MV Balmoral
ENTRY
Free
WHERE
Bristol
What it’s like
Wander a real ship in Bristol, make a paper sailboat on board and let the kids take the wheel as captain for a bit.
This is a proper ship you can climb about on, not a museum piece behind rope barriers. The site lists a card boat making session run in classes on board, so it's less "look but don't touch" and more sit down at a table and build something you can carry off with you. There's also an Easter egg trail listed, which is the sort of thing that turns a quiet wander into an actual mission for a six-year-old.
Kids get to play Captain on board too, which is exactly the bit they'll go on about afterwards. Entry is free, though donations are welcomed, and given what it costs to keep a ship like this afloat, it feels fair enough to drop something in the box.
Catering on site is mainly the bar, which is worth knowing if you're picturing a proper kids' menu with a high chair. There's a café and a gift shop as well. If you fancy more than a wander round, a guided tour or a group visit needs a phone call to Hugh or Polly rather than booking online.
Facilities
Plan your visit
Is it free to get in?
Yes, entry is free, though they do welcome donations to help keep the ship running.
Do we need to book ahead?
For a general visit you don't need to book. A guided tour or group visit needs a call to Hugh or Polly on 0117 329 0387.
What is there for the kids to do?
There's a card boat making session run in classes on board, an Easter egg trail, and the chance to play Captain on the ship.
What's available for food?
There's a café and a gift shop on board, though the bar is the main catering, so don't expect a full kids' menu.
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