-us-volunteering/partner-profiles/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Highclere Holly Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-highclere-holly-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Turkey Oak Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-turkey-oak-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Norway Maple Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-norway-maple-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Wych Elm Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-wych-elm-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Copper Beech Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-copper-beech-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover Three Generations of Oak Trees](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-three-generations-of-oak-trees/) - Welcome to the Three Generations of Oak Trees Family Activity Stand at the 1st of the 3 oak trees in a row along the Promenade. From the littlest oak look beyond at the medium sized one & then the biggest one right at the end. The biggest one is more than 100 years older than
- [Discover the Trio of Sycamore Trees](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-sycamore-tree-trio/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Promenade of Beech Trees](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-beech-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Hazel and Elder Trees](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-hazel-and-elder-trees/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Wild Cherry Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-wild-cherry-tree/) - Discover the Wild Cherry Tree Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife
- [Discover the Sycamore Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/sycamore-tree/) - Discover the Sycamore Tree Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife
- [Discover the Horse Chestnut Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-horse-chestnut-tree/) - Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Discover the Horse Chestnut Tree
- [Discover the English Oak Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-english-oak-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Common Lime tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/common-lime-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Discover the Ash Tree](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/treeburt-family-tree-trail/discover-the-ash-tree/) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol. #
- [Community groups](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/community-groups/) - Community groups On the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and on the Downs, our education team education team are working to create opportunities to enable people of all ages and backgrounds to discover, learn more about and enjoy the wildlife and landscape of the site. We have worked with a wide range of groups, offering
- [Geology](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/geology/) - Geology According to local folklore the Avon Gorge was constructed by a giant called Vincent but it is actually testimony to the erosive power of water cutting its way down through the huge thicknesses of limestone rock over many thousands of years. The geology and geomorphology of the Avon Gorge, Downs and Leigh Woods, tell
- [Rare plant fact files](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/) - Rare plant fact files The Avon Gorge is considered to be one of the top three sites for rare plants in England. Over 30 nationally rare and scarce plants grow here. Click on the buttons below to read a fact file about each plant. Autumn squill Avon whitebeam Bristol onion or round-headed leek Bristol rock-cress
- [Activity of the month-April](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-april/) - Download the butterfly wand activity Download the peacock butterfly template Download the comma butterfly template Download the small tortoiseshell butterfly template You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a butterfly wand April is
- [Downs Diary January](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-january/) - Downs Diary January Sweet violets are the first to bloom into January’s leafless landscape and frosty air. Their scent can carry on a damp wind over fifteen metres. It’s only a brief encounter however as the plants also produce a chemical called ionine, which temporarily dulls the sense of smell. Come and go by clumps
- [Downs Diary](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/) - Downs Diary Downs Diary January Downs Diary February Downs Diary March Downs Diary April Downs Diary May Downs Diary June Downs Diary July Downs Diary August Downs Diary September Downs Diary October Downs Diary November Downs Diary December Photographs: Meadow on the Downs (© Denice Stout), Silky wave moth (© Mark Parsons – Butterfly Conservation), Avon
- [Activity of the month-March](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-march/) - Download the bird ID dial and sound map activity sheet Download the Downs birds ID dial dics You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a bird ID dial and sound map March is
- [Activity of the month-October](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-october/) - Download the autumn leaf kaleidoscope activity sheet You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make an autumn leaf kaleidoscope October is a beautiful month with the rich colours of autumn creating stunning views along
- [Activity of the month](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/) - Activity of the month Explore the Avon Gorge and Downs though the seasons with our activity of the month! Here we share top tips and fun activities to help you learn more about some of the wildlife you might expect to see this month. Back to Kids Zone January Make a winter tree sun catcher
- [Activity of the month-May](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-may/) - Download the step-by-step guide Download the goat templates here Download the Gully templates here You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a Gully goat diorama May is here and spring in full swing!
