Although I’ve now lived in Bristol for almost seven years there are still lots of places and things to do here I have yet to try. I think having a child helps you want to explore some of them even more have the time as you feel like you are doing something for them (even if you are enjoying them just as much yourself!). Sailing on the Matthew Bristol was one of those things we had spoken about sailing on ‘one day’ and never quite got around to it.
The Matthew Bristol
Let’s jump aboard a nautical adventure together – the mesmerising Matthew of Bristol. You know how I just adore sharing Bristol’s charming attractions with you, this one is a real nautical treat, steeped in history and bound to get you and the kiddos well and truly hooked!
First, let’s set our time compass to 1497. Picture Giovanni Caboto (John Cabot to you and me), at the helm of the original Matthew, setting sail from Bristol to ‘discover’ North America. Now anchored in Bristol Harbour, gleaming under the Bristol sun, you’ll find a modern replica of Cabot’s cherished vessel. It’s not just any old boat – the Matthew is a stunning, true-to-life image of our city’s maritime past.
We stopped for lunch first before boarding the Matthew ship Bristol at The Stable which is a restaurant on the harbour side that serves pizza and pies. mmmm pizza…
And then it was time to set sail! Stepping aboard the Matthew is a fabulous way to sneak in a fun history lesson while playing pirates with the kids! As you roam on its deck, feeling the harbour breeze in your hair, you’ll be spellbound by its authentic charm.
The sun started shinning just as soon as we set off and it was lovely to just sit back and take in some of the pretty views along the harbourside. Tom and Wilf headed up and down the ladder to the deck (I tried to follow them up there once but it was a bit too much for this pregnant mama!). We took the hour-long ride which was perfect I think for the attention span of a three year old, the hour felt like it went quickly too actually.
Of course, we mustn’t forget the marvellous crew. Full of stories and smarts on Bristol’s rich nautical history, they lend an infectious spark to the Matthew experience. How pretty is this city I live in? I just love it!