The Riverside Museum: Glasgow’s Tribute to Travel

By Niamh Cavanagh

The Riverside Museum located in the west of Glasgow has been one of the public’s favourite attractions for a number of years. The award-winning transport and technology museum created by Zaha Hadid Architects showcases everything from original trams, trains, cars, ship models, motor bikes, and more.  

First built in June 2011 and formally known as the “Transport Museum”, the striking wave shaped structure gives a reflection of the Clyde where Glasgow’s ship building industry once thrived.  

Inside the museum, you can explore and soak up the atmosphere of the streets of Glasgow from 1890 to 1930, visiting the shops, Subway station and architecture of the city. 

There are over 3,000 other objects related to transport including a car wall, which shows well-loved cars from over the years including Sir William Burrell's Rolls-Royce Phantom, an Isle of Arran postal van, a Porsche 911, and a BMW Isetta bubble-car. The Morris Mini, a 1960s classic also features in the museum alongside the iconic Ford Granada which was once a staple car for the Strathclyde Police in the 1980s.  

The 21-motor bike display covers over 100 years of different designs, from commuter bikes, off-roaders, super bikes, tourers and speedways. Not only does it present transport, but there is also several of Glasgow’s heritage items and stories including information on the engineering industry and essential household items at the time. This includes everything from records to prams and baby clothes.  

The museum is perfect for day trips and has something for everyone. With interactive screens and experiences to display Glasgow’s most famous transport links, the museum has it all. Outside, The Tall Ship Glenlee, a restored sailing ship can be spotted on the River Clyde and even toured.  

The Riverside Museum is open Monday, Thursday and Saturday from 10am till 5pm and on Friday and Sunday from 11am till 5pm. Admission into the museum is also free and a cafe and gift shop can be located inside. The museum offers excellent views of the riverside and is an ideal destination for families, history enthusiasts or anyone looking to expand their knowledge on Scottish transport.