HMS Unicorn
Dundee, Dundee and AngusAbout HMS Unicorn
HMS Unicorn HMS Unicorn was originally constructed as a 46-gun frigate at Chatham Royal Dockyard. She arrived in Dundee in 1873 as a training ship for the Royal Naval Reserves – a role she carried out until the 1960s. The classic sailing frigate was a fast and powerful warship and was one of the most successful and charismatic ship designs of the age. She is a unique survivor from the brief transitional period between the traditional wooden sailing ship and the revolutionary iron steamship, and is now one of the six oldest ships left in the world.
Adults and children alike have enjoyed their experience on board, where they are taken back in time to be able to visualise what life on board the Unicorn was like many years ago.
HMS Unicorn is situated just on the South Victoria Dock, Dundee, within walking distance of the Apex Hotel.
HMS Unicorn retains its original layout and therefore is only accessible through ladderways and steep inclines, and many of our historic spaces are not physically accessible to everyone. However, the Gun Deck is accessible to most, including wheelchair users and pushchairs/prams and there is easy access to the pod situated just outside the ship where the toilets and baby change area is located (including a disabled toilet).
We love to welcome your 4 legged-friends on board, but we kindly ask for all dogs to be kept on a lead at all times.
Scotland's Oldest Ship!
Welcome to one of the six oldest ship afloat in the world. Come on board and find out the history of Scotland’s oldest ship.
It was launched in 1824 as a Leda class 5th rate 48-gun frigate in Chatham. Designed during a time when innovation in ship building was at the forefront of the start of the industrial revolution. This was done through techniques like an elliptical rounded stern and the first use of iron to support the ships strength.
Come and see How the ships Designer and Surveyor, Robert Seppings, improved and revolutionised ship building with designs and techniques that are still used in ship building today, with some of the work done by him still available to see anywhere in the world as the last remaining example of 18th century innovation.
The World’s Most Intact Historic Warship
Unlike many historic vessels that have undergone extensive reconstruction, replacement of hull fabric, or full-scale rebuilding, HMS Unicorn retains the vast majority of her original 1824 structural timbers.
- Launched in 1824.
- Built at Chatham Dockyard.
- Never converted to steam power.
- Never modernised beyond recognition.
- Never rebuilt as a replica.
Many “historic ships” around the world are restorations with substantial 20th or 21st-century intervention. HMS Unicorn is materially original. The decks beneath your feet are 19th-century naval engineering. That level of survival is extraordinarily rare!
46 Guns Still On Board!
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Dog Friendly
Opening Times
- Monday, 10:00 - 16:00
- Tuesday, Closed
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 16:00
- Thursday, Closed
- Friday, 10:00 - 16:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 16:00
- Sunday, 10:00 - 16:00
HMS Unicorn retains its original layout and therefore is only accessible through ladderways and steep inclines, and many of our historic spaces are not physically accessible to everyone. If you are unsure, you can read our Accessibility Guide over on our 'Plan A Visit' page over on our website, which outlines in detail what to expect from a visit. HMS Unicorn has a street-level toilet located outside the ship.
Pricing & Tickets
- Babies and Toddlers (0-4) : Free
- Adult (15-18+) : £9.20
- Child (5-14) : £4.60
Looking for concession, family or group ticket prices?
You can find full pricing details on our website.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to HMS Unicorn by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Transport Information
Rail
The nearest station is Dundee Railway Station, approximately a 15–20 minute walk from HMS Unicorn. The station has direct services to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and other major UK cities.
Bus
Several local bus services stop near Victoria Dock Road and the City Quay area, just a short walk from the ship. Dundee’s main bus hub is adjacent to Dundee Railway Station, making onward travel simple.
Air
Dundee Airport is around 10 minutes by taxi from HMS Unicorn and operates limited scheduled flights. For wider UK and international routes, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 90 minutes away by car or train.
Verification & Last Updated
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Last Updated: 14:41 15/06/2026
HMS Unicorn Reviews
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