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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.

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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
  • Environment icon 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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • Weather icon Any Weather
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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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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.

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