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Immerse yourself in ideas; there’s a lot more to the Dockyards than the SS Great Britain.
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A cultural destination at the dock that launched a thousand journeys
Propelled by ideas since 1843
Explore the legendary SS Great Britain, the man who imagined it, and the legacy it left in its wake. Sitting proudly on a glass ‘sea’, SS Great Britain is the crowning moment on Bristol’s harbourside.
How many museums can claim they’ve travelled the world?
Whether it’s the 32 round trips between the UK and Australia, the cargo shipments from California to Chile, or the hero’s welcome she received on her trip back to Bristol, the SS Great Britain has racked up quite the sea-miles – and carried over 33,000 people on her way.
Where Brunel’s biggest ideas took hold.
The SS Great Britain might take centre stage, but the famed Victorian dockyard surrounding it certainly doesn’t hide in the shadows. Historic cranes ferrying cargo, masts ready for their next adventure and incredible views paint an incredible idea of what life was like 200 years ago.
Albion Dockyard
The Albion Dockyard is a working Grade II-listed facility that’s been building and maintaining ships for decades. If you’re lucky, you might even catch one being worked on.
GO INSIDE THE MIND THAT CHANGED HISTORY
Isambard Kingdom Brunel is not simply one of the greatest engineers of the 1800s. He’s the genius behind some of the world’s most radical engineering feats.
Dock Office
Head back to 1850 and experience the sights, sounds and smells of The Great Western Steamship Company’s Grade-II listed headquarters. You might even help Brunel sign off a decision or two with the board.
One of the world's finest maritime collections
When you have such a rich history, a rich collection usually isn’t far behind. The Brunel Institute – a collaborative venture between the SS Great Britain Trust and the University of Bristol – is no exception, housing over 75,000 original drawings, letters and items in one the world’s finest maritime archives.
Open to all
Today, the Institute is open to all. A hub for curiosity, research and bold thinking, it provides the opportunity to explore historic innovations, discover the human stories behind them, and step into a space where past ideas spark present-day debates.
You don’t have to look very far for inspiration
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Hungry for more?
The Board Walk serves hot and cold food, and great coffee, alongside a brilliant view of the harbour. We also encourage you to bring your own picnic, with plenty of inspiring places to perch throughout the Dockyards.