Docks Heritage Weekend
A celebration of Bristol’s maritime past with events for all ages at M Shed, Underfall Yard and ss Great Britain.
There will be events and activities at all three sites, including opportunities to visit M Shed’s famous cranes and hear about their working life.
Watch re-enactments of cargo handling on the quayside and take a boat trip on the docks tug John King, where you can learn about her important work.
All events are free with no booking required unless otherwise stated below.
Events at M Shed
- Print your very own map of Bristol docks
- See cargo handling demonstrations
- Visit the Fairbairn steam crane
- Visit an electric crane (charges apply)
- Take a trip on the tug John King (charges apply)
- Go back in time and watch historic films about the port
Events at Underfall Yard
- Try your hand at nautical knots and rope work
- See demonstrations of traditional skills
- Go behind the scenes in the magnificent Victorian Workshops
- Watch the pumps that powered a port running throughout the weekend
Events on-board Bristol Ferry
- Historical soundscapes on-board all weekend
- Sail back in time with an evening soundscape tour and shadow puppetry show
(charges apply) Book in advance.
Events at SS Great Britain
- Guided tours of the Great Western Dry Dock on Saturday at 11am and Sunday at 2pm.
Book in advance.
In partnership with Underfall Yard, ss Great Britain and Bristol Ferry. With thanks to event sponsors The Bristol Port Company.
