What’s on at the dockyards?

“I’ve taught Victorian history for years, but seeing it brought to life like this was something else. The storytelling, the ship itself and the sense of Brunel’s ambition really stayed with me. I left feeling both inspired and quite moved.”

“Honestly one of the best family days we’ve had in ages. The kids were completely hooked — climbing the rigging, exploring the cabins and chatting to the characters onboard. It’s one of those rare places where everyone finds something they love.”

"Today, my family and I visited the historic SS Great Britain, and it was truly an incredible experience. We spent nearly five hours exploring the ship, and time just flew by. After your visit, I highly recommend taking a walk along the beautiful riverside or enjoying a short, relaxing ride on one of the leisure boats. I wholeheartedly recommend visiting the SS Great Britain—you won’t regret it."

“We thought we’d just have a quick wander round the ship, but ended up staying for hours. The whole place was incredible and has this amazing mix of history, views and atmosphere. Way more fun than your typical museum.”.”

"A wonderful, interactive experience! Unlike so many similar attractions my family and I really enjoyed getting amongst the experience rather than it being fenced off. A great piece of history beautifully preserved.

A special thanks to Crystal, Dan, Olly and Sarah who made the visit extra special during the rigging climb experience."

"An iconic piece of Victorian engineering, and part of the legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel. Being able to see the first metal-hulled, seagoing ship up close is worth a visit, and helps with its preservation. Experiencing this historic, innovative, game-changing ship involves going under the waterline to see the hull and propeller as well as receiving a tour and talk, seeing the museum, and walking around the decks. Very enjoyable and informative!"

"Be sure to add on the Go Aloft experience for the best time out!"

"Lovely experience - in addition to the tour, there's a nice gift shop, a secondhand bookstore, a very nice restaurant and open seating with beautiful harbour views. It is also one of the stops on the local ferry route and the ferry to the opposite side of the harbour - both making it very accessible and part of larger experiences."

"Visited SS Great Britain with my 3-year-old and it was an absolute joy. Such a hands-on, engaging museum with incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff who clearly care about making the experience special for children and adults alike. So much to explore, touch and learn – we could have stayed all day. We’re incredibly lucky to have this in our city. Highly recommended."

"Absolutely fantastic, staff on hand at all times, helpful information, helpful from the start! Easy access to get around and explore the ship! Lifts available for those who need them so they can also explore the whole ship! Wheelchair accessible and fantastic staff with lots of knowledge."

"What have I been missing? We only had a three-hour window between other activities so it was a push to fit everything in... but needn't worry as the tickets last a year so we can come back! Very impressed with the museum complex and number of activities available... Clean, easy to access and thoroughly absorbing. The dry dock and walking 'under' the water is very clever."

"SS Great Britain is one of the best places to enjoy a leisurely Sunday lunch on the Harbourside in Bristol.

My wife enjoyed our roast beef luncheon, served by immaculate, white-gloved waiters, immensely."

"This sea going vessel has been beautifully & painstakingly restored & looks immaculate. There are so many things to see & enjoy while you are there. You can climb aloft or go below deck, visit the dockyard museum & see & do many other things besides. This place will keep the whole family occupied for many an hour."