M Shed: Bristol’s Living History Museum on the Harbourside

Explore Bristol’s vibrant history through interactive exhibits and stunning harbourside views at the free M Shed museum.

4.4

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

M Shed is a vibrant, free museum located on Princes Wharf in Bristol’s historic harbourside district. Housed in a 1950s dockside transit shed, it showcases over 3,000 artefacts and interactive exhibits that tell the story of Bristol’s people, places, and industrial heritage from prehistoric times to the present day. Visitors can explore galleries on Bristol’s maritime trade, social history, activism, and cultural evolution, complemented by panoramic views of the Floating Harbour and working historic vessels outside.

A brief summary to M Shed

Princes Wharf, Wapping Rd, Bristol, BS1 4RN, GB
+441173526600
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
Free
Indoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit the upper floors for panoramic views of the Floating Harbour and Bristol Cathedral.
Check the schedule for working crane and steam train demonstrations on select days.
Join a behind-the-scenes tour to see rare artefacts and learn more about the museum’s collection.
Enjoy refreshments at the on-site café overlooking the harbour for a relaxing break.
M Shed is free to enter; donations are appreciated to support its ongoing exhibitions and programs.

Getting There

Train

From Bristol Temple Meads station, take a 20-30 minute walk along the harbourside to Princes Wharf where M Shed is located. The route is mostly flat and accessible. No ticket required for the walk; train fares to Bristol Temple Meads vary by origin.
Bus

Several bus routes stop near Queen Square, a 5-10 minute walk from M Shed. Services run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2-£4 for a single journey. Buses are wheelchair accessible.
Car

Visitors driving to M Shed can use metered parking at nearby Wapping Wharf. Parking fees vary but expect approximately £2-£4 per hour. Note that the area can be busy during peak times and parking spaces are limited.
Walking

For those staying in central Bristol, M Shed is easily reached on foot within 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. The harbourside walk is scenic and mostly flat, suitable for all fitness levels.

M Shed location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about M Shed

A Dockside Museum Celebrating Bristol’s Rich Heritage

M Shed is uniquely situated on Princes Wharf beside Bristol’s Floating Harbour, occupying a former 1950s transit shed that preserves its industrial character. This location connects visitors directly to the city’s maritime past, with historic vessels such as the 1934 fireboat Pyronaut, the world’s oldest surviving steam tug Mayflower, and a replica of John Cabot’s 1497 ship The Matthew moored nearby. The museum’s design retains the raw, authentic feel of the dockside while offering modern, accessible exhibition spaces.

Stories of People, Places, and Protest

The museum’s three main galleries—Life, People, and Places—present over 3,000 objects and multimedia displays that explore Bristol’s social and cultural history. The Life gallery traces migration patterns and everyday life, highlighting the diverse communities that have shaped the city. The People gallery delves into Bristol’s tradition of political activism, from suffrage and trade unionism to LGBTQ+ rights and anti-capitalist movements. The Places gallery explores the city’s evolution, commerce, and transport, including a striking hot air balloon centerpiece symbolizing Bristol’s innovation.

Confronting Difficult Histories with Honesty

M Shed does not shy away from Bristol’s complex legacy, including its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Exhibits thoughtfully examine the impact of slavery on the city and its ongoing legacy, inviting visitors to reflect on historical and contemporary issues of inequality and consumer responsibility. This candid approach enriches the museum’s educational mission and fosters deeper understanding.

Interactive Exhibits and Behind-the-Scenes Access

The museum offers interactive and engaging displays suitable for all ages, including working machinery on the harbourside such as cranes, steam trains, and tugboats, some of which visitors can ride or operate on special days. Behind-the-scenes tours led by knowledgeable volunteers provide exclusive access to stored artefacts and deeper insights into the museum’s collections, enhancing the visitor experience.

Panoramic Views and On-Site Amenities

Upper floors of M Shed provide spectacular views across the Floating Harbour, Bristol Cathedral, and the vibrant waterfront. The on-site café overlooks the harbour, offering a relaxing spot to enjoy refreshments. Facilities include a gift shop, accessible restrooms, and spaces for events such as weddings, making M Shed a dynamic cultural hub.

Free Admission with a Welcoming Spirit

Entry to M Shed is free, supported by voluntary donations that help maintain its rich programming and exhibitions. The museum is fully accessible, welcoming families, solo visitors, and groups alike. It stands as a testament to Bristol’s resilience, creativity, and community spirit, inviting everyone to explore the city’s past and present in a thoughtful and engaging environment.