University of Glasgow Tours

Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world. Originally located on High Street in the city centre near Glasgow Cathedral, in 1870 it moved to the stunning collection of buildings perched upon Gilmorehill today, where it continues to watch over the bustling city and picturesque tenements of Glasgow’s West End.

This walking tour will take you on a fascinating journey around some of the university’s most significant spots - from philosopher Thomas Reid’s tombstone and the atmospheric cloisters to the very same staircase Lord Kelvin would take from his house to his laboratory - whilst discovering the connections of James Watt, Adam Smith and Isabella Elder whose names are inscribed on the university’s Memorial Gates.

For your consideration, we have prepared a video preview of the tour: University of Glasgow Tours Preview

Tours leave the University Visitor Centre Tuesday - Sunday 2pm and 11am April to October. Tickets can be bought via Eventbrite. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased from SRC Welcome Point McIntyre Building or from the Tour Guide prior to the tour starting. 

Groups of 8 or more should phone or email to arrange a tour to suit your needs

• 0141 330 5360
• boxoffice@src.gla.ac.uk

The Visitor Centre is situated within the main building, just through the gates on University Avenue.

The University is in the West End of the city, 2 miles from the city centre and round the corner from Byres Road and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

• Bus: First Bus 4 and 4A stop directly outside.
• Subway: Hillhead station - 5 minute walk.
• Train: Partick station - 20 minute walk.
• Car: Pay and display on surrounding streets.

Assistance dogs are permitted in all areas. The majority of the tour is accessible for wheelchair users, although the route will deviate slightly to accommodate lift access.

Due to the nature of University business access to all rooms cannot be guaranteed on all days.

Our guides would be more than happy to let you into the SRC’s Gilchrist Postgraduate Club after your tour if you fancy a coffee or a panini, open 10am-11pm Monday-Saturday and 12 noon-11pm Sunday. The Club serves a selection of hot and cold beverages, paninis, sandwiches, nachos and a lovely range of home-baking.

Venue:
University of Glasgow
University Avenue Glasgow, G12 8QQ

Dates