SS Great Britain

Brunel's SS Great Britain is one of the most important historic ships in the world. When she was launched in 1843 she was called the 'Greatest Experiment since the Creation'. It was the first modern ship, with an iron hull - a revolution in design. People could barely understand how she could float.

No one had ever designed so vast a ship, nor had the vision to build it of iron. Brunel fitted her with a 1000 hp steam engine, the most powerful yet used at sea. Perhaps most daring of all, Brunel rejected using conventional paddle wheels to drive his ship. Instead, he gave the SS Great Britain a screw propeller which is on view in the underhull gallery. This was the newest invention in maritime technology. By seeing how to combine these key innovations, Brunel created a ship that changed history. It became the largest ship on the planet and is the model for all modern ships.

Brunel’s SS Great Britain is an ideal location for a day out of the classroom. The historic ship, Dockyard Museum in Bristol and beneath the ‘sea’ in the Dry Dock capture the imagination with lots to see, hear, touch and even smell!

We offer a range of interactive workshops, guided tours and self guided trails.

WORKSHOPS

Our interactive workshops take place in the Medlock Education Centre and are led by a member of the Education Team. They are intended for up to 30 children per workshop.

SELF GUIDED TRAILS

These free downloadable trails are to help pupils discover and explore the ss Great Britain.

The Captain’s Trail

Take on the Captain’s role and inspect the ss Great Britain during her long voyage to Australia. This self guided trail helps your group discover the secrets of First Class and Steerage passengers, explore the ship’s galley and try their hand at steering!