Whistling in the Victorian pissoir

22 May 2013

Blog

22 May 2013

Blog

Discover the interesting story of the pissoir located in the Great Western Dockyard at Brunel's SS Great Britain.

Eavesdrop on dockworkers whistling and muttering as they ‘spend a penny’ in this lively addition to the Great Western Dockyard.

Having stood in the dockyard since at least the early 20th century, our beautifully restored Victorian pissoir has been furnished with a cheeky soundscape that promises a family friendly brand of toilet humour. The soundscape, triggered when visitors pass a sensor, provides some light relief.

It also draws attention to the craftsmanship of the 130 year old pissoir; one of just two made by James Allen Snr & Son of Glasgow remaining in the world.

The other is situated beneath Sydney Bridge in Australia.

It is tribute to a time when even functional public fixtures were designed with pride and flair, not just bog standard pragmatism.

Stay Up To Date

Sign up to our e-newsletter to hear the latest news from the ship
Sign Up