The Glenlee Propellers: Glasgow’s Maritime Legacy Embodied
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
The Glenlee Propellers in Glasgow are a striking historical landmark celebrating the city’s rich maritime heritage. These massive ship propellers, once part of the iconic Glenlee, a three-masted steel barque built in 1896, symbolize Glasgow’s shipbuilding prowess and global trading history. Situated in the Gorbals area, the propellers connect visitors to the story of a vessel that circumnavigated the world and trained generations of sailors, now preserved as a museum ship at the Riverside Museum.
A brief summary to The Glenlee Propellers
- 21 Thistle St, Glasgow, Gorbals, G5 9YN, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit alongside the Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship Glenlee for a comprehensive maritime heritage experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the impressive scale and craftsmanship of the propellers against the city backdrop.
- Check opening hours of nearby museums to plan a full day exploring Glasgow’s nautical history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the Glasgow Subway to the West Street station, then walk approximately 10 minutes through the Gorbals district to reach 21 Thistle Street. The subway runs every 6-10 minutes, and a single journey costs around £1.50 GBP.
-
Bus
Several bus routes serve the Gorbals area, including the 57 and 61 from Glasgow city centre, with a travel time of 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2.00 GBP one way. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evening service.
-
Taxi
A taxi from Glasgow city centre to the Glenlee Propellers takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay around £7-£10 GBP. Taxis are readily available but can be more expensive during peak hours.
The Glenlee Propellers location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Glenlee Propellers
Origins of a Maritime Giant
The Glenlee Propellers are remnants of the Glenlee, a steel-hulled, three-masted barque launched in 1896 from Port Glasgow. Built by Anderson Rodger & Co., this vessel was commissioned for Archibald Sterling & Co., a Glasgow shipping company. The Glenlee was designed as a cargo ship, trading under the Red Ensign, and was part of the flourishing shipbuilding industry that made Glasgow a global maritime powerhouse. Its robust steel construction and three masts were state-of-the-art for the era, enabling it to carry bulk cargoes such as coal, rice, and timber across the world’s oceans.A Vessel of Many Lives
Throughout its 20th-century career, the Glenlee underwent several transformations and name changes, including Islamount, Clarastella, and Galatea. After decades of cargo voyages circumnavigating the globe, it was acquired by the Spanish Navy in 1922 to serve as a sail training ship. The ship was modified extensively during this period, including the installation of a flying bridge and accommodations for hundreds of cadets. Decommissioned in 1962, the vessel fell into disrepair until the Clyde Maritime Trust rescued it in 1992, restoring its original name and heritage.Symbolism and Preservation
The propellers displayed in Gorbals serve as a tangible symbol of Glasgow’s shipbuilding and maritime trading legacy. These massive steel propellers, once powering the Glenlee through treacherous seas including Cape Horn, now stand as a tribute to the city’s industrial past and nautical achievements. The ship itself was restored and relocated to the Riverside Museum, where it continues to educate visitors about Glasgow’s seafaring history. The propellers complement this narrative, anchoring the story in the urban landscape.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
Located at 21 Thistle Street in the Gorbals, the Glenlee Propellers are accessible for public viewing and provide a unique photo opportunity against the backdrop of Glasgow’s river and cityscape. The site offers a quiet, reflective space to appreciate the scale and craftsmanship of maritime engineering. Nearby, the Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship Glenlee museum ship offer immersive experiences that deepen understanding of the region’s nautical heritage.Legacy of the Glenlee in Glasgow’s Identity
The Glenlee and its propellers embody Glasgow’s identity as a city shaped by shipbuilding and global trade. The vessel’s storied journeys, from cargo routes to naval training, reflect broader historical narratives of industrial innovation and cultural exchange. The preservation of the propellers and the ship itself highlights ongoing efforts to honor and maintain this heritage, connecting past generations with present and future visitors who seek to explore Glasgow’s maritime roots.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Glenlee Propellers
0.0 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.3 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.5 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.6 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.7 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
The Gatekeeper
0.8 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ramshorn Graveyard, a hidden gem in the heart of Glasgow, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Glasgow Green
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow Green: A Historic Urban Park with Stunning Landscapes and Cultural Attractions in the Heart of Glasgow.
The Lighthouse
0.9 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
0.9 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Glasgow City Chambers
1.0 km
A grand Victorian town hall in the heart of Glasgow, where civic power meets opulent architecture and free guided tours reveal the city’s proud history.
