Visit Us
Step aboard the historic SS Freshspring and delve into a unique maritime journey.
Season: April – September
Days: Sundays 11 am – 4 pm
Location:
Landivisiau Walk
Bideford
Devon EX39 2BX
Ample parking is available in the adjacent Riverbank long-stay car park, and the bus and coach stops are only 200 metres away along a level walk to the ship.
Admission:
Admission is free for all visitors; however, donations are greatly appreciated and help fund the ongoing preservation and educational work of SS Freshspring.
Step aboard this Sunday and experience maritime history for yourself.
No need to book—just come along, explore the ship, and say hello to our welcoming crew.
Please note that there are no refreshments or toilet facilities aboard the SS Freshspring, but both are available 100 meters from the ship.
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the main deck.
Accessibility:
We strive to make SS Freshspring accessible to all:
- Main Deck: Wheelchair accessible, suitable for most electric mobility vehicles.
- Lower Decks and Wheelhouse: Accessible only via steep steps and ladders; may not be ideal for visitors with limited mobility.
Virtual-Reality Experience:
On selected Sundays and at select events, we offer a virtual reality “walk” through the engine room, boiler space, and other hard-to-reach areas from the comfort of a chair on the main deck. The VR tour is open to all and is especially helpful for those with limited mobility who still want to explore parts of the ship that involve ladders or narrow companionways.
To find out the next dates for this immersive experience, ➡️ drop us a line
Members' Access:
Members are welcome to visit the ship during volunteer working days, typically held on Wednesdays. Enjoy a more personal, behind-the-scenes experience as you chat with our friendly team.
To ensure the best visit, please get in touch with us in advance to arrange access.
➡️ Become a Member for more exclusive access and benefits
Why SS Freshspring is a floating STEAM classroom
Step aboard a working steamship and you’re instantly surrounded by real-world Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Maths in action.
S – track heat turning into motion
T – roam hidden decks in VR
E – build pistons, then meet the real thing
A – create rivet rubbings & knot art
M – crunch the numbers that keep her moving
Our experienced team delivers curriculum-linked, hands-on sessions for KS1–KS4, SEN groups and post-16 learners—on board or in classrooms.
