Tron Theatre
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
A historic performing arts venue housed in a converted 18th-century church on Glasgow's Trongate, the Tron Theatre is a leading Scottish theatre company producing contemporary work, classic texts, and new writing. Originally established as a theatre club in 1979 and fully public since 1989, it operates two performance spaces and hosts an active bar and restaurant that serves as a cultural hub for Glasgow's arts community.
A brief summary to Tron Theatre
- 63 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HB, GB
- +441415524267
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early to explore the Victorian Bar before performances; the original 1981 performance space retains period character and serves excellent coffee and light refreshments.
- Check the Sunday jazz programme in the bar—a tradition since the theatre's opening that offers live music in an intimate, historic setting without requiring a theatre ticket.
- The blue-faced clock tower is one of Glasgow's most photographed landmarks; capture it from Trongate street level for the best perspective of this 18th-century architectural survivor.
- Book tickets online in advance for popular productions; the intimate 230-seat main auditorium and 50-seat studio theatre fill quickly, especially for new Scottish writing and experimental work.
- Combine your visit with exploration of the surrounding Merchant City district, which features galleries, independent shops, restaurants, and other cultural venues within easy walking distance.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport - Subway
The Buchanan Street subway station is approximately 400 metres away, accessible via a 5–7 minute walk. Follow Trongate eastward to reach Buchanan Street, then descend to the subway platform. Single journey fares cost approximately £1.75 GBP; day passes are available for £4.00 GBP. Trains run every 4–6 minutes during peak hours and every 8–10 minutes off-peak. The subway connects directly to all major Glasgow districts.
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Bus Services
Multiple bus routes serve Trongate directly, including services 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100. Single fares cost £1.75 GBP; day passes are £4.00 GBP. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced service in the evening.
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Walking from City Centre
The theatre is located in Glasgow's city centre, approximately 10–15 minutes on foot from Glasgow Central Station. Exit the station onto Union Street, head north toward George Square, then continue northeast along Ingram Street or Merchant Street to reach Trongate. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through the historic Merchant City district with clear street signage. Accessible for most mobility levels.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services are readily available throughout Glasgow. Journey times from Glasgow Central Station are approximately 5–8 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £6–12 GBP. The theatre's address is 63 Trongate, Glasgow G1 5HB. Ride-share apps operate throughout the city with standard pricing.
Tron Theatre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Tron Theatre
From Sacred Ground to Theatrical Stage
The Tron Theatre occupies one of Glasgow's most historically layered buildings, with roots stretching back to 1529 when a church first stood on this site. The distinctive blue-faced clock tower that crowns the structure today is one of Glasgow's most recognizable landmarks, a survivor of the building's dramatic past. In 1793, the original church was destroyed in a fire set by members of Glasgow's notorious Hellfire Club—a dark chapter in the city's history. The steeple alone remained standing, and architects James and Robert Adam incorporated it into a replacement structure that still forms the basis of the Tron building today. This architectural continuity creates a tangible link between centuries of Glasgow life, from medieval commerce to contemporary culture.The Name and the Mercantile Heart of Glasgow
The name 'Trongate' derives from the 'tron'—a beam used to officially weigh trading goods when they entered Glasgow's city walls around 1560. For three centuries, this area remained at the heart of Glasgow's mercantile and financial activity, earning the district its enduring nickname: Merchant City. The Tron Theatre thus stands at the intersection of Glasgow's commercial heritage and its modern cultural identity, occupying a street that once bustled with merchants and traders.Resurrection as a Theatre and Cultural Powerhouse
After centuries of decline, the building was rescued in the late 1970s when the Glasgow Theatre Club took over the almost derelict Tron Kirk. The theatre opened its doors on 10 May 1981, launching with a production of Eine Kleine Nacht Musik in the Victorian Bar. Under the artistic direction of Michael Boyd from 1986 to 1996, the Tron established itself as a powerhouse of new Scottish writing and dynamic classical productions. This era saw the emergence of internationally renowned artists including Alan Cumming, Forbes Masson, Peter Mullan, Craig Ferguson, and Siobhan Redmond. Boyd's landmark productions included an award-winning adaptation of Janice Galloway's The Trick is to Keep Breathing and a series of popular Glaswegian Christmas shows that became beloved traditions.Architectural Evolution and Modern Facilities
The building underwent significant development in 1992 and 1995, and a major £5 million refurbishment project began in 1996, funded by the Scottish Arts Council National Lottery Fund, Strathclyde European Partnership, and Glasgow City Council. The new Tron Bar on Chisholm Street opened in November 1998, and the theatre officially reopened in July 1999 with enhanced facilities. Today, the venue comprises a main auditorium with 230 seats and the intimate Changing House Studio Theatre with 50 seats, allowing for diverse programming from large-scale productions to experimental work.Contemporary Leadership and Cultural Vision
Following decades of artistic leadership by figures including Irina Brown, Neil Murray, Gregory Thomson, and Andy Arnold, the Tron Theatre is currently under the artistic direction of Jemima Levick, who joined in April 2024. The theatre continues its mission as both a producing house for contemporary theatrical work and a receiving venue for visiting programs of theatre, comedy, and music from Scotland, the UK, and beyond. The Education and Outreach department offers drama workshops for children and young people, creative writing for adults, and professional development opportunities for theatre practitioners.A Living Cultural Hub
Beyond its role as a theatre, the Tron has become integral to Glasgow's cultural fabric. The bar and restaurant remain a regular gathering place for the city's arts community, maintaining a tradition of live jazz performances on Sundays that dates back to the theatre's early days. The venue's location in the historic Merchant City, combined with its commitment to accessible programming and community engagement, makes it a vital cultural institution that bridges Glasgow's mercantile past with its vibrant contemporary arts scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tolbooth Steeple
0.1 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.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.1 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.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.5 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Walter Scott Monument
0.6 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.6 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Good as Gold Street Art
0.6 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.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.7 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
The Lighthouse
0.7 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.7 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.
La Pasionaria
0.7 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
o2 accadamy
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's music scene at O2 Academy, where iconic performances and vibrant nightlife come alive in a unique setting.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.8 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
People's Palace
0.8 km
Explore Glasgow's social history at the People's Palace, where captivating exhibits and stunning architecture tell the story of the city's vibrant past.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.8 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trongate
0.1 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
Britannia Panopticon
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.1 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Merchant Square
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Murial of a man
0.2 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
0.2 km
Celebrate Glasgow’s beloved comedian Billy Connolly through this vibrant mural on Osborne Street, a highlight of the city’s renowned Mural Trail.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.2 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.2 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.3 km
An exquisite Georgian-era former church transformed into Glasgow’s premier cultural and event venue, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Barrowland Park
0.3 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
Pavement
0.3 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Old Police Post
0.3 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Merchant City
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Essential places to dine
Boteco Do Brasil
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
The Dhabba
0.1 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Mono
0.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.2 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.2 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
The Italian Kitchen
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Saints of Ingram
0.4 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.4 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.4 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
0.1 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.2 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Pride of Glasgow
0.3 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.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Primark
0.5 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.5 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.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Eurasia Crafts
0.5 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
0.5 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Geek-aboo
0.5 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
0.5 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
The Clydeside Collective
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Never miss a gift
0.6 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Frida and Coco
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Home
0.2 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
0.2 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.
Strathduie Bar
0.3 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Steps Bar
0.3 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.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.3 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Bacchus Bar
0.3 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Speakeasy
0.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Cairns Bar
0.4 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 Spiritualist Glasgow
0.4 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.5 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Sloans
0.6 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.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Wunderbar
0.6 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Quirky
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
