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
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Experience the historical allure of Tolbooth Steeple, a must-visit landmark in Glasgow showcasing the city's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
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Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
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St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
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Experience the rich cultural heritage of Glasgow at St Andrew's in the Square, a historic venue for art, community events, and weddings.
Ramshorn Graveyard
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Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ramshorn Graveyard, a hidden gem in the heart of Glasgow, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Tobacco Merchant's House
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Explore the Tobacco Merchant's House in Glasgow, a historical site that reveals the city's tobacco trade legacy and architectural beauty, rich with cultural stories.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
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Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
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Walter Scott Monument
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The Glenlee Propellers
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Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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James Watt Statue
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Good as Gold Street Art
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Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
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Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
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Explore Glasgow's heart through the captivating Bronze 3D Map of City Centre, a stunning sculpture and guide to the city's rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trongate
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Britannia Panopticon
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Step into 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
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Explore the SPACEMAN Mural Trail #5 in Glasgow, a vibrant urban art installation that captures the city's creative spirit and offers a unique photo opportunity.
Glasgow Police Museum
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Blackfriars of Bell Street
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Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Merchant Square
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Merchant Square in Glasgow, where culinary delights and lively entertainment merge in a historic setting.
Murial of a man
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A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Mural of a man
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A vibrant pop art mural inspired by Japanese culture, enlivening Glasgow’s Merchant City with bold colors and graphic precision.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
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A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
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Barrowland Park
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St Andrew's in the Square
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Old Police Post
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Merchant City
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Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
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Explore Clutha & Victoria Bar in Glasgow, a lively pub offering live music, delicious pizza, and a warm Scottish atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Boteco Do Brasil
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Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
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The Dhabba
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Mono
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Cafe Gandolfi
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Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
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Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Bar Soba Merchant City
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Table Twenty Eight
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Discover Table Twenty Eight in Glasgow - where seasonal flavors meet sustainable dining in a chic atmosphere.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
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Pavement
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Discover the vibrant taste of Glasgow at Pavement Grill Restaurant – where exceptional flavors meet inviting ambiance.
The Italian Kitchen
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Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
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Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
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Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
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The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
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Explore Glasgow's unique charm at Social Recluse, a gift shop filled with local art, clothing, and memorable souvenirs that capture the city's spirit.
Minted
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Discover unique vintage fashion at Minted in Glasgow - a must-visit for vintage lovers and sustainable fashion enthusiasts alike!
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
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Pride of Glasgow
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Discover the quintessential souvenir experience at Pride of Glasgow, where local craftsmanship and unique gifts await every visitor.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
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Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet, your one-stop shop for authentic Scottish memorabilia in the heart of Glasgow.
Primark
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St. Enoch Centre
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Shop Small at St Enoch
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Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
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Eurasia Crafts
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Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
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Geek-aboo
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Fat Buddha Store
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The Clydeside Collective
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Never miss a gift
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
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Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
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Home
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Bar 91
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Strathduie Bar
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Steps Bar
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Experience the lively atmosphere of Steps Bar in Glasgow, where affordable drinks and friendly vibes await you in the heart of the city.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
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Bacchus Bar
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Speakeasy
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Cairns Bar
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The Spiritualist Glasgow
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The Piper Whisky Bar
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Sloans
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The Alchemist Glasgow
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Wunderbar
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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
