Enrich your mind with a trip to the best museums in Glasgow!
Since my younger days, I’ve loved exploring museums, running from one exhibit to the next like I might miss something amazing.
Even now, I still enjoy stepping into these spaces and finding something new to learn—because who wouldn’t be interested in a life-sized taxidermy elephant? (I’ll spill later on where to find it).
If you’re looking for must-visit museums in Glasgow, this list will help you explore some of the city’s finest. Many of these spots are free!
Riverside Museum
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Govan
Phone: +44 141 287 2720
Operating Hours: Open daily – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
If you’re along the River Clyde, you might spot a wave-like building with a zig-zagging roof, and that’s the Riverside Museum. This transport and technology museum displays over 3,000 objects featuring the city’s industrial heritage.
Inside, I saw vintage bicycles, trams, modern cars, and motorcycles. My favorite part was the recreated street scene, where I wandered along a cobbled road lined with old shops and a subway station, just like a glimpse of Glasgow’s past.
Pro Tips:
- Don’t miss the late Victorian Tall Ship docked outside the museum. It’s a great chance to experience Glasgow’s maritime history up close.
- If you’re a fan of urban sports, check out the skate spot beside the museum, near the Govan-Partick Bridge. It has granite curbs, benches, and ramps, making it ideal for skateboarding, BMX, and rollerblading.
The Burrell Collection
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Website: https://burrellcollection.com/
Address: Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Bellahouston
Phone: +44 141 287 2550
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Friday & Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
The Burrell Collection is home to around 9,000 objects including medieval treasures, Chinese art, and paintings. The museum features floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing natural light to highlight the artworks while offering views of the woodlands outside.
I joined one of their programs called Burrell Bites, where a curator gave a short talk about “The Bazaar, Marseilles” painting. It was interesting to hear about the painting’s story and how it captured the bustle of a 19th century market.
Pro Tip:
You’ll never run out of things to do in Pollok Country Park, as it features woodland trails and hidden fairy houses, and you also have the chance to spot the iconic Highland cows up close!
Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk
Address: 111 Queen St, Royal Exchange Square
Phone: +44 141 287 3050
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Friday & Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
Have you seen the building with an equestrian statue wearing a traffic cone? That’s the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow’s hub for contemporary art. It showcases works by Turner Prize winners and has regularly rotating exhibitions from various artists.
In one of my visits, the three-floor “Use as Much Pressure as Possible” artwork caught my eye, hanging dramatically in the grand entrance. It features a printed masonry saw, symbolising creative effort and the push for change in the art world.
Pro Tip:
On the 3rd Saturday of each month, GoMa hosts Mini Museum Explorers, a kids’ activity with art, music, and storytelling. It’s a fun way for children under 5 to engage with art through play.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: Argyle St
Phone: +44 141 276 9599
Operating Hours: Open daily – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has been a Glasgow landmark since 1901. It stands in a red sandstone building and houses 22 galleries showcasing a range of artwork, historical artefacts, and natural history exhibits.
One of the highlights for me was Sir Roger the elephant in the West Court (his massive presence is hard to ignore!). I also caught the daily organ recital in the Centre Hall, where the orchestra played a beautiful selection of classical music.
Pro Tips:
- After exploring the gallery, take a break at the on-site KG Coffee Shop. They offer a range of hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, baked goods, and light snacks, with vegan and gluten-free options available.
- To dive deeper into the museum, listen to the Glasgow Museums Podcast on SoundCloud for behind-the-scenes stories, exhibition insights, and artist discussions.
St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: 2 Castle St
Phone: +44 141 276 1625
Operating Hours: Open daily – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
St Mungo Museum sits on the site of the medieval Bishop’s Castle, designed in a style that reflects Glasgow’s history. Inside, the galleries showcase art and artifacts that explore how religion has shaped lives across different cultures and times.
I explored exhibits on major world religions, like Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and more, and admired the striking figure of Shiva. Beyond the displays, I joined thought-provoking talks and then enjoyed a quiet moment in the Zen garden.
Pro Tip:
Check out the Historic Scotland shop on the ground floor of the museum for locally made gifts, books, and sweet treats. They also offer grab-and-go snacks and drinks if you need a quick pick-me-up during your visit.
Provand’s Lordship
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: 3 Castle St
Phone: +44 141 276 1625
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
Provand’s Lordship is the oldest house in Glasgow, dating back to 1471, and gives a glimpse into life in the late medieval period. It was restored with a collection of 17th-century Scottish furniture, now displayed in its historic rooms.
During my visit, I noticed how well-preserved its original features are, from the wooden beams to the stone fireplaces. Outside, there’s the St Nicholas Garden, where I found medicinal plants and stone masks known as the Tontine Faces.
