University of Glasgow Tours and Activities

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

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Best Lodging Options Near University of Glasgow

The Social Hub Glasgow

The Social Hub Glasgow

4 out of 5
15 Candleriggs, Glasgow, Scotland
The Social Hub Glasgow
Moxy Glasgow SEC

Moxy Glasgow SEC

3.5 out of 5
FINNIESTON STREET, Glasgow, Scotland
Moxy Glasgow SEC
DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central

DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central

4 out of 5
36 Cambridge Street, Glasgow, Scotland
DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central
Clayton Hotel Glasgow

Clayton Hotel Glasgow

4 out of 5
298 Clyde Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Clayton Hotel Glasgow
Sandyford Hotel

Sandyford Hotel

3 out of 5
904 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Sandyford Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow SEC

Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow SEC

4 out of 5
16 Stobcross Road, Glasgow, Scotland
Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow SEC
Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

4 out of 5
50 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Maldron Hotel Glasgow City
Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel

Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel

4 out of 5
375 West George Street, Glasgow, Scotland
Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel
citizenM Glasgow

citizenM Glasgow

4 out of 5
60 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, Scotland
citizenM Glasgow
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

While visiting the University of Glasgow, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture with activities like theatre performances, live music, and guided bus or campus tours. Explore the stunning architecture and history of the university while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the surrounding area, making for a memorable experience in this iconic Scottish city.

Shopping

Experience shopping near the University of Glasgow at St. Enoch Centre, just 3.2km away, offering a mix of family and business vibes. Buchanan Galleries, also 3.2km away, features entertainment and city atmospheres. Argyll Arcade, 3.2km away, is perfect for family and entertainment shopping.

Recreation

At Hampden Park, immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of a sports stadium, perfect for catching a game. Enjoy live performances at the Barrowland Ballroom, where the vibrant music scene captivates. For outdoor enthusiasts, Cawder Golf Club offers a scenic golf experience amidst lush landscapes.

Adventure

Embark on the West Highland Way Trailhead, a scenic 8.0km hike offering breathtaking views and adventure vibes. Challenge yourself at the Glasgow Climbing Centre, located 3.2km away, where outdoor sports enthusiasts can enjoy exhilarating climbs. Alternatively, explore the tranquil Hillside Path, 4.8km away, for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Nightlife

The nightlife around the University of Glasgow is vibrant and diverse. Kings Theatre Glasgow, only 1.4km away, offers romantic and cultural performances, while the nearby Cottiers Theatre, just 805m away, showcases family-friendly entertainment. For a thrilling evening, head to Alea Glasgow casino, located 1.6km from campus.

Find the best attractions near University of Glasgow

While visiting the University of Glasgow, explore the vibrant local attractions including entertainment venues, picturesque squares, and historic churches. This area is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Don't miss out on discovering more about the city of Glasgow through various resources such as local information and reviews to enhance your visit.

  • OVO Hydro: Located only 1.4km from the University of Glasgow, this state-of-the-art arena offers a fantastic entertainment experience with a vibrant atmosphere. It hosts a variety of events, from concerts to sports, making it a family-friendly destination to enjoy live performances and thrilling shows.
  • Buchanan Street: About 3.2km away, Buchanan Street is the heartbeat of Glasgow's shopping scene. This pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for families, featuring an array of shops, cafes, and street performers, providing a lively outdoor experience.
  • George Square: Situated 3.2km from the university, George Square is a cultural hub. Surrounded by stunning architecture, it's ideal for leisurely strolls, enjoying public art, and soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Best time to go to University of Glasgow

Visitor numbers around University of Glasgow is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit University of Glasgow is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of Glasgow

To make the most of your visit to the University of Glasgow on a budget, take advantage of free entry to the campus and nearby attractions like Buchanan Street and Kelvingrove Art Gallery. Consider travelling during the off-peak months of January and October to November for lower accommodation prices. Booking a hotel about a month in advance can help you secure great deals, especially on Mondays, which are typically cheaper. Use Expedia to customize your stay and look for package deals that combine flights and hotels for additional savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of Glasgow are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around University of Glasgow is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of Glasgow is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around University of Glasgow is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Take advantage of Expedia's search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the University of Glasgow with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.