Shipshape & Bristol Fashion Tour Manager Report

The cruise was excellent with a very informative and humorous commentary. The group then had time to wander around and grab some lunch. There were a large choice of eateries on Wapping Wharf and the Bristol Steam Packet has its own floating café (The Greenshank) which adjoins the boarding pier. Very good and reasonably priced. Our afternoon visit to the SS Great Britain was a great success. We were met by one of their volunteer guides (Alan) who gave us an introductory talk on the ship. He then offered to show us round the ship, however he was not allowed due to limited space and social distancing issues in the ship. Alan then boarded the ship and met individual “bubbles” at strategic points on the vessel and answered many questions. A very pleasant meal again in the hotel brought the day to an end. DAY THREE (SATURDAY 05.09.20)

A leisurely breakfast surrounded (socially distanced of course) by Everton Ladies Football squad and their entourage. We then met John and Nick who were to be the driver and conductor of our vintage coach for the next two days. The coach (a 1948 Bristol) proved very popular. John gave a talk about the history of the bus and also answered many questions over the next couple of days about all aspects of transport around Bristol. The trip around Aerospace was well received especially the Concorde exhibition. The allotted time of 3 ½ hours was probably a bit too long as all the group were ready, fed and watered about thirty minutes before our scheduled departure. Consequently we left early and made our way to the area of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Here a local historian Peter Davey gave us an informative talk on the Clifton Rocks Railway. He also showed the group an original commemorative medallion struck for the opening of the bridge in 1864. We then utilised our free time to walk across the bridge and surrounding park. An earlier arrival back at the hotel allowed the group extra time to visit the old centre of Bristol. Another pleasant dinner. And so to bed!