Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to world-class art, historic artifacts, and captivating exhibits in a stunning historic setting.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a premier cultural landmark in Glasgow, housing around 8,000 diverse objects spanning art, natural history, and historical artifacts. Located on Argyle Street beside Kelvingrove Park, this Spanish Baroque-style building opened in 1901 and was extensively refurbished in 2006. Visitors can explore 22 themed galleries featuring masterpieces by artists like Salvador Dalí and Titian, alongside iconic exhibits such as a Spitfire aircraft and Sir Roger the Asian elephant.
A brief summary to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8AG, GB
- +441412769599
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
- Don’t miss the daily organ recitals for a unique auditory experience in the grand halls.
- Explore the CREATE Space if visiting with children for interactive art activities.
- Plan at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the extensive galleries and special exhibits.
- Use public transport like the subway to Kelvinhall station for convenient access and limited parking hassle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Subway
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a 5-minute walk from Kelvinhall subway station and about 10 minutes from Kelvinbridge station. Subway trains operate frequently from early morning until late evening, making this a convenient and accessible option.
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Bus
Several First Bus routes, including numbers 2, 3, and 77, stop directly outside Kelvingrove on Argyle Street. Buses run regularly throughout the day, with typical journey times from Glasgow city centre ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Single fares cost around £2.50.
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Car
Pay and display parking is available at the museum with limited spaces and 10 free blue badge spots. Additional parking can be found at Kelvin Hall opposite the museum. Parking fees vary, typically around £7.50 for 2-3 hours. Note that spaces fill quickly during peak times.
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Train
Kelvingrove is within walking distance of Partick and Charing Cross train stations, approximately 15 and 10 minutes respectively. Both stations connect to Glasgow’s wider rail network, making it accessible for regional visitors.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum 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 Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
A Historic Cultural Treasure in Glasgow's West End
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum stands as one of Glasgow’s most beloved cultural institutions, nestled beside the verdant Kelvingrove Park. Designed by Sir John William Simpson and EJ Milner Allen, the grand Spanish Baroque-style building opened its doors in 1901. It underwent a major £28 million refurbishment, reopening in 2006 to reveal revitalized galleries and modern facilities. The museum’s architecture itself is a striking landmark, blending ornate historic design with thoughtful restoration to create an inviting space for visitors.An Eclectic Collection of Art and Artifacts
The museum’s collection is vast and varied, encompassing approximately 8,000 objects across 22 themed galleries. Highlights include masterpieces by European masters such as Rembrandt, Titian, and Botticelli, with Salvador Dalí’s renowned "Christ of St John of the Cross" as a centerpiece. Scottish art is well represented, featuring works by the Glasgow Boys and the Scottish Colourists. Beyond paintings, the museum offers natural history exhibits, arms and armour, and historical artifacts, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.Iconic Exhibits and Unique Displays
Among the museum’s most captivating displays is a real Spitfire aircraft suspended dramatically in the Life Gallery, offering a tangible connection to World War II history. Another crowd favorite is Sir Roger, the Asian elephant, which adds a whimsical yet poignant element to the natural history section. The museum also hosts daily organ recitals, filling the grand halls with music and enhancing the sensory experience of the visit.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
Kelvingrove is designed to welcome families and visitors of all ages, with interactive and educational spaces such as the CREATE Space for children to engage with art and creativity. Temporary exhibitions and special tours provide fresh perspectives and encourage repeat visits. The venue includes a café, restaurant, and gift shops, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
The museum is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair access throughout, accessible toilets, hearing loops, and mobility aids. It is conveniently located near Kelvinhall and Kelvinbridge subway stations, with pay and display parking available including free blue badge spaces. Public transport options are plentiful, making it easy to reach from Glasgow city centre.Ongoing Conservation and Community Role
Kelvingrove continues to evolve with ongoing conservation and restoration projects funded by Glasgow City Council. It serves as a vibrant hub for cultural heritage, education, and community engagement, reflecting Glasgow’s rich history and artistic legacy while inspiring future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caledonian Mansions
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Finnieston Crane
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The Sixty Steps
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Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
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A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
The Clyde Arc
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Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Govan Old Church
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The Govan Stones
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The Glasgow School of Art
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McLellan Galleries
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Box Hub
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Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow
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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
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ToursByLocals - Glasgow
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glasgow south side
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Riddle Rooms Glasgow
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
0.2 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End setting.
Statue of Lord Kelvin
0.3 km
A distinguished bronze tribute in Kelvingrove Park honoring Lord Kelvin’s groundbreaking scientific legacy and Glasgow’s rich academic heritage.
Kelvin Way
0.3 km
Kelvin Way connects Glasgow’s West End cultural landmarks, blending historic architecture with leafy parks and vibrant local life.
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.
Kelvingrove Bandstand
0.3 km
Glasgow's restored Art Deco bandstand hosting vibrant open-air performances in a Victorian park 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.
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.
Stewart Memorial Fountain
0.4 km
A Victorian Gothic masterpiece in Kelvingrove Park honoring Glasgow’s water pioneer, Robert Stewart, and the gift of clean water.
The Suffragette Oak
0.5 km
A powerful living symbol in Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Park honoring the women’s suffrage movement and the fight for voting rights.
Kelvingrove Park
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Kelvingrove Park — a vibrant Victorian green space with iconic art, serene river walks, and lively community spirit.
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.
The Mackintosh House
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Step inside the meticulously reconstructed Glasgow home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design and creative legacy.
Visit West End
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Park Terrace
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The wild pork statue
0.6 km
A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.
Essential places to dine
Ox and Finch
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Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Eighty Eight
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The Gannet
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A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
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Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
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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.
Number 16 Restaurant
0.6 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Porter & Rye
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Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
The Finnieston
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A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Fanny Trollopes
0.6 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Stravaigin
0.7 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Ubiquitous Chip
0.7 km
Experience Glasgow’s iconic Scottish dining landmark blending tradition, innovation, and lush ambiance in Ashton Lane’s historic heart.
Fallachan Kitchen
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Bothy Glasgow
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Celino's
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Cafe Andaluz
0.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
0.4 km
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VELVET MOON
0.4 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Gallus Alice
0.8 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
Oliver Bonas
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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.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
0.9 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
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
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Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Papyrus
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Downstair Design Co.
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Decadent Riot
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Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
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Cut Price Gift Shop
1.4 km
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Ae Fond Kiss
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McLay's Gift Shop
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Found
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dukes Bar
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The Islay Inn
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The Park Bar
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EightySix
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The Ben Nevis
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The Record Factory
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The Aragon Bar
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Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom
0.7 km
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The Dirty Duchess
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Vodka Wodka
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Curlers Rest Glasgow
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Hillhead Bookclub
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Kitty O'Shea's West End
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Smiddy Bar
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beGIN
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
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Firewater
1.6 km
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Saint Judes After Dark
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Buff Club
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The Plug Glasgow
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The Savoy
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142B Lounge
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Bamboo
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Kokomo Glasgow
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Popworld Glasgow
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Club Tropicana & Venga
2.3 km
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Platinum Lace Glasgow
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Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Cathouse Rock Club
2.4 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
2.4 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
2.4 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- 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