Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel, Glasgow
Explore Glasgow’s transport heritage through interactive exhibits and historic street scenes at the award-winning Riverside Museum on the River Clyde.
The Riverside Museum in Glasgow is a captivating transport museum showcasing over 3,000 objects including vintage cars, bicycles, trams, and locomotives. Set on the banks of the River Clyde, it features interactive exhibits and a recreated 1930s Glasgow street scene, offering visitors a vivid glimpse into the city's industrial heritage and transport innovations. Entry is free, making it a popular, family-friendly destination.
A brief summary to Riverside Museum
- 100 Pointhouse Rd, Glasgow, Govan, G3 8RS, GB
- +441412872720
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the upper galleries for a unique vantage point to view large vehicles and exhibits from above.
- Take time to explore the recreated 1930s Glasgow street scene to experience the city’s past atmosphere.
- Parking is available nearby with fees based on duration; coins only are accepted at machines.
- The museum is fully wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with facilities including a cafe and accessible toilets.
- Although the tall ship Glenlee is currently under renovation and closed, it remains visible from the museum.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Accessible Toilets
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Parking
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Glasgow Central Station, take a train to Partick Station (approximately 10 minutes). From Partick, it is a 20-minute walk along the River Clyde to the museum. The route is mostly flat and accessible, with scenic river views. Trains run frequently with tickets costing around £3-£5.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the area around the Riverside Museum, including routes 26 and 76 from Glasgow city center. Travel time is approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Buses run regularly throughout the day, and a single fare costs about £2.50.
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Car
Driving to the museum is convenient with onsite parking available. Parking fees range from £3 for up to one hour to £10 for up to ten hours. Note that parking machines accept coins only. Disabled parking and drop-off points are located near the entrance.
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Taxi or Private Hire
Taxis and private hire vehicles can drop visitors off at the front entrance or beside the car park. This option is suitable for groups or those with mobility needs. Typical fares from Glasgow city center range from £8 to £15 depending on traffic.
Riverside Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Riverside Museum
Architectural Marvel and Riverside Setting
The Riverside Museum stands as a striking example of modern architecture designed by the acclaimed Dame Zaha Hadid. Its dynamic, angular structure sits prominently on the banks of the River Clyde in Glasgow’s Govan district, blending contemporary design with the industrial heritage of the area. The building’s layout thoughtfully enhances the visitor experience, with large open halls and panoramic windows that frame views of the river and the historic tall ship Glenlee moored nearby, although currently under renovation and not accessible.Immersive Transport Collections
Inside, the museum houses an extensive collection of over 3,000 objects related to transport and travel. This includes bicycles, vintage cars, trams, motorbikes, and steam locomotives, providing a comprehensive narrative of Glasgow’s role as a transport hub. One of the standout features is a recreated cobbled street scene from 1930s Glasgow, complete with period shops, houses, and a subway station, which immerses visitors in the city’s past daily life and industrial boom.Interactive and Educational Exhibits
The museum is designed to engage visitors of all ages with interactive displays and hands-on activities. These exhibits bring the stories of Glasgow’s transport innovations and the people behind them to life. Highlights include a conveyor belt display of over 250 ship models built in Clyde shipyards, with digital screens providing detailed information about each vessel. The museum also celebrates more recent transport milestones, such as the iconic Raleigh Chopper bicycle and Clive Sinclair’s C5 pedal car, complete with a C5 simulator.Visitor Experience and Facilities
Riverside Museum is fully wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with facilities including a cafe, gift shop, accessible toilets, and onsite parking. The museum is free to enter, encouraging a wide audience to explore Glasgow’s rich transport heritage. Visitors are advised to explore the upper galleries for unique perspectives over the main exhibition halls, enhancing the viewing of large vehicles and displays.Location and Surrounding Attractions
Situated at 100 Pointhouse Road in Govan, the museum is part of Glasgow’s vibrant West End cultural landscape. The nearby tall ship Glenlee, although under renovation, adds maritime context to the visit. The museum’s riverside location offers scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city center, making it an ideal spot for both education and leisure.Opening Hours and Admission
The Riverside Museum is open Monday to Thursday and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Fridays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free, though donations are welcomed to support the museum’s ongoing work. Parking is available nearby with a tiered fee system based on duration, and drop-off points accommodate disabled visitors for easy access. This museum is a must-visit for transport enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in Glasgow’s industrial and cultural history, offering a rich, immersive experience in a stunning architectural setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
1.5 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
The Clyde Arc
1.7 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Caledonian Mansions
1.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
2.0 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
The Sixty Steps
2.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
Fossil Grove
2.4 km
Explore Fossil Grove, a natural history museum in Glasgow showcasing ancient tree fossils and the wonders of our planet's prehistoric past.
The Tenement House
2.4 km
Explore The Tenement House in Glasgow, a museum that showcases the rich social history and culture of the city's working-class families.
Box Hub
2.5 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
Statue of Light and Life
2.6 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
The Glasgow School of Art
2.7 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
McLellan Galleries
2.7 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
3.0 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
3.0 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Maxwell Park
3.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
3.2 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Tall Ship Glenlee
0.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Tall Ship Glenlee, a beautifully restored 1896 steel sailing barque and living museum of maritime heritage on the River Clyde.
