The level scheme of /sup 220/Ra, constructed from /sup 208/Pb(/sup 14/C,2n..gamma..)/sup 220/Ra data, shows structure similar to that of /sup 218/Ra, with interleaved states of alternating parities connected by enhanced B(E1) deexcitations. The B(E1)/B(E2) ratios (for moderately high spins) are two to three times smaller than in /sup 218/Ra; we observe a smooth and rapid increase of the B(E1) values toward shell closures. The systematics of the Ra isotopes are used to examine the alpha cluster model of Iachello-Jackson and the permanent octupole shape model.