Discover the legend of Bristol’s giant brothers, Goram and Vincent, whose epic rivalry is said to have created the famous Avon Gorge
Every corner of Britain holds its own share of myths and legends.
Tales of giants shaping the land are common, but few stories are as deeply tied to their landscape as that of Goram and Vincent.
These two giant brothers are said to have created Bristol’s stunning Avon Gorge.
Though they’ve long since disappeared, their legacy endures in every cliff and crevice of the historic city.
The Giant Brothers: A Tale of Rivalry
In the heart of Bristol folklore, Goram and Vincent are towering figures – both literally and metaphorically. These giant brothers were said to possess immense strength.
Goram, often depicted as lazy, lived on the northern side of the Avon Gorge, while Vincent resided to the south, near Clifton.
Their rivalry wasn’t just a contest of strength, but also of love. Both giants were in love with Avona, a giantess from Wiltshire who personified the River Avon.
To win her hand in marriage, the brothers were tasked with draining a massive lake that once stretched between Bristol and Bradford-on-Avon.
Vincent chose the southern route and carefully carved the Avon Gorge.
Goram, less thoughtful, took the northern path through Henbury. However, Goram’s impatience got the better of him. After a few hours of hard work, he took a break, drank ale, and soon fell asleep.
While Goram slept, Vincent finished his task, draining the lake and winning Avona’s love.
When Goram awoke, he saw his brother standing victoriously with Avona.
In a fit of rage, Goram stamped his foot into the ground, leaving a massive footprint in Henbury. Overcome with despair, he threw himself into the Severn Estuary, forming the islands of Steep Holm and Flat Holm.
Traces of Goram and Vincent Today
Today, the legends of Goram and Vincent live on in Bristol’s landscape.
Visitors to the Blaise Castle Estate can see Goram’s “footprint” and his “bathing pool”, both natural formations tied to the myth.
Vincent’s triumph is immortalised in the Avon Gorge.
At its narrowest point, you’ll find Vincent’s Cave, once called “Ghyston’s Cave”.
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, which spans the gorge today, offers breathtaking views of this legendary landscape, shaped by the hands of giants.
The story of Goram and Vincent may have originally been a way to explain the region’s natural features.
But beyond its function as a creation myth, it’s a tale of rivalry, love, and loss—emotions that resonate with everyone.
Despite their giant size, Goram and Vincent embody very human emotions, from Goram’s jealousy to Vincent’s perseverance.
Even today, their legacy remains woven into the identity of Bristol.
Local landmarks and ongoing fascination with the giants’ saga continue to captivate both residents and visitors.
Explore the Giants’ Legacy in Bristol
If you want to walk in the footsteps of Goram and Vincent, visit the following places:
- Blaise Castle Estate, Henbury: See Goram’s “footprint” and “chair” (Blaise Castle House Museum and Estate, Henbury Road, BS10 7QS).
- St Vincent’s Cave, Clifton: A cave located in the cliffs of Avon Gorge (Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bridge Road, BS8 3PA).
- Steep Holm and Flat Holm Islands: Visible from Weston-super-Mare, these islands are tied to Goram’s final act (Weston-super-Mare, BS23 1BE).
- Druid Stone, Stoke Bishop: A boulder said to have been thrown by Goram (private property in the Stoke Bishop area, near Druid Hill, BS9 1EJ).
- Clifton Suspension Bridge and Observatory Hill: Overlooks Vincent’s legacy and offers stunning views of the Avon Gorge (Clifton Observatory, Litfield Road, BS8 3LT).
Have you visited any of these legendary sites in Bristol? Tell us about your experience in the comments section!