- [Activity of the month-February](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-february/) - Download the recycled bird feeder activity sheet You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a recycled bottle bird feeder In February, as the days get slightly longer, there are signs of winter coming
- [Activity of the month-January](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-january/) - Download the winter tree sun catcher activity You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a winter tree sun catcher Winter is a lovely time to get out into nature. Icy mornings turn the
- [Activity of the month-December](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-december/) - Download the pop-up robin activity You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a pop-up robin card Winter is well and truly here, in fact the 21st – 22nd of December marks the winter
- [Activity of the month-November](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-november/) - Download the tracking activity sheet You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Go tracking As we move deeper into autumn, the nights become longer and you may start to notice a chill in the
- [Downs Diary December](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-december/) - Downs Diary December The robin is the UK’s favourite bird – officially adopted as Britain’s National Bird in 1960. The robin first appeared on Christmas cards in the middle of the 19th century. Until 1861 postmen wore bright red coats, earning the nick-name of ‘robin redbreasts’. In the winter, male and female birds set up
- [Downs Diary November](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-november/) - Downs Diary November Nature is gearing up for winter as the leaves turn a wonderful range of Autumnal colours. Various plants and trees produce berries or fruit to provide many animals and insects with a very important source of food not only to fatten them up for winter, but also to keep them going for
- [Downs Diary October](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-october/) - Downs Diary October Changes in daylight and temperature cause the green chemical called chlorophyll to be broken down and reabsorbed from the leaves back into the tree. Previously masked yellow and orange pigments then become visible giving trees their spectacular autumn splendour. Other chemical changes may occur giving other reddish hues. Look out for the
- [Downs Diary September](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-september/) - Downs Diary September With the long summer drawing to a close autumn now begins, bringing rich, vibrant splashes of yellows, browns and reds. In September, birds start seeking safety in numbers, bringing a profound change from territory holding to sociability. As the season changes and the nights grow longer, fast-food berries become a vital source
- [Downs Diary August](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-august/) - Downs Diary August This is an exciting month of abundance, with juicy berries ripening all over the Downs. The birds go a bit quiet at this time of year as many of them moult their feathers, however robins can be heard singing their autumnal song, hidden in dense bushes. Swifts start their long migration back
- [Downs Diary July](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-july/) - Downs Diary July In July, the Bristol onion is at its peak and is a must see. You can find them on the stony outcrops of the Gully or in the Brunel garden near the suspension bridge. The Avon Gorge is the only site where this rare plant grows in the UK. The meadows are
- [Downs Diary June](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-june/) - Downs Diary June One of the highlights this month will be the glorious meadows with its wide variety of meadow flowers, butterflies and other invertebrates. The flower colour scheme consists of white like the dazzling oxeye daisy, vanilla scented dropwort or delicate fairy flax. Yellow flowers include dandelion-like goat’s-beard, buttercup, yellow rattle, cats-ear and the
- [Downs Diary May](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-may/) - Downs Diary May May is a glorious month where the trees are full of blossom and fresh leaves, the meadow is getting ready to burst with flowers and birds everywhere have nests with hungry young. The swifts have returned all the way from Africa, letting us know that summer is not far off and everything
- [Downs Diary April](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-april/) - Downs Diary April April is the month of an abundance of flowers. Yellow seems to be the favoured colour as we see celandines, primroses, cowslips, common rock-rose and dandelions make an appearance. Other flowers to be found are bluebells, spring cinquefoil and even wood anemones. The flowers of the delicate Bristol rock-cress appear in the
- [Downs Diary March](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-march/) - Downs Diary March March is the month of Spring! Many trees will be budding, the blackthorn is a froth of white blossom and flowers can be found across the Downs such as sweet violets, lesser celandine, crocus, primrose and dog violets. A lot of new growth can be seen almost everywhere you look! Bees and
- [Downs Diary February](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-bristol-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-the-downs/downs-diary/downs-diary-february/) - Downs Diary February Increasing day length brings many birds into breeding condition, and the males start to proclaim their territorial rights. The full song of the blackbird, heard late February is a sure sign that pairs are being formed. In fact there is an old country belief that birds choose their mates on St Valentines
