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The Burrell Collection, Glasgow's Art Treasure in Pollok Country Park

Discover over 9,000 artworks spanning millennia in a stunning museum set within Glasgow’s largest park.

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Nestled within Glasgow's expansive Pollok Country Park, The Burrell Collection is a world-class art museum housing over 9,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history. This unique collection, gifted by Sir William Burrell, features masterpieces by Cézanne, Degas, and Rodin alongside significant Chinese art and medieval artifacts. The museum's purpose-built, light-filled architecture offers scenic views of the surrounding woodlands, making it a serene and inspiring cultural destination.

A brief summary to The Burrell Collection

  • Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Glasgow, Bellahouston, G43 1AT, GB
  • +441412872550
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon 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 for a quieter experience and enjoy the free electric shuttle bus inside Pollok Country Park.
  • Explore the surrounding Pollok Country Park trails after your museum visit to experience the natural beauty of the area.
  • Take advantage of the digital interactive exhibits for deeper engagement with the collection.
  • Assistance dogs are welcome inside the museum; other dogs can ride the park shuttle bus subject to capacity.
  • Check opening hours before visiting, especially during holiday periods, as times may vary.
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Getting There

  • Public Bus

    Take bus routes 57 or 57A from Glasgow city centre to Pollokshaws Road, with a stop directly opposite the park entrance. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes and costs around £2.50. Services run frequently throughout the day but check schedules on weekends and holidays.

  • Train and Walk

    From Glasgow Central, take a train to Shawlands station (about 10 minutes), then enjoy a 10-minute walk along Pollokshaws Road to the park entrance. Trains run every 15-30 minutes, with fares around £3.00. The walk is on paved roads and suitable for most visitors.

  • Car

    Drive to Pollok Country Park via Pollokshaws Road. Parking is available near the museum with charges of £1.50 per hour for 1-3 hours, up to £12 for 5-8 hours. Payment is by coins only, and the parking area is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00.

  • Park Shuttle Bus

    A free electric shuttle bus operates within Pollok Country Park from 10:00 to 18:15 daily, linking the park entrance to The Burrell Collection and Pollok House. The bus is wheelchair accessible and allows dogs subject to capacity, prioritizing assistance dogs.

The Burrell Collection location weather suitability

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Discover more about The Burrell Collection

A Legacy of Art and Philanthropy

The Burrell Collection is the remarkable private collection of Sir William Burrell, a shipping magnate who generously donated his extensive assemblage of over 9,000 artworks and artifacts to the City of Glasgow in 1944. This gift was intended to enrich public cultural life and preserve a vast array of art spanning five millennia. The collection includes Impressionist paintings by French masters such as Cézanne and Degas, sculptures by Rodin, and one of the United Kingdom’s most important holdings of Chinese art. It also features medieval furniture, tapestries, suits of armour, and religious artifacts, reflecting Burrell’s eclectic and discerning tastes.

Architectural Harmony with Nature

The museum itself is a purpose-built structure designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings within Pollok Country Park, Glasgow’s largest park. Large windows throughout the building frame views of the lush woodland, creating a tranquil atmosphere that complements the art inside. Architectural elements from the collection have been integrated into the building, including intricately carved stone arches and a reconstruction of the drawing room from Burrell’s home, Hutton Castle. This blending of architecture and collection enhances the visitor experience by immersing guests in history and design.

Reimagined for the 21st Century

Following a major refurbishment completed in 2022, The Burrell Collection reopened with a fresh, inclusive display co-designed with local community groups. This reimagining celebrates the diversity of the collection and introduces over 100 digital interpretive features, including immersive experiences and interactive games that provide context and engagement for visitors of all ages. The museum’s modernization has revitalized its role as a cultural beacon in Glasgow, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and contributing significantly to the local economy.

Exploring the Surrounding Parkland

Set within the expansive Pollok Country Park, visitors can complement their museum visit with a stroll through the surrounding gardens and woodlands. The park’s natural beauty and peaceful trails offer a refreshing contrast to the indoor galleries, making The Burrell Collection a holistic cultural and nature escape. The museum’s location encourages a mindful connection between art, history, and the environment.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

The Burrell Collection offers free admission, making world-class art accessible to all. The museum is family-friendly, with spacious galleries that allow children to explore comfortably, though the exhibits cater more to mature audiences. Facilities include a café, a shop, restrooms, and accessible features such as wheelchair access. Assistance dogs are welcome inside the museum, while other pets are permitted on the park’s shuttle bus subject to capacity. The free electric shuttle bus links the park entrance to the museum and Pollok House, enhancing accessibility within the park.

Opening Hours and Practical Information

The museum is open Monday to Thursday and Saturday from 10:00 to 17:00, and Friday and Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00. Parking is available nearby with charges applied daily. The Burrell Collection is a must-visit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a scenic cultural retreat in Glasgow’s South Side.

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