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.
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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Matthew of Bristol
0.1 km
Explore Bristol's maritime heritage aboard The Matthew, a historic ship offering breathtaking views and engaging tours of the city's vibrant harbor.
Prince Street Bridge
0.1 km
A working Victorian swing bridge over Bristol’s Floating Harbour, connecting the city centre with the Cumberland Road area and offering quiet views of boats and quays.
Statue of Cary Grant
0.3 km
Celebrate Hollywood legend Cary Grant with a lifelike bronze statue in Bristol’s vibrant Millennium Square, capturing his timeless charm and local roots.
King George V Memorial Fountain
0.5 km
Lutyens-designed waterfront memorial honouring King George V with monumental sculptural figures.
Cascade Steps
0.5 km
Historic Cascade Steps in Bristol offer scenic waterfront views and a tranquil urban retreat steeped in maritime heritage.
Statue of Ram Mohan Roy
0.5 km
A dignified bronze tribute in Bristol honoring Ram Mohan Roy’s legacy as a pioneering Indian reformer and visionary.
Statue of Edmund Burke
0.7 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Old Post Office
0.8 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Bristol Bridge
0.8 km
A historic stone bridge spanning Bristol’s Floating Harbour, linking the Old City with Redcliffe and centuries of the city’s story.
The Nails
0.8 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
Royal Talbot Buildings
0.8 km
Discover the Royal Talbot Buildings in Redcliffe, Bristol: A luxurious executive suite experience perfect for your city escape.
Medieval Vaults
0.9 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Brandon Hill
0.9 km
Explore Brandon Hill, Bristol's picturesque park featuring stunning views, vibrant gardens, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Red Lodge Museum
0.9 km
Explore The Red Lodge Museum, a historical landmark in Bristol, showcasing exquisite period rooms and captivating exhibitions that illuminate the city's rich heritage.
Old City Walls
0.9 km
Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bristol Harbour Railway
0.1 km
Step aboard Bristol Harbour Railway’s heritage steam train for a scenic 15-minute journey through the city’s historic waterfront.
Lloyds Amphitheatre
0.1 km
A landmark postmodern amphitheatre and public space at Bristol’s harbourside, blending architectural heritage with vibrant cultural events.
Bristol Ferry
0.2 km
Scenic water transport linking Bristol's landmarks with friendly crews and harbour-side charm.
Millennium Square
0.3 km
A vibrant urban square by Bristol’s Harbourside, blending modern design, cultural events, and family-friendly fun year-round.
Pero's Bridge
0.3 km
Discover Pero's Bridge in Bristol, a blend of modern architecture and historic charm, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views of the harbor.
Narrow Quay
0.3 km
Historic Narrow Quay in Bristol blends maritime heritage with vibrant arts and waterside charm in the heart of the Floating Harbour.
Hannover Quay
0.3 km
Discover Hannover Quay, Bristol’s vibrant harbourside district blending historic charm with modern waterfront living and cultural buzz.
The Bristol Wheel
0.3 km
Soar above Bristol’s iconic landmarks on The Bristol Wheel, a dazzling Ferris ride offering stunning panoramic city views day and night.
We The Curious
0.3 km
Discover Bristol’s vibrant science centre with interactive exhibits, creative workshops, and the UK’s only 3D Planetarium in a playful, inclusive space.
Bristol Aquarium
0.3 km
Explore captivating marine life and conservation stories at Bristol Aquarium, a vibrant underwater world in the heart of Bristol.
Queen Square
0.4 km
A serene Georgian square in Bristol’s center, blending historic charm with peaceful green space and vibrant cultural life.
Watershed
0.4 km
A vibrant cultural cinema and creative hub on Bristol’s Harbourside, blending film, food, events, and sustainability in a welcoming setting.
Redcliffe Caves
0.4 km
Explore Bristol’s mysterious underground network of historic sandstone caves, once vital to glassmaking and now a captivating cultural venue.
Harbourside
0.4 km
Discover Bristol Harbourside, where rich maritime history meets vibrant culture, waterside dining, and lively urban charm.
Bristol Cathedral
0.5 km
Explore Bristol Cathedral’s majestic medieval hall church with soaring vaults, Gothic Revival nave, and centuries of rich history in the city’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Tare Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience vibrant modern European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting overlooking Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Harbour & Browns
0.1 km
Contemporary fusion dining in stylish shipping containers with harbour views at Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf.
Gambas
0.1 km
A vibrant Spanish tapas bar in a harbourside shipping container, serving excellent seafood and classic small plates with great views over Bristol Harbour.
