SS Great Britain to be transformed in major new light and sound installation

SS Great Britain in Bristol is set to dazzle visitors this festive season with a ‘breathtaking’ new light and sound installation.

Beneath the Waves, by artists Squidsoup, will transform the ship's historic dry dock into an immersive underwater dreamscape.

Running from November 27 to January 4, the installation will feature hundreds of suspended orbs that trace the SSGreat Britain's epic voyage from icy northern waters to sun-drenched distant shores.

As visitors wander beneath the hull of Brunel's iconic vessel, waves of colour and sound wash over them, voices of crew and passengers drift through the space, and distant sounds of far-off lands emerge as the journey unfolds.

The installation represents a departure from the site’s traditional Victorian Christmas programming, and is the first major installation at the site since Iron Island in 2021.

Andrew Edwards, chief executive of SS Great Britain Trust, said: “We're thrilled to collaborate with Squidsoup on Beneath the Waves.

“It’s a truly spectacular installation that marks an exciting new chapter in SS Great Britain’s story - this bold programming reflects our commitment to engaging audiences in fresh, innovative ways while honouring our maritime heritage.”

The light installation is free with general admission to SS Great Britain.