Top 10 Victorian Christmas Experiences

Gather your friends and family for a voyage back in time to the heart of a Victorian Christmas at Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Read on for the top 10 magical experiences for our Victorian Christmas Weekends 2023.

1. Play in the falling snow
   While we might not have any of the real stuff in Bristol this Christmas, our dockyard will be transformed into a winter wonderland with falling snow and festive greenery.
   
2. Meet Old Father Christmas
   In his traditional green robes. If you are on the Good List, he may even give you a chocolate coin. Find out why he’s green.
   
3. Watch a performance from Spicebox (9-10 December)
   Discover mysterious objects hidden within Spicebox. Brought to the dockyard by Bristol-based Puppet Place, expect songs, interactive games and puppets!
   
4. Enjoy a festive treat
   Feast on delicious mince pies, mulled wine and warming beverages from our Victorian street vendor.
   
5. Explore sights, sounds and smells
   As you wander the ship, notice the scent of Christmas pudding and admire the traditional handmade decorations adorning the cabins and First Class Dining Saloon.
   
6. Find the perfect Christmas gift
   From a Mr Brunel decoration to an exclusive SS Great Britain Christmas jumper, there’s something for everyone in our shop.
   
7. Sing along to carols
   Listen to local community choirs singing traditional carols and spreading Christmas cheer throughout the dockyard.
   
   
8. Encounter Ragged Victorians (2-3 December)
   Meet characters from the past and hear their tales about living on the edge of Victorian society as we see the return of award-winning living history group, The Ragged Victorians.
   
9. Indulge in an Afternoon Tea
   Make your day out extra special with a delicious Afternoon Tea, served in the First Class Dining Saloon. Book online here.
   
10. See new costumed performers (9-10 December)
    Be the first to see our costumed performers dressed in new, bespoke Victorian outfits from Bristol Costume Services. Offering a sneak peek into the future as we prepare to be “fully dressed” with more live costumed interpretation coming in 2024 – in partnership with Bristol Improv Theatre and BIPA.
    

Our Victorian Christmas Weekends will take place on 2-3 and 9-10 December. Book ahead online to avoid disappointment. Those with annual tickets already can attend for free!