Barclay Curle Crane

The Barclay Curle Crane stands on the north bank of the River Clyde with a cantilever design built to lift heavy machinery and ship parts. The structure rises about 150 feet and was capable of lifting up to 150 tonnes.

The structure was built in 1920 by Sir William Arrol & Co and served the shipbuilding industry for decades. It belongs to a global group of specialized lifting equipment that was deployed in ports during early industrialization.

The crane was a familiar landmark for shipyard workers and became a symbol of Glasgow's importance in global shipbuilding. Today, locals connect it to the city's proud industrial heritage.

The structure is visible from the river bank and can be viewed from various vantage points along the Clyde. The best way to see it is by taking a walk along the waterfront, particularly during daylight hours.

Only four of these massive lifting devices remain on the Clyde, even though similar structures once stood in harbours around the world. This rarity makes the crane an important witness to a vanished era of shipbuilding engineering.

Location: Glasgow City

GPS coordinates: 55.87240,-4.34560

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:25