The Hidden Gardens, Glasgow: A Vibrant Community Oasis
A vibrant, award-winning community garden in Glasgow fostering cultural exchange and peaceful urban greenspace.
The Hidden Gardens in Glasgow is a unique, award-winning public greenspace and community hub located in Pollokshields. This tranquil garden offers a vibrant setting for relaxation, cultural exchange, and learning, promoting understanding among diverse communities. Visitors can enjoy themed gardening activities, Tai Chi sessions, and cultural cookery classes in a welcoming environment that blends nature with social engagement.
A brief summary to The Hidden Gardens
- via Tramway, 25A Albert Dr, Glasgow, access, Glasgow, G41 2PE, GB
- +441414332722
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays between 10am and 5pm for a full range of activities and a peaceful garden experience.
- Join the weekend gardening sessions to engage with the community and help maintain the garden.
- Try the Tai Chi classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays for a relaxing start to your visit.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the tranquil garden setting, a perfect way to unwind.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Glasgow Subway to Shields Road station, then board bus number 57 or 60 towards Pollokshields; total journey time approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single fare costs around £1.80.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Glasgow city center to The Hidden Gardens takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £8 and £12. This option offers direct and convenient access especially if traveling with family or groups.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Pollokshields or the South Side, walking to The Hidden Gardens can be a pleasant 15-30 minute stroll through residential streets. Terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for all fitness levels.
The Hidden Gardens 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 The Hidden Gardens
A Sanctuary of Green in Urban Glasgow
Nestled in the heart of Pollokshields, one of Glasgow’s most culturally diverse neighborhoods, The Hidden Gardens stands as a peaceful refuge from the city’s bustle. This beautifully maintained greenspace is not just a garden but a living community project that fosters connection and harmony among people of all backgrounds. The gardens feature a rich variety of plants and flowers, creating a lush, colorful environment that appeals to nature lovers and casual visitors alike.Community and Cultural Exchange at its Core
The Hidden Gardens is much more than a scenic spot; it is a vibrant community development organization. It actively promotes cultural understanding through its diverse programme of events and activities. Regular offerings include Tai Chi on the lawn, men’s group sessions featuring arts, crafts, and music, and cultural cookery classes where participants share recipes and stories from various traditions. These activities provide opportunities for learning, socializing, and celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Glasgow.Engaging Activities for All Ages
Visitors to The Hidden Gardens can participate in weekend gardening groups that welcome individuals and families, including children aged 10 and over accompanied by adults. These sessions encourage hands-on involvement, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the garden’s upkeep. The garden’s layout and programming make it an ideal spot for picnics, quiet reflection, or engaging with community projects, ensuring a fulfilling visit for all ages.Historical and Social Significance
The Hidden Gardens has evolved into a symbol of community resilience and inclusivity. It serves as a common ground where stories, skills, and histories are exchanged, nurturing social cohesion in a diverse urban setting. Its location at 25a Albert Drive situates it within a vibrant cultural corridor in Glasgow’s South Side, enhancing its role as a landmark for community engagement and environmental stewardship.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere at The Hidden Gardens is one of tranquility and welcome. The garden’s design encourages leisurely strolls and quiet moments amidst greenery, while its community events add lively, engaging energy. The space is well-suited for those seeking relaxation, cultural enrichment, or a casual day out in nature. Facilities support comfort with seating areas and accessible paths, making it inviting for a broad audience.Supporting Sustainability and Local Engagement
Sustainability is a key focus at The Hidden Gardens, which operates with a strong ethos of eco-friendliness and local management. The garden encourages low-impact visitation and educates visitors about environmental care. Its role as a protected community space helps maintain urban biodiversity and provides a vital habitat for local wildlife, enhancing Glasgow’s green infrastructure.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gatekeeper
1.0 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Statue of Light and Life
1.5 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
The Glenlee Propellers
1.8 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
2.0 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
2.1 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
The Clyde Arc
2.1 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Finnieston Crane
2.3 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
Tolbooth Steeple
2.4 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.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
2.4 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Royal Exchange Square
2.4 km
Discover the lively Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow, a cultural landmark renowned for its stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
2.4 km
Discover the Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington in Glasgow, a quirky landmark that merges history with local humor.
