Scottish Event Campus: Glasgow’s Premier Exhibition and Entertainment Hub
Scotland’s largest integrated venue for world-class exhibitions, concerts, and conferences on Glasgow’s vibrant River Clyde waterfront.
The Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow is the UK’s largest integrated conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue. Situated on the banks of the River Clyde, it features iconic buildings like the SEC Armadillo and the OVO Hydro arena. With over 239,000 square feet of flexible exhibition space and world-class facilities, the SEC hosts international conferences, concerts, and major events year-round, attracting over a million visitors annually.
A brief summary to Scottish Event Campus
- Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW, GB
- +441412483000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to explore the campus and enjoy the striking architecture of the SEC Armadillo and OVO Hydro.
- Use the Exhibition Centre railway station for convenient public transport access directly to the campus.
- Check event schedules in advance as the SEC hosts a wide variety of events from concerts to international conferences.
- Accessible facilities and hearing loops are available to support visitors with mobility or hearing needs.
- Nearby dining and accommodation options, including the Crowne Plaza hotel, offer comfort for multi-day events.
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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Train
Take a train to Exhibition Centre station on Glasgow’s Argyle Line, just a 3-minute ride from Glasgow Central. The station offers direct covered access to the SEC campus. Trains run frequently, with tickets costing approximately £2-£5 depending on origin.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Finnieston and Exhibition Way area, connecting the SEC to Glasgow city centre and surrounding neighborhoods. Journey times range from 15 to 30 minutes, with single fares around £1.80 to £3.50. Check local timetables for service frequency.
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Car
Driving to the SEC is convenient via the Clydeside Expressway and M8 motorway. The campus offers multiple parking options, including a multi-storey car park near the SSE Hydro. Parking fees vary, typically £5-£15 per day. Note that traffic can be heavy during major events.
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Walking
From Glasgow city centre, a scenic 20 to 30-minute walk along the River Clyde and through the Finnieston area brings you to the SEC. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most visitors.
Scottish Event Campus 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Scottish Event Campus
A Landmark of Glasgow’s Cultural and Event Landscape
The Scottish Event Campus (SEC) stands as a monumental complex on the banks of the River Clyde in Glasgow, Scotland. Originally opened in 1985 as the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, the SEC has grown into the UK’s largest integrated venue for exhibitions, conferences, and entertainment. Its location on reclaimed land from the former Queen’s Dock ties it deeply to Glasgow’s industrial heritage, particularly shipbuilding. The campus is a vibrant hub that combines cutting-edge facilities with architectural landmarks, making it a focal point for both business and culture.Architectural Icons: The SEC Armadillo and The OVO Hydro
Among the SEC’s standout features is the SEC Armadillo, officially the Clyde Auditorium, designed by Foster + Partners. Its distinctive sail-like, interlocking hull design pays homage to the Clyde’s shipbuilding past and has become an instantly recognizable Glasgow icon. The Armadillo seats up to 3,000 guests and is renowned for its superb acoustics and intimate concert atmosphere. Nearby, the OVO Hydro arena, opened in 2013, accommodates up to 13,000 spectators and ranks among the world’s busiest indoor music venues, hosting mega concerts, sporting events, and large-scale conferences.Versatile Spaces for Conferences and Exhibitions
The SEC Centre itself offers over 239,000 square feet (22,355 m²) of flexible exhibition space spread across five interconnected halls. These halls can host concurrent exhibitions, banquets, concerts, and conferences ranging from small meetings to events with up to 10,000 delegates. The complex includes 16 breakout rooms and a second auditorium with tiered seating for 624 delegates. State-of-the-art technical infrastructure, including fibre optic cabling, advanced sound, lighting, and audiovisual systems, supports seamless event execution.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
SEC is designed with accessibility in mind, offering level access, hearing loops, and working closely with disability access organizations to ensure inclusivity. The campus features its own railway station, Exhibition Centre, providing easy public transport access. On-site amenities include a full-service restaurant, licensed bars, cafes, baby changing facilities, restrooms, and seating areas. The adjacent Crowne Plaza hotel offers convenient accommodation, directly connected to the venue.A Venue with a Rich Event History and Global Reach
The SEC has hosted a diverse range of prestigious events, from international conferences like COP26 and the Organization for Human Brain Mapping annual meeting to major sporting competitions during the 2014 Commonwealth Games. It is also a favored location for music concerts, comedy shows, fashion events, and theatrical performances. The SEC Armadillo has been the site of notable auditions for Britain’s Got Talent and The X Factor, adding to the campus’s cultural significance.Dynamic Atmosphere and Future Prospects
With an average of 200 events annually and over a million visitors, the SEC is a dynamic and bustling venue that contributes significantly to Glasgow’s economy and cultural life. Its combination of historic ties, modern architecture, and top-tier facilities makes it a must-visit destination for event attendees and tourists alike. The campus continues to evolve, maintaining its status as a premier venue in Europe for large-scale events and entertainment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
0.3 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
The Clyde Arc
0.5 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
0.8 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Statue of Light and Life
1.3 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
The Glasgow School of Art
1.6 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
The Govan Stones
1.7 km
Explore the captivating medieval Govan Stones museum in Glasgow, a hidden gem showcasing Scotland’s rich historical heritage.