- [Activity of the month-September](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-september/) - Download the spider activity sheet You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make an orb web spider As autumn draws in, the Downs transform into a tapestry of reds, golds and browns. The berries
- [Activity of the month-July](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-july/) - Download the butterfly images You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a butterfly swatch In July the Downs are especially beautiful as the meadows transform into a sea of shimmering grasses and colourful
- [Activity of the month-August](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-august/) - Download the bat activity sheet You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a bat finger puppet Summer is drawing to a close and the Downs are full of tasty treats for wildlife with
- [Activity of the month-June](https://avongorge.org.uk/learn-and-discover/children-and-families/kids-zone/activity-of-the-month/activity-of-the-month-june/) - Download the step-by-step guide Download the peregrine falcon shapes here You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the files. Acrobat Reader for desktop Acrobat Reader on Google Play Acrobat Reader on App Store Activity of the month Make a peregrine glider June is a wonderful time for wildlife. Many of the young birds have
- [Wildlife of the Avon Gorge, the Downs and Leigh Woods](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/) - Wildlife of the Avon Gorge, the Downs and Leigh Woods Click on or tap the icons on the map below to discover the wonderful wildlife that can be found here. Or why not listen to an interview with one of our resident animals in Voices of the Wild?! The wildlife of the Bristol side of
- [Privacy Policy](https://avongorge.org.uk/privacy-policy/) - Privacy policy Last updated: May 2019 Who are we? The Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project is working to secure the outstanding wildlife interest of the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and Clifton and Durdham Downs and to raise awareness and understanding of this unique location and its importance for people and wildlife. The Project
- [Conservation in Leigh Woods](https://avongorge.org.uk/conservation/conservation-in-leigh-woods/) - Conservation in Leigh Woods Leigh Woods is an ancient broad-leaved woodland with ancient coppice and veteran pollards that has been designated as a SSSI ( Site of Special Scientific Interest). It was awarded this designation for its native trees and special and rare flowering plants. Leigh Woods today is owned and cared for by two
- [The wildlife of the North Somerset side of the Avon Gorge and Leigh Woods](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/wildlife-of-the-avon-gorge-the-downs-and-leigh-woods/the-wildlife-of-the-north-somerset-side-of-the-avon-gorge-and-leigh-woods/) - The wildlife of the North Somerset side of the Avon Gorge and Leigh Woods Leigh Woods is situated on the edge of the Avon Gorge and is known to many as the stunning backdrop to the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Leigh Woods has an amazing history and has played an important role in the lives of
- [Wilmott's whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/wilmotts-whitebeam/) - Wilmott’s whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus wilmottiana Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Endangered Flowering time: White flowers May – June. Red berries from August – October. Description: Small upright tree growing up to 10 metres tall, with narrow, elongated diamond-shaped leaves with shaggy edges and grey undersides. Found on rock and quarry faces in open, rocky
- [White's whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/whites-whitebeam/) - White’s whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus whiteana Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Endangered Flowering time: White flowers June. Red berries from September – October. Description: This tree grows to at least 10 metres tall with greyish-brown bark and characteristic kite-shaped leaves. Leaves vary in size between locations – in rocky locations leaves are smaller than in
- [Western spiked speedwell](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/western-spiked-speedwell/) - Western spiked speedwell Scientific name: Veronica spicata (ssp hybrida) Status: Nationally scarce. Also protected plant (under Schedule 8 of Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981). Flowering time: June – October Description: Tall spikes of beautiful purplish-blue flowers (occasionally white or pink flowers). Can grow up to 100cm tall in sunny places of lime-rich soil. Social history:
- [Round-leaved whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/round-leaved-whitebeam/) - Round-leaved whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus eminens Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Endangered Flowering time: White flowers May – June. Red berries from August – October. Description: Tree growing 5-20 metres tall with broad round leaves similar in shape to a ping-pong bat. Occurs in diverse locations: steep slopes in carboniferous limestone woodlands, open cliffs and
