SS Great Britain
A 1843 iron-hulled, screw-propelled ocean liner designed by Brunel, which visitors can board while it rests in a dry dock
SS Great Britain was designed by Brunel and launched in Bristol in 1843. She was the world's first ocean liner with an iron hull and screw propulsion, and she sailed between Britain and Australia. In 1970 she was towed back from the Falkland Islands to the dry dock where she had been built. After restoration she became a museum.
Visitors can walk through the reconstructed passenger cabins, the dining saloon and the boiler room, and go beneath the hull to the 'Glass Sea' to see the ship's hull and propeller. Tickets cost about £25, and re-entry is allowed within one year. Located in Bristol's harbour area, the ship is well suited to families.
Opening hours
About 10:00–17:00 (winter until 16:30)
Nearby sights
- Clifton Suspension Bridge
- Cheddar Gorge
- Wells Cathedral
- Royal Crescent
- The Circus
- Jane Austen Centre
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Roman Baths