About M Shed
Explore Bristol's fascinating past through interactive displays and captivating exhibits at this waterfront museum, perfect for families seeking an engaging day out with plenty of facilities.
What's nearby
- Salt and Malt next door
- The Athenian next door
- Root next door
- Queen Square 450m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
- ✓Paid street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
- ✓Accessible seating
Payment
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
We predominantly attended the museum for the Aardmann exhibition - to celebrate 50 years of clay. The museum as a whole is a wonderful environment for learning, engagement and variety. Facilities are plentiful, the cafe is spacious and caters well for multiple tastes. We (parents in our 40s, with child who is nearly 12) loved our experience - we spent 3 hrs there and we left with interested and energy to see other things too. The exhibition was great, with plenty of activities, interactive stations and visual art. We love art, creativity and the opportunity to engage. History of Brizzle was lovely to see too. The art, culture and all the interactive panels. I dod wish I captured more....... But I didn't want to take away from the experience. Enjoy all
· via Google
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ M Shed, Bristol – A Wonderful, Welcoming Museum M Shed is such a lovely museum to wander around. It’s laid out in a way that makes it incredibly easy to explore, with super exhibits and brilliant stories about Bristol’s people, history and culture. You can dip in and out, take your time, or do a quick loop — it works for everyone. It’s ideal whether you’re solo, with family, or part of a school trip. There were a few school groups in when I visited and I have to say, they were all really well‑behaved and clearly enjoying themselves, which added to the atmosphere rather than taking away from it. The museum is free to enter, which is fantastic and makes it accessible to everyone. One small note of caution: the donation request at the entrance is a bit intense. The suggested amounts start very high — £5.00 and upwards — and while I was planning to donate something, the pressure made me hesitate. A gentler approach would feel more welcoming. That said, M Shed remains a brilliant place to spend an hour or two, full of heart, history and stories that stay with you. A real Bristol highlight.
· via Google
The M shed is a modern museum specializing in Bristol history, and situated next to the historic docks , in the city centre . The museum is free to enter , however I payed £10 ( adult ) , to see the Aardman exhibition . The main museum has two floors of exhibits , including large vehicles and they are displayed in a modern dynamic way . Worth a visit if in the area , as it is free to enter and close by to other attractions . The Aardman exhibition is a smallish space crammed full of original claymation puppets , with Wallace & Gromit + Chicken run being the main attraction . There are information boards documenting the history of the company , with photos and original artwork and props from most of its back catalogue . Very good experience , especially if your a Wallace and Gromit fan . I strongly recommend booking ahead as it has limited capacity.
· via Google
Everything you need to know about Bristol and Bristolians gathered together in one place and it’s free! Lots to see and do in a lovely environment with a great cafe too! Very popular with both tourist and locals with visitors stretch in g across the full age range. A really great way to spend a few hours, particularly if the weather isn’t so good.
· via Google
People say this museum offers a diverse range of exhibits detailing Bristol's history, including interactive displays and special exhibitions like Aardman. Visitors also highlight the panoramic views of the harbor from the top floor terrace and the convenient on-site cafe. They appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the free entry.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, BS1 4RN Get directions
- Category
- Museums & Galleries
- Guest rating
- 4.5 / 5 (6,710 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Bristol