News / floating harbour
Redshank named one of UK’s flagships of the year
A narrowboat which has long been a familiar sight in Bristol docks has been named one of National Historic Ships UK‘s flagships of the year for 2026.
Redshank is now flying a special pennant from its masthead to mark the prestigious accolade.
The annual flagship awards “provide an opportunity to demonstrate and celebrate the value of historic vessels to the wider public”.
On Sunday, tours on Redshank – operated by Bristol Packet – will cost just £1 to mark her new flagship status and also to celebrate her 90th anniversary.
Built by WJ Yarwood in Northwich for the Grand Union Canal Carrying Co, Redshank originally transported cargo such as coal, timber and lime juice between Birmingham and London.
She has given tours around the Floating Harbour since 1974 and was converted to electric power in 2023, a pioneering conversion believed to have been the first of its kind for a passenger vessel of this type in the UK.
National Historic Ships’ flagships of the year ‘fly the flag’ for UK maritime heritage – photo: Martin Booth
Bristol Packet company director Luke Dunstan (above right) said Redshank is “a symbol of innovation and progress”.
Dunstan said: “This award honours the passion of everyone who has been involved with her.
“From contractors, engineers, office staff, catering personnel and the crews that have run her from day to day.
“Not to mention the hundreds of thousands of passengers that have enjoyed trips on board over the years.”
Redshank has not changed much in the 50 years she has been in Bristol but the docks certainly have – photo: Bristol Packet
Main photo: Martin Booth
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