Pro Tip:
You can take photos at the museum for personal use, but commercial photography requires permission. For inquiries, contact Glasgow Museums Photo Library at 0141 287 2595.
Kelvin Hall
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: 1445 Argyle St
Phone: +44 141 276 1450
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday, and Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
Kelvin Hall holds over 400,000 objects from Glasgow Museums’ collections, plus archives from The Hunterian and the National Library of Scotland. Access is by guided tour only, with changing displays and insights into the building’s history.
I remember in 2019 when Trix the T. rex was on display here. It was a rare chance to see a dinosaur skeleton of that scale up close, standing 39 feet long and up to 16 feet tall!
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting with family, don’t miss the Emoji trail at the museum. Grab a sheet and pencil from the reception, and see if you can find all the hidden Emojis on the ground floor to earn a certificate!
The Hunterian Museum
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Website: https://www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian/
Address: University of Glasgow, 82 Hillhead St
Phone: +44 141 330 4221
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
The Hunterian Museum is Scotland’s oldest public museum, founded in 1807. It has a rich collection that spans the arts, sciences, and humanities, including highlights like the Bearsden Shark, Cleopatra Coin, and the Chinese Map of the World.
I found the displays on the history of medicine in western Scotland really interesting, especially seeing how the field has evolved. Next, I explored Lord Kelvin’s scientific instruments, which highlighted Glasgow’s role in scientific progress.
Pro Tip:
Read the “What to Expect at The Hunterian” pre-visit storybook for helpful information if you prefer a visual reference. It includes details about the museum, sensory information, and what to expect during your visit.
The Mackintosh House
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Website: https://www.gla.ac.uk/
Address: 82 Hillhead St+
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
The Mackintosh House is a detailed reconstruction of the home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a popular Scottish architect. It has carefully arranged interiors that showcase his distinctive style in furniture, lighting, and decor.
As I walked through it, I noticed the balance between simple geometric forms and intricate decorative touches. The introduction gallery also provided an interesting background on Mackintosh’s life and artistic approach.
Pro Tip:
Take the Mackintosh House Virtual Tour to explore the home at your own pace from anywhere. You can also access the virtual tour in the Mackintosh House Introduction Gallery.
Hunterian Zoology Museum
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Website: https://www.gla.ac.uk/
Address: University of, Graham Kerr Building, Science Wy
Phone: +44 141 330 4221
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
The Hunterian Zoology Museum has been showcasing the diversity of the animal kingdom since 1923. With nearly 800 species on display, the museum provides a glimpse into Earth’s vast biodiversity, from giant squid to elephants.
I was amazed by the variety of specimens, each organised in a taxonomic order. It was nice to see how the museum continues to serve as a resource for students while preserving rare and endangered species.
Pro Tip:
The Hunterian Zoology Museum is just a five-minute walk from the main Hunterian Museum, with easy access by subway or bus. If you’re driving, parking is limited but free after 5 PM and on weekends.
Glasgow Women’s Library
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Website: https://womenslibrary.org.uk/
Address: 23 Landressy St, Bridgeton
Phone: +44 141 550 2267
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 4 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
Glasgow Women’s Library, established in 1991, is the only Accredited Museum in the UK dedicated to women’s achievements and histories. It offers a unique space for exploring the lives of women through its library, museum, archives, and events.
I saw how the collections, from protest badges to artworks, beautifully reflect the diverse experiences of women. I also attended an event, “Open Archive: Protest Placards,” where I viewed colorful postcards, each telling a unique story of activism.
Pro Tip:
You can get a free library card and choose a book to take home, all by or about women. If you’re not ready to become a member, feel free to browse the building or check out the shop on your way out.
Glasgow Police Museum
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Website: https://www.policemuseum.org.uk/
Address: First Floor, 30 Bell St
Phone: +44 141 552 1818
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 4:30 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
The Glasgow Police Museum showcases the history of Britain’s first police force, the City of Glasgow Police, which operated from 1779 to 1975. It offers a look into the people, events, and development that shaped the force over nearly two centuries.
I explored a vast collection of police uniforms, insignia, and headgear from around the world in their International Police Exhibition. I also enjoyed learning from the retired officers who shared amazing stories about Glasgow’s police history.
Pro Tip:
Children can join fun competitions during their visit at the museum, like the Lego Manhunt or Museum Quiz, depending on their age. Complete the tasks and earn a Junior Detective Award Certificate!