Glasgow Police Museum
2.4 km
Explore the unique history of law enforcement at the Glasgow Police Museum, a must-see destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
2.4 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
2.4 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.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
2.4 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tramway
0.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Tramway arts centre, a vibrant blend of historic charm and cutting-edge contemporary performance and visual art.
Southside Studios
0.4 km
A vibrant creative hub in Govanhill, Southside Studios nurtures artistic collaboration and community spirit in Glasgow’s cultural Southside.
Queen's Park
1.0 km
A vibrant Glasgow park offering scenic ponds, panoramic city views, diverse sports facilities, and family-friendly playgrounds in a tranquil urban setting.
Queen's Park Playground (South)
1.2 km
A lively, family-friendly playground nestled in Glasgow’s historic Queen's Park, offering nature, play, and community spirit in the South Side.
Gorbals
1.3 km
Historic Glasgow district blending rich immigrant heritage, striking architecture, and vibrant urban renewal on the south bank of the River Clyde.
Southern Necropolis
1.3 km
Explore Glasgow’s Southern Necropolis, a historic Victorian cemetery rich in working-class heritage, evocative monuments, and intriguing local legends.
Linen 1906
1.3 km
A neighbourhood grill and bar on Pollokshaws Road offering grilled plates, pints and a warm, music-led atmosphere for casual nights out.
Maxwell Park
1.4 km
A peaceful green haven in Glasgow’s Pollokshields, blending Victorian charm with natural beauty and community spirit.
Freddy
1.5 km
A vibrant Shawlands burger spot famed for fresh, flavorful meat and vegan patties in a lively, welcoming setting.
Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow
1.5 km
Glasgow’s expansive indoor play centre with thrilling slides, toddler zones, and a volcano-themed adventure for family fun all year round.
o2 accadamy
1.6 km
Historic art deco music venue in Glasgow's Gorbals, hosting diverse live shows with a lively atmosphere and accessible facilities.
King George V Bridge
1.8 km
A majestic stone bridge over the River Clyde offering historic charm and sweeping city views in the heart of Glasgow.
Hampden Park
1.9 km
Discover Hampden Park, Scotland's iconic national stadium, where football history and passionate fans create an unforgettable experience in Glasgow.
La Pasionaria
1.9 km
A bold tribute on Glasgow’s Clyde to Dolores Ibárruri, symbolizing the fight against fascism and honoring local heroes of the Spanish Civil War.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
1.9 km
Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew in Glasgow for an unforgettable experience of architectural beauty and spiritual serenity.
Essential places to dine
The Rum Shack
0.4 km
Authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant live music create a tropical escape in Glasgow’s Southside at The Rum Shack.
The Bungo
0.5 km
Glasgow south side gastro pub serving grills, breakfast hashes, and vegan delights in Strathbungo's cozy, neighborhood embrace—open daily from 10am for relaxed bites and brews. (162 characters)
Lobo
0.5 km
Mediterranean-inspired small plates in Glasgow’s Southside, blending vibrant flavors with a warm, rustic atmosphere and a dedicated vegan menu.
Six By Nico Southside
0.5 km
Innovative six-course tasting menus with rotating themes in a cozy Southside Glasgow setting.
Stag and Thistle Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
A lively Southside pub with diverse menus, craft beers, and a sunny outdoor patio perfect for social gatherings in Glasgow.
Battlefield Rest
1.4 km
Historic Italian dining in a quirky 1914 landmark with hearty food, lively atmosphere, and a beloved Southside Glasgow vibe.
Buck’s Bar Southside
1.5 km
Authentic rock’n’roll vibes meet legendary buttermilk fried chicken in Glasgow’s lively Mount Florida neighborhood.
Palmtree Kitchen - مطعم النخلة
1.6 km
Experience the rich, authentic flavors of Yemen with generous portions and warm hospitality in Glasgow’s vibrant Palmtree Kitchen.
