Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Glasgow
Scotland’s premier performing arts conservatoire in Glasgow’s city centre, blending historic legacy with vibrant live performances and world-class training.
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) is a world-renowned institution for performing arts education and one of Scotland’s busiest venues for live performances. Located at 100 Renfrew Street in Glasgow’s vibrant city centre, it offers expert training in music, drama, dance, production, and film. With over 500 public performances annually across five professional venues, RCS combines historic legacy with modern facilities, fostering creativity and excellence in the arts.
A brief summary to Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
- 100 Renfrew St, Glasgow, G2 3DB, GB
- +441413324101
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular performances to secure the best seats and discounted prices.
- Explore the conservatoire’s free virtual tour online to preview rehearsal rooms and performance spaces.
- Take advantage of the Digital Access Pass for streamlined booking and accessibility support.
- Visit the café bar for coffee and occasional impromptu student performances.
- Check the schedule for the 'Mondays at One' and 'Fridays at One' concert series featuring diverse musical acts.
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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Bus
Multiple bus routes stop near the conservatoire on Hope Street, including services 20, 23, 41, 50, 54, and 66. Travel times from Glasgow Central Station range from 10 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with affordable fares typically under £3.
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Train and Walking
Glasgow Central and Queen Street train stations are both within a 10-minute walk of the conservatoire. This option is convenient for regional travelers and offers easy pedestrian access through the city centre.
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Car and Parking
Parking is available in nearby multi-storey car parks at Cambridge Street, Concert Square, and Buchanan Galleries. Charges apply, generally around £1 after 6pm. The conservatoire is accessible via the M8 motorway with clear signage from junctions 16 and 17.
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Walking
If you are staying in Glasgow city centre, walking to the conservatoire is a pleasant option. The terrain is flat and fully accessible, with pedestrian-friendly streets and nearby amenities.
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland 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 Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence Since 1847
Founded in 1847 as part of the Glasgow Athenaeum, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has evolved into one of the world’s top performing arts institutions. Its current purpose-built building on Renfrew Street has been home to the conservatoire since 1988, designed by Sir Leslie Martin with executive architects William Nimmo and Partners. The institution’s rich history includes roots in music, drama, and commercial education, with a legacy of fostering Scotland’s cultural heritage and artistic innovation.A Hub for Diverse Performing Arts Disciplines
RCS offers comprehensive vocational training across music, drama, dance, production, and film. Its campus houses more than 90 practice rooms, rehearsal studios, recording and editing suites, ballet studios, and professional performance venues such as the New Athenaeum Theatre and Stevenson Hall. This multidisciplinary environment encourages collaboration and creativity, nurturing emerging artists to professional standards.Vibrant Performance Scene in Glasgow City Centre
Situated in Glasgow’s bustling city centre, RCS is a cultural landmark hosting over 500 performances each year. The conservatoire’s five venues showcase a dynamic range of productions, from classical music and opera to contemporary theatre and dance. Performances attract over 52,000 attendees annually, offering accessible ticket prices and a lively atmosphere that reflects the city’s artistic energy.Inclusive and Accessible Facilities
The conservatoire is committed to accessibility, providing level access entrances, lifts, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, induction loops, and services such as sign language interpretation and audio description. Assistance dogs are welcome, and the venue offers a Digital Access Pass to streamline support for visitors with access needs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all audiences.Community Engagement and Educational Outreach
Beyond its academic programmes, RCS actively engages with the community through public concerts, workshops, and festivals. Its Junior Conservatoire nurtures young talent, while collaborations with national companies and alumni enrich Scotland’s cultural landscape. The conservatoire’s café and creative spaces often host impromptu performances, contributing to Glasgow’s vibrant arts scene.Strategic Location and Modern Amenities
Located at 100 Renfrew Street, RCS benefits from excellent transport links including nearby bus routes and multi-storey parking facilities. The campus is complemented by Wallace Studios at Speirs Locks, housing production arts and ballet studios just a short walk away. Visitors enjoy amenities such as a café bar, a comprehensive performance library, and information services that enhance the overall experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
McLellan Galleries
0.3 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.5 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.7 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Walter Scott Monument
0.7 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Tobacco Merchant's House
0.9 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.
