About Scottish Maritime Museum
About Scottish Maritime Museum
We are the Scottish Maritime Museumâtwo family-friendly attractions dedicated to sharing Scotlandâs maritime past, present, and future. Our exhibits feature incredible ships, industrial machinery, and nautical-inspired artwork.
At our museum in Irvine Harbourside, visitors can explore the Linthouseâa vast space known as the âCathedral of Engineeringââhousing our permanent collection under a striking glass roof. Alongside an evolving programme of temporary exhibitions, guests can enjoy childrenâs trails, guided tours of the 1920s Ship Workers Flat and Fitting Shed, virtual tours of historic vessels, and an immersive experience in a 1800s tenement flat. We also host a variety of art activities and talks for all ages, welcoming school groups for workshops and interactive learning.
In Dumbarton, the museum is home to the worldâs first ship model experiment tankâthe Denny Ship Model Experiment Tank. This unique site and its original machinery provide insight into the Clydeâs shipbuilding legacy. The first floor showcases touring exhibitions, interactive displays, and fun maritime-themed games.
Statement of Purpose
We are committed to caring for, managing, and developing the Museum collection while ensuring intellectual and physical access through exhibitions and activities at our sites and beyond. Our ongoing research strengthens our knowledge of the collection, allowing us to share and retain historical insights.
Vision & Mission
Vision: To be a dynamic, world-class national maritime museum that informs, educates, and inspires.
Mission: We collect, preserve, interpret, and share Scotlandâs maritime heritage, reflecting its local, national, and international significance.
History
Founded in 1983, the Scottish Maritime Museum operates from two sites in Irvine and Dumbarton, holding a nationally recognised collection. From historic vessels and artefacts to shipbuilding tools and machinery, our museum preserves Scotlandâs rich maritime heritage.
The Irvine site, housed in the vast Victorian Linthouse, was once the Engine Shop of Alexander Stephen and Sons Shipyard before being relocated in 1991. The Dumbarton site sits on the former grounds of the renowned William Denny Shipyard and features the pioneering Denny Ship Model Experiment Tank, which revolutionized ship testing upon its 1883 opening.
Fair Working Practices
The Scottish Maritime Museum Trust upholds the Scottish Governmentâs Fair Work First policy, fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. We champion fair employment practices, provide equal opportunities, support mental health and wellbeing, and advocate for fair wages. Through our partnerships and investment in workforce training, we encourage diversity and professional development within the museum and beyond.
Find Us
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Contact Details
The Linthouse
Harbour Road
Irvine
Ayrshire
KA12 8BT
Visitor Services desk opening times: 10am-4.30pm Monday-Friday
Tel: 01294 277177
Email: visitorservices@scotmaritime.org.uk
Dumbarton Museum Address
Denny Ship Model Experiment Tank
Castle Street
Dumbarton
Dunbartonshire
G82 1QS
Visitor Services desk opening times: 10am-3.30pm Monday-Friday
Tel: 1294 278 283
Email: denny@scotmaritime.org.uk