Govan Old Church
1.7 km
Explore the enchanting Govan Old Church, a historical landmark in Glasgow, rich with ancient relics, cultural heritage, and serene beauty.
Caledonian Mansions
1.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
McLellan Galleries
1.7 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
1.8 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
1.8 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
La Pasionaria
2.0 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
The Lighthouse
2.0 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
2.0 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Good as Gold Street Art
2.1 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
SEC Armadillo
0.1 km
A striking Glasgow auditorium shaped like ship hulls, blending maritime heritage with cutting-edge design and versatile event spaces.
OVO Hydro
0.1 km
Scotland’s premier live arena, the OVO Hydro dazzles with iconic design and world-class events for over 14,000 spectators.
Glasgow Science Centre
0.4 km
Explore science hands-on with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and Scotland’s tallest rotating tower on the scenic banks of the River Clyde.
The wild pork statue
0.5 km
A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.
Paddle Steamer Waverley
0.5 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Glasgow Science Centre Tower
0.6 km
Experience Scotland’s tallest rotating tower with breathtaking panoramic views and cutting-edge engineering on the banks of the River Clyde.
The Clydeside Distillery
0.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s whisky heritage revived at The Clydeside Distillery, where history, craft, and riverside charm blend into a unique tasting experience.
Glasgow City Antiques
0.7 km
Explore Glasgow City Antiques, a vast warehouse of quality vintage furniture and unique collectibles in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant antique scene.
Railway Arches Murals
0.8 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
Stewart Memorial Fountain
0.9 km
A Victorian Gothic masterpiece in Kelvingrove Park honoring Glasgow’s water pioneer, Robert Stewart, and the gift of clean water.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
0.9 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.
Kelvingrove Park
1.0 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Kelvingrove Park — a vibrant Victorian green space with iconic art, serene river walks, and lively community spirit.
Kelvingrove Bandstand
1.0 km
Glasgow's restored Art Deco bandstand hosting vibrant open-air performances in a Victorian park setting.
Statue of Lord Kelvin
1.1 km
A distinguished bronze tribute in Kelvingrove Park honoring Lord Kelvin’s groundbreaking scientific legacy and Glasgow’s rich academic heritage.
Kelvin Way
1.1 km
Kelvin Way connects Glasgow’s West End cultural landmarks, blending historic architecture with leafy parks and vibrant local life.
Essential places to dine
The Finnieston
0.5 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Porter & Rye
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
The Gannet
0.5 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
Fanny Trollopes
0.5 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Ox and Finch
0.6 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Big Slope
0.6 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.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
0.6 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Fallachan Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
The Buttery
1.0 km
Experience classic Scottish cuisine in a warm, elegant setting at Glasgow’s historic and beloved The Buttery.
Baby Grand Bar & Grill
1.2 km
Live piano music, refined British cuisine, and timeless elegance in Glasgow's city centre.
Eighty Eight
1.3 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Chillies West End
1.3 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in Glasgow’s West End with fresh flavors, a lively atmosphere, and friendly BYOB dining at Chillies West End.
Number 16 Restaurant
1.4 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Stravaigin
1.4 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Mini Grill Steakhouse - Glasgow
1.5 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
Gallus Alice
0.5 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
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.
McLay's Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Braw Wee Emporium
1.6 km
Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
Decadent Riot
1.6 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Downstair Design Co.
1.7 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
1.7 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Oliver Bonas
1.7 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.
West Vintage
1.8 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
Amaryllis Westend
1.9 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Papyrus
1.9 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Geek Retreat Glasgow
1.9 km
Discover Geek Retreat Glasgow, where gaming culture meets community in a cozy café atmosphere filled with boards, books, and brews.
Cut Price Gift Shop
1.9 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
House Of Cashmere Glasgow
2.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish cashmere craftsmanship and timeless luxury in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Sky Bar
0.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
The Ben Nevis
0.5 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
The Dirty Duchess
0.5 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
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.
The Islay Inn
0.7 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.
Dukes Bar
0.8 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Bon Accord
1.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s Bon Accord, a legendary pub boasting over 900 beers and an award-winning whisky bar in a vibrant, historic setting.
EightySix
1.3 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
1.4 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 Duke's Umbrella
1.5 km
Cozy Glasgow gastropub blending fine-dining comfort food, live music, and rustic charm in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Tiki Bar & Kitsch Inn
1.5 km
Glasgow’s vibrant tropical escape blending exotic cocktails, authentic Thai cuisine, and a lively beer garden in the heart of the city.
The Aragon Bar
1.5 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
Slouch: Live Music, Kitchen & Late Night Venue
1.5 km
A stylish Glasgow gastropub blending live jazz, blues, and rock with hearty food and creative cocktails in a cozy, speakeasy-inspired setting.
Smiddy Bar
1.6 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow
1.6 km
Classic Glasgow West End pub with rich history, live sports, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere on vibrant Byres Road.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
1.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
1.5 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.
Saint Judes After Dark
1.6 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
1.7 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.
142B Lounge
1.8 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
The Plug Glasgow
1.8 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Club Tropicana & Venga
1.9 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Sub Club
1.9 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
1.9 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
The Savoy
1.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
1.9 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.9 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
1.9 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
2.0 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
2.0 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Futuristic Looks
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Business Friendly