- [Proctor's rowan](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/proctors-rowan/) - Proctor’s rowan Scientific name: Sorbus x proctoriana Status: IUCN – Critically Endangered. Flowering time: May. Fruiting: August – September. Description: Small tree growing up to at least 8 metres tall with leaves divided like rowan tree leaves, with 9 or 10 pairs of leaflets. White flowers in densely-crowded clusters and small red/orange berries. Only 1
- [Sitemap](https://avongorge.org.uk/sitemap/) - Sitemap Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project PagesAbout us & volunteering Contact us Get involved Partner profiles Who we are and what we do Conservation Conservation in Leigh Woods Conservation on the Bristol side of the Avon Gorge and the Downs History Research and monitoring Home Learn and discover Children and families Kids Zone Activity
- [Hutchinsia](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/hutchinsia/) - Hutchinsia Scientific name: Hornungia petraea Status: Nationally scarce Flowering time: March – May Description: Very small plant with pinnate rosette leaves and tiny greyish flowers. Smallest of all the Avon Gorge rarities. Winter annual that flowers early, sets seed and disappears by June. Social history: Named after Helen Hutchins, an Irish botanist from the late
- [Houston's whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/houstons-whitebeam/) - Houston’s whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus x houstoniae Status: IUCN – Critically Endangered Flowering time: Creamy white flowers May. Orangey-red berries from late September – October. Description: Small tree growing up to 4 metres tall with similar, but wider leaves than the Bristol whitebeam and orangey-red fruits. Hybrid – only one tree known to exist! Social
- [Honewort](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/honewort/) - Honewort Scientific name: Trinia glauca Status: Nationally rare Flowering time: Small white flowers May – June Description: Grows up to 34 cm with small white umbrella-like flowers. Separate male and female plants, pollinated by ants. Plants die after flowering, but may take up to 16 years to flower. Social history: This plant was first found
- [Grey-leaved whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/grey-leaved-whitebeam/) - Grey-leaved whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus porrigentiformis Status: Nationally scarce. Flowering time: Creamy white flowers May – June. Red berries from September – October. Description: Smallish tree growing 5-10 metres tall with almost fan-shaped rich green leaves and small crimson fruits that are noticeably wider than long. Typically rooted into cliff crevices in carboniferous limestone. Social
- [English whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/english-whitebeam/) - English whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus anglica Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Near Threatened. British and Irish endemic. Flowering time: Creamy-white flowers in May and early June. Red berries from September – October. Description: Small tree growing 10 -15 metres high with broad dark-green rounded lobed leaves with feathery veins underneath. Small crimson fruits. Found in
- [Dwarf sedge](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/dwarf-sedge/) - Dwarf sedge Scientific name: Carex humilis Status: Nationally scarce Flowering time: March – April. Fruit produced April – July. Description: Very small tuft of narrow, emerald-green leaves with spikes of yellow flowers. Long living perennial. Social history: This plant is a good indicator species of ancient limestone grassland. Taxonomy: Cyperaceae (flowering plants known as sedges.
- [Compact brome](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/compact-brome/) - Compact brome Scientific name: Anisantha madritensis Status: Nationally rare (if native) Flowering time: May – July Description: This winter annual grass has a green or purple flowering head. It has v-shaped spikelets with classic brome-family whiskery awns that give it a characteristically shaggy look. Height varies between 10cm and 60cm. Social history: First discovered by
- [Bristol whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/bristol-whitebeam/) - Bristol whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus bristoliensis Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Vulnerable. Flowering time: Creamy white flowers in May and early June. Orangey-red berries from September – October. Description: This tree grows to 15-22 metres tall. Its leaves are characteristically kite-shaped at the base, with lobes shaped like steps/stairs going to a point at the
- [Bristol rock-cress](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/bristol-rock-cress/) - Bristol rock-cress Scientific name: Arabis scabra Status: Nationally rare, IUCN – Vulnerable. Also protected plant (under Schedule 8 of Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981). Flowering time: March – May Description: For most of the year this plant consists of a rosette of dark green leaves up to only 5 cm in diameter. The ‘scabra’ part
- [Bristol onion](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/bristol-onion/) - Bristol onion or round-headed leek Scientific name: Allium sphaerocephalon Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Vulnerable. Also a protected plant (under Schedule 8 of Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981). Flowering time: June – August Description: Distinctive ball of magenta flowers produced on a tall stem. Gardeners know these plants as ‘drumsticks’ because of their flower shape.
