Heritage Grants
The SS Great Britain is a unique ship of national and international importance.
When it was launched in 1843, it represented the cutting edge of maritime technology. The ship's iron hull and steam-driven propeller challenged the conventions of the age and increased the pace of innovation in ship design.
One hundred and fifty years later its hull was under attack from aggressive corrosion, so this major conservation project was launched.
From stabilising the hull to recreating the original décor, the project has given SS Great Britain a new lease of life.
New visitor and education facilities were developed to enable as many people as possible to visit the ship and learn about the stories of the people involved in its history.
The ship now forms the centrepiece of the historic Great Western dockyard and an exciting maritime visitor attraction.
The project not only secured its proper conservation but also made the SS Great Britain truly accessible to a wider audience. In the first 12 months following the redevelopment, the attraction received an extra 100,000 visitors – proof of its success with both locals and visitors alike.
