Brunel's SS Great Britain — Attraction in Bristol

This museum is great for families with interactive items for kids and loads of information for adults. I believe some staff are in period wear to give information in-character, but I was roaming around at my own pace and only spied them speaking to larger groups. I was reluctant at first to spend 22gbp on entry but the ticketing staff were extremely helpful and friendly, advising (and recommending) the ticket could be used for a whole year as often as I liked, and directing me what things would be closing first. I bought a ticket even though I would not likely be back within the year. The dockyard museum is the left and contains all sorts of original and replica pieces from the actual boat, with a great timeline of iterations that you can commemorate with a neat ticket-embossing stamp tool. This area is good to get an idea of the history of the ship and crew, as well as where it travelled. You can also get directly to the ship from here via the overhead walkway. The ship deck and quarters below all contain recreations of what conditions were like with some interesting (if cheesy) sounds and voice acting. Lighting is low in a lot of places so cameras are going to need high ISO/NR/IS as no flash allowed. Try and get a peek into every nook and cranny as there are some little Easter eggs hidden about. The main dining hall has a photo op for large groups. I wish this area had a more scripted path to take (with less freedom) and indicated which doors were able to be opened and which ones shouldn't, as I feel it was so open I might have missed some parts. The last area (but closed the earliest) was the Being Brunel museum. This showcases a number of facets of the man himself as well as his inventions. There are interactive challenges here too, and a more scripted route. If you only have a couple of hours and likely a single visit I suggest start with shipyard museum and then the ship itself, finishing with Being Brunel if it's still open. If you intend multiple visits, I reckon take a cursory run through ship, then spend a good deal of time in either of the other 2 areas, and then do the same for the other area another time. Finish up with a day going through the ship fully once you have a better idea of the layout and end in the gift store. As far as museum/attractions go, this is one of the more flexible. I highly recommend getting a selfie with Brunel in his...

A Memorable Visit to the SS Great Britain in Bristol

Having lived in Bristol for several years, I was pleasantly surprised by my recent visit to the SS Great Britain—an experience I now wish I had enjoyed much sooner. The entire outing was truly delightful and educational.

Admission: The standard ticket is priced at £22, which may initially seem costly; however, it grants unlimited entry for an entire year, offering excellent value for those interested in returning( as long as you come with your ID). It's worth noting that the site closes at 5 PM. Visitors arriving later in the day may benefit from a half-price discount, although this is only valid for that specific day.

Environment: The ship and surrounding areas are impeccably maintained. Everything was clean, well-organized, and inviting.

Exhibits and Attractions: There is a wealth of information available through displays, audio guides, and written materials. I learned a great deal about the ship’s history and the events associated with it. Highlights included the engine room, living quarters, and kitchen, people that were on the ship and the fact that a whole circle of life went on in the ship. Some died and babies were born. There is also a fascinating section featuring period clothing, where visitors are encouraged to dress up and take photographs. Despite my initial concerns about cleanliness, the garments were in good condition—only a few of the hats had visible strands of hair.

The on-site souvenir shop offers a wide selection of memorabilia, although prices are relatively high.

Facilities: The toilets were exceptionally clean, which added to the overall positive impression of the venue.

Staff Presence: The only drawback was the limited visibility of staff members throughout the site. Assistance was generally unavailable unless it was near closing time. Greater staff presence during operating hours would enhance the visitor experience, especially for those unfamiliar...

On a sunny January morning, we decided that a visit to the incredible SS Great Britain would be a wonderful thing to do! I have visited many times before and have always enjoyed stepping aboard Brunels fantastic ship! Every time I visit I notice more things that I have not noticed the times before on our visits. Today we spotted the monkey drinking beer in one of the cabins... If you haven't been before, you really must go to see it for yourself. Not only is it an incredible piece of history but the work that has gone into its restoration is unbelievable! Today we looked at pictures of its near wreck in a sad watery grave and how it was brought back to the original dock that it was built in to be refurbished into Bristols finest attraction. I love the attention to detail in the rooms, not only with the time period correct cabins and decor but also in various rooms the essence of the past in the form of smells. I have always enjoyed Brunels work and to read about its impact on modern day life. When you step aboard you get the feel of what it would have truely been like to sail in her. My favourite visits have always been when the victorian society visit. Not only does it add to the appeal but you get a true sense of times gone by. The victorian society dress and act for the occaision and interact with the visitors making it a very memorable visit. Christmas time in my opinion is the best time to visit. Not only do the victorian society make festive visits but the ship and grounds are dressed with lovely decorations and there's always someone to tell you a tale about the ship. Today's visit was fantastic. The weather was fine. The staff were all lovely to chat to and helpful. We even met Brunel himself and he allowed us to take pictures! Truely an excellent adventure and you can visit again for a year with your ticket.

We hope you enjoy the photos we took today!

Top marks to you all at Brunels SS...