Brunel's SS Great Britain: The Revolutionary Ocean Liner of Bristol
Step aboard Brunel's SS Great Britain, the pioneering ocean liner that reshaped maritime history and Victorian life at sea in Bristol’s historic dockyard.
Brunel's SS Great Britain, docked in Bristol's Great Western Dockyard, is the world's first great ocean liner, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. This immersive maritime museum offers visitors a chance to explore the historic steamship’s decks, cabins, engine room, and dry dock, alongside two interactive museums celebrating Brunel’s engineering genius and the ship’s remarkable history. A captivating experience for families, history buffs, and engineering enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Brunel's SS Great Britain
- Great Western Dockyard, Gas Ferry Rd, Bristol, BS1 6TY, GB
- +441179260680
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- 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
- Allow at least 3 to 4 hours to explore the ship, the Being Brunel museum, and the Dockyard Museum thoroughly.
- Tickets include unlimited re-entry for one year, so you can revisit to catch anything you missed.
- Use the included multimedia guides available in multiple languages for a richer experience.
- Visit on weekday mornings outside school holidays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil visit.
- Don’t miss the dry dock experience below the glass sea to see the ship’s original iron hull and propeller.
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
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Public Bus
Regular bus services run from Bristol city center to the Great Western Dockyard area, with journey times of approximately 15-25 minutes. Buses operate frequently during the day, with single fares around £2.50. The stop is a short walk from the attraction entrance.
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Harbour Waterbus
The Harbour Waterbus offers a scenic route from Bristol Temple Meads Station to the SS Great Britain dockyard, taking about 20 minutes. This service operates daily with tickets costing about £5. It provides a unique and picturesque approach to the ship.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can park at nearby public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £10 depending on duration. Note that Bristol has a Clean Air Zone; charges may apply for certain vehicles.
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Walking
For those staying in central Bristol, the SS Great Britain is accessible on foot with a 30-40 minute walk along mostly flat, paved routes. The terrain is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, though some areas may be busy during peak times.
Brunel's SS Great Britain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Brunel's SS Great Britain
The Visionary Engineering of Isambard Kingdom Brunel
Brunel's SS Great Britain, launched in 1843, was a groundbreaking feat of maritime engineering. Designed by the legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it was the first large ocean-going ship to combine an iron hull with screw propeller propulsion, revolutionizing naval architecture. Measuring 98 meters in length, the ship was one of the largest and most technologically advanced vessels of its time, capable of crossing the Atlantic in just 14 days. Brunel’s innovative vision set new standards for speed, safety, and passenger comfort, marking a pivotal moment in the industrial revolution.An Immersive Journey Through Victorian Maritime Life
Visitors step aboard the meticulously restored SS Great Britain to experience life as it was for Victorian passengers and crew. The ship’s three levels reveal contrasting worlds—from the opulent first-class suites and promenade deck to the cramped steerage quarters and bustling engine room. Multi-sensory exhibits recreate the sights, sounds, and even smells of 19th-century sea travel. Costumed guides and wax mannequins enrich the atmosphere, while the galley, surgeon’s quarters, and dining saloon offer intimate glimpses into daily life at sea.Exploring the Historic Dry Dock and Hull
Beneath the ship lies a unique dry dock experience where visitors can walk around the original iron hull, viewing the pioneering screw propeller and rudder. A glass air seal creates the illusion of being underwater, allowing close inspection of the ship’s engineering marvels while protecting the structure from corrosion. This rare perspective highlights the ship’s scale and the craftsmanship involved in its construction and restoration.The Being Brunel and Dockyard Museums: Context and Legacy
Adjacent to the ship, the Being Brunel museum celebrates the life and achievements of its visionary designer beyond the SS Great Britain. Interactive exhibits and historical artifacts showcase Brunel’s engineering projects, including the Great Western Railway and the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The Dockyard Museum chronicles the ship’s storied history—from its transatlantic service and varied roles as troopship and coal hulk to its dramatic rescue and restoration in Bristol. Together, these museums provide a comprehensive understanding of the ship’s cultural and technological significance.Accessibility, Events, and Visitor Experience
The attraction is largely wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps available, though some cabins have narrow entrances mitigated by special wheelchairs. Visitors are encouraged to allow 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the ship and museums, with tickets valid for unlimited re-entry for one year. Year-round family activities, special events, and guided tours enhance the experience. On-site amenities include a restaurant and facilities for disabled visitors, making it a welcoming destination for a wide range of guests.A Living Tribute to British Maritime Heritage
Brunel’s SS Great Britain stands as a testament to British industrial ingenuity and maritime history. Its preservation and presentation offer an evocative window into the past, enabling visitors to connect with the stories of those who built, sailed, and lived aboard this iconic vessel. The ship remains a symbol of innovation and adventure, inspiring new generations to appreciate the legacy of one of history’s greatest engineers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Essential places to dine
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The Bristol Stable
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Educational
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