The Tenement House
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Website: https://www.nts.org.uk/
Address: 145 Buccleuch St
Phone: +44 141 333 0183
Operating Hours: Open daily – 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee:
- Adult – £8.50
- Concession – £6.00
- Children – £1.00
The Tenement House is a historic house museum, preserved by the National Trust for Scotland. This flat from 1892 offers a rare glimpse into early 20th-century Glasgow life. It’s the preserved home of Agnes Toward, who lived there from 1911.
I walked through the four preserved rooms and explored the museum’s collection. I learned about Agnes’s life through original features like the coal-fired kitchen range, gaslights, and even her personal jam collection from 1929!
Pro Tips:
- Stop by the museum’s Wally Dug cafe for a coffee, tea, or snack. While you’re there, you can also browse the secondhand books and check out the Archive Boxes, showcasing some museum artefacts.
- There’s a steep hill to the museum, but you can avoid it by going along Sauchiehall Street to Charing Cross, then turning right and going under the footbridge.
The Museum of Piping
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Website: https://www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/
Phone: +44 141 353 0220
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 3 PM
Admission Fee: £5
The Museum of Piping showcases over 300 years of piping heritage, with a special focus on Scotland’s bagpipe tradition. It also highlights the development of bagpipes across Europe and the impact of piping on Scottish culture and history.
I was amazed by the range of items on display, especially seeing the oldest piece of bagpipe in the world and famous pipers’ original competition medals. I also enjoyed learning about the craft of pipe making and getting a glimpse of European bagpipes.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting during summer, don’t miss their annual “Meet the Bagpiper” tours on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. You can try the practice chanter and bagpipes while learning about the history of piping from a bagpiper host.
Scottish Football Museum
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Website: https://www.scottishfootballmuseum.org.uk/
Address: Hampden Park
Phone: +44 141 616 6139
Operating Hours: Monday – 11 AM to 3 PM
Admission Fee: £9
The Scottish Football Museum offers a detailed look into the history of football in Scotland, displaying objects from the 19th century to the present. It features the Scottish Cup, the world’s oldest national football trophy, along with other items.
As a football fan, I loved seeing the displays, especially Archie Gemmill’s iconic World Cup goal and memorabilia from legends like Kenny Dalglish. The museum also brought back historical moments like the Wembley penalty spot from 1977.
Pro Tips:
- For an authentic experience, take the Stadium Tour. You’ll have a chance to walk in the players’ footsteps and explore the team changing rooms, warm-up areas, and even strike a ball in the indoor area!
- To complete your visit, take a break at Café Hampden and enjoy a refreshing drink or light snack while you relax.
Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum
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Website: https://friendsofgri.org/museum/
Address: Cathedral Precinct &, Castle St
Phone: +27
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – 11 AM to 3 PM
- Wednesday – 11 AM to 3 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 2 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
The Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum showcases Glasgow’s oldest hospital and its role in medical advancements. It sits inside the working hospital and highlights key discoveries like antiseptic surgery and the first X-ray department.
I saw exhibits on medical pioneers like Joseph Lister and Rebecca Strong, whose work shaped modern medicine. Old medical tools and records showed how the hospital has impacted healthcare for over 200 years.
Pro Tip:
Support the museum by becoming a Friend through a monthly or annual donation. You’ll get a welcome pack, exclusive items, and early access to events, all while helping keep the museum and free events running.
Glasgow Museums Resource Centre
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: 200 Woodhead Rd
Phone: +44 141 276 9300
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Friday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Admission Fee: FREE
Glasgow Museums Resource Centre (GMRC) stores and cares for thousands of objects not on display in museums. Unlike most museum storage facilities, GMRC opens its doors to the public with guided tours, talks, and interactive activities.
In just an hour, I saw a surprising mix of stored exhibits, including a full set of medieval armour, a huge collection of taxidermy animals, and so much more. The guide made the tour even better with the stories behind each collection.
Pro Tip:
Check out the Specialist Tours, where curators lead themed sessions on particular topics like ship models, Italian paintings, and more. These free tours offer a unique experience different from regular visits, but spots are limited, so book ahead.
The Open Museum
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Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/
Address: 200 Woodhead Rd
Phone: +44 141 276 9368
Admission Fee: FREE
The Open Museum is a community museum that allows the public to explore Glasgow’s collections outside traditional museum walls. It lets people borrow real artefacts to create their own displays in schools, centres, and public spaces.
I had a chance to see one of their handling kits, which included an Egyptian canopic jar (a vessel for storing organs believed to be needed in the afterlife). Even better, I got to handle it, which isn’t something you usually get to do in a typical museum.
Pro Tip:
If you want to borrow a handling kit, just visit the Glasgow Museums Resource Centre during opening hours on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. You will be oriented on how to use the kit, and staff can support your first session if needed.