City Halls & Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow
Historic Glasgow venue blending Victorian charm with world-class concerts, festivals, and vibrant cultural events in the heart of Merchant City.
Located in Glasgow's vibrant Merchant City, the City Halls & Old Fruitmarket is a historic concert and event venue blending rich heritage with modern cultural life. The complex features the grand City Halls auditorium, renowned for its superb acoustics and classical concerts, alongside the atmospheric Old Fruitmarket, a former wholesale fruit market turned versatile event space. Together, they host orchestras, jazz, festivals, weddings, and diverse performances in a stunning Victorian setting.
A brief summary to City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
- 100 Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1NQ, GB
- +441413538000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular concerts and festivals to secure the best seats.
- Explore the Merchant City neighborhood’s cafes and galleries before or after your visit.
- Check event schedules carefully, as the Old Fruitmarket hosts a wide range of music styles and cultural events.
- Consider attending a wedding or private event here to experience the venue’s unique ambiance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Accessible via multiple bus routes serving Merchant City with stops near Candleriggs; travel time from Glasgow Central Station is approximately 10–15 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80–£3.00 GBP depending on distance. Frequent service operates daily, but check schedules for late events.
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Train and Walk
From Glasgow Central or Queen Street stations, it is a 10–15 minute walk through the Merchant City district to reach City Halls & Old Fruitmarket. The walk is mostly flat and suitable for most travelers.
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Driving and Parking
City center parking is limited and can be costly. Several public car parks are within a 5–10 minute walk, with prices ranging from £5 to £15 GBP depending on duration. Driving times vary with traffic, typically 15–25 minutes from Glasgow outskirts.
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Walking
If staying nearby in central Glasgow, walking to the venue is pleasant and takes 10–20 minutes depending on your location. The route passes through historic streets and is accessible for most pedestrians.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
A Storied Venue in Glasgow's Cultural Heart
The City Halls & Old Fruitmarket complex sits prominently on Candleriggs in the Merchant City, Glasgow's cultural quarter known for its historic architecture and lively arts scene. The City Halls, originally opened in 1841, is Glasgow’s oldest purpose-built performance and meeting venue. Designed by George Murray, its grand auditorium was the first in the city suitable for large-scale concerts and gatherings, hosting luminaries such as Charles Dickens and Benjamin Disraeli. The adjoining Old Fruitmarket, once a bustling wholesale fruit and produce market until the 1970s, retains its Victorian market hall character with lofty vaulted ceilings, cast iron columns, and a balcony, offering a unique and atmospheric event space.Architectural Grandeur and Acoustic Excellence
The City Halls’ main auditorium, often called the Grand Hall, is famed for its traditional shoebox shape and world-class acoustics, seating 1,066 patrons. It serves as the home for the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and regularly hosts the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and Scottish Ensemble. The venue’s elegant neoclassical Italianate design and raked seating with balcony create a lavish setting for classical and contemporary performances alike. The Old Fruitmarket complements this with a flexible capacity of 1,000 to 2,000, ideal for jazz, folk, and experimental music events, preserving its historic ambiance while adapting to modern needs.A Hub for Music, Festivals, and Community
Since its extensive £15 million refurbishment completed in 2006, the City Halls & Old Fruitmarket has become a vibrant cultural hub. It hosts a year-round calendar of concerts, including Celtic Connections, Mayfest, and the Glasgow Jazz Festival. Beyond music, the venues accommodate conferences, weddings, award ceremonies, and fashion shows, reflecting their versatility. The Old Fruitmarket’s retained vintage signage and architectural details evoke its market heritage, enriching the visitor experience with a sense of place and history.Weddings and Special Events in a Historic Setting
The complex offers a spectacular backdrop for weddings and private celebrations. The Old Fruitmarket’s authentic market hall atmosphere and the intimate Recital Room provide distinctive spaces for ceremonies and receptions. Experienced coordinators assist in tailoring events, ensuring a seamless blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The venues’ flexible spaces and central location make them sought-after for both grand and intimate occasions.Exploring Merchant City and Surroundings
Situated in the stylish Merchant City, visitors can enjoy the rich tapestry of Glasgow’s mercantile past alongside contemporary art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant street markets. The area’s cobbled streets and ornate architecture create an inviting atmosphere for exploration before or after events at the City Halls & Old Fruitmarket.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Protected as a category A listed building since 1970, the City Halls & Old Fruitmarket embodies Glasgow’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while fostering artistic innovation. The venues continue to be central to the city’s musical life, education, and community engagement, bridging historic grandeur with contemporary creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.3 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Walter Scott Monument
0.4 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.4 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
0.6 km
Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
McLennan Arch
0.6 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Provand's Lordship
0.6 km
Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
The Lighthouse
0.6 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.6 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.7 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Barras Market
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant Barras Market in Glasgow, a cultural gem filled with unique treasures, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.7 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
0.8 km
Discover the historic Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground, a tranquil oasis filled with centuries-old gravestones and rich stories in the heart of Glasgow.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.8 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow Cathedral
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Gothic architecture and rich heritage of Glasgow Cathedral, a must-visit for every traveler in Scotland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Merchant Square
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.1 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.1 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Pavement
0.2 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's nightlife at Katie's Bar – a vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue welcoming everyone to enjoy great drinks and entertainment.
Old Police Post
0.2 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Trongate
0.2 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.2 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Merchant City
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Tron Theatre
0.2 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
0.3 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Glasgow’s maritime heritage and the University of Strathclyde’s academic achievements through stunning street art.
Britannia Panopticon
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
High St
0.3 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Essential places to dine
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Table Twenty Eight
0.1 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Italian Kitchen
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Dhabba
0.1 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.1 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Saints of Ingram
0.2 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Browns Glasgow
0.3 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.3 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.3 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Social Recluse
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Pride of Glasgow
0.4 km
Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
Minted
0.4 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Frida and Coco
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Geek-aboo
0.4 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Eurasia Crafts
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
0.4 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Fat Buddha Store
0.4 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Primark
0.4 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.5 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Shop Small in Glasgow’s iconic St Enoch Centre, where historic charm meets modern shopping under Europe’s largest glass roof.
The Clydeside Collective
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
The Shop Network
0.6 km
A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar 91
0.0 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Home
0.1 km
Glasgow's go-to pub for live sports, craft cocktails, and hearty sharing plates in the vibrant Merchant City – where every visit feels like home turf.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.2 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Strathduie Bar
0.2 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Speakeasy
0.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Bacchus Bar
0.2 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Steps Bar
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.3 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.4 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Cairns Bar
0.4 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
Wunderbar
0.5 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Sloans
0.6 km
Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.2 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
0.2 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
0.3 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
0.3 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
0.3 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
0.3 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
0.4 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.7 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.7 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
0.8 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.8 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.8 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
0.8 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.8 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.8 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
