The Mauretania Sign

One of the most iconic sights in Bristol is the vibrant neon Mauretania sign that lights up the bottom of Park Street. Installed in 1938, it was the city’s first moving neon sign, designed to promote the Mauretania bar and restaurant. This venue was uniquely furnished with original fittings from the famed ocean liner RMS Mauretania, creating a space that blended history with nightlife.

The RMS Mauretania, launched in 1906, was a symbol of luxury and speed, holding the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing for over two decades. During World War I, it served as a troop and hospital ship. After being decommissioned in 1934, parts of the ship were auctioned off. Some of its elegant interior, including African mahogany from the first-class lounge, found a new home in Bristol, thanks to wine merchant Ronald Avery.

The animated neon sign, with its depiction of the ship, moving waves, and steam, became a striking feature on Park Street. It represented the ship’s prestige and the innovation of the era. After falling into disrepair, the sign was restored in 2018 through community effort, using historical footage to revive its original animation.

Today, the Mauretania pub continues to be a cherished Bristol landmark. With its vintage decor and strong maritime ties, it hosts various cultural events and draws visitors with its unique atmosphere. The glowing sign remains a tribute to the city’s history and the grandeur of the ocean liner it honors.