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Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship, Glasgow

A vast, vibrant mural celebrating Strathclyde University’s maritime heritage and Glasgow’s rich history through stunning street art.

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The Strath Wonderwall Mural, also known as the Land Ship, is a striking and expansive mural located at 50 George Street in Glasgow. Celebrating the University of Strathclyde’s 50th anniversary of its Royal Charter, this artwork spans over 1,000 square meters and depicts a historic mock navigation bridge once used to teach compass adjustment. It combines artistic brilliance with deep local maritime heritage, making it a unique cultural landmark in the heart of Glasgow.

A brief summary to Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship

  • 50 George St, Glasgow, G1 1QE, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the mural’s vivid colors and intricate details.
  • Combine your visit with nearby historic sites like Glasgow Cathedral and the St Mungo Museum.
  • Look closely for subtle cultural references within the mural, including nods to Doctor Who.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the mural is part of a larger walking trail through Glasgow’s city center.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take Glasgow Subway to St Enoch Station, then walk approximately 7 minutes along pedestrian-friendly streets to 50 George Street. Subway services run every 5–10 minutes, with a single fare costing around £1.80 GBP.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes serve George Street from across Glasgow city center, including routes 3, 4, and 6. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on starting point. Tickets cost approximately £1.80–£2.00 GBP. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends.

  • Walking

    From Glasgow Central Station, it is a 15-minute walk to the mural through flat, well-paved urban streets. The route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, with plenty of street crossings and pedestrian zones.

Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship

A Tribute to Strathclyde University's Heritage

The Strath Wonderwall Mural, often called the Land Ship, is a monumental street art piece that honors the University of Strathclyde’s significant contributions and history. Created in 2014 to mark the 50th anniversary of the university’s Royal Charter, the mural covers more than 1,000 square meters across several building facades on George Street. It celebrates the university’s maritime and scientific achievements, particularly highlighting the School of Navigation’s legacy.

Artistic Vision and Symbolism

The mural vividly depicts a mock navigation bridge that was once installed on the roof of the School of Navigation in the Royal College. This bridge was used as a teaching tool for compass adjustment and nautical astronomy, featuring instruments like the Kelvin compass and the Dansken equatorial telescope. The artwork’s design draws inspiration from a 1913 photograph, blending historical accuracy with artistic creativity. Its selective use of color and perspective creates a dynamic visual narrative that connects Glasgow’s industrial past with its academic present.

Location and Surrounding Context

Situated at 50 George Street, the mural lies near Glasgow’s historic core, close to landmarks such as Glasgow Cathedral and the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art. The location itself is part of a vibrant urban environment that mixes heritage with modern city life. The mural acts as a cultural gateway, inviting visitors to explore Glasgow’s rich maritime history and the university’s role in shaping it.

Community and Cultural Impact

Beyond its artistic value, the Strath Wonderwall Mural fosters community pride and serves as a visual celebration of local identity. It was created by renowned artists Rogue-One and Ejek, in collaboration with Art Pistol, and has become a focal point for Glasgow’s mural trail. The mural also includes subtle nods to popular culture, such as a depiction of the T.A.R.D.I.S., linking the university archives to the legacy of Verity Lambert, the founding producer of Doctor Who.

Experiencing the Mural

Visitors to the mural can appreciate its scale and detail up close, with the artwork’s expansive length stretching across multiple building gables. The mural’s vibrant colors and intricate design invite prolonged viewing and reflection on Glasgow’s maritime and academic heritage. Its urban setting offers a lively backdrop, blending the energy of city life with the contemplative nature of public art.

Preservation and Legacy

Maintained as part of Glasgow’s cultural assets, the Strath Wonderwall Mural continues to inspire both locals and visitors. It stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to celebrating its history through contemporary art, ensuring that the stories of navigation, education, and innovation remain visible and celebrated in the public realm.

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