Maritime Heritage at The Tall Ship Glenlee in Glasgow
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Overview
Discover the story of Glasgow’s seafaring past aboard the historic Tall Ship Glenlee. With immersive tours and nautical tales, it's a must-visit for maritime history lovers.
General Admission
For all ages! • 40 Minutes • Built in 1896
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About This Adventure
Explore the Tall Ship Glenlee, a historic vessel with over 127 years of captivating stories. Once a cargo ship and now a naval classroom, it offers a unique blend of maritime heritage and learning. Enjoy self-guided tours, a cozy café, and a shop filled with nautical treasures in Glasgow.
Duration: No limit. Average length of visit is 40 minutes.
About
From a British cargo vessel, an Italian ship of mystery, to a sail training icon of the Spanish Navy, the Tall Ship Glenlee has adapted to many changes over a 127 year history.
The sail-powered cargo vessel circumnavigated the globe several times, underpinned by the famous Clydebuilt steel hull that has far outlived the original purpose when the ship found new life as a naval classroom for building maritime skills for over 70 years in Spain.
Threatened with scrappage, the Clyde Maritime Trust bought the ship with an ambitious restoration plan in 1993, which has enabled a new life for the ship in Glasgow. The Tall Ship Glenlee continues to share stories of the people and places of the ship while providing a unique space for learning, heritage and entertainment in the city.
Highlights
- Over 127 Years of history
- Great for all ages
Includes
- Access to ship
- Self guided tour
Facilities
- Our cafe serves hot and cold drinks and refreshments. Hot food service finishes 60 minutes before closing time.
- Our shop sells a range of nautical gifts and Glenlee souvenirs.
- Toilets are available including disabled and baby changing facilities.
- There is a lift for disabled access however please be aware it does require constant maintenance. Please call ahead of your visit to ensure it is in service if you require it. Please see the Accessibility page for more information.
- Guide and assistance dogs are welcome onboard.
Important to Know
We do have an accessible lift on board but it’s unfortunately very temperamental. We advise anyone coming on with a wheelchair to call ahead to check if its working. Also something to bear in mind is the River Clyde is tidal and therefore our gangways accessing the ship may be quite steep and difficult for prams or wheelchairs.
Meeting Point
The Tall Ship Glenlee
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The ship has many decks and narrow passageways, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Visit early in the day
Arriving in the morning ensures fewer crowds and more time to explore the vessel thoroughly.
Bring a camera
The ship offers excellent photo opportunities of Glasgow’s skyline and the Clyde River.
Check tour times
Verify tour availability ahead of visit to maximize your experience on guided or self-guided tours.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seagulls
- Cormorants
History
Glenlee was built in Glasgow and has served as a cargo vessel across continents before becoming a museum ship.
Conservation
The vessel is carefully maintained with eco-friendly preservation practices to minimize environmental impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Glasgow
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for exploring the ship’s decks and interiors comfortably.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the ship’s beauty and scenic views of the Clyde.
Light jacket
Weather can be unpredictable near the river, so bring a light layer.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your visit.