Bristol Industrial Museum

Bristol Industrial Museum was an industry museum housed in a former transit shed at Prince's Wharf, right by the Floating Harbour. The building contained two floors of exhibitions showcasing locally built vehicles, machinery, and historic ships that told the story of the city's manufacturing heritage.

The museum preserved Bristol's industrial past from the 1800s through to its closure in 2006. It recorded the city's significant role in vehicle manufacturing, engineering, and maritime trade that shaped its economy for generations.

The establishment maintained galleries dedicated to Bristol's involvement in transportation development, displaying locally manufactured cars, buses, motorcycles, and aircraft engines.

The site was transformed into M Shed in 2011, continuing to show the city's heritage through interactive displays and working machinery at no cost. The waterfront location makes it easy to explore and enjoy while visiting other attractions nearby.

Historic vessels including the fireboat Pyronaut and several tugboats were moored right outside the museum's entrance. A working 1878 steam crane from Fairbairn also stood on the grounds, showing visitors how port work operated during that era.

Location: City of Bristol

Address: Princes Wharf, Prince Street, Bristol BS1 4RN

Website: http://bristol-city.gov.uk/ccm/content/Leisure-Culture/Museums-Galleries/bristols-industrial-museum

GPS coordinates: 51.44730,-2.59856

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04