About

Located on the harbour front, M Shed is the museum of Bristol and tells the story of our city.

Learn about Bristol's history

The 1950s transit shed, originally called M Shed, on Bristol’s historic wharf has been transformed into a museum. Thought-provoking and fun, M Shed challenges the perceptions of what it has meant to live here over the centuries through the recollections of the people who shaped the city.

M Shed explores the city’s history from prehistoric times to the 21st century. Stories about Bristol are told by experts and communities from across the city – an ongoing process. Rich collections of objects, art and archives also play an important part in bringing those stories to life.

Original working exhibits on the harbourside include steamboats, trains and cranes, which you can ride in or even drive on some days of the year.

Recently refreshed displays on protest throughout Bristol’s history now include the statue of Edward Colston which was toppled during the Black Lives Matter march in June 2020.

M Shed’s café opens out onto a public square on the dockside. There are spaces to hire with amazing views over the harbour on the second floor.

Free day out for everyone 

M Shed is free of charge. Visit and you can explore over 2,000 years of Bristol’s history, access over 150 restored and digitalised films, and uncover Bristol’s trading past and its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Explore the city’s war-time experiences, industrial heritage and engineering history. Discover things made in Bristol from its music and art to industry and technology, with more than 3,000 objects from the city’s museum and archive collections including favourites from the Industrial Museum.