Root
0.1 km
A pioneering vegetable-focused restaurant in Bristol’s waterfront Cargo, blending seasonal flavors with a unique shipping container setting.
BOX-E
0.1 km
A tiny 14-seat restaurant in Bristol’s Wapping Wharf shipping containers, serving inventive Modern British tasting menus and seasonal dishes in an intimate, industrial-chic setting.
The Olive Shed
0.1 km
Mediterranean tapas and seafood with stunning harbour views in a cozy, waterside Bristol setting.
Rick's
0.3 km
Discover Rick's in Bristol - where exceptional cocktails meet delightful brunches in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Las Iguanas - Bristol - Harbourside
0.3 km
Lively Latin American dining and cocktails with vibrant vibes by Bristol’s picturesque Harbourside waterfront.
Casa Bristol
0.3 km
Refined Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist in Bristol’s historic Redcliffe harbourside, blending tradition and innovation.
The River Grille
0.3 km
Elegant Harbourside fine dining with West Country steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic waterfront views.
MUSE Brasserie - Bristol
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite blend of French and Indian flavors at MUSE Brasserie, Bristol’s premier fusion dining destination in an elegant bistro setting.
Riverstation
0.4 km
Stylish harbourside dining in Bristol with dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and panoramic river views from a smart, nautical-inspired restaurant and bar.
New MoOn On The Quay
0.4 km
Eclectic tapas and global flavors served in a quirky riverside setting with garden charm and inclusive menus in Bristol’s Floating Harbour.
Hole In The Wall Bristol
0.4 km
Historic Bristol gastropub offering classic British fare, vibrant atmosphere, and a charming beer garden in the heart of Queen Square.
Harbour House - Restaurant, Bar & Terrace
0.4 km
Historic waterfront restaurant celebrating southwest seafood and seasonal produce with stunning harbour views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Something Elsie
0.0 km
Discover vibrant 80s and 90s vintage fashion, dazzling jewellery, and quirky gifts in Bristol’s colorful Something Elsie shop at Cargo 2.
Fig1
0.1 km
Discover Scandinavian-inspired homewares and unique gifts at this independent Bristol gem, where clean lines meet creative curation in the heart of Wapping Wharf.
Orendo
0.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion at Orendo, a chic clothes shop in Bristol that embodies the city's vibrant style and trends.
my a2space
0.4 km
A compact Harbourside shop showcasing locally made prints, gifts and artisan wares from Bristol’s creative community.
Will's doss pit
0.4 km
Dive into Bristol's quirky underbelly at Will's Doss Pit, where vintage treasures and bohemian finds await in historic Queen Square.
Zhyper
0.4 km
Trendy threads and accessories in Bristol's Harbourside hub, where personal style meets waterfront vibrancy and urban creativity.
Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop at Windmill Hill City Farm
0.7 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by Bristol artists at the vibrant Home Grown Pop Up Gift Shop within Windmill Hill City Farm.
Over Here
0.8 km
Discover quirky gifts and stylish clothing at Over Here, a hidden gem in Bristol's historic St Nicholas Markets arcade.
Alices Secret Empourium
0.8 km
Uncover Bristol's quirk-filled gift haven on Park Street, where eclectic treasures and whimsical wonders await every curious explorer.
This Feeling
0.8 km
Trendy threads in Bristol's historic market heart—independent fashion amid Georgian charm and bustling stalls.
Riff Raff Gifts The Bong Shop
0.8 km
Specialist smoking accessories retailer in historic St Nicholas Market's Covered Market.
uchi clothing co
0.8 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion in Bristol’s historic Corn Exchange at Uchi Clothing Co, where quality meets contemporary design.
Rhubarb Jumble
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and unique home treasures in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Southville neighborhood.
Memories
0.8 km
Explore 'Memories' in Bristol for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your visit.
Quadrant Trading
0.8 km
Discover handcrafted Bristol treasures at Quadrant Trading in the historic Corn Exchange—a shopper's delight of local artistry and unique souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Shakespeare Tavern
0.2 km
Waterside Bristol pub pouring cask ales, pub classics, and community cheer in a dog-friendly haven with garden vibes.
The Architect
0.2 km
Art deco café-bar on Bristol's Floating Harbour: coffees by day, cocktails by night, with terrace views of ferries and quayside life.
Steinbeck and Shaw
0.3 km
Bristol's graffiti-glazed cocktail haven where masterclasses, happy hours, and late-night vibes collide in historic style.
