HMS Unicorn —
Scotland's Oldest Ship
At 200 years old, HMS Unicorn is one of the world’s most remarkable historic ships, preserved as a museum and visitor attraction in Dundee.
The Story of the Ship
Launched in 1824, HMS Unicorn is the most original old ship in the world.
Originally constructed as a 46-gun frigate at Chatham Royal Dockyard, Unicorn arrived in Dundee in 1873 as a training ship for the Royal Naval Reserves – a role she carried out until the 1960s.
HMS Unicorn is still moored on the city’s waterfront and is now the oldest ship left in Scotland, as well as one of the six oldest ships in the world.
From her origins in the Georgian Navy to her use in the Second World War, HMS Unicorn has so many incredible stories to tell.
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Protect the ship
through extensive repairs and maintenance.
Relocate the ship
to a refurbished East Graving Dock.
Build a new dockside visitor centre
including a café, shop, and learning space.
Expand HMS Unicorn's impact
on diverse groups and communities in Dundee and beyond.
News & Events
We also have regular exhibitions on interesting subjects. Check out our Exhibition Programme
Become a Shipmate
A year of unlimited visits, and other exclusive member benefits including bringing a pal for free!
- 10% discount in the HMS Unicorn shop
- Access to all HMS Unicorn news through a quarterly newsletter
- Free entry for a pal
- An HMS Unicorn keyring (which cleverly doubles as membership card), exclusively designed by local Dundee artist and illustrator Whimsical Lush
- No need for pre-booking, just turn up
- The feel-good factor of knowing you’re directly contributing to HMS Unicorn’s preservation and protection
