News and events in Bristol Harbour

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

Bristol Harbour awash with festive cheer

Vessels, large and small were decorated with lights and festive decorations at the illuminated parade of boats on Bristol Harbour, on Saturday 13 December.

Thank you to a local resident who captured this footage of the passing parade setting off from Underfall Yard.

National Historic Ships UK awards

Balmoral in harbour

Filmed in Bristol, the National Historic Ships UK Awards features special content from joint hosts, SS Great Britain, M Shed, Underfall Yard and Bristol Community Ferry Boats.

National Historic Ships UK's (NHS-UK) annual awards are a celebration of maritime heritage around the UK.

They encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to engage with historic vessels through photography, volunteering, conservation, online activities, and skills-based training.

Watch the National Historic Ships UK Annual Awards 2025 on You Tube

We're in a book!

If you're curious about the history of UK harbours, you'll find Bristol Harbour featured in a newly published book: Harbours and their masters by Mark Ashley Miller.

The Bristol Harbour team were pleased to contribute to the book, sharing insights into the workings and rich history of Bristol Harbour.

Bristol Harbour helps boaters after Kelston lock closure

Winter Moorings boats

After Kelston Lock in Saltford closed unexpectedly in September, the team at Bristol Harbour quickly stepped in to help. They've made space for extra boats needing somewhere safe to stay over the winter.

Harbour staff have worked hard to manage the extra demand for winter mooring and keep everything running smoothly and safely. Bristol Harbour authority is committed to supporting boaters when faced with unexpected disruption.

Capricorn Quay

capricorn quay 1000 x 350

Floating Ecosystems provide a green sanctuary in Bristol Harbour

New mooring at Capricorn Quay

Some mooring platforms on the harbour, water in the background and some buildings

New mooring have been installed at Capricorn Quay to allow even more boaters to visit and stay in Bristol Harbour.

The pontoons are being equipped with final facilities, including a floating cabin with a composting toilet.

Keep an eye on this page for updates on the opening date.

Birdman competition

Birdman event 1000 x 350

The first ‘Birdman' competition to take place in Bristol was a success with thousands lining the harbourfront.

The spectacle on 15 June saw people in homemade contraptions try to 'fly' as far as possible from a raised platform into the water.

The event was great fun with some incredibly clever themed costumes and has raised more than £10,000 for the youth charity Grassroots Communities. Bristol Harbour Team also took part in the competition.

Unfortunately there was very little ‘flying' from the team but a lot of ‘falling' and of course plenty of laughter!

Events

The Bristol Birdman: Sunday 14 June 2026

The Bristol Birdman sees teams building flying machines powered by people, using only recycled materials. The teams then launch off a platform into the harbour, in front of thousands of cheering fans. The event is fun, creative and all for a good cause.

Take part, or find out about sponsorship opportunities on the Grassroots website.

Dragon Boat Race: Sunday 28 June 2026

The Dragon Boat Race has up to 36 teams taking part in heats, semi-finals and a grand final. Each crew raises money by getting sponsorship. The organisers provide the boats, paddles, life jackets and expert instruction.

Find our more and enter a team on the Bristol Rotary Dragons website.