Slug & Lettuce - Harbourside Bristol
0.3 km
Bristol harbourside cocktail haven with 2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and waterfront terrace vibes for unforgettable nights out.
Loose Cannon Cocktail Bar - Bristol
0.4 km
Quirky harbourside haven blending pop culture cocktails, local art, and Bristol's playful vibe in a waterfront independent gem.
Mackenzies Bar & Kitchen
0.4 km
A relaxed, all-day cafe-bar in the W Shed offering casual meals and drinks beside Bristol’s harbourside.
Small Bar
0.5 km
Bristol's compact craft beer gem: sample microbrew masterpieces in rustic intimacy amid King Street's historic buzz.
Kongs of King Street
0.5 km
A lively Bristol bar blending arcade games, craft beers, and vibrant music for unforgettable nights on King Street.
The Clockwork Rose
0.7 km
Bristol's steampunk speakeasy where airship captain's cocktails blend Victorian flair, fantastical lore, and masterful mixology into unforgettable evenings.
Brozen Bar - Bristol
0.7 km
Discover Bristol’s Brozen Bar, where inventive frozen cocktails and a cosy atmosphere create a unique, must-visit cocktail experience.
Secret Cocktail Club - Bristol
0.7 km
Discover Bristol’s hidden basement bar blending historic charm with expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, secretive setting.
Revolution Bristol
0.7 km
Two-storey cocktail bar in Bristol’s Old Fish Market — colourful interiors, mezzanine balcony and cocktails for day and night.
Slug & Lettuce - City Centre Bristol
0.8 km
Bristol's go-to cocktail haven on St Nicholas Street, blending lush drinks, tasty bites, and vibrant nights in the Old City heart.
Bag of Nails
0.8 km
A quirky Bristol pub where hand-drawn art, local ales, and friendly cats create an unforgettable and cozy atmosphere.
The Boardroom
0.8 km
Grazing boards, rum mastery and historic charm in Bristol's Old City—perfect for intimate drinks or private hires till late.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PRYZM
0.3 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at PRYZM, a multi-room club with themed music floors, student deals, and a lively party atmosphere.
Thekla
0.3 km
A converted cargo ship transformed into Bristol’s compact, industrial live-music venue and late-night club, famed for close-up shows and throbbing club nights.
Popworld - Bristol
0.6 km
Dance to 90s and 00s pop anthems under neon lights at Bristol's ultimate nostalgic nightclub, where cheesy hits and POPTAIL cocktails fuel epic nights out.
Forró Bristol
0.6 km
Ignite your night with Brazilian forró rhythms: partner dances, live bands, and sweaty joy in Bristol's beating heart.
OMG
0.7 km
Southwest's biggest gay club: massive dance floor, killer sound, themed nights, and inclusive vibes until dawn in Bristol's heart.
Basement 45
0.7 km
Experience Bristol’s underground nightlife at Basement 45, where eclectic music, intimate vibes, and vibrant events come alive until the early hours.
Queenshilling - Bristol Bar and Nightclub
0.7 km
Bristol's iconic LGBTQ+ haven: dance, drag, and drinks in an intimate Frogmore Street gem fueling the city's electric nightlife.
Antix
0.8 km
Bristol's enduring late-night haven on Park Street: cocktails till 1am, DJ beats till 6am, dancing into dawn with house, R&B, and reggaeton vibes.
Silk Nightclub
0.8 km
Experience Bristol’s vibrant nightlife at Silk Nightclub, where energetic beats and a lively crowd create unforgettable nights in the city center.
Marquee Cocktail Bar & Nightclub
0.9 km
From refined cocktails to dawn-dancing beats, Marquee delivers Bristol's ultimate nightlife evolution in one stylish venue.
The Loco Klub
1.1 km
An atmospheric subterranean arts venue in Brunel’s Temple Meads arches, where tunnels, brick vaults and intimate soundscapes host club nights, theatre and live music.
La Rocca
1.1 km
A lively Clifton nightclub blending classic tunes, affordable drinks, and a vibrant social scene in Bristol’s dynamic nightlife district.
The Pearl NightClub
1.1 km
Bristol's intimate Clifton nightclub where fire DJs ignite weekend dance floors from 10pm till dawn—pure energy in a compact, electric space.
Bristol Lola Lo
1.2 km
An intimate, vintage‑Tiki nightclub in Clifton with neon cocktails, paper lanterns and a compact dancefloor for themed late‑night parties.
Lizard Lounge
1.2 km
A small, loud student nightclub on Queens Road famed for cheap drinks, DJ nights and a packed, party-first atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
