This month, we are delighted that Ed Hall is leading another of his fascinating walks. Ed volunteers for the M Shed and runs regular tours around the harbour, displaying his amazing knowledge of the buildings, boats, and their history, picked up over the course of a long career skippering tourist and ferry boats in Bristol. Our walk this time is around the Cumberland Basin explaining how Bristol turned the tidal docks into the 'Floating Harbour.’
Starting at the Cottage we will walk to the Underfall Yard car park to understand its important sluices and their function. Then through to Underfall Yard itself which is a historic protected site. Part of the workshops were sadly devastated by a fire in May last year. Ed will explain the workings of the hydraulic power station and the patent slip for boat repairs.
Next on to the Cumberland Basin walking along the south side looking at the various locks, and bridges; including BOB -Brunel's original bridge and the first ever known use of tubular iron work for construction strength. Then on to see the bonded tobacco warehouses and their new uses, ending up with one of the most spectacular views of the Suspension Bridge. We will then amble back to the Cottage via the New Cut, the Chocolate Path, and the dockside railway line.
Start: 6.45pm for 7pm start at the Cottage, Baltic Wharf, Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6XG
Expected duration 1 ½ hours. (NB It will be starting to get dark by the end of our walk).
Late arrivals – catch up with us at Underfall Yard, Cumberland Rd, Bristol BS1 6XG
NB If the Underfall Yard through route is shut we will walk round by road (Avon Crescent) to the Nova Scotia and Cumberland Basin.
Contact on the day: Avril mobile 0780 395 4120
Our members have been sent notification of the Avon Federation Annual meeting, taking place on Wednesday 25th September. If anyone would like to attend, please contact us at wearemalagowi@gmail.com
Fingers crossed the weather is kind on Wednesday 28th August for a beautiful evening walk.
