Provand's Lordship: Glasgow's Oldest Medieval House
Step into Glasgow’s oldest house, a medieval gem showcasing centuries of history, art, and heritage in the heart of the city.
Provand's Lordship, built in 1471, is the oldest surviving domestic building in Glasgow and one of only four medieval structures remaining in the city. Originally part of St Nicholas's Hospital, it later served as a residence for canons of Glasgow Cathedral. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into 16th- and 17th-century life with period furnishings, royal portraits, and a recreated medieval herb garden, all set within Glasgow’s historic Cathedral Precinct.
A brief summary to Provand's Lordship
- 3 Castle St, Glasgow, G4 0RH, GB
- +441412761625
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- 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 the adjacent St Nicholas Garden to enjoy the medieval herb garden and the unique Tontine Heads sculptures.
- Explore Glasgow Cathedral and the St Mungo Museum nearby to complete your experience of the Cathedral Precinct.
- Check opening hours carefully; the house closes earlier on Fridays and Sundays and is closed on Mondays.
- Take time to appreciate the 17th-century furniture collection donated by Sir William Burrell, which enriches the interiors.
- Photography is allowed but follow the museum’s guidelines to respect the historic interiors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several First Bus services, including routes 19, 19A, 38, 57, and 57A, stop near Provand's Lordship. Travel times from Glasgow city center typically range from 10 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £1.80 to £3.00 depending on journey length. Service frequency varies but generally runs every 10 to 20 minutes during the day.
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Train
The nearest train station is High Street, about a 10-15 minute walk from Provand's Lordship. Trains connect from Glasgow Central and Queen Street stations with travel times around 5 minutes. Tickets range from £2.50 to £4.00. The station is accessible but involves a short walk on urban streets.
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Walking
From central Glasgow locations such as Buchanan Street, walking to Provand's Lordship takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes on mostly flat, paved urban terrain. The route passes through busy city streets and is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
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Car
Driving to Provand's Lordship is possible with pay-and-display parking available on Castle Street, including free disabled parking bays. Traffic congestion is common in the city center, especially during peak hours. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3.00 per hour.
Provand's Lordship 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 Provand's Lordship
A Living Link to Medieval Glasgow
Provand's Lordship stands as a rare survivor from Glasgow's medieval past, constructed in 1471 by Andrew Muirhead, Bishop of Glasgow. It was originally part of St Nicholas's Hospital complex, serving as the manse or residence for the Master of the Chapel and Hospital. Over time, the house became associated with the canons of Glasgow Cathedral, specifically linked to the Prebend of Barlanark, an ecclesiastical estate that supported clergy members. This connection, though debated by historians, helped preserve the building when many others in the area were demolished during urban redevelopment.Architectural Evolution and Interior Heritage
The house is a three-storey stone structure connected internally by a spiral staircase, with a western extension added in 1670. Its interiors showcase furnishings and household items dating from 1500 to 1700, including a notable collection of 17th-century Scottish furniture donated by Sir William Burrell in the 1920s. Visitors can explore rooms arranged to reflect different historical periods, from medieval origins on the ground floor to a more museum-like presentation on the upper levels. Royal portraits and artworks enrich the narrative of Glasgow's past throughout the house.Preservation and Public Access
In the early 20th century, Provand's Lordship was at risk of demolition but was saved by the Provand's Lordship Society, which purchased and restored the building. After further restoration by the City of Glasgow in the late 20th century, it reopened to the public in 1983 and underwent additional improvements completed in 2000 and again from 2022 to 2024. Today, the house is managed by Glasgow Museums and offers free admission, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience a tangible piece of the city's heritage.The Surrounding Historic Precinct
Situated at 3 Castle Street, Provand's Lordship lies within Glasgow's medieval Cathedral Precinct, close to Glasgow Cathedral and opposite the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art. The adjacent St Nicholas Garden features a recreated medieval herb garden and the intriguing Tontine Heads sculptures, which date from the 18th and 19th centuries. This setting enriches the visitor experience by connecting the house to the broader religious and civic history of Glasgow.Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience
Provand's Lordship offers a unique window into Glasgow’s transformation from a medieval burgh to a modern city. The house’s preserved architectural features, period furnishings, and art collections provide a vivid sense of domestic life across centuries. The garden’s medicinal plants reflect historical herbal traditions, adding a sensory dimension to the visit. The site also holds cultural anecdotes, such as the reputed visit of Mary Queen of Scots in 1567, enhancing its historical allure.Engagement and Accessibility
The museum welcomes visitors with accessibility features such as ground-floor access and assistance dog acceptance. Informational materials are available in multiple languages, and the site includes amenities like restrooms and nearby food options at the St Mungo Museum. The house’s location in the city center makes it accessible via public transport and walking routes, inviting exploration of Glasgow’s rich medieval heritage in a compact area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge of Sighs
0.2 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.7 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
0.7 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.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.8 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Walter Scott Monument
0.8 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Tobacco Merchant's House
1.0 km
Explore the Tobacco Merchant's House, a historic site in Glasgow that reveals the fascinating story of the tobacco trade and its impact on the city's heritage.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
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Discover the Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington in Glasgow, a quirky landmark that merges history with local humor.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
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Explore the vibrant Mural Trail #.09 in Glasgow, celebrating Billy Connolly's legacy through stunning public art. A cultural gem awaits your discovery.
