Summer is well and truly here in Somerset, and while it is awfully tempting to simply spend your days relaxing in our sunny, private walled garden, we always encourage our guests to explore a little further afield. Just thirteen miles from the quiet country lanes of Beanacre Barn lies the vibrant, historic city of Bristol. It is a brilliant place for a day out, and right at the top of our list of recommendations is a visit to the magnificent SS Great Britain!
When Isambard Kingdom Brunel launched this extraordinary vessel in 1843, she was the largest passenger ship in the world and completely revolutionised maritime engineering. Today, she rests peacefully in the very same dry dock where she was built, right in the heart of Bristol’s bustling harbourside.
A visit here is not just a walk around an old ship; it is a fully, immersive experience. The team behind the museum has gone to great lengths to recreate the sights, sounds, and even the smells of a Victorian ocean voyage.
Stepping Back in Time
As you wander through the beautifully restored cabins and dining saloons, you really get a sense of what life was like for the passengers travelling across the globe all those years ago. You will catch the scent of freshly baked bread drifting from the ship’s galley, hear the creak of the timbers, and perhaps even spot the ship’s cat. It is brilliantly done and endlessly fascinating.
One of the most impressive parts of the visit is the chance to descend beneath the glass “sea”. This clever architectural feature seals the dry dock and protects the fragile iron hull from the elements. Walking underneath the ship, looking up at the sheer scale of the propeller and the massive iron plates, leaves you in absolute awe of Victorian ambition.
While you are there, you must also pop into the ‘Being Brunel’ museum, which is right alongside the ship. It offers a wonderful glimpse into the mind of the man himself, showcasing his sketches, personal belongings, and the sheer breadth of his engineering triumphs across the West Country and beyond, not least among them is the stunning Clifton Bridge, which is clearly visible from the site of the SS Great Britain.
Harbourside Strolls and Street Art
Once you have finished marvelling at Brunel’s genius, we highly recommend taking a leisurely walk along the historic harbourside. Just a short stroll from the dockyard, you can easily spot one of Bristol’s most famous cultural exports: a genuine Banksy mural. Keep your eyes peeled for the ‘Girl with the Pierced Eardrum’, which cleverly incorporates a marina alarm box into the artwork.
From there, continue your scenic route along the water’s edge to Wapping Wharf. This vibrant, modern quarter has quickly become the city’s premier destination for food lovers. It boasts an extensive range of fantastic independent eateries, many of which are housed within trendy repurposed shipping containers. Whether you are craving fresh seafood, authentic street food, or simply a great cup of coffee with a view of the water, Wapping Wharf is the perfect place to pause and recharge.
Return to Peace and Quiet
After a busy day in this vibrant city, it is probably a good time to escape the crowds and head back up into the Mendip Hills, to the peace and calm of your country retreat, Beanacre Barn.
If you are looking for a peaceful base to explore Somerset, Bristol, and everything in between, we would love to welcome you. Please do take a look at our property details and check our availability to start planning your next getaway.
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A More Extensive Experience
For a more extensive visit taking in more of Bristol’s history and cultural attractions why not try one of the ‘Self Guided Tours’ available online, such as Bristol Harbourside Tour