Piccolo Mondo
2.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow at Piccolo Mondo, a city centre gem.
Mono
2.2 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
La Lanterna
2.2 km
Authentic Italian dining in Glasgow’s city centre, blending tradition, quality, and warm hospitality since 1980.
Loks Bar and Kitchen
2.3 km
A vibrant Shawlands hotspot serving modern British cuisine with a lively bar, flexible event spaces, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Smokin' Fox
2.3 km
Victorian charm meets modern Glasgow at this welcoming pub serving seasonal comfort food and exceptional spirits.
Sugo Pasta
2.3 km
Fresh, handmade regional Italian pasta in a lively, modern Glasgow setting – no bookings, just great pasta and a buzzing atmosphere.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
2.3 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Studio South
0.9 km
Unwrap Glasgow's creative soul at Studio South, where local artisans craft gifts that capture the heart of Scotland's vibrant south side.
Hell Yeah
1.3 km
Vibrant vegan gift haven in Shawlands: indie designs, eco treats, and pure shopping joy from small makers that make you say 'Hell Yeah!'
Co-op Food - Glasgow - Crown Street
1.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
1.4 km
Experience the best vaporiser shop in Glasgow at Bob's Bubbles, where quality meets expertise in a vibrant atmosphere.
Ruby Woo Boutique - Shawlands
1.4 km
Discover stylish women's fashion and unique gifts at Ruby Woo Boutique, Shawlands’ independent boutique with fast UK delivery and a friendly vibe.
Shop local
1.5 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Boots
1.5 km
Discover the best in beauty and health at Boots in Glasgow, your one-stop cosmetics shop for quality products and expert advice.
Grab n Go convenience store
1.5 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Sunshine No.1
1.6 km
Discover Scotland's handmade heart: Sunshine No.1 curates vibrant gifts, jewelry, and art from over 100 local makers in cozy Mount Florida.
The Vintage Scene Glasgow
2.0 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style at The Vintage Scene, Glasgow’s premier vintage clothing shop in St Enoch Square.
The Clydeside Collective
2.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Shop Small at St Enoch
2.1 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Shop Small in Glasgow’s iconic St Enoch Centre, where historic charm meets modern shopping under Europe’s largest glass roof.
Taste of Scotland
2.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and rare whiskies in the heart of Glasgow at Taste of Scotland, your gateway to Scotland’s rich heritage.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
2.1 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Minted
2.2 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Allison Arms
0.4 km
Glasgow southside's craft beer gem: dog-friendly, queer-welcoming pub with malts, malty vibes, and neighborhood warmth on Pollokshaws Road.
Lunar Wine & Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
Cosy southside sanctuary for lunar-cycle cocktails, natural wines, and dog-friendly vibes in Glasgow's Strathbungo—creative sips in glowing intimacy.
Brazen Head
1.2 km
A lively Celtic and Irish pub in the Gorbals, famed for match nights, football memorabilia and live music in an intimate, unpretentious setting.
The Corona Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
Vibrant Shawlands pub serving global beers, hearty comfort food, and Sunday roasts in a spacious, quirky setting—perfect for mates, dates, or solo pints.
DnH Craft Cocktails
1.3 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
Georgic
1.3 km
Stained-glass glow, live tunes, and Southside cheers at Glasgow's friendliest neighborhood pub on Pollokshaws Road.
Phillies of Shawlands
1.5 km
Fusion bites and craft pours in Shawlands' cozy bar haven—Japanese fried chicken, wagyu burgers, and quirky vibes await on Pollokshaws Road.
Laurieston Bar
1.5 km
Glasgow's 1960s time-capsule pub: flawless pints, diverse crowds, and unyielding Southside soul in the heart of Gorbals.
Sharkeys Bar
1.6 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
Pig 'n' Whistle
1.8 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
The Duke's Umbrella
2.1 km
Cozy Glasgow gastropub blending fine-dining comfort food, live music, and rustic charm in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Sloans
2.2 km
Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
2.2 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Cairns Bar
2.2 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.
Red Sky Bar
2.2 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- 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
