The historic figurehead of HMS Unicorn is returning to Dundee as part of the ship's 202nd anniversary

The historic figurehead is returning to the ship (Picture: HMS Unicorn / Eventbrite)

A key piece of Dundee’s maritime history is set to return home this month as HMS Unicorn prepares to celebrate its 202nd birthday with a special public event on the city’s waterfront.

The historic warship, which has been based in Dundee since 1873, will mark the milestone with a celebration on Sunday 29 March. At the heart of the event is the long-awaited unveiling of one of the ship’s original figureheads, which has recently undergone conservation work and will now be revealed to the public once again.

Organisers say the return of the figurehead is a significant moment for the vessel, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see an important part of the ship’s identity restored. The unveiling will be accompanied by a speech reflecting on HMS Unicorn’s history, from its launch at Chatham Dockyard in 1824 to its long-standing role as one of Dundee’s most recognisable landmarks.

The event will take place on the Upper Deck and is open to the public, with free entry available through pre-booked tickets. Visitors will also be invited to enjoy tea, coffee and cake as part of the celebrations, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for people to gather and mark the occasion together.

Alongside the unveiling, guests will have the chance to meet the staff and volunteers who continue to care for the ship and keep its story alive. Families are also being encouraged to attend, with children able to take part in themed crafts and games inspired by the Unicorn.

Visitors will also be able to explore the ship’s current exhibition, What We Carry, which has been created in partnership with members of the Ukrainian community in Scotland. The exhibition shares personal stories of displacement and resilience, adding a contemporary layer to the historic setting of the vessel.

While the event itself is free, donations are encouraged to help support the ongoing preservation of HMS Unicorn. As one of the oldest ships afloat in the world, the 202nd birthday celebration not only honours its past but also highlights the continued effort to secure its future in Dundee for generations to come.