Old Police Post
1.0 km
A historic blue police box marking Glasgow's pioneering role in British law enforcement and urban policing innovation.
Ramshorn Graveyard
1.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ramshorn Graveyard, a hidden gem in the heart of Glasgow, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant Strath Wonderwall Mural in Glasgow, a stunning street art piece that reflects the city's creative spirit and cultural richness.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
1.1 km
Explore the rich musical heritage and stunning architecture of City Halls & Old Fruitmarket, a premier live music venue in Glasgow.
La Pasionaria
1.1 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Box Hub
1.1 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
1.1 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Merchant Square
1.2 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant cultural scene at Merchant Square, a premier events venue combining great dining and lively entertainment.
Glasgow Police Museum
1.2 km
Explore the unique history of law enforcement at the Glasgow Police Museum, a must-see destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Theatre Royal Glasgow
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s grand Victorian theatre, home to Scottish Opera and Ballet, blending historic charm with vibrant cultural performances.
The National Piping Centre
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s rich piping heritage at Glasgow’s National Piping Centre, home to a world-class museum, live performances, and expert tuition.
Pavilion Theatre
0.2 km
Glasgow’s historic Pavilion Theatre, a stunning Edwardian venue famed for variety shows, pantomimes, and rich Louis XV interiors since 1904.
Sauchiehall Street
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Sauchiehall Street, where historic architecture, vibrant shopping, and lively nightlife converge in a dynamic cultural corridor.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
0.3 km
Dive into immersive escape rooms in Glasgow’s city centre, where puzzles, stories, and friendly hosts create unforgettable adventures for all ages.
The Pot Still
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s iconic whisky bar with nearly 600 bottles, warm atmosphere, and traditional Scottish fare on historic Hope Street.
The Glasgow Art Club
0.4 km
Historic Georgian club and gallery showcasing Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s art legacy with vibrant exhibitions and exclusive dining in central Glasgow.
The Glasgow School of Art
0.4 km
Experience the artistic brilliance of The Glasgow School of Art, a stunning architectural gem and a cultural hub in Glasgow, Scotland.
Buchanan Galleries
0.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant shopping centre with 80+ stores, dining, and easy city centre access for a complete retail and leisure experience.
Blythswood Square
0.4 km
A serene Georgian square in Glasgow blending historic elegance, artistic heritage, and vibrant city life in a lush garden setting.
The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
0.4 km
Glasgow’s iconic concert venue blending architectural grandeur with world-class music and cultural events in the city centre.
glasgow south side
0.5 km
Glasgow South Side: A dynamic automotive district offering diverse car sales, servicing, and financing in the heart of the city.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.5 km
A vibrant Glasgow square honoring Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the city’s historic stand against apartheid.
All Bar One Glasgow
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of All Bar One Glasgow, where wine lovers unite for exceptional drinks and delicious tapas in the heart of the city.
Stereo
0.6 km
Discover Stereo, Glasgow's premier live music bar and vegan café, where vibrant culture meets delicious cuisine in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
Ristorante Pieno
0.0 km
Award-winning family Italian restaurant in Glasgow's theatre district, celebrated for authentic cuisine and impeccable service.
Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Scottish restaurant in Glasgow blending traditional flavors with modern flair in a warm, inviting setting.
La Bonne Auberge
0.2 km
Classic French brasserie offering authentic Mediterranean flavors in Glasgow’s vibrant Theatreland district with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Red Onion
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Scottish dining with modern twists in the heart of Glasgow at Red Onion, a welcoming spot for classic and contemporary flavors.
The butterfly and the pig
0.3 km
A quirky Glasgow gem serving hearty Scottish fare, vibrant live music, and a beloved vintage-style afternoon tea experience.
Verona
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Glasgow’s city center at Verona.
Opium
0.3 km
Sleek Asian fusion dining on Glasgow’s Hope Street, blending traditional flavors with modern style and diverse dietary options.
iasg
0.4 km
Refined Scottish seafood dining in a stylish hotel setting with fresh flavors, elegant design, and warm hospitality in Glasgow’s heart.
