Riverside Museum, Glasgow’s Transport Heritage at the Clyde
Discover Glasgow’s rich transport heritage through immersive exhibits and iconic vehicles in a stunning riverside museum by Zaha Hadid.
Riverside Museum in Glasgow is a striking, award-winning transport museum located on the banks of the River Clyde. Designed by Zaha Hadid, it showcases over 3,000 objects including vintage cars, trams, bicycles, and locomotives. The museum features immersive recreated Glasgow streets from the early 20th century and interactive exhibits, making it a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Admission is free, and the adjacent Tall Ship Glenlee adds maritime history to the visit.
A brief summary to Riverside Museum
- 100 Pointhouse Rd, Glasgow, Govan, G3 8RS, GB
- +441412872720
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan to spend 2 to 4 hours to fully explore the extensive exhibits and interactive displays.
- Visit the adjacent Tall Ship Glenlee for a complementary maritime history experience; separate admission applies.
- Parking is pay-and-display with hourly rates; consider public transport to avoid parking fees.
- The recreated Glasgow street scene is a highlight—take your time to explore the authentic shops and interiors.
- Interactive exhibits are great for families and children, offering hands-on learning and fun.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Number 100 bus from George Square or nearby stops, which runs frequently and reaches the Riverside Museum in approximately 20-30 minutes. The bus service is accessible and affordable, with single fares around £2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Partick train station, it is about a 20-minute walk along the River Clyde to the museum. The route is flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Train tickets vary but typically cost £3-5 from central Glasgow.
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Taxi or Private Hire
A taxi ride from Glasgow city centre to the museum takes around 10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £7-12. Drop-off is available at the front entrance for convenience, including disabled access.
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Car and Parking
Parking near the Riverside Museum is pay-and-display with charges ranging from £1.60 for 1 hour to £10 for 10 hours. Note that parking machines accept coins only. The car park is a short walk from the museum entrance.
Riverside Museum 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 Riverside Museum
Architectural Marvel on the River Clyde
The Riverside Museum stands as a modern architectural icon on Glasgow’s waterfront, designed by the acclaimed architect Dame Zaha Hadid. Its dynamic, curved forms and waterfront location at Glasgow Harbour create a visually stunning landmark that complements the city’s industrial heritage. Opened in 2011, the museum replaced the former Glasgow Museum of Transport and quickly became a flagship cultural venue, blending cutting-edge design with historical storytelling.A Journey Through Transport History
Inside, the museum houses a vast collection of over 3,000 objects that chronicle Glasgow’s rich transport and technological past. Visitors can explore an impressive array of vehicles, from early bicycles and skateboards to vintage cars, trams, buses, and powerful steam locomotives. Notable highlights include the South African Loco 3007, a massive steam locomotive built in Glasgow in 1945, and the Motorbike Wall displaying motorcycles spanning more than a century.Immersive Glasgow Streetscape Experience
One of the museum’s standout features is its meticulously recreated Glasgow street scene, spanning from 1890 to the 1930s. This atmospheric cobbled street is lined with authentic shops, houses, and a subway station, offering visitors a tangible glimpse into daily life in historic Glasgow. The immersive environment allows visitors to step back in time and contextualize the transport exhibits within the social and cultural fabric of the city’s past.Interactive Exhibits and Family Appeal
Riverside Museum is renowned for its engaging, hands-on displays that appeal to visitors of all ages. Guests can climb aboard trams, buses, and trains, operate interactive fire engines, and explore over 90 touch screens featuring films, images, and stories. This interactive approach makes it a popular destination for families, combining education with fun and encouraging exploration and discovery.The Tall Ship Glenlee: Maritime Heritage Nearby
Adjacent to the museum lies the Glenlee, a magnificent 19th-century three-masted sailing ship docked at Pointhouse Quay. The Glenlee offers an additional layer of Glasgow’s maritime history, with family-friendly exhibits about shipbuilding, restoration, and life at sea. While the ship requires a separate admission, it complements the museum visit perfectly, linking land and sea transport heritage.Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
The museum is fully accessible, featuring facilities such as accessible toilets and wheelchair-friendly access. It operates daily with opening hours generally from 10am to 5pm (11am start on Fridays and Sundays). Admission is free, though parking is pay-and-display nearby. Onsite amenities include a café and a gift shop. The museum’s location by the river offers scenic views and a pleasant environment for a day of cultural exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
1.5 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
1.9 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
2.0 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
The Sixty Steps
2.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
Fossil Grove
2.4 km
Explore Fossil Grove, a natural history museum in Glasgow showcasing ancient tree fossils and the wonders of our planet's prehistoric past.
The Tenement House
2.4 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
2.7 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
3.0 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
3.0 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Maxwell Park
3.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
3.2 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Tall Ship Glenlee
0.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Tall Ship Glenlee, a beautifully restored 1896 steel sailing barque and living museum of maritime heritage on the River Clyde.
Govan Old Church
0.4 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.
Visit West End
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow West End’s blend of historic charm, vibrant arts, independent shops, and lush green spaces in a lively cultural hotspot.
Fairfield Heritage
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s shipbuilding heritage in a beautifully restored historic building brought to life by passionate community volunteers.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
0.9 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End setting.
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.
Paddle Steamer Waverley
0.9 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1.0 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.
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.
Hunterian Zoology Museum
1.1 km
Discover the fascinating diversity of the animal kingdom at the University of Glasgow's historic Hunterian Zoology Museum.
Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow
1.2 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
1.2 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
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.8 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
0.8 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
1.3 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
Ox and Finch
1.3 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Bothy Glasgow
1.4 km
Experience creative Scottish cuisine with a modern twist in Glasgow’s vibrant West End at Bothy Glasgow.
Porter & Rye
1.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
Ubiquitous Chip
1.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s iconic Scottish dining landmark blending tradition, innovation, and lush ambiance in Ashton Lane’s historic heart.
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.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
1.4 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
1.4 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
1.4 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
0.7 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
1.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
1.2 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Oliver Bonas
1.4 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
1.5 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
Papyrus
1.7 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Amaryllis Westend
1.8 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
West Vintage
1.8 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
1.9 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.
2.0 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
Decadent Riot
2.0 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
2.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s ethical gift and art studio blending fair trade treasures with local creativity in a welcoming boutique setting.
Dead Famous Cities Ltd
2.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Dead Famous Cities Ltd in Glasgow - a treasure trove for every traveler looking for special souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smiddy Bar
0.6 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
0.8 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
0.8 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
0.9 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Aragon Bar
1.1 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
1.1 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 Thornwood Bar
1.2 km
Rustic-chic pub in Glasgow’s Partick offering elevated pub grub, cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Park Bar
1.2 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
1.3 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
1.3 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
1.4 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
1.5 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
Hillhead Bookclub
1.6 km
Retro cinema vibes meet quirky cocktails and ping pong in Glasgow's West End— a multi-level playground for drinks, bites, and unbeatable energy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
2.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
2.5 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
2.7 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
2.8 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
2.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
142B Lounge
3.0 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
The Savoy
3.0 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
3.1 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Kokomo Glasgow
3.1 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
3.1 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Popworld Glasgow
3.1 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
3.1 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Educational
- Interactive
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo 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
- Family Friendly
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
