A new documentary by Nicola Explores
One of the most remarkable sights in Bristol Harbour is the majestic SS Great Britain — a towering Victorian iron ship with a story unlike any other. In my latest documentary, now live on YouTube, I take you deep inside this engineering masterpiece, from its groundbreaking launch in 1843 to its dramatic rescue from the other side of the world.
This isn’t just a story about a ship. It’s about ambition, shipwreck, and one of the most incredible restoration projects in maritime history.
Watch now:
A Bristol Icon — Built to Change the World
Designed by the legendary Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the SS Great Britain was the first iron-hulled, screw-propelled passenger liner in the world. When she launched, she was the fastest, largest, and most advanced ship on Earth.
She truly put Bristol on the map — and changed global travel forever.
A Personal Connection
Like many people growing up in the South West, I’ve been visiting the SS Great Britain since childhood. But this video is something different — a full documentary filmed over several visits between 2024 and 2025, combining modern footage, behind-the-scenes tours, and even home video from 1995, recorded by my dad.
We also had the chance to enjoy a Sunday Roast in the ship’s elegant dining saloon and meet a performer dressed as Brunel himself, bringing the story of this great innovator to life.
Abandoned, Then Rescued
One of the most powerful parts of the documentary is the ship’s dramatic downfall — abandoned in the Falkland Islands for decades before a daring rescue mission in 1970 brought her 8,000 miles back to Bristol. My dad still remembers watching her return.
Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the SS Great Britain Trust and the people of Bristol, this historic vessel has been beautifully restored and now stands as one of the UK’s best visitor attractions.
Watch the Full Documentary
Whether you’re a local Bristolian, a fan of history, or planning a visit, I’d love for you to watch the full documentary on my YouTube channel:
👉 Watch now on YouTube
(Or search “Nicola Explores SS Great Britain” on YouTube.)
Want a souvenir or print of the SS Great Britain? Shop now!
