Accessibility

Built in 1896, Glenlee was not designed with accessibility in mind. While we strive to make as much of the ship as possible accessible, some areas cannot be modified without damaging the vessel’s historic fabric.

Accessibility on Glenlee

Lift Access: A lift is available on board. Visitors who require lift access are advised to call ahead to ensure a smooth visit.

Emergency Evacuation: Wheelchair users or visitors with mobility aids using the lift to access below decks must consent to being transferred to an evacuation chair in an emergency.

The tidal nature of the River Clyde can affect accessibility during extreme high and low tides, making the entrance and exit gangways steeper. Please keep this in mind when planning your visit.

Steep Staircases: Traditional ship staircases are very steep. Please hold on, and if necessary, descend the stairs backwards.

Movement: As Glenlee is floating, the ship can move with waves or winds. Please be aware of this and exercise caution while on board.

Slippery Decks: The wooden decks of Glenlee can become wet due to weather or maintenance. Please take care, especially when boarding with children.

Toilets: Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available on board.

Changing Places Toilet: While we do not have a Changing Places toilet, one is available next door at the Riverside Museum.

Our visual story is designed to help children and young people prepare for their visit. It contains text and pictures to ensure all visitors know what they may see and experience during a visit to the ship.

This is available here as a PDF.

If you require our interpretation in large-print format, this can be accessed through our free Bloomberg App.

Sensory Backpacks

As well as being exciting, a visit to Glenlee can be overwhelming for some of our younger visitors, particularly those with sensory perception conditions.

There are four backpacks available for families to use while onboard. Inside there are ear defenders, emotion cards, a soft animal toy and fidget toys. There is also a copy of our visual story included.

We require a deposit when picking up which will be returned when dropping off, once the contents have been checked.

To book one of these backpacks, please email learning@thetallship.com.