News and events in Bristol Harbour

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

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.

Introducing our new Director and Harbourmaster

A smiling man wearing glasses and a white shirt. In the background, the harbour and colourful houses

David Lockwood joined Bristol Harbour Authority in the new year from the Port of Milford Haven where he was part of the Port Management team and the Statutory Harbourmaster of Milford Dock.

During his time there he looked after a wide range of projects including:

Transfer of Pilots by Helicopter
Capital Dredging Projects
Operation of the world leading Navigation Simulator

David is originally from the West Country and both him and his wife (with their full of energy Golden-doodle) welcome the opportunity to return to a part of the world that they know well and love, after a number of years working at sea and in Marine Management around the world.

David is an active member of the UK Harbourmasters Association as well as an Associate Fellow of the Nautical Institute.

Moorings at Capricorn Quay

Some boats in 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.

Moorings are undergoing installation of final utilities and will be open for summer 2026 bookings.

Events

Friday 10 to Saturday 11 July 2026, 10am to 5pm: BWSC Regatta

Sailing races will take place on both days, including a Head of Harbour race on Saturday from the Underfall Pontoon to the Arnolfini and back.

Mariners are advised to proceed slowly and show appropriate caution around all participating vessels.

Friday 17 to Sunday 19 July 2026: Bristol Harbour Festival

The Harbour Festival has emerging Bristol artists, established acts and international performers for 3 days of entertainment, supported by an on the water programme.

Event vessels will be moored on temporary pontoons at:

Canons Marsh
St Augustine's Reach
the Amphitheatre
Hanover Quay

Installation will begin 4 weeks before the festival and removed within 4 weeks after the event.

Vessels not participating may be required to relocate as directed by the Harbour Master.

There will be aquatic events throughout the festival period. Craft should expect wash from event activities and ensure adequate fendering. Vessels may be delayed for up to 20 minutes while events are underway.

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.