Underfall Yard is our Charity Partner for 2026, celebrating the place that has kept Bristol's Floating Harbour alive for more than 200 years.
Since the creation of Bristol's Floating Harbour in 1809, Underfall Yard has played a vital role in keeping the harbour operational. Home to historic engineering, skilled craftspeople and working maritime businesses, it remains at the heart of one of the city's most remarkable pieces of industrial heritage.
Located at the western end of the harbour, Underfall Yard is where visitors can discover the story of how Bristol overcame one of its biggest engineering challenges. Faced with the constant build-up of silt, pioneering engineers including Isambard Kingdom Brunel developed innovative solutions that continue to influence the harbour's operation today. Many of the historic sluices, workshops and engineering features remain in use, making Underfall Yard one of the UK's most significant working heritage sites.
Throughout Bristol Harbour Festival 2026, Underfall Yard will be helping festivalgoers discover the hidden history behind the harbour they are enjoying, shining a light on the engineering, innovation and craftsmanship that have kept Bristol's waterfront thriving for generations.
As an independent charity, Underfall Yard Trust works year-round to conserve the site's historic buildings and machinery, support traditional maritime skills, operate its Visitor Centre and inspire future generations through education and events.
To find out more about Underfall Yard, plan a visit or support its work, visit underfallyard.co.uk.
