Access Guide

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Introduction

The Matthew of Bristol is a replica of the 15th-century caravel that John Cabot sailed from Bristol to Newfoundland in 1497. In 1997 she sailed across the Atlantic once more to mark the 500th anniversary of the historic voyage.
Today, The Matthew is a much-loved part of Bristol’s maritime heritage with a busy schedule of public boat trips, private charters and film and festival work. She is an ideal place to start your exploration of Bristol's harbourside and is a unique location for your special occasion, corporate event or school trip.
The Matthew is free of charge to visit – go on board to explore and have a chat with the knowledgeable guides.

For information about the opening hours please click here.
March - November: 10:00-16:00, Tuesday to Sunday December - February: 10:00-16:00, Saturday and Sunday.

Public Car Parks View
- There is a car park for public use within 200m (approx).
- The name of the car park is Wapping Wharf Car Park.
- The car park is located Wapping Road.
On Street Blue Badge Parking View
- On street marked Blue Badge bays are not available.
On Street Standard Parking View
- Clearly signed and / or standard marked parking bays are not available.
Drop-off Point View
- There is not a designated drop off point.

Comments View
- There is non-stepped access to the gangway at all states of the tide.
- The gangway entry is level at some points of the tide but it is usually sloped.

Comments View
- Motorised scooters are allowed depending on the size and type.
- Please contact the venue for more details.

Steps View
- The floors which are accessible by stairs are the forecastle and quarterdeck.
- There are 9 steps between floors.
- The steps are not clearly marked.
- The steps are deep (18cm+).
- The steps do have handrails.
- There is not a landing.
Other View
- The area(s)/service(s) on the floors which are not accessible is/are raised decks at the front and rear of the ship.

Steps View
- There are 12 steps between floors.
- The steps are not clearly marked.
- The steps are medium (11cm - 17cm).
- The steps do not have handrails.
- There is not a landing.
- The lighting levels are medium.
Other View
- The area(s)/service(s) on the floors which are not accessible is/are the lower deck.
Comments View
- There are no handrails but there are hand grips on both sides of the ladder. (Photograph 3).

Availability and Location of Standard Toilets View
- Standard toilet facilities are available.
Access to Standard Shared Toilet(s) View
- The shared toilets that were surveyed are located on the lower deck.
- The shared toilet(s) is/are approximately 4m (4yd 1ft) from the ladder.
- Inside the venue, there is not level access to the shared toilet(s).
- Lighting levels are medium.
Comments View
- There are two unisex toilets on the lower deck.
- Toilets are available to passengers when the ship is sailing.