- [Avon whitebeam](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/avon-whitebeam/) - Avon whitebeam Scientific name: Sorbus avonensis Status: Nationally rare. IUCN – Critically Endangered Flowering time: White flowers with pink anthers in May and early June. Red berries from September – October. Description: Small tree up to 15 metres tall with broad oval shaped leaves and red berries. Social history: First discovered by Bristol botanist, Libby
- [Autumn squill](https://avongorge.org.uk/wildlife-and-geology/rare-plant-fact-files/autumn-squill/) - Autumn squill Scientific name: Scilla autumnalis Status: Nationally scarce Flowering time: July- September Description: Dense spikes of pale mauve flowers. Bulbous perennial. Social history: In 1831, Mrs Glennie (the wife of Brunel’s assistant) warned him that the building work for the Clifton Suspension Bridge would destroy a colony of this rare plant, so Brunel had
- [Leigh Woods](https://avongorge.org.uk/visiting-us/leigh-woods/) - Leigh Woods Leigh Woods is situated on the edge of the Avon Gorge and is known to many as the stunning backdrop to the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Leigh Woods has an amazing history and has played an important role in the lives of the people in the Bristol area for hundreds of years. How to
- [History](https://avongorge.org.uk/conservation/history/) - History Many people think that the landscape of the Avon Gorge, Downs and Leigh Woods is completely natural but humans have had a direct impact on this changing landscape. To find out more about historical land-use and how this has affected the wildlife and geological of this area click on the buttons below. History of

## Events

- [Drawn to the Light - moth discovery session](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=drawn-to-the-light-moth-discovery-session) - Join us in the beautiful Botanic Gardens,to discover which hidden gems have arrived in our special moth light trap overnight with the expert help of Bristol Museum’s entomology lead, Ray Barnett. Then we’ll all set off together to explore Clifton Down’s day-flying moths in the tussocky grasses and scrub patches.
- [Life in the long grass - bugs, beetles & butterflies discovery session](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=life-in-the-long-grass-bugs-beetles-butterflies-discovery-session) - Can you imagine a warm summer’s day with the bees buzzing around you as you slow down and take a closer look at the small creatures living beneath your feet. Then get involved and join other like-minded people in the Downs community for an immersive invertebrate hunt with expert Ray Barnett in the spectacular long grass!
- [Magic meadow adventures - children's half-term nature club](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=magic-meadow-adventures-childrens-half-term-nature-club) - Get involved in our immersive and friendly half term nature club as together we explore the spectacular wildflower meadows on Durdham Down with an exciting wildflower treasure hunt!
- [Spring into Easter - children's holiday nature club](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=spring-into-easter-childrens-holiday-nature-club-2) - A fun children's Easter holiday nature club on Durdham Down and at the Botanic Garden with a focus on spring birds and making bird feeders.
- [Tapestry of trees - Granny Downs discovery session](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=tapestry-of-trees-on-granny-downs-discovery-walk) - #What on earth are the ‘Granny Downs’? Explore this special tree trail with Robin Haward from FoDAG and the AGDW Biodiversity engagement manager as part of Bristol Walk Fest.
- [Topgun of the sky - outdoor wildlife talk](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=topgun-of-the-sky-wildlife-talk-23-june) - A fascinating insight into the world of the peregrine falcon pair which nest in the Avon Gorge every year with expert Ed Drewitt.
- [Deep Dive into the Downs - discovery session for City Nature Challenge](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=deep-dive-into-the-downs-discovery-session-for-city-nature-challenge) - Come & delve into the Downs & Avon Gorge in all their spring glory. A friendly event full of nature & local heritage with Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife to celebrate City Nature Challenge 2026.
- [Tweet talk! - in-depth workshop on birdsong](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=birdsong-identification-in-depth-workshop) - A fascinating birdsong ID workshop with naturalist Ed Drewitt, with fieldwork out on the Downs followed by some theory inside.
- [Dawn chorus spectacular - Discovery session with hot breakfast - SOLD OUT](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=dawn-chorus-spectacular-discovery-walk-with-breakfast-2) - Our annual amazing Dawn Chorus spectacular session with hot breakfast at the Downs Cafe, led by well-known and inspirational naturalist Mike Dilger.
