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Open Country

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Countryside magazine featuring the people and wildlife that shape the landscape of Britain

Countryside magazine featuring the people and wildlife that shape the landscape of the British Isles

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Open Country: Underground Bristol

Underground Bristol

26/01/2017

BBC Radio 4 - Open Country, Underground Bristol

Bristol's hidden gems are explored by Helen Mark.

Helen Mark explores some of Bristol's hidden histories tucked out of view and asks if the secrecy feeds into the myths that are generated about them.

Think of Bristol and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge and St Mary Redcliffe church may be on your list to visit. But what lies beneath? Tunnels, caves and waterways lie hidden, explored by some and missed by many. For those who know tickets on rare open days are snapped up like hot cakes. Helen Mark invites you to explore some of these gems that lie out of sight to explore the myth and history behind them. 

She starts at the Redcliffe Caves whose 'rabbit warren' under the streets above reveals more about the city's ancient trades but has a modern life as a film set and theatre location. Yet the magical Goldney Grotto - lined with shells from faraway lands - could conjure images of fairytales but has its closest connection to Robinson Crusoe. While Clifton Rocks Railway - which had to remain hidden within the gorge cliffs - failed as a business, it had two new lives helping to save the lives of others. 

No wonder there's so much curiosity about these hidden places! 

Presented by Helen Mark
Produced by Anne-Marie Bullock.

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