The Ship

Weather Deck

The upper deck looks today much as it did in 1845, when the very first passengers went aboard at the start of their voyage to New York. The deck space was divided into different areas for passengers travelling first, second and third class. Only passengers travelling first class were allowed to cross a white painted boundary line into an area behind the mainmast specially reserved for their use. Look out for the large glazed skylight in the centre of the deck where you can see the great engine wheel turning.

Steerage

Wander amongst the sound and smells of Steerage and imagine what life would have been like on a 60-day voyage to Australia. Discover some of the SS Great Britain’s most interesting stories – from Allan Gilmour, whose diary we hold in our collection, to Teresa Carrol, who gave birth on board!

Galley & Bakery

Listen out for bubbling pots and the singing chef, or try and spot a rat or two scurrying in the cupboards. Life must have been busy for the workers trying to feed up to 600 people a day!

Promenade Deck

As you explore the cabins of the Promenade Deck you can meet some of the passengers and crew who travelled in first class between 1845 and 1875, including the Ship’s surgeon and a passenger who set up a makeshift salon.

First Class Dining Saloon

Eavesdrop on Victorian conversations. The First Class Dining Saloon comes alive with the voices of passengers, taken from the pages of their diaries written onboard.

Engine

Get up close and marvel at a working replica of Brunel’s original 1000hp engine as you stand in the engine room above the three boilers on the deck below.

Wardian Cases

For the first time in 150 years plants are back on board the SS Great Britain!

Discover our bespoke Wardian Cases (mini Victorian glasshouses) on the ship’s weather deck and peek inside to view the plants that live within. Victorian steamships played a vital role in the global migration of plants and Wardian Cases were used to transport them around the world.