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

Scheduled Tours

Tours leave the East Undercroft near the University Visitor Centre Tuesday - Sunday 2pm

Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite in advance of the tour on by credit/debit card at the Welcome Point McIntyre Building or to the guide just before the tour departs.

. Maximum number on the tours will be 20

Private Groups

Due to the number of scheduled tours being reduced we are currently offering private tours for 2 people or more, these can be booked on any day between 9am and 5pm.

Private tours can be booked by emailing the addresses below, but please try and give us 24hrs notice to organise you a guide.

Tours will not be running over the Chrsitmas period last tour is the 18th December, with th Tours returning on the 5th Janaury.

Leaving from the East Undercroft near the Visitor Centre which 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-4pm Monday-Friday.

The Club serves a selection of hot and cold beverages, paninis, sandwiches, nachos and a lovely range of home-baking. Currently this is operating on a takeaway bases only

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow, United Kingdom