The Tall Ship Glenlee: Glasgow’s Historic Maritime Treasure
Step aboard the Tall Ship Glenlee to explore Glasgow’s maritime heritage on a beautifully restored 19th-century steel sailing ship.
The Tall Ship Glenlee is a beautifully restored 1896 three-masted steel sailing barque moored on the River Clyde in Glasgow. As one of only five Clydebuilt steel sailing ships still afloat worldwide and the only one in the UK, Glenlee offers visitors a rare glimpse into maritime history. Explore the captain’s quarters, cargo hold, and crew areas while learning about Glasgow’s shipbuilding heritage through immersive exhibits. The ship also features a café and gift shop, making it a captivating cultural attraction for all ages.
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 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 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
- Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the ship involves stairs and some narrow passageways.
- Visit the onboard café for refreshments and the gift shop for unique maritime souvenirs.
- Check the schedule for volunteer-led guided tours on Wednesdays for a deeper insight into the ship’s history.
- Combine your visit with the nearby Riverside Museum to experience Glasgow’s transport heritage.
- The ship is partially wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps available for most areas.
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 train or underground to Partick Station, approximately 15 minutes walk to the ship. Services run frequently throughout the day. No additional cost beyond standard fare.
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Car
Metered parking is available near the Riverside Museum, about a 5-minute walk from the ship. Expect to pay around £2–£4 per hour. Note that parking spaces can be limited during peak times.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve the Glasgow Harbour area, including the 3, 4, and 77 buses. Travel times vary from 10 to 25 minutes depending on starting point. Tickets cost approximately £1.80–£3.00.
The Tall Ship Glenlee location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The Tall Ship Glenlee
A Living Legacy of Glasgow’s Shipbuilding Glory
The Tall Ship Glenlee stands as a remarkable testament to Glasgow’s rich maritime and industrial past. Launched in 1896, this three-masted steel barque was built on the Clyde, a river synonymous with shipbuilding excellence. Measuring approximately 74.4 meters in length and 11.4 meters in width, Glenlee was designed primarily as a cargo vessel, embarking on long voyages transporting goods across the globe. Over its lifetime, it circumnavigated the world multiple times, connecting Glasgow to distant ports and cultures.From Cargo Ship to Naval Classroom
After decades of active service, Glenlee’s purpose evolved beyond cargo transport. It was later acquired by the Spanish Navy, where it served as a sail training ship for over 70 years, helping to build maritime skills for new generations of sailors. Threatened with scrapping in the early 1990s, the ship was rescued by the Clyde Maritime Trust and returned to Glasgow. A painstaking restoration process brought Glenlee back to its former glory, transforming it into a floating museum dedicated to preserving maritime heritage.Exploring the Ship’s Historic Spaces
Visitors to the Tall Ship Glenlee can wander through four decks filled with authentic shipboard environments. The captain’s quarters reveal the commanding officer’s living space, while the galley and fo’c’stle illustrate daily life for the crew. The cargo hold and tween decks provide insight into the ship’s working heart, now partially converted into a café and shop. The ship’s rigging and wheelhouse invite exploration, offering panoramic views along the Clyde and a tactile connection to the age of sail.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
While the ship retains many original features such as ladders and narrow passageways, modern adaptations including a lift and ramps make much of Glenlee accessible to visitors with limited mobility. Informative displays and audio guides enrich the experience, sharing stories of life at sea and Glasgow’s maritime legacy. The onboard café and gift shop add comfort and convenience, making the visit engaging for families, history enthusiasts, and casual tourists alike.Events and Community Engagement
The Tall Ship Glenlee is more than a static museum; it serves as a vibrant cultural venue hosting events, educational programs, and themed activities throughout the year. From maritime festivals to family treasure hunts and film screenings, the ship connects the community with Glasgow’s nautical past in lively and interactive ways. Managed by a dedicated trust, Glenlee continues to rely on public support to maintain this unique heritage asset.Setting on the Glasgow Waterfront
Moored beside the Riverside Museum in the lively Glasgow Harbour area, Glenlee complements the city’s broader celebration of transport and industrial history. The juxtaposition of the historic ship against the modern museum’s striking architecture creates a compelling riverside destination. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Clyde and the city skyline, making the Tall Ship Glenlee a memorable highlight of Glasgow’s cultural landscape.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
2.0 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
2.1 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
The Sixty Steps
2.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
The Tenement House
2.5 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
2.8 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Maxwell Park
3.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
3.1 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
3.1 km
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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Unique
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
- Panoramas
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
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly