Key Physical Features of the Docks

Question 1

Bristol Bridge
Middle Ages

Answer 1

It marks the early crossing point of the River Avon and the original confluence with the Frome. Though rebuilt many times , its location shows the development of the docks over time.

Question 2

Redcliffe Caves
Middle Ages

Answer 2

These man-made caves stored imported goods during the late Middle ages , indicating the large scale of international trade.

Question 3

St Augustine’s Reach
Middle Ages

Answer 3

Created in 1247 by diverting the frome , it allowed the port to expand. It’s now paved over , but historical street signs and buildings still mark its former presence such as the Quay Head.

Question 4

Broad Quay by Van Dyk
Early Modern Period

Answer 4

Painted around 1760 , it depicts a bustling port scene during the height of Bristol’s involvement in the slave trade , showing the trade’s scale and vitality

Question 5

Hotwells Spa
Early Modern Period

Answer 5

Developed by the merchants venturers society , it shows the wealth of the city in the Transatlantic slave trade (early modern period) as they had enough money to waste essentially.Built 1694, colonnade - 1786

Question 6

Queen’s Square
Early Modern Period

Answer 6

Constructed in 1699 at the height of the early modern trade , it housed wealthy merchants involved in trade , including mayors and privateers.The first US consulate in Britain opened there in 1792.

Question 7

New cut and Floating harbour
Industrial Period

Answer 7

Built 1804-1809 at a cost of £500,000, they solved tidal issues and allowed continuous shipping activity.These were key industrial improvements to preserve Bristol’s trade status and showed the lengths merchants went to.

Question 8

Fairbairn steam crane
Industrial Period

Answer 8

Installed in the 1870s to lift heavy cargo (up to 35tons), it reflects industrial efforts to compete with other ports . Only one of the original 5 remain.Also they werent used as often as large cargo went to Avonmouth.

Question 9

Bristol Harbour Railway
Industrial Period

Answer 9

Opened in 1872 , it connected the docks with temple meads and supported national trade distribution, fulfilling Brunel’s vision of linking London to the west.

Question 10

Arnolfini arts centre
Modern Period

Answer 10

Opened in 1975 , it marked the start of the docks regeneration into cultural and leisure district after the decline of industrial use.

Question 11

M-Shed
Modern Period

Answer 11

A museum opened in 2011 in the former industrial museum building , dedicated to Bristol’s people and history.It plays a central role in preserving and celebrating the city’s heritage.

Question 12

Wapping Wharf
Modern Period

Answer 12

Also opened in 2011, Wapping Wharf is a modern leisure area filled with independent shops and eateries.It symbolizes the final transformation of the docks into a non industrial zone.