Exploring the M Shed on the Bristol Harbourside
- The Bristol Crocodile
- Sep 4, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 17, 2025
If you're searching for a fun, educational, and budget-friendly family day out in Bristol, the M Shed Museum on the Bristol Harbourside is a brilliant choice. Housed in a former transit shed, this vibrant space tells the story of the city and its people - past, present, and even a glimpse into the future.
Best of all? Entry is free, making it a perfect day out for families with children of all ages.
Why Families Love the M Shed
The M Shed in Bristol isn’t your typical “look but don’t touch” museum. It’s interactive, colourful, and designed to spark curiosity. From a giant dinosaur to vintage double-deckers, children will love the variety of exhibits, while parents can rediscover the Bristol they know and perhaps learn something new.
Family highlights at M Shed include:
The Bristol Bus - Children can climb aboard a vintage double-decker and imagine what journeys used to be like.
Crane Cab Experience - Step inside the cab of one of Bristol’s iconic harbour cranes.
Stories of Bristol’s People - Discover the lives of Bristolians from all walks of life.
Temporary Exhibitions - With ever-changing art and themed displays, there’s always something new to explore.
Outdoor Fun at M Shed
The M Shed Museum isn’t just about what’s inside. Families can also explore historic boats, trains, and the famous Harbourside cranes outside.
On selected weekends:
Restored steam trains run short trips.
Heritage boats open their decks to visitors.
The quayside becomes a lively hub of history and movement.
Tips for Parents Visiting the M Shed Museum
M Shed Café - Stop for a family-friendly snack or drink with Harbourside views.
Check the events calendar - School holidays often feature extra workshops and activities for children.
Make a day of it - The Harbourside has cafés, picnic spots, and wide-open spaces for kids to run and play.
Combine with nearby attractions:
SS Great Britain - Step aboard Brunel’s iconic ship.
Millennium Square - With fountains and open play space.
We The Curious - Interactive science fun for children.
Bristol Ferry Boats - Colourful rides around the harbour.
Practical Information
Location: Prince’s Wharf, Harbourside, Bristol BS1 4RN - just a 15-minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads Station.
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am–5pm (closed Mondays, except Bank Holidays).
Cost: Free entry (some exhibitions ticketed).
The M Shed is one of the top-rated free museums in Bristol, making it an ideal base for family adventures on the Harbourside.
Making It a Full Family Day Out in Bristol
After exploring the M Shed Bristol Museum, extend your day with nearby family-friendly activities:
Stroll along the Harbourside and spot passing boats.
Treat the children to ice cream from a local café.
Hop aboard a colourful Bristol Ferry Boat for a short ride.
Visit the SS Great Britain, just across the water.
Explore Millennium Square, home to We The Curious and open spaces for kids.
A Link to The Bristol Crocodile
The M Shed celebrates Bristol’s real stories, but the city also has its share of legends. One of the most mysterious is the Bristol Crocodile, first spotted in the River Avon in 2014.
This local legend inspired my first children’s picture book, The Bristol Crocodile, written for ages 3–5. In the story, the Bristol Crocodile becomes a gentle adventurer, quietly helping friends across the city.
So, after your children discover Bristol’s history at the M Shed Museum, you can bring home a little extra magic at story-time, exploring the mythical side of Bristol together. And who knows? As you wander the Harbourside, keep your eyes peeled… you might just spot the legendary Bristol Crocodile lurking along the River Avon!
