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About
Situated on the historic Harbourside, M Shed is the history museum of Bristol that tells the story of our city.
Learn about Bristol's history
The 1950s transit shed, originally called M Shed, on Bristol’s historic wharf has been transformed into a museum. Thought-provoking and fun, M Shed challenges the perceptions of what it has meant to live here over the centuries through the recollections of the people who shaped the city.
M Shed explores the city’s history from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Stories about the city and its people have been discovered through working with experts and communities across the city – a process that will continue for the life of the museum. Rich collections of objects, art and archives also play an important part in bringing those stories to life.
There are also working exhibits on the harbourside including steamboats, trains and cranes as well as a new café that opens out onto a public square on the dockside.
M Shed is a new kind of museum, one that challenges traditional ideas. It works with the people of Bristol to create displays which make everyone want to come and see. It is a living museum, where the stories of the past spark discussions about the future.
Free day out for everyone
M Shed is free to the public. Visit and you can explore over 2000 years of Bristol’s history, access over 150 restored and digitalised films and uncover Bristol’s trading past and its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Explore the city’s war-time experiences, industrial heritage and engineering history. Discover things made in Bristol from its music and art to industry and technology, see over 3000 objects from the city’s museum and archive collections including favourites from the Industrial Museum. Come and enjoy a programme of local, national and international exhibitions.
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Extras
Other
- Gift Shop
Accessibility
- All Areas Accessible to Disabled Visitors
- Guide Dogs Permitted
- Ramp/Level Access
- Toilets for Disabled Visitors
Attraction Facilities
- Shop
Catering
- On-Site café/restaurant
Establishment Features
- Conference facilities
- Dogs Accepted - Guide Dogs only
- Shop
- Toilets
- Wedding Venue
Key Features
- In town/city centre
- Indoor Attraction
Specialist Features
- Family Fun
- Marketed towards families
- Marketed towards senior citizens
- Marketed towards student/youth
Tours and Demonstrations
- Educational Visits Accepted
- Guided Tours Available for Groups
Map & Directions
Road Directions
Find out about the latest on the roads and get travel directions from TravelWest.infoPublic Transport Directions
For comprehensive information about getting here by public transport, please visit TravelWest.infoTripAdvisor
Certificate of Excellence 2018
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:
- Excellent718
- Very Good586
- Average217
- Poor61
- Terrible36
Recent Reviews:
- Nigel DEdinburgh, United KingdomTrip Type:Friends getawayGreat place to learn but parents must take control
Tuesday, 16th April 2019Lots to see and do and the interactive exhibits are great for kids but on our visit some parents failed to see a big queue when their child gained access. People walked away in frustration and this... Read full review - MocaBrasileiraOadby, United KingdomTrip Type:FamilyReally interesting Bristol focused museum
Wednesday, 17th April 2019We visited specifically to see Banksy’s Grim Reaper but ended up staying to see other parts of the permanent exhibition. Interesting exhibits describing different elements of Bristol and its people. Read full review - kennydollmanchesterTrip Type:CouplesInterestingWednesday, 17th April 2019Not sure what we expected but we enjoyed it. Exhibitions were informative and well presented. Nice mix of information, artefacts and hands on experiences. Read full review
Wapping Road
Bristol
BS1 4RN
Tel: +44 (0)117 352 6600
Awards
- Bristol Tourism & Hospitality Award
Large Attraction of the Year Winner 2013 2014
Opening Times
| Open (1 Jan 2019 - 31 Dec 2019) |
|---|
* Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5pm
Bank Holiday Mondays and Mondays during Bristol school holidays: 10am-5pm
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