Glasgow’s Impressive Buildings

Glasgow has a remarkable array of 19th century Victorian architecture mixed with 20th century modern designed buildings.  The unique mix of buildings and designs add to Glasgow’s appeal and most importantly, present Glasgow as a City of culture and history.  It is important to ‘look up’ when you are visiting the City and take a moment to appreciate the incredible architectural appeal that our buildings have to offer.  Below is a list of the most impressive buildings in Glasgow.

1)      Transport museum

The Riverside Museum (also known as the Transport Museum) is located on the River Clyde in the Glasgow Harbour regeneration district of the City.  Opened in 2011, the museum was announced as the winner of the 2013 European Museum of the Year Award – a noteworthy achievement for the museum and the City.  The floor to ceiling glass windows allow light to flood through the main exhibition space placing a spotlight on Glasgow’s outstanding transport collection. 

2)     Peoples Palace and Winter Gardens

The Peoples Palace and Winter Gardens are located in the heart of Glasgow Green (Glasgow’s oldest open space).  Before entering, have a walk around the Peoples Palace and Winter Gardens to admire the architecture of the building and the contrast of the large glass Winter Garden conservatory.

3)     SEC Armadillo

The SEC Armadillo (formally known as the Clyde Auditorium) has been described as Glasgow’s most iconic building.  Its stylish curves are a landmark sight in the City and as a result, appear on many ‘sky line’ pictures of Glasgow.  Hosting a range of conferences, music events and meetings, the Auditorium offers around 3,000 seats over three levels.

4)     Glasgow City chambers

Completed in 1888 and overlooking George Square, the City Chambers boast a reputation as one of the City’s most prestigious buildings.  Surrounded by both modern and historic buildings, the City Chambers demands a dominant location in the area and consequently depicts the story of wealth and industrial prosperity of Glasgow.

5)      SSE Hydro

Another impressive building in Glasgow is The SSE Hydro – the brand-new home of live entertainment which was opened by Rod Stewart in 2013.  Above all, the distinctive amphitheatre form was generated to provide the best view of the stage from every seat.

6)     Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of Scotland’s most popular FREE attractions and hosts a range of collections from many art movements throughout history. The building is spectacular and an attraction in its own right.

7)      Queen Elizabeth University Hospital

Opened in May 2015, the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital boasts a unique building structure.  The various different sections of the complex are linked by unique underground tunnels and tubes. 

8)     Gallery of Modern Art

The Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) is located in the middle of Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow and specialises in post 1945 art and design.  Guided tours are popular amongst tourists and can be arranged in order to visit the building and view the artwork inside.

9)     Buchanan Gardens

Located on Glasgow’s infamous Style Mile, Buchanan Gardens are made up of residential property and high-street stores.  The modern building boasts contemporary living in the heart of Glasgow with a private sky garden for residents only.

10)  Mitchell library

Finally, we have The Mitchell Library which is one of Glasgow’s most famous landmarks and Europe’s most prestigious libraries.  Located over 5 floors, the library offers a relaxed atmosphere in a stunning building to all visitors.