- [Amble with the Avon Gorge goat keeper - discovery session](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=amble-with-the-avon-gorge-goat-keeper-discovery-session) - Join the goat-keeper of the Avon Gorge goats in the Gully, and hear how this lovable herd of ‘hairy conservationists’ work hard to enable our spectacular local rare flowering plants to thrive
- [Promenades & panoramas - engaging heritage discovery.](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=promenades-panoramas-heritage-discovery) - Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Promenades & panoramas – engaging heritage discovery.
- [Dawn chorus spectacular - discovery session with breakfast](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=dawn-chorus-spectacular-discovery-discovery-with-breakfast) - An amazing Dawn Chorus spectacular session with hot breakfast at the Downs Cafe, led by well-known naturalist Mike Dilger.
- [Buds, Bark and Beauty - discovery session](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=winter-tree-id-on-the-promenade-session) - The Avon Gorge, Clifton Down and Durdham Down are just two miles from Bristol City Centre and yet they're home to a wealth of wildlife. With nesting peregrine falcons, rare plants, awe-inspiring geology and stunning views this is one of the most exciting places to see wildlife in Bristol.
- [Autumn Antics - children's holiday nature club](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=autumn-antics-childrens-holiday-nature-club) - A fun children's autumn holiday nature club on Clifton Down and former Bristol Zoo Gardens site.
- [Owl Prowl - Family discovery - postponed until 24th October](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=owl-prowl-family-discovery-fun) - It’s the time of year to get involved in our amazing annual Owl Prowl with Ed Drewitt, well-known naturalist and author! Expect some extraordinary surprises as we dissect an owl pellet to find out what our barn owls have been eating for dinner and discover all about our beautiful British owls. Then we’ll be off
- [CANCELLED DUE TO POOR WEATHER FORECAST - Your living Downs - Ladies Mile family day - next event spring 2026](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=your-living-downs-family-day-ladies-mile-closure-day) - Come and join in the fun with other families in your community on the Downs. A family day when Ladies Mile is excitingly closed to cars for the whole day! There will be family cycling activities, bike registration, food & drink available, traditional games, family nature activities & discovery with Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife, goat Gully walks and a street art competition! Be part of your Downs future.
- [Birds of a feather - winter bird workshop](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=birds-of-a-feather-in-depth-workshop-on-birdsong) - A fascinating winter bird workshop focussing on bird id, behaviour in flocks and winter migrants with expert naturalist and author Ed Drewitt.
- [A world of bats - discovery talk & exploration](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=a-world-of-bats) - Fascinating talk by UK and world bat expert Dr Luke Romaine followed by an exploration of our bats on Clifton Down as dusk falls. Using bat detecting equipment and thermal imaging to 'see' which bats we can discover!
- [Ramble with a Woodland Ranger - discovery session](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=ramble-with-a-woodland-ranger-discovery-walk) - In this Discovery session with the Ranger of Leigh Woods we'll practise our plant and tree identification skills, bask in the green canopy and find out how to maintain the balance by managing the woodlands for wildlife, people and resource.
- [Scramble among botanical jewels - Discovery walk - SOLD OUT](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=scrambling-among-botanical-jewels-discovery-walk) - Join us as we discover the rare spring flowering botanical species of the Gully in the Avon Gorge - a scramble through this fascinating landscape.
- [Little kids on the Downs! Nature club for pre-schoolers](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event=little-kids-on-the-downs-spring-nature-club-for-pre-schoolers) - Wednesdays 12th, 19th, 26th March, 2nd April (4 sessions) Our weekly pre-school child + adult nature club is a joyful mix of discovering the natural world through seasonal activities and getting closer to nature, in the woodland and meadow of the Downs. Share the experience with like-minded families who value experiencing our uplifting nature with

## Event Categories

- [Family fun](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event-category=family-events)
- [In-depth workshops](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event-category=courses)
- [Children's events](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event-category=childrens-events)
- [Discovery walks](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event-category=walks)
- [Wildlife talks](https://avongorge.org.uk/?event-category=talks)