M Shed

I’m glad I visited M Shed in Bristol! The exhibition on protests and social concerns was especially impactful—thought-provoking and well-curated. It’s a great space to explore the history of Bristol and its role in shaping society. The gift shop was pretty ace, offering some unique items, though a little modernization in the offerings wouldn’t hurt. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and I’d definitely recommend a visit!

Visiting M Shed was an eye-opening experience for me. It offers such a comprehensive look at Bristol’s history, from its industrial roots to its role in the transatlantic slave trade. I really appreciated how the museum doesn’t shy away from the difficult parts of Bristol’s past, particularly its connection to slavery. The exhibits are informative and thought-provoking, shedding light on stories that are often overlooked. Beyond that, the museum covers so many other aspects of life in Bristol—its cultural heritage, the people who shaped the city, and even everyday life through the years. The way they use interactive displays and personal stories really brings the history to life. The location on the harborside is stunning, and the free admission makes it even more impressive. I left with a much deeper understanding of Bristol, its struggles, and its achievements. I highly recommend M Shed to anyone wanting to learn more about the city.

It’s pretty cool to get access inside the boat (for free). Interesting even for adults like me. Suitable for children

This is a pretty interesting place with a small museum that's packed with stuff about Bristol. I liked some of the interactive stuff and the Colston statue that was dredged out of the harbour. It's honest about some of the the nastier bits of Bristolian history. Entry fee is by donation. Access is pretty good but if you're on wheels watch you don't fall into the rail lines outside.

So surprised when museum / galleries like this are free entry. The layout is fantastic and some of the things you can see are amazing. Take the whole family, come on your own, go on a date, this is the perfect place for a day trip in the city.

Lovely museum showcasing Bristol through the ages and its contribution to industry. I was fortunate enough to go on a behind the scenes tour of exhibits and collections of items that couldn't go on display. In the end, this took up most of the time spent at the M Shed because the volunteer was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

Houses the Bristol museum that has a range of different exhibits. Worth spending an hour ot two wandering through to get a glimpse of the evolution of Bristol through the centuries.

Another Bristol museum which is closed on Mondays. It is quite nice just walking along Princes Wharf though, as there are plenty of preserved cranes, rolling stock and ships to look at.

This is a neat little museum that gives a high level overview on the history of Bristol. We stopped in to pass time before we had to catch our flight. Took about 30-40 mins of exploring. There were a lot of kids in the place but the exhibits are geared for all ages.

Great museum this- on the harbourside, which is always fun to wander around, it contains a lovely (and free) insight into Bristol and its history. I loved the double decker bus you can go onto, and the bomb shelters, complete with commentary from locals who'd had to use them. There are some good exhibitions here about local neighbourhoods, which might be slightly less interesting if you don't know them. Mshed is a good size to have a quick peek around, or to spend a bit more time with the exhibitions. There's a nice harbour view from upstairs, too. And you can buy Bristol things from the shop.

The m shed is a fantastic community resource and really showcases everything that's great about bristol, my city of which I am incredibly proud. It doesn't shy away from bristol's darker history either. It's brilliant for kids, really interactive with lots of things to touch, play with and do for children of all ages, my little girl is only 19 months and she loves running around, playing on the bus, looking out of the windows at the harbour side, playing in the little play shop and generally having lots of fun, I could spend a good couple of hours there with her. There is a very nice little cafe which sells a good selection of food and drink and refreshingly the food is really nutritious and healthy. The best thing about the M Shed is that it is free for everyone, I always make a donation as I leave though. I feel incredibly lucky to live in a wonderful city where we have so many fantastic places to take our children and the m shed is one of the best!

Having visited on Sunday and subsequently read the other reviews, I do feel that they were terribly harsh. Excellent location in Bristols groove-some dock area and a museum that was colourful, varied and, I felt, correctly showed Bristol as the vibrant city it so clearly is. Loved the photo galleries, the oak panelling from various old building and (Evil Dead fans!) a book made of human skin!!! I would happily recommend M Shed, I know exhibits aren't all in glass cabinets, in order and in line but, hey!, that's WHY we liked it

I have taken my family to the M Shed on a couple of occasions now. The first time, I did not think it would have been suitable for my children (aged 2 and 3), as I thought what is on display would be too grown up for them. However, as it is free to get in, it was worth a shot to get them all out of the house on a rainy Sunday! As it turns out, they found plenty to enjoy, even if they didn't understand it all fully. They were fascinated by getting on and off of the old bus, liked finding out more about the suspension bridge and liked listening in on all the telephones dotted around the place. While you save money on getting in, take note that you can end up spending a lot of of it in the cafe!