University of Glasgow

University of Glasgow which includes heritage elements
University of Glasgow which includes heritage elements
University of Glasgow showing heritage architecture and heritage elements
University of Glasgow which includes a church or cathedral and interior views
University of Glasgow showing heritage architecture


Explore the campus of one of the U.K.'s oldest universities and feed your fervor for learning in its museums, lecture halls and historic buildings.

Mingle with academics and undergraduates as you wander around the halls of learning in the University of Glasgow. You don't have to be enrolled to enjoy the historic sights of Scotland's second-oldest college or to attend the public lectures and concerts that the university hosts. Head to Gilmorehill Campus in the west end of the city for the main attractions.

Explore the university, which was founded in 1451 and has been at the forefront of intellectual movements and has a list of alumni including physicist Lord Kelvin and economist Adam Smith. In 1881, the institution pioneered electricity with fully lit houses on the campus. Fifteen years later a graduate opened the world's first X-ray department.

Take a guided tour led by current students to learn about the history of the beautiful stone buildings. Walk beneath storied cloisters and follow in the footsteps of some of Britain's most significant scientists.

Visit the oldest public museum in Scotland, the Hunterian, and its adjoining art gallery. Browse the fossils and oddities of Dr. William Hunter's collection and learn about archaeology and paleontology. The Hunterian Art Gallery contains several works by James Whistler and Charles Rennie Mackintosh as well as paintings by Rubens, Rembrandt and others.

The other major museum in the university is the Zoology museum, another part of the Hunterian housed in the Graham Kerr Building. Come face to face with large and small creatures at the museum's exhibits, which also features displays of live animals, primarily reptiles.

Soak up the intellectual atmosphere at one of the cafés located throughout the campus or take a picnic into neighboring Kelvingrove Park. The picturesque gardens face the mighty Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, a colossal building with 22 galleries and exhibits covering Scotland's rich cultural history.

Find the main campus area of the University of Glasgow near the Hillhead Underground Station, about a 15-minute walk from Partick Station. Scheduled tours take place once daily from Thursday through Sunday. Personal tours can also be arranged by appointment.

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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Holiday & seasonal tours

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Reviews of University of Glasgow

4.5
Top destination
5 - Excellent
89
5 - Excellent 54%
4 - Good
62
4 - Good 38%
3 - Okay
13
3 - Okay 8%
2 - Disappointing
0
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Hunterian Museum's various locations are poorly signposted with no proper listing of what can be found where.

Popular places to visit


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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of Glasgow

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the University of Glasgow, visit Buchanan Galleries, St. Enoch Centre, and Argyll Arcade, all within 3.2km, offering a mix of business and family vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore larger malls further afield for more options.

Recreation

Hampden Park, a vibrant sports stadium, offers exhilarating events and activities to energise your spirit. Queen's Park, a lovely recreational area, invites you to unwind amidst nature’s beauty, perfect for relaxation. Nearby, Cottiers Theatre presents a cultural haven, showcasing entertaining performances in a charming setting.

Adventure

At AMF Bowling, a mile from the University of Glasgow, enjoy a lively atmosphere with family-friendly bowling lanes and arcade games. Two miles away, the Glasgow Climbing Centre offers exhilarating climbing experiences for all skill levels. Snow Factor, three miles away, provides thrilling indoor skiing and snowboarding adventures for families.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the University of Glasgow is vibrant and diverse. Visit The Garage for an energetic club atmosphere or enjoy a relaxed evening at The Bungalow Café with live music. For a unique experience, head to The Old Hairdressers for quirky cocktails and local performances.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near University of Glasgow

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a family on an adventure, or simply exploring the vibrant city, the University of Glasgow offers a diverse range of attractions. From the lively piazza square to modern university facilities, and entertainment arenas, there's something for everyone to enjoy within and around the campus. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and dynamic atmosphere of this historic institution.

  • OVO Hydro: Located 1.4km from the University of Glasgow, OVO Hydro is a premier entertainment venue offering a vibrant atmosphere perfect for families. Enjoy concerts, sports events, and shows in this modern arena, which is renowned for its impressive acoustics and striking architecture.
  • Buchanan Street: Just 3.2km away, Buchanan Street is a bustling shopping precinct filled with outdoor charm. Stroll along its pedestrian-friendly streets lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, making it an ideal spot for families to relax and explore.
  • George Square: Also 3.2km from the university, George Square is a cultural hub featuring stunning architecture and vibrant city vibes. It’s a great place to absorb Glasgow’s rich history while enjoying public art and events in a beautifully landscaped setting.

Best time to go to University of Glasgow

The best time to visit University of Glasgow can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University of Glasgow falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University of Glasgow falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February38.7°F (3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September53.6°F (12.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Tips to save on your trip to University of Glasgow

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  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January and October to November) for more affordable package holidays to University of Glasgow.
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