Birdcage Walk by Helen Dunmore, Clifton
Friday 14th - Sunday 16th August 2026
A summer weekend in Clifton inspired by Birdcage Walk by Helen Dunmore. Set against Georgian terraces, wooded paths and sweeping views across the Avon Gorge, this is a relaxed and sociable literary break with time to read, walk and talk.
Overview
Join Books in Places for a two-night stay in one of Bristol’s most elegant neighbourhoods. We will explore Clifton on foot, visiting the streets and viewpoints that shape the mood of Dunmore’s novel, and gather for hosted discussions, shared meals and unhurried reading time.
We are staying at the centrally located Clifton Hotel, chosen for its comfort, character and excellent value, allowing us to offer a more accessible weekend without compromising on atmosphere or experience.
The setting
Clifton in the book is defined by contrasts: grand terraces overlooking deep wooded valleys, polite drawing rooms set against political unrest, and beauty threaded with unease. These tensions sit at the heart of Birdcage Walk.
Our walks will take us along Birdcage Walk itself, across Clifton Terrace and to the Clifton Suspension Bridge. We will also visit Brandon Hill and Cabot Tower for views back across the city and towards Clifton’s elegant skyline.
About the book
Birdcage Walk is set in 1792 Bristol, exploring personal and political upheaval in the shadow of the French Revolution and reflecting one woman’s struggle within love, expectation and social change.
Reading the novel and visiting Clifton sharpens its sense of place: the terraces above the gorge, the elegant streets, and the sense of history of this part of Bristol.
Written in Dunmore’s late career, this novel combines historical detail with intimate personal drama.
During the weekend
- Guided walks through Clifton, including Birdcage Walk and Clifton Terrace
- Views from the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Avon Gorge
- Time on Brandon Hill and at Cabot Tower
- Hosted book discussions and informal group conversations
- Free time to explore Clifton Village
What’s included
Included in the cost of the trip:-
- 2 nights' accommodation at the Clifton Hotel in your own room
- Breakfast included both days
- Evening meal with a couple of glasses of wine in a local restaurant on Saturday
- A book club discussion while we enjoy our evening meal.
Any other meals and drinks are not included.
Where we’re staying
The Clifton Hotel is a welcoming and well-located base close to Clifton Village and within easy walking distance of our key sites. Limited, paid, non-reservable parking is available at The Clifton Hotel Bristol on a first-come, first-served basis, costing approximately £10 per night.
Reserve your place
Places are limited to keep the weekend relaxed and sociable.
This weekend includes a couple of hours of walking, so it may not be suitable if mobility is restricted.
The price of the weekend is £395.