Halloumi Glasgow
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek meze and lively vibes at Halloumi Glasgow, a vibrant Mediterranean gem in the city centre.
Gamba
0.4 km
Elegant seafood dining in Glasgow’s city center, where classic flavors meet creative finesse in an intimate, welcoming setting.
Bath Street Palomino
0.5 km
A stylish Italian restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s city centre, blending modern design with exceptional food and drinks.
Amarone
0.5 km
Stylish Italian dining with open kitchens, vibrant flavors, and a lively atmosphere in Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Chaophraya
0.5 km
Elegant Thai dining in a grand Glasgow townhouse, known for its cocktails and dramatic interior.
Meat Joint Scottish Steakhouse
0.5 km
Savor expertly cooked Scottish steaks in a cozy, family-owned steakhouse on Glasgow’s lively Sauchiehall Street.
Mini Grill Steakhouse - Glasgow
0.5 km
Cozy Glasgow steakhouse serving expertly cooked Scottish steaks with warm hospitality and classic sides in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Glasgow Gifts
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and unique gifts at Glasgow Gifts, nestled in the vibrant heart of Sauchiehall Street.
MAIA GIFTS
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s award-winning independent gift shop with unique, quirky, and handpicked treasures for every special occasion.
Ilahui&Ximi Vogue Life Uk
0.4 km
Discover bold, stylish gifts and fashion-forward lifestyle treasures in the heart of Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Braw Wee Emporium
0.5 km
Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
Tartan House of Scotland
0.5 km
Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
Wee scottish shop
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
The Shop Network
0.5 km
A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
House Of Cashmere Glasgow
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish cashmere craftsmanship and timeless luxury in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Fat Buddha Store
0.8 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Geek-aboo
0.8 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
House of Fraser
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
Eurasia Crafts
0.9 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
0.9 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
McLay's Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Howlin' Wolf: Bar, Kitchen, Juke Joint
0.2 km
Glasgow's ultimate blues juke joint: live music daily, soul food till 2am, whiskey flows, and rock 'n' roll vibes in a Mississippi-inspired den.
Gin71
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s elegant gin sanctuary with exotic vibes, expert cocktails, and a vibrant social atmosphere on Renfield Street.
Missoula - Glasgow
0.4 km
A vibrant Glasgow cocktail bar blending expert drinks, live DJs, and an all-day menu in a lively city center setting.
Blue Dog
0.4 km
Glasgow's chic cocktail haven with live piano, masterful mixes, and cozy vibes for unforgettable nights out in the city center.
Slouch: Live Music, Kitchen & Late Night Venue
0.4 km
A stylish Glasgow gastropub blending live jazz, blues, and rock with hearty food and creative cocktails in a cozy, speakeasy-inspired setting.
Tiki Bar & Kitsch Inn
0.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant tropical escape blending exotic cocktails, authentic Thai cuisine, and a lively beer garden in the heart of the city.
Devil of Brooklyn
0.4 km
A chic speakeasy cocktail bar in Glasgow’s city centre, blending Italianate elegance with creative drinks and a warm, intimate vibe.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Drum & Monkey Glasgow
0.5 km
Traditional Glasgow gastropub in a historic bank building, famed for its ales, hearty pies, and welcoming city centre vibe.
Horseshoe Bar Glasgow
0.6 km
Historic Victorian pub with Britain’s longest horseshoe-shaped bar, lively karaoke, live sports, and warm Glaswegian hospitality in the city centre.
Ross's Original Bar
0.7 km
Classic Glasgow pub with hearty food, lively karaoke nights, and a welcoming old-school atmosphere in the heart of the city.
TABAC
0.7 km
Retro Parisian cocktail bar on hidden Mitchell Lane, blending masterful mixes, street food bites, and lively vibes in Glasgow's heart.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.7 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Wunderbar
0.8 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Savoy
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
The Plug Glasgow
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Buff Club
0.3 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.
Saint Judes After Dark
0.3 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Bamboo
0.4 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.4 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
0.4 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
142B Lounge
0.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.
Firewater
0.5 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.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.6 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.6 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
La Cheetah Club
0.8 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.8 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
The Berkeley Suite
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Classic Grand
0.9 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
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
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
