News and events in Bristol Harbour

News stories and events happening at Bristol Harbour and the surrounding area.

Bristol Harbour users survey results

Pink and purple flowers up close with the harbour in the background, little bee on one of the flowers

Thank you to everyone who took part in the Bristol Harbour users survey.

The survey received 30 completed responses from June 2025 to July 2026 and has given us valuable feedback on a range of harbour facilities and services.

pdf Summary of the survey findings and full results(135 KB)

We're currently reviewing the survey to make sure it's easy to complete and asks the questions that matter most to harbour users. We'll share an update once this work is complete.

We welcome feedback throughout the year. If you have not yet completed the Bristol Harbour users survey and would like to share your views, you can still do so. Your feedback helps us understand what is working well and where improvements can be made.

If you would like further information about the survey results, email harbour.office@bristol.gov.uk.

New floating ecospaces in place on Bristol Harbour

Some grass and earth floating on the water of the harbour. The backs of three people stood on the grass in also in the shot butonlyup to their shoulders

On Thursday 16 July 2026, two brand new floating wetlands were installed alongside the SS Great Britain and Cascade steps.

These floating ecosystems will provide vital homes for local wildlife, act as a nursery for young birds, and help improve water quality using the superpowers of wetland plants.

This project has been an incredible group effort, showing that nature solutions really are possible in large cities.

Funded by WWT, the wetland charity, in partnership with Planet Wild, and Bristol BID.
Built by Young people at Underfall Yard as part of Young Bristol's work placement programme and funded through the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority's Youth Guarantee Trailblazer programme.
Supported by Bristol City Council, WECA, Biomatrix Water, Avon Wildlife Trust and Star Yachts.

Robot technology tested in Bristol Harbour

yellow robot on the water, some boats in the background

An innovative autonomous robot developed by researchers at the University of Bath has been tested in Bristol Harbour to help map and understand what lies beneath the water's surface. Using sonar technology, the vessel scans the harbour bed and creates detailed maps in real time.

The maps help users identify objects of interest, spot underwater obstacles and features, and see which areas have already been surveyed. By providing a clearer picture of the underwater environment, the technology has the potential to make search and inspection activities safer, faster and more efficient.

The project highlights how cutting-edge robotics research from the University of Bath is being applied to real-world challenges in complex urban waterways such as Bristol Harbour.

Find out more about this robot technology

Harbour Walkway at Temple Quay: June 2026 update

A path running alongside the river, a stone bridge going over the path, some buildings in the background

Work on the Harbour Walkway in Temple Quay, which started in early 2023, is now close to being finished.

The new route will:

make it easier to walk and cycle along the harbourside and through the Temple Meads railway arches
link areas south of Temple Meads railway station with the city centre.
connect to other important routes, including the Bristol Mile, the River Avon Path and the Bristol to Bath cycle path

The project is on track to finish in early summer 2026. The walkway is planned to open in September, alongside the opening of nearby developments such as the University of Bristol's new campus building and the eastern entrance to Temple Meads station.

When the walkway is complete, the western arch of the Temple Meads viaduct will reopen to boats.

We recently welcomed the Institution of Civil Engineers to the site. We hope to host more group visits before the walkway opens to the public later this year.

Checks and repairs on Bristol Harbour structures

A river with a bridge at the end that's been taken apart. A bridge going over the river with a lorry on it.

Important survey and refurbishment work is taking place across parts of the harbour to help keep it safe, working properly and fit for the future:

At the Bristol Entrance Lock, specialist diving teams will carry out underwater surveys of the lock gates and nearby sluices. Much of this structure sits below the waterline, so problems are not always visible from the surface. The team will check for wear or damage to help engineers understand what maintenance or repairs may be needed.
At the Underfall Sluices, plans are underway for refurbishment works. The sluices play an important role in controlling water levels in the Floating Harbour. A specialist contractor has been appointed, and designs are being reviewed to make sure the upgraded system will operate safely and reliably.

Bristol City Council, Bristol Harbour Authority and engineering specialists KGAL are working together on both projects. The work will help us understand what needs fixing, reduce risks, and plan future maintenance to keep these historic harbour structures in good working order.

At this stage, we do not expect this work to disrupt boaters. We'll share any updates or new information on our local notices to mariners page.

Events

Sunday 20 September 2026: Omra model boat race

Model boat racing at Baltic Wharf.

Keep clear of the race area and pass slowly to minimise wash.

Saturday 26 September 2026: Charlton Farm Children's Hospice Charity Challenge

Small teams will paddle up and down the Baltic Wharf area.

Mariners should pass slowly and give due consideration to participating craft.

Saturday 17 October 2026: Bristol Canoe Club Sprint Regatta

Information to follow.