History

Built in 1933 by Wm. Denny’s of Dumbarton, the steamer Queen Mary originally carried mail and passengers out of the river Clyde to ports on the west coast of Scotland.

A problem arose two years later when Cunard built an impressive new liner. The story goes that the owners approached King George for permission to name their new ship after “the country’s greatest queen” meaning Queen Victoria. The King reputedly replied, “Why certainly. I’m sure my wife would be delighted.” So now obliged to name their liner Queen Mary after his wife, Cunard had to reach an agreement with the owners of the smaller steamer which was renamed Queen Mary II.

During WWII, Queen Mary II was painted naval grey and worked to maintain services on the Clyde for over six years. After the War, the steamer was refitted to burn oil instead of coal and continued to sail the Cylde, operating as everything from a ferry to a pleasure cruiser and a showboat.

Then in the early seventies , she lost the II and returned to being simply Queen Mary when the Cunard liner was retired from service. A few years later, the Queen Mary was also retired and converted to a floating bar and restaurant as it is today.



 Nicholson’s pubs have a rich historical past, stretching back to an 18th century family of Clerkenwell gin distillers. Two descendents of that family, John and William Nicholson, decided to found ‘their own houses’ offering impeccable hospitality, excellent food and the finest drinks. Over two hundred years later, each of the Nicholson’s pubs still has its own fascinating story and each provides the same exceptional standards of service and fayre. So treat yourself to your favourite tipple, tuck into a delicious dish and immerse yourself in the history all around you.