Many of the workshops at Underfall Yard, with their striking red brick walls and green doorways, were installed during John Ward Girdlestone's tenure as Docks Engineer 1882-1890. But who was Girdlestone? Here's an intriguing profile of him, by volunteer writer Elaine. John Ward Girdlestone became Bristol Docks Engineer in 1882. He was 42 years old, energetic, and impatient to make improvements. He soon turned his [...]
P&A Campbell was a paddle steamer business which occupied Underfall Yard’s Big Shed and Knuckle in the early 20th century. Volunteer writer Dave Duggan has been researching the company and exploring its impact on the local area. Keep an eye out for more articles on Underfall Yard’s fascinating features, as well as its working history… The brothers Peter and Alexander Campbell started their Bristol based [...]
The Recovery & Reinstatement Project, following last year’s devastating fire, is underway. Work to reinstate the yard is split into two phases… Phase 1 focuses on site cleanup, roof repairs to the Shipwrights building and developing detailed design plans for full reinstatement. Phase 2 involves rebuilding damaged and destroyed structures. This is, of course, subject to planning approval and funding. We are actively working with [...]
Applications are now open for new volunteers at Underfall Yard! Volunteering is a wonderful way to build or showcase your skills and interests, as well as joining a passionate local community. Your support this year could make an enormous difference as Underfall Yard Trust continues its important work. Click the titles below to read full role descriptions for the latest voluntary opportunities: Volunteer Writer - [...]
Underfall Yard Visitor Centre and Café are open and operating normally. Please come and enjoy one of the best views in Bristol and learn about the history of the Yard. By supporting the Café you will be helping the Trust in its work including the restoration of buildings and support of businesses that have been affected by the fire. Mondays: Closed [Open on Bank [...]
Underfall Yard is a historic working boatyard, managed and maintained by the Underfall Yard Trust. In May 2023, there was a devastating fire on site which destroyed several workshops dedicated to maritime crafts. Thankfully no one was hurt, however the loss of these workshops has made a huge impact on the businesses that operate from these workshops, as well as the communities that surround [...]
A Profile of the Bristol Crocodile If you have visited Underfall Yard to explore or enjoy the cafe, you may have wondered why a giant woolen crocodile resides in the Visitor Centre. Luckily, volunteer writer Isaac Barrett has been investigating that same question. Here are his findings... Bristol has its fair share of mysteries. Whether it be a strange humming on the Downs, or the [...]
This October, Docks Heritage Weekend returned to Bristol's Floating Harbour. The yard was a thriving hub of activity and it was brilliant to see so many visitors soaking up the living history around them. The Underfall Yard Trust would like to thank everyone who visited, as well as the volunteers, guest organisations and artists that contributed to the program of activities. See some highlights below... [...]
On 17th September 2022, Underfall Yard will serve as one of the hosts for the second annual Bristol Shanty Festival. Join us, free of charge, at the Visitor Centre to welcome some of the most talented local sea shanty groups around! Performances will be from 12pm until 6pm, with our café serving food and drinks. Find out more about our guest performers in their own [...]
Underfall Yard volunteer Andrew Radford has been finding out about the latest success for Star Yachts. Win Cnoops, owner of Underfall Yard-based Star Yachts has had his Bristol 6 motor launch shortlisted for one of the categories in Classic Boat Magazine’s prestigious 15th annual Classic Boat awards. These awards celebrate the best in the world of classic and traditional boatbuilding and restoration. There are various [...]