David started by outlining the sources of the River Avon, Tetbury (Tetbury Avon) and the Frome, Dodington Park (home off Mr Dyson). The Avon had a great tidal range of 12m, which was good for bringing ships into and out of Bristol. However, not so good when offloading.

In 1804 William Jessop was asked to redesign the docks area and hence the New Cut and The Floating Harbour were created.

The Underfall Yard was the Control Point for the new docks. However, it initially had an Overfall Dam but this meant that the dirty water was left at the bottom in the harbour. Therefore, this was duly changed to an Underfall Dam as we have today. 4 large tunnels(sluices) under the Underfall Office to control the water and remove silt into the New Cut.

1872 seen new locks added with the Pump House providing the hydraulics to operate the larger gates. The railway was also introduced at this time with electricity coming later in 1900.

The return of the SS Great Britain in 1970 gave a new purpose for the docks as plans were afoot in the 60s to fill in the harbour.

The Underfall Yard today is open to the public and at certain times the engineering workshops as well. The workshops still have a great array of the old Victorian fittings as most items for the docks were made on site. This will include the blacksmiths tools and hearths together with the large machines that were originally steam driven. You can also see the Patent Slipway and Hydraulic Engine House.

The fire in 2023 mainly destroyed the Big Shed and it is hoped to have a replacement in the next 2 to 3 years.

David finished by taking questions, the Docks are 10m deep at its deepest point near the Yard!