The Tall Ship Glenlee: Glasgow’s Historic Maritime Icon
Explore Glasgow’s iconic 1896 Tall Ship Glenlee, a fully restored steel sailing vessel and maritime museum celebrating the city’s rich shipbuilding heritage.
The Tall Ship Glenlee is a fully restored 19th-century steel-hulled three-masted barque moored beside Glasgow’s Riverside Museum. Built in 1896 on the River Clyde, Glenlee sailed global trade routes, surviving numerous Cape Horn storms before becoming a Spanish Navy training ship. Rescued from dereliction in 1993, it now serves as a museum ship showcasing Glasgow’s rich shipbuilding heritage and maritime history, offering visitors immersive access to its decks, cabins, and exhibits.
A brief summary to The Tall Ship Glenlee
- 150 Pointhouse Rd, Stobcross Rd, Yorkhill St, Glasgow, Govan, G3 8RS, GB
- +441413573699
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the ship’s decks, exhibits, and café.
- Wear comfortable shoes as some areas have steep stairs and narrow passages.
- Visit alongside the Riverside Museum to deepen your understanding of Glasgow’s maritime history.
- Check the ship’s schedule for any maintenance closures or special events before planning your visit.
- The ship offers partial wheelchair access with lifts and ramps, but some historic areas may have limited accessibility.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Glasgow Subway to Partick station, then a 15-20 minute walk along the River Clyde to Pointhouse Quay where the Tall Ship Glenlee is moored. The subway runs every 6-10 minutes with a fare of approximately £1.50-£2.50.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including numbers 3, 4, and 16, serve the nearby Yorkhill area with stops within a 10-minute walk of the ship. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with single fares around £2-£3.
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Car
Driving to the Tall Ship Glenlee is possible with public parking available near the Riverside Museum. Parking fees vary but expect £3-£6 for a few hours. Note that Glasgow city centre can be busy, and some roads near the quay may have restrictions.
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Walking
If staying in central Glasgow, a scenic 30-40 minute walk along the River Clyde waterfront leads to the ship, offering views of the city’s maritime heritage and modern architecture.
The Tall Ship Glenlee location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Tall Ship Glenlee
A Storied Vessel Born on the Clyde
Launched in December 1896 from the Bay Yard in Port Glasgow, the Glenlee was crafted by Anderson Rodger & Co. as a steel-hulled cargo barque for the Glasgow shipping firm Archibald Sterling & Co. Measuring 245 feet in length with a 37.5-foot beam, this three-masted ship was designed for long-haul bulk cargo transport. Over her early career, she circumnavigated the globe four times, enduring the treacherous Cape Horn storms fifteen times, carrying goods such as coal, timber, sugar, and guano to ports worldwide.Transformation and Naval Service
After changing ownership and names—including Islamount and Clarastella—the Glenlee was acquired by the Spanish Navy in 1922 and renamed Galatea. Converted into a sail training vessel, she was modified to accommodate up to 300 cadets, with structural changes like a flying bridge and additional rigging. Serving as a training ship until 1969 and later as a shore-based school, the vessel was eventually laid up in Seville Harbour, where she fell into disrepair.Rescue, Restoration, and Return to Glasgow
In 1992, the Clyde Maritime Trust purchased the ship at auction, bringing her back to Glasgow for extensive restoration. The work reversed many naval modifications, restoring her original cargo ship features and historic character. Since 1999, the Glenlee has been berthed alongside the Riverside Museum at Glasgow Harbour, preserved as a National Historic Fleet vessel and one of only five remaining Clyde-built steel sailing ships afloat worldwide.An Immersive Maritime Museum Experience
Visitors can explore the Glenlee’s four decks, including the captain’s quarters, galley, fo’c’stle, and cargo holds, gaining insight into the life of sailors and the ship’s operational history. Interactive displays and audio-visual exhibits enrich the experience, connecting guests to Glasgow’s shipbuilding legacy and global maritime trade. The ship also features a café and souvenir shop, enhancing its appeal as a family-friendly cultural attraction.Significance and Community Role
The Tall Ship Glenlee stands as a symbol of Glasgow’s maritime past and industrial prowess during the height of the Clyde shipbuilding era. It serves as an educational resource and community hub, hosting events and programs that celebrate maritime heritage. Its presence alongside the Riverside Museum creates a compelling narrative of the city’s relationship with the River Clyde and seafaring history.Preservation and Future Prospects
Ongoing conservation efforts ensure the Glenlee remains in excellent condition for future generations. The ship’s status on the UK Register of Historic Vessels and its designation as part of the National Historic Fleet highlight its national importance. The Tall Ship continues to inspire visitors with its majestic rigging, historic ambiance, and stories of adventure on the high seas.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
1.6 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
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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
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A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
The Sixty Steps
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Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
The Tenement House
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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
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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
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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
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Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
McLellan Galleries
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Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Maxwell Park
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Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
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Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
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Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
3.3 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
The Lighthouse
3.3 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Unmissable attractions to see
Riverside Museum
0.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s transport heritage through interactive exhibits and historic street scenes at the award-winning Riverside Museum on the River Clyde.
Govan Old Church
0.3 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.
Fairfield Heritage
0.8 km
Explore Glasgow’s shipbuilding heritage in a beautifully restored historic building brought to life by passionate community volunteers.
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.
Visit West End
1.0 km
Discover Glasgow West End’s blend of historic charm, vibrant arts, independent shops, and lush green spaces in a lively cultural hotspot.
Paddle Steamer Waverley
1.0 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
1.0 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End 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.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1.1 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.
Hunterian Zoology Museum
1.2 km
Discover the fascinating diversity of the animal kingdom at the University of Glasgow's historic Hunterian Zoology Museum.
Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow
1.3 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
1.3 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
0.6 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
0.7 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
0.9 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
0.9 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
1.4 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
Ox and Finch
1.4 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Porter & Rye
1.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
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.
Bothy Glasgow
1.4 km
Experience creative Scottish cuisine with a modern twist in Glasgow’s vibrant West End at Bothy Glasgow.
Ubiquitous Chip
1.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s iconic Scottish dining landmark blending tradition, innovation, and lush ambiance in Ashton Lane’s historic heart.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
1.5 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
1.5 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
1.5 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
0.8 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
1.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.4 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Oliver Bonas
1.5 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
1.6 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
Papyrus
1.8 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Amaryllis Westend
1.9 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
West Vintage
1.9 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
2.0 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.
2.1 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
Decadent Riot
2.1 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
2.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s ethical gift and art studio blending fair trade treasures with local creativity in a welcoming boutique setting.
McLay's Gift Shop
2.4 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smiddy Bar
0.7 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
0.9 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
0.9 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
1.0 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Thornwood Bar
1.1 km
Rustic-chic pub in Glasgow’s Partick offering elevated pub grub, cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Aragon Bar
1.2 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
1.2 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 Park Bar
1.3 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
1.4 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
1.4 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
1.5 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
1.6 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
Red Sky Bar
1.7 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
2.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
2.6 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
2.8 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Buff Club
2.9 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
The Plug Glasgow
3.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
142B Lounge
3.1 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
The Savoy
3.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
Club Tropicana & Venga
3.2 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Kokomo Glasgow
3.2 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
3.2 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Popworld Glasgow
3.2 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Cathouse Rock Club
3.2 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Sub Club
3.2 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
3.2 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
3.2 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
