Pirates and Prejudice

This guided walk, created by Bristol Radical History Group and the Long John Silver Trust in partnership with M Shed, delves into the city’s colourful maritime past – from smugglers and slavers to pirates and privateers.

It challenges popular myths and uncovers little-known stories behind figures like Blackbeard and William Dampier, alongside fictional icons such as Long John Silver. Discover Bristol’s literary links to Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe, Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels, and Coleridge’s Rime of the Ancient Mariner.

Highlights include the Gibb – once visited by Samuel Pepys and rumoured site of pirate executions – and Queen Square, home to privateer Woodes Rogers. In King Street, the guide draws connections between Treasure Island and real Bristol locations including the Llandoger Trow, Welsh Back, the Hole-in-the-Wall, Redcliffe Caves, and Bathurst Basin.

Set against the backdrop of ancient hostelries and historic quaysides, this walk offers a quirky and compelling journey through Bristol’s radical and literary maritime heritage.

Timings & Tours

Friday 12 September:

1100

Location & directions

M Shed, Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol, Bristol, BS1 4RN

Contact on day:

M Shed Welcome Desk

Telephone number:

+441173526600

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking preferred

Booking conditions:

Pre-book or turn up on the day. See M Shed's What's On page for details.

Booking website:

https://www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed/whats-on/

Alternative booking website:

https://www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed/contact-museum/

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

30

Est. tour duration:

2 hour(s) 0 minute(s)

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