Govan Old Church
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s ancient Christian heart through the Govan Stones and a Victorian church set on a sacred site over 1,500 years old.
The Govan Stones
0.4 km
Explore the Govan Stones, a stunning collection of Viking-age carved monuments revealing the power and culture of medieval Strathclyde in Glasgow.
Railway Arches Murals
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
The Clydeside Distillery
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s whisky heritage revived at The Clydeside Distillery, where history, craft, and riverside charm blend into a unique tasting experience.
Visit West End
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow West End’s blend of historic charm, vibrant arts, independent shops, and lush green spaces in a lively cultural hotspot.
Fairfield Heritage
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s shipbuilding heritage in a beautifully restored historic building brought to life by passionate community volunteers.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
0.9 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End setting.
Glasgow Science Centre Tower
0.9 km
Experience Scotland’s tallest rotating tower with breathtaking panoramic views and cutting-edge engineering on the banks of the River Clyde.
Paddle Steamer Waverley
0.9 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1.0 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to world-class art, historic artifacts, and captivating exhibits in a stunning historic setting.
Glasgow Science Centre
1.1 km
Explore science hands-on with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and Scotland’s tallest rotating tower on the scenic banks of the River Clyde.
Hunterian Zoology Museum
1.1 km
Discover the fascinating diversity of the animal kingdom at the University of Glasgow's historic Hunterian Zoology Museum.
Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tennent's Byres Road, a quintessential Glasgow pub offering local brews and authentic Scottish hospitality.
The Lion and Unicorn Staircase
1.2 km
A dramatic Gothic Revival staircase guarded by stone lions and unicorns in the heart of the University of Glasgow’s West Quadrangle.
Essential places to dine
Fallachan Kitchen
0.5 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
Celino's
0.6 km
A lively Italian restaurant and deli in Partick offering authentic flavors and a bustling atmosphere with moderate prices.
Roastit Bubbly Jocks
0.7 km
A vibrant modern European restaurant in Glasgow’s Partick, celebrated for exceptional Scottish-inspired cuisine and warm, lively hospitality.
Eighty Eight
0.8 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Number 16 Restaurant
0.8 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Argyle House Restaurant
1.2 km
Modern British and European dining in Glasgow’s South Side with a stylish atmosphere and approachable prices.
The Gannet
1.3 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
Ox and Finch
1.3 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Bothy Glasgow
1.4 km
Experience creative Scottish cuisine with a modern twist in Glasgow’s vibrant West End at Bothy Glasgow.
Porter & Rye
1.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
Ubiquitous Chip
1.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s iconic Scottish dining landmark blending tradition, innovation, and lush ambiance in Ashton Lane’s historic heart.
The Finnieston
1.4 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
1.4 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
1.4 km
Cozy Finnieston basement bar serving top-tier pub grub, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly vibes in a shabby-chic haven with summer beer garden bliss.
Fanny Trollopes
1.4 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cut Price Gift Shop
0.7 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
Found
0.9 km
Discover unique and vintage-inspired homewares and lighting in the heart of Partick, Glasgow’s creative shopping district.
VELVET MOON
1.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Oliver Bonas
1.4 km
Discover joyful style at Oliver Bonas on Byres Road: eclectic fashion, sparkling jewellery, chic homewares, and gifts that brighten everyday life in Glasgow's creative West End.
Gallus Alice
1.5 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
Papyrus
1.7 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Amaryllis Westend
1.8 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
West Vintage
1.8 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
1.9 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Downstair Design Co.
2.0 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
Decadent Riot
2.0 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Ae Fond Kiss
2.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s ethical gift and art studio blending fair trade treasures with local creativity in a welcoming boutique setting.
Dead Famous Cities Ltd
2.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Dead Famous Cities Ltd in Glasgow - a treasure trove for every traveler looking for special souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smiddy Bar
0.6 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
Deoch An Dorus
0.7 km
Authentic Glasgow pub in Partick offering hearty fare, well-poured pints, and a lively sports atmosphere with friendly local vibes.
EightySix
0.8 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
0.8 km
A West End bar with dive‑bar energy, a large beer garden and DJs that keep the party rolling late into the night.
Dukes Bar
0.9 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Aragon Bar
1.1 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
The Islay Inn
1.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.
The Thornwood Bar
1.2 km
Rustic-chic pub in Glasgow’s Partick offering elevated pub grub, cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Park Bar
1.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.
The Ben Nevis
1.3 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom
1.3 km
Tank-fresh brews and a rotating craft tap list in a warm, industrial-chic taproom tucked on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.
Vodka Wodka
1.4 km
Quirky West End cocktail bar with an all-weather, multi-level beer garden and a colossal vodka list — casual, lively and unpretentious.
Curlers Rest Glasgow
1.4 km
Historic Byres Road pub pouring 25 draught beers amid exposed brick charm and open-kitchen Scottish fare in Glasgow's West End.
The Dirty Duchess
1.5 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
Hillhead Bookclub
1.6 km
Retro cinema vibes meet quirky cocktails and ping pong in Glasgow's West End— a multi-level playground for drinks, bites, and unbeatable energy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Educational
- Interactive
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Modern
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
