Spanning two centuries, from the mid 19th to early 20th, the River Clyde in Glasgow was the undisputed centre of world shipbuilding, producing many of the largest, fastest and most beautiful vessels ever built.
The greatest of the Glasgow yards was Fairfield, founded over 150 years ago, which sprang from the genius of a small group of Scottish engineers who designed super-efficient marine engines that enabled ships to travel farther and faster than any previously. Requiring less coal and able to carry more passengers, they transformed global sea transportation. The Clyde's record-breaking Atlantic Greyhounds were effectively the Jumbo Jets of their age.
The prestigious former Fairfield headquarters building is now a Heritage Centre telling the remarkable and enduring story of shipbuilding on the Clyde, incorporating not only exhibits surrounding the building of the ships but also exploring the lives of the people who worked in all aspects of the shipbuilding process.
Open week days 1pm - 4pm (last entry). Open on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th May for the Festival of Museums and Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September for Doors Open. Evening tour last Thursday of the month May to September (booking via Eventbrite or amorris@govanworkspace.co.uk). Check website for openings on public holidays and holiday periods www.fairfieldgovan.co.uk