Royal Exchange Square
1.0 km
Discover the lively Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow, a cultural landmark renowned for its stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
1.1 km
Explore Glasgow's heart through the captivating Bronze 3D Map of City Centre, a stunning sculpture and guide to the city's rich heritage.
Nelson Mandela Pl
1.1 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
1.1 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Buffalo Bill Statue
1.1 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Good as Gold Street Art
1.1 km
Explore Good as Gold Street Art in Glasgow - a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing stunning murals and street art that reflect the city's creative spirit.
McLennan Arch
1.1 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art
0.0 km
Explore world religions and spiritual art in Glasgow’s historic museum featuring Britain’s first Zen garden and free entry.
Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s medical heritage through pioneering innovations and inspiring stories at this unique hospital museum.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
0.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s Victorian Necropolis—a stunning garden cemetery rich with history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Glasgow Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow Cathedral, a breathtaking medieval Gothic treasure and spiritual heart of Scotland’s largest city, open daily with free entry and rich history.
Mural of Woman, child and robin (St. Mungo and mother)
0.3 km
A heartfelt modern mural celebrating Glasgow’s patron saint, his mother, and the legendary robin that symbolizes the city’s spirit.
Drygate Brewing Co.
0.3 km
Glasgow’s pioneering experiential brewery with craft beers, fearless food, panoramic brewhouse views, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Glasgow Necropolis
0.4 km
Explore the haunting beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a historical cemetery with stunning architecture and breathtaking city views.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
0.4 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Glasgow’s maritime heritage and the University of Strathclyde’s academic achievements through stunning street art.
High St
0.4 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Wellpark Brewery
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s oldest brewery where centuries of tradition meet the birthplace of Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.5 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.6 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
Merchant Square
0.7 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
Essential places to dine
Celentano's
0.1 km
Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
The Italian Kitchen
0.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.5 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.6 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.7 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Saints of Ingram
0.7 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
The Dhabba
0.7 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.8 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Browns Glasgow
0.8 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
0.9 km
Discover the fusion of delicious grill cuisine and live music at Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox in Glasgow – where every meal is an experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Frida and Coco
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Never miss a gift
0.8 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Modern Love Store
0.9 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Social Recluse
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
0.9 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.9 km
Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Ilahui&Ximi Vogue Life Uk
1.0 km
Discover bold, stylish gifts and fashion-forward lifestyle treasures in the heart of Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
1.0 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Buchanan Galleries
1.0 km
Glasgow's premier shopping destination with over 80 brands, dining, and entertainment in the city centre.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
1.0 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Pride of Glasgow
1.0 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.
Geek-aboo
1.0 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Fat Buddha Store
1.0 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Tartan House of Scotland
1.0 km
Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
Eurasia Crafts
1.0 km
Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Strathduie Bar
0.6 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Home
0.6 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.
Bar 91
0.7 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.
Speakeasy
0.7 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.8 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.8 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.8 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.9 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
0.9 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
1.0 km
Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Cairns Bar
1.0 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.
The Social
1.1 km
Cocktail haven in Merchant City with quirky drinks, wood-fired eats, terrace views, and late-night DJ vibes in Royal Exchange Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.8 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
0.8 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
0.9 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Delmonicas
0.9 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
Club X
0.9 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Riding Room
0.9 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
La Cheetah Club
1.0 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Popworld Glasgow
1.2 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
1.2 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Bamboo
1.2 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.2 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
1.3 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Cathouse Rock Club
1.3 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
The Savoy
1.3 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
1.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
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
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
