Some of the finest ships in the world with the most interesting stories attached were constructed here in Bonnie Scotland. Highly skilled craftsmen built some of the world’s most decorated ships here, like the Cutty Sark, the Lusitania, HMS Hood, the Queen Mary and the QE2. More important than where they were built was how and soon the phrase Clydebuilt not only described the place of construction but the engineering, quality and craft that went into them. We are delighted to see the return of the Clydebuilt Festival to Glasgow on the 1st & 2nd of September this year celebrating our maritime history. There are activities on the Clyde and on the shore with free entry and something for all ages to enjoy. Book your festival accommodation in PREMIER SUITES Glasgow today to avoid disappointment.
On Shore
If you’re not comfortable entering a sailing race or just haven’t got your sea legs yet, there is lots to do on shore at this family-friendly festival. Try your hand at outdoor survival skills, traditional crafts, building techniques, or on-land rowing – skills you may not have the chance to try in person before. Or you can leave the work to the professionals and browse the collection of handmade, local products at the Clydebuilt Market. Visit the Tall Ship Glenlee and enjoy live pirate action, sea monsters and pirate stories, sea shanties and ceilidh acoustic sets, and much more. Fill your boots with food from some of Glasgow’s best food vendors or grab a cup of grog from the Clydebuilt Bar
On Water
Have you ever heard of ‘Castle to Crane’? It’s Scotland’s biggest open water rowing race, where more than 80 boats race from Dumbarton Castle to the Finnieston Crane. Teams from around the world show up in Glasgow to compete to be the first to cross the finish line, winning the Meridian Cup and the glory and admiration that comes with first place. Boats of all shapes and sizes enter this thrilling race so if you have a vessel sitting at home, there is still time to enter!
On day 2 — enter the dragons! Fierce Glasgow teams battle it out to become the Dragon Boat Racing Champions and win the coveted Dragon Trophy. Teams of up to 10 paddlers plus a drummer will navigate traditional 30ft ornate boats in a thrilling race down the River Clyde. Full training is provided on the day so anyone can take part. Fancy dress is encouraged and rewarded so come dressed as wacky as you like.
If you’re adventurous but not organised enough for either of the races, why not dip your toes in the water with a canoeing, kayaking or rowing taster session? Training and good humour are essential for these activities and both will be available on the day. There are sessions for all ages and abilities so the whole family can enjoy it. If you don’t want to get involved, watch the races from a vantage point along the river and soak up the atmosphere.
Accommodation for Clydebuilt Festival
The city is sure to be packed with visitors and locals over this very special weekend but luckily, PREMIER SUITES Glasgow George Square has a limited number of suites available. Our suites offer spacious, family-friendly accommodation in the heart of Glasgow with all of the amenities of a home-from-home. Our rates are always £5 less per night than any other website, guaranteed, and we’ll leave a welcome drink in your suite to say thank you for booking directly. We provide comfortable accommodation not only for attendees of the festival but volunteers and organisers too.
Getting to Riverside Museum
Most of the action during the Clydebuilt Festival happens at the marvellous Riverside Museum. Getting there from our serviced apartments is easy. Bus number 100 runs regularly from the city centre and takes about 25 minutes. Scotrail takes slightly less or the walk will take around 50 minutes through the city. If you get lost, ask a friendly local or follow the crowd. Chances are there will be plenty walking your way.
Book your stay in PREMIER SUITES serviced apartments and put Clydebuilt festival high on your list of things to do in Glasgow this weekend. We look forward to welcoming you.
