Planning a vacation this spring? Why not enjoy a slice of genuine British history with a trip to an original 19th century ocean liner.

Located in the west of England in Bristol, there is no better time to visit the SS Great Britain following its success in the country’s tourism “Oscars”, reports the BBC.

Isambard Kingdom Brunel designed and oversaw the building of the famous liner in 1843 - a rich history that saw it take home first prize at the Enjoy England Awards for Excellence.

It shared first place with the famous Alnwick Catle in Northumberland and represents the attraction’s 12th major accolade.

A $22.6 million overhaul in 2005 saw the SS Great Britain revitalized and last year visitor figures hit 200,000.

On the ship’s first set of outings in 1843, it served as a liner, transport for those emigrating to Australia and even a troop carrier in the Crimean War.

SS Great Britain was the first propeller-driven ocean going steamship in the world.

Planning an overseas trip from the US? Make sure you have adequate travel insurance.