• 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 paddle steamer business in 1887.  Over the next 69 years, their fleet of paddle steamers provided leisure cruises and ferry services from Bristol to destinations in Somerset, Devon, South Wales, along the South coast [...]

  • 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 all partners to get ready for this important phase. Progress so far… Contracts are now in place with Alec French (architects) and MDA (project managers) to work on detailed designs and cost estimates. Both [...]

  • 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 - Can you write well researched, engaging and informative short articles? Help us to share Underfall Yard stories with a wider audience by writing for our website, newsletter and guidebook. Social Media Volunteer - Create [...]

  • 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 Holidays] Tuesday-Friday: 9:00am to 4:30pm Saturday and Sunday: 9am to 5:00pm Access is via the road and in through the Avon Crescent and Nova Scotia gates. If you have any queries regarding accessibility of [...]

  • 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 the yard and the Floating Harbour. By donating to the Underfall Yard Trust, you will be supporting the preservation and maintenance of the yard during its recovery. You can also support the Trust by [...]

  • 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 disturbing reasons behind the unnatural smoothness of the rock slide under the Suspension Bridge, the city seems to be harbouring a number of oddities under the surface. This statement turns quite literal when it [...]

  • 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... Richard Hopkins from the Knotters Guild, in full flow with some eager visitors! The Underfall Yard Cafe was hugely popular throughout the weekend, with its stunning views and meals made fresh to order. Sam [...]