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Visiting the Glasgow University (Architecture + tips + photos)

Last updated on March 13, 2021 By Claire, the Travel Planning Geek

The Glasgow University Architecture is not to be missed while visiting the city.
Its Gothic revival style is impressive on top of the hill and echoes the age of the University.
Below is my guide to help you plan your walk around.

Quick Navigation
Why visit the area of the University of Glasgow?
PLANNING TIPS - Glasgow University Building
The Glasgow University Architecture and Model
Walking around the grounds
Glasgow University Chapel
Architecture of the Glasgow University - outside views
Kelvingrove park and art gallery

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Why visit the area of the University of Glasgow?

A photo is worth a thousand words...
Have a look at this building! Gothic revival style architecture and an ideal location on top of the hill overlooking Glasgow...
I think it is one of the best places to see in Scotland.

Facade Glasgow University 2

I recommend adding it to your itinerary, even if you have only one day in Glasgow.

More photos after the planning tips.


PLANNING TIPS - Glasgow University Building

Getting to the Glasgow University Building

  • North West of the City Center
  • In the Hillhead Neighborhood is the center of the University
  • This most impressive building, the Gilbert Scott Building is on top of a hill
  • The Hop-on Hop-off busses stop next to it - Pre-purchase your Hop-on Hop -off bus ticket in your own currency
  • For public transport check Traveline Scotland

Glasgow and its attractions are included in my travel guide eBooks to help you plan your Scotland itinerary:

Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!

small Scotland Road Trip Guide ebook cover

15 Maps, 150+ locations, 170+ photos
LEARN MORE

Cover Road Trip Edinburgh to Skye

8 Maps, 60+ locations, 115+ photos
LEARN MORE

Admiring the Glasgow University Architecture

  • Entries at the back and at the front coming from Kelvingrove
  • Next to the university official gift shop, you can find a miniature replica of the University and stairs to toilets
  • The University offers self-guided tours and guided tours

Accommodations in Glasgow

Staying a night or more in Glasgow? 
There is a large choice of accommodations with backpackers, hotels, rentals...
Check out the best rated accommodations in Glasgow and book


The Glasgow University Architecture and Model

In the entrance to the University, you can find a model of the area and of the main historical buildings.
It is great to get a sense of proportions.

architecture Glasgow University - model

Before touring the University, let's start with a few facts:

  • The University of Glasgow was founded in 1451. It is the 4th oldest in the UK (2nd oldest in Scotland after St Andrews)
  • It was originally located in the city's High Street
  • Since 1870 the main University Campus has been located on Gilmorehill
  • The most striking building in terms of Architecture is the Gilbert Scott Building. It was completed in 1891
  • The iconic tower stands 278 feet (85 meters) high making it one of Glasgow's landmarks
  • The University Motto is Via, Veritas, Vita (the way, the truth, the life)

Walking around the grounds

On a clear day, the grass inside the building is very enjoyable.
It is possible to move from one side to the other via the cloisters and their many arches. They are also known as the Undercroft.

Glasgow University Architecture 1
Glasgow University Architecture 2

On each side are the East and West Quadrangles which house lecture theatres. 

Fun fact: it is considered bad luck to walk across the grass before graduating... A great way to keep their lawn in great shape.

Glasgow University Architecture 3
Glasgow University Architecture 4
Glasgow University Architecture 5
Arches Glasgow University Architecture 1
Arches Glasgow University Architecture 2

Glasgow University Chapel

The University Chapel was completed in 1929.
It is one of the rare locations where marriages of different faiths (protestant, reformed, roman catholic) can be celebrated.

Glasgow University Chapel 1
Glasgow University Chapel 2
Glasgow University Chapel 3

Architecture of the Glasgow University - outside views and tower

Then you can exit the University on the opposite side from the entrance.
The facade of the Gilbert Scott building is very striking, especially with the height of the central tower.
I was lucky to admire in during it during Spring with beautiful flowers.

Facade Glasgow University 1

Below is a photo taken from the distance, from a bus, to give you a better idea of size.

Glasgow University from far away 3

Kelvingrove park and art gallery

As you exit the University it is nice to enjoy a walk down hill to the River Kelvin and the Kelvingrove Museum.
The area has beautiful trees and a river.

Glasgow University from far away 1

You can visit the Kelvingrove art gallery and museum or just appreciate the building's architecture.

Kelvingrove art gallery and museum

From there, the tower is very impressive.

View Glasgow

Want to see more about Glasgow?

  • Check out my 1 day tour of Glasgow itinerary - read article
  • Explore St Mungo's cathedral and its lower church - read article
  • Discover the Poeple's palace and its museum - read article

Planning a trip to Scotland?

Check out my travel guides, which facilitate the planning of your itinerary

Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!

small Scotland Road Trip Guide ebook cover

15 Maps, 150+ locations, 170+ photos
LEARN MORE

Cover Road Trip Edinburgh to Skye

8 Maps, 60 Features locations, 115+ photos
LEARN MORE


Want to see more of SCOTLAND?

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GLASGOW PEOPLE'S PALACE

NEXT: 

BEST STOPS ON LOCH LOMOND

Travel Scotland Destination Guide

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Glasgow University Architecture Scotland Pin

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