Kelvin Hall Open Collections, Glasgow
Discover Scotland’s heritage at Kelvin Hall, a historic Glasgow landmark housing national museum, library, and film archives in a vibrant cultural hub.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections in Glasgow is a dynamic cultural hub housing Scotland’s national museum, library, and archive collections under one roof. Located on Argyle Street, this historic red sandstone building offers access to vast digital archives, moving image collections, and temporary exhibitions, alongside a modern health and fitness centre. Visitors can explore Scotland’s rich heritage through films, manuscripts, maps, and photographs in a welcoming, accessible environment with free entry.
A brief summary to Kelvin Hall Open Collections
- 1445 Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8AW, GB
- +441412761450
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Moving Image Archive to explore over a century of Scottish film history through curated exhibitions and public screenings.
- Take advantage of the free entry and accessible facilities, including ramps, lifts, and hearing loops, to fully enjoy the collections.
- Stop by the on-site café for light meals and refreshments during your visit.
- Use the free lockers available to securely store your belongings while exploring the extensive digital and physical collections.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Kelvin Hall is served by frequent city bus routes from central Glasgow and nearby neighborhoods, with journey times typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. The Kelvinhall subway station is within walking distance, providing a convenient 10-15 minute ride from Glasgow city centre. Tickets cost approximately £2.50–£4.00 GBP depending on the service.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can use paid parking facilities at the Burnhouse Road car park, which includes electric vehicle charging points. Parking fees range from £3 to £8 GBP depending on duration. Blue Badge holders have designated parking on Bunhouse Road and nearby streets with standard charges applying.
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Cycling
Bike racks are available at the front of Kelvin Hall for secure bicycle parking. Glasgow’s extensive cycle network provides safe routes to the venue from across the city.
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Walking
For those staying in the West End or nearby areas, walking to Kelvin Hall is pleasant and accessible, with flat terrain and well-maintained pavements. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting point.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kelvin Hall Open Collections
A Storied Venue with Architectural Grandeur
Kelvin Hall stands as a striking red sandstone landmark on Argyle Street in Glasgow’s West End, opposite Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Originally opened in 1927, this immense steel-framed building was designed by Robert James Walker to complement the cultural offerings of Kelvingrove Park. The hall covers six acres and has served multiple roles, from hosting exhibitions and carnivals to being Glasgow’s Museum of Transport for over two decades. Today, it is a category B listed building that blends historic grandeur with contemporary cultural use.A Hub for Scotland’s National Collections
The Kelvin Hall Open Collections project unites three nationally significant institutions: Glasgow Museums, the National Library of Scotland, and the Moving Image Archive. Visitors gain access to extensive digital book and manuscript collections, rare maps spanning four centuries, and Scotland’s largest archive of films and videos showcasing over 100 years of Scottish history. The facility provides on-site computers, viewing booths, and curated exhibitions, making it a vibrant centre for research, education, and public engagement.Immersive Moving Image and Sound Archive
A highlight of Kelvin Hall is the Moving Image Archive, Scotland’s national collection of films and videos. Visitors can watch curated content on touchscreens, explore thousands of digitised films, and enjoy public screenings and talks. The archive also preserves cinema memorabilia such as posters, scripts, and photographs, offering a unique window into Scotland’s film-making heritage and cultural memory.Modern Facilities and Accessibility
Following major refurbishment, Kelvin Hall now also houses a state-of-the-art Glasgow Club health and fitness centre, blending cultural enrichment with wellness. The building is fully accessible, featuring ramps, lifts, hearing loops, and accessible toilets. Amenities include a café serving light meals and drinks, free lockers, baby changing facilities, and bike racks. Entry to the collections and exhibitions is free, encouraging wide public access.Engaging Experiences and Educational Opportunities
Kelvin Hall offers regular tours, family-friendly activities, and spaces for relaxation and creativity. Visitors can engage with Scotland’s heritage through hands-on crafts, exhibitions, and digital resources. The venue supports teaching and research, making it a valuable resource for students, historians, and cultural enthusiasts alike.Location and Surroundings
Situated in Glasgow’s vibrant West End, Kelvin Hall benefits from proximity to public transport including bus services and the Kelvinhall subway station. Paid parking is available nearby, including electric vehicle charging points. The hall’s location opposite Kelvingrove Park and Museum enriches the visitor experience, situating it within a lively cultural district.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caledonian Mansions
1.0 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
The Sixty Steps
1.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
Finnieston Crane
1.3 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
1.5 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
The Clyde Arc
1.5 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
The Glasgow School of Art
1.9 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
Box Hub
2.0 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
McLellan Galleries
2.0 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow
2.2 km
Explore endless fun and adventure at Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow, the ultimate indoor amusement center for children and families.
Statue of Light and Life
2.3 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
2.3 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
2.4 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
2.5 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
2.6 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Nelson Mandela Pl
2.6 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to world-class art, historic artifacts, and captivating exhibits in a stunning historic setting.
Hunterian Zoology Museum
0.3 km
Discover the fascinating diversity of the animal kingdom at the University of Glasgow's historic Hunterian Zoology Museum.
The Lion and Unicorn Staircase
0.3 km
A dramatic Gothic Revival staircase guarded by stone lions and unicorns in the heart of the University of Glasgow’s West Quadrangle.