James Watt Statue
1.0 km
Discover the James Watt Statue in George Square, Glasgow - a tribute to innovation and the Industrial Revolution's pioneer, celebrating Scotland's engineering legacy.
Walter Scott Monument
1.0 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
George Square
1.0 km
Discover the essence of Glasgow at George Square, a vibrant hub of history, culture, and stunning architecture, perfect for your travel adventures.
Southern Necropolis
1.0 km
Explore the Southern Necropolis in Glasgow: A serene cemetery steeped in history, art, and nature, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
McLennan Arch
0.2 km
Historic sandstone archway marking the grand entrance to Glasgow Green, a timeless symbol of Glasgow’s architectural heritage.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
0.3 km
Explore Clutha & Victoria Bar in Glasgow, a lively pub offering live music, delicious pizza, and a warm Scottish atmosphere.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
0.4 km
Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew in Glasgow for an unforgettable experience of architectural beauty and spiritual serenity.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.5 km
An exquisite Georgian-era former church transformed into Glasgow’s premier cultural and event venue, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
0.5 km
Celebrate Glasgow’s beloved comedian Billy Connolly through this vibrant mural on Osborne Street, a highlight of the city’s renowned Mural Trail.
Murial of a man
0.5 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Britannia Panopticon
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
Gorbals
0.5 km
Historic Glasgow district blending rich immigrant heritage, striking architecture, and vibrant urban renewal on the south bank of the River Clyde.
Tron Theatre
0.6 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
St. Enoch Centre
0.6 km
Glasgow's vibrant shopping epicentre: fashion, food, films, and festive energy in the heart of St. Enoch Square.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.6 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Trongate
0.6 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
Barrowland Park
0.6 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
Street Art from The rebel bear
0.6 km
Explore the compelling street art of The Rebel Bear, Glasgow’s mysterious muralist blending social commentary with vibrant urban creativity.
St. Enoch Shopping Centre
0.6 km
Glasgow’s vibrant city-centre shopping and leisure destination with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options.
Essential places to dine
Mono
0.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Palmtree Kitchen - مطعم النخلة
0.6 km
Experience the rich, authentic flavors of Yemen with generous portions and warm hospitality in Glasgow’s vibrant Palmtree Kitchen.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
The Dhabba
0.7 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.7 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.7 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.7 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.8 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.8 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Saints of Ingram
0.9 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
The Italian Kitchen
0.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grab n Go convenience store
0.3 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Boots
0.3 km
Discover the best in beauty and health at Boots in Glasgow, your one-stop cosmetics shop for quality products and expert advice.
Shop local
0.4 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
0.4 km
Experience the best vaporiser shop in Glasgow at Bob's Bubbles, where quality meets expertise in a vibrant atmosphere.
Co-op Food - Glasgow - Crown Street
0.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Minted
0.4 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Social Recluse
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Pride of Glasgow
0.6 km
Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.6 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Shop Small in Glasgow’s iconic St Enoch Centre, where historic charm meets modern shopping under Europe’s largest glass roof.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.6 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
The Clydeside Collective
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
The Vintage Scene Glasgow
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style at The Vintage Scene, Glasgow’s premier vintage clothing shop in St Enoch Square.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Primark
0.7 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sharkeys Bar
0.2 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Brazen Head
0.6 km
A lively Celtic and Irish pub in the Gorbals, famed for match nights, football memorabilia and live music in an intimate, unpretentious setting.
Laurieston Bar
0.6 km
Glasgow's 1960s time-capsule pub: flawless pints, diverse crowds, and unyielding Southside soul in the heart of Gorbals.
Cairns Bar
0.7 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
Sloans
0.7 km
Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Home
0.7 km
Glasgow's go-to pub for live sports, craft cocktails, and hearty sharing plates in the vibrant Merchant City – where every visit feels like home turf.
Steps Bar
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.8 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Bar 91
0.8 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Pig 'n' Whistle
0.8 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
DnH Craft Cocktails
0.8 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.8 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Strathduie Bar
0.8 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.6 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Polo Lounge
0.7 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
0.8 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
0.8 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
0.8 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
AXM Glasgow
0.8 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Sub Club
0.8 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
0.8 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
La Cheetah Club
0.8 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.9 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
1.1 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
1.1 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
1.2 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
142B Lounge
1.2 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.3 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
