Nestled in Totterdown, Bristol, Vale Street holds the distinction of being England’s steepest street, declared as such in 2019. With an average gradient of 22 degrees and a rise of 17 meters over its short 0.2 km length, it’s a street that demands respect from residents, visitors, and drivers alike.
The incline is so severe that steps flank both sides to help pedestrians navigate the climb safely. For locals, the steepness shapes daily life in very tangible ways—from dashing out in their nightwear to grab a takeaway to mastering the art of sideways parking to manage the slope.
Winter presents the toughest conditions, turning the street slippery and hazardous. Long-term resident and artist Appleby-Tyler describes needing crampons—special studs attached to shoes—to safely leave the house during icy spells. Deliveries and larger errands aren’t easy either; when he received a new washing machine, it had to be collected from the bottom of the street and carried uphill.
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Despite these challenges, residents embrace the street’s quirks and even celebrate its steepness with unique community events. One local tradition is the annual Easter egg-rolling contest, where boiled eggs race down the incline, delighting participants and spectators alike.
For drivers, Vale Street offers a surprising advantage—ample free parking spaces, since few are willing to tackle the demanding climb. Real estate agents highlight Totterdown’s vibrant local businesses, colorful Victorian terraces, and strong sense of community that make living here rewarding despite the hills.
For those inspired to experience this iconic street firsthand, Vale Street is conveniently located about 119 miles from London, roughly a three-hour journey by car or under two and a half hours by train and bus. While not as famous as San Francisco’s steep streets, Vale Street offers a uniquely British steep street adventure.