Visit West End
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow West End’s blend of historic charm, vibrant arts, independent shops, and lush green spaces in a lively cultural hotspot.
Statue of Lord Kelvin
0.4 km
A distinguished bronze tribute in Kelvingrove Park honoring Lord Kelvin’s groundbreaking scientific legacy and Glasgow’s rich academic heritage.
University of Glasgow
0.4 km
Explore centuries of history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant culture at the University of Glasgow’s iconic West End campus.
Kelvin Way
0.5 km
Kelvin Way connects Glasgow’s West End cultural landmarks, blending historic architecture with leafy parks and vibrant local life.
Kelvingrove Bandstand
0.5 km
Glasgow's restored Art Deco bandstand hosting vibrant open-air performances in a Victorian park setting.
The Mackintosh House
0.5 km
Step inside the meticulously reconstructed Glasgow home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design and creative legacy.
Hunterian Art Gallery
0.5 km
Scotland’s oldest museum art gallery showcasing iconic works by Whistler, Mackintosh, and more in a modern university setting.
Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Tennent's Byres Road, a quintessential Glasgow pub offering local brews and authentic Scottish hospitality.
The Suffragette Oak
0.6 km
A powerful living symbol in Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Park honoring the women’s suffrage movement and the fight for voting rights.
Stewart Memorial Fountain
0.6 km
A Victorian Gothic masterpiece in Kelvingrove Park honoring Glasgow’s water pioneer, Robert Stewart, and the gift of clean water.
Kelvingrove Park
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Kelvingrove Park — a vibrant Victorian green space with iconic art, serene river walks, and lively community spirit.
Railway Arches Murals
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
Essential places to dine
Eighty Eight
0.3 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Number 16 Restaurant
0.4 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Celino's
0.6 km
A lively Italian restaurant and deli in Partick offering authentic flavors and a bustling atmosphere with moderate prices.
Ubiquitous Chip
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s iconic Scottish dining landmark blending tradition, innovation, and lush ambiance in Ashton Lane’s historic heart.
Fallachan Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
Ox and Finch
0.7 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Bothy Glasgow
0.7 km
Experience creative Scottish cuisine with a modern twist in Glasgow’s vibrant West End at Bothy Glasgow.
The Gannet
0.7 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
0.7 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
0.7 km
Cozy Finnieston basement bar serving top-tier pub grub, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly vibes in a shabby-chic haven with summer beer garden bliss.
Porter & Rye
0.8 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
The Finnieston
0.8 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Cafe Andaluz
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Spanish tapas and lively Mediterranean ambiance in the heart of Glasgow’s West End at Cafe Andaluz.
Stravaigin
0.8 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Fanny Trollopes
0.8 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
VELVET MOON
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Oliver Bonas
0.7 km
Discover joyful style at Oliver Bonas on Byres Road: eclectic fashion, sparkling jewellery, chic homewares, and gifts that brighten everyday life in Glasgow's creative West End.
Papyrus
0.9 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
West Vintage
0.9 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
Amaryllis Westend
0.9 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Gallus Alice
1.0 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
1.0 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Downstair Design Co.
1.1 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
Decadent Riot
1.1 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Cut Price Gift Shop
1.2 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
Ae Fond Kiss
1.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s ethical gift and art studio blending fair trade treasures with local creativity in a welcoming boutique setting.
Found
1.5 km
Discover unique and vintage-inspired homewares and lighting in the heart of Partick, Glasgow’s creative shopping district.
Dead Famous Cities Ltd
1.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Dead Famous Cities Ltd in Glasgow - a treasure trove for every traveler looking for special souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dukes Bar
0.3 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
EightySix
0.3 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
0.4 km
A West End bar with dive‑bar energy, a large beer garden and DJs that keep the party rolling late into the night.
The Islay Inn
0.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.
The Aragon Bar
0.5 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
The Park Bar
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.
Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom
0.6 km
Tank-fresh brews and a rotating craft tap list in a warm, industrial-chic taproom tucked on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.
Vodka Wodka
0.6 km
Quirky West End cocktail bar with an all-weather, multi-level beer garden and a colossal vodka list — casual, lively and unpretentious.
Curlers Rest Glasgow
0.7 km
Historic Byres Road pub pouring 25 draught beers amid exposed brick charm and open-kitchen Scottish fare in Glasgow's West End.
The Ben Nevis
0.7 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
Smiddy Bar
0.8 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
The Dirty Duchess
0.9 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
Hillhead Bookclub
0.9 km
Retro cinema vibes meet quirky cocktails and ping pong in Glasgow's West End— a multi-level playground for drinks, bites, and unbeatable energy.
beGIN
1.0 km
Glasgow's premier gin bar on Byres Road, boasting over 100 global gins with Scottish flair—perfect for cosy starts to vibrant West End nights.
Kitty O'Shea's West End
1.0 km
Authentic Irish pub in Glasgow's West End: frothy Guinness, live tunes, and hearty grub fuel lively nights until 2am.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
1.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
1.8 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
2.0 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Buff Club
2.1 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
The Plug Glasgow
2.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
The Savoy
2.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
142B Lounge
2.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.
Bamboo
2.4 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Kokomo Glasgow
2.4 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Popworld Glasgow
2.5 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Club Tropicana & Venga
2.5 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
2.5 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Cathouse Rock Club
2.6 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
2.6 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
2.6 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly