Wellpark Brewery: Glasgow’s Historic Heart of Brewing
Explore Glasgow’s oldest brewery where 450 years of brewing heritage meet Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager.
Wellpark Brewery in Glasgow, established in 1740 and brewing on site since 1556, is Scotland’s oldest continuous commercial brewery. Home to the iconic Tennent’s Lager, it offers immersive tours revealing centuries of brewing heritage, production processes, and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the heritage centre, enjoy fresh pints, and discover the story behind Scotland’s favourite beer brand in the vibrant East End of Glasgow.
A brief summary to Wellpark Brewery
- 161 Duke St, Glasgow, G31 1JD, GB
- +441412027145
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially for weekends, as spots fill quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the guided tour covers various brewery areas including production floors.
- Don’t miss the T Room tasting experience with fresh, unpasteurised Tennent’s Lager.
- Check opening hours beforehand; the brewery is closed on Mondays.
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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Public Transport
Take the train to Bellgrove or High Street stations, both approximately 1.5 to 2 km from the brewery. From there, frequent local buses or a 20-minute walk will bring you to Wellpark Brewery. Bus fares typically range from £1.80 to £3.00.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services from Glasgow city centre to Wellpark Brewery take around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares between £7 and £12.
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Car
On-street parking is available near the brewery but is limited and subject to charges. Parking costs vary by time and location, so check local signage. The area is best accessed by car outside peak hours due to traffic congestion.
Wellpark Brewery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wellpark Brewery
Origins and Enduring Legacy
Brewing at the Wellpark Brewery site dates back to 1556, when Robert Tennent first brewed beer on the banks of the Molendinar Burn. Officially founded as a commercial enterprise in 1740 by brothers Hugh and Robert Tennent under the name H. & R. Tennent, the brewery has grown into the oldest continuous commercial concern in Glasgow. Over generations, the Tennent family expanded the business, purchasing neighbouring sites and establishing the Wellpark Brewery name. By the 19th century, it was the world’s largest bottled beer exporter, a testament to its brewing prowess and international reach.The Birth of Tennent’s Lager and Innovation
In 1885, Hugh Tennent was inspired by Bavarian pilsner-style beers, leading to the creation of Tennent’s Lager, Scotland’s first and now most popular pale lager. A new lager brewery was built on the Wellpark site between 1889 and 1891 to accommodate this innovation. The brewery pioneered several firsts including the UK’s first draught lager in 1924, first canned lager in 1935, and first keg lager in 1963. These milestones underscore Wellpark’s role in shaping modern brewing techniques and beer culture.Visitor Experience and Heritage Centre
Today, Wellpark Brewery offers guided tours that last about 1.5 hours, taking visitors behind the scenes of the brewing process—from malting and mashing to bottling and canning. The heritage centre showcases the rich history of the brewery and the Tennent family, featuring artefacts, historic packaging, and iconic adverts. Visitors can enjoy fresh, unpasteurised Tennent’s Lager served directly from copper tanks in the T Room, which celebrates the brewery’s cultural ties to Glasgow’s music and football scenes.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Located at 161 Duke Street in Glasgow’s East End, Wellpark Brewery is a landmark of industrial heritage. The site blends historic brewery architecture with modern visitor facilities, including murals honoring Hugh Tennent’s legacy. The brewery remains a vibrant part of Glasgow’s cultural fabric, supporting local events and charities, and continuing to innovate in sustainable brewing practices.Community and Sustainability Efforts
Wellpark Brewery employs around 375 staff and emphasizes quality and tradition in every pint. The company is committed to reducing its ecological footprint and supporting community initiatives. It also organizes the famous T in the Park music festival, reflecting its deep connection to Scottish culture beyond brewing.Planning Your Visit
Tours run Tuesday to Sunday, with advanced booking recommended. The brewery is accessible via public transport with nearby train and subway stations, and limited on-street parking. Visitors must be aged 18 or over for tours. The experience offers a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and lively Scottish hospitality, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge of Sighs
0.4 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Buffalo Bill Statue
0.7 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.9 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.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.9 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
1.0 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
1.1 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
1.1 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant Mural Trail #.09 in Glasgow, celebrating Billy Connolly's legacy through stunning public art. A cultural gem awaits your discovery.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
1.2 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Walter Scott Monument
1.2 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
George Square
1.2 km
Discover the essence of Glasgow at George Square, a vibrant hub of history, culture, and stunning architecture, perfect for your travel adventures.
Tobacco Merchant's House
1.3 km
Explore the Tobacco Merchant's House, a historic site in Glasgow that reveals the fascinating story of the tobacco trade and its impact on the city's heritage.
James Watt Statue
1.3 km
Discover the James Watt Statue in George Square, Glasgow - a tribute to innovation and the Industrial Revolution's pioneer, celebrating Scotland's engineering legacy.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
1.3 km
Discover the Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington in Glasgow, a quirky landmark that merges history with local humor.
Royal Exchange Square
1.4 km
Discover the lively Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow, a cultural landmark renowned for its stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Drygate Brewing Co.
0.2 km
Glasgow’s pioneering experiential brewery with craft beers, fearless food, panoramic brewhouse views, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Glasgow Necropolis
0.4 km
Explore the haunting beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a historical cemetery with stunning architecture and breathtaking city views.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s Victorian Necropolis—a stunning garden cemetery rich with history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Glasgow Cathedral
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow Cathedral, a breathtaking medieval Gothic treasure and spiritual heart of Scotland’s largest city, open daily with free entry and rich history.
St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art
0.5 km
Explore world religions and spiritual art in Glasgow’s historic museum featuring Britain’s first Zen garden and free entry.
Provand's Lordship
0.5 km
Step back to 1471 in Glasgow’s oldest house, a medieval gem showcasing centuries of history with period furnishings, royal portraits, and a tranquil herb garden.
Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s medical heritage through pioneering innovations and inspiring stories at this unique hospital museum.
Barrowland Ballroom
0.6 km
Glasgow’s legendary live music venue with iconic neon sign, superb acoustics, and a storied history as a dance hall turned concert landmark.
Mural of Woman, child and robin (St. Mungo and mother)
0.6 km
A heartfelt modern mural celebrating Glasgow’s patron saint, his mother, and the legendary robin that symbolizes the city’s spirit.
Barras Market
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Barras Market, a lively weekend bazaar famed for antiques, street food, and authentic local culture every Saturday and Sunday.
High St
0.7 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
0.8 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Glasgow’s maritime heritage and the University of Strathclyde’s academic achievements through stunning street art.
Barrowland Park
0.8 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.9 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Celentano's
0.4 km
Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
Bilsons Cafe Bistro
0.5 km
Experience innovative Scottish brunch and unique wine pairings in a charming Glasgow bistro known for fresh, seasonal dishes and warm hospitality.
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
0.6 km
Discover the fusion of delicious grill cuisine and live music at Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox in Glasgow – where every meal is an experience.
The Italian Kitchen
0.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.9 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.9 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
The Dhabba
1.0 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Boteco Do Brasil
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Mono
1.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Saints of Ingram
1.1 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
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.
Modern Love Store
0.6 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Minted
1.1 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Social Recluse
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
1.1 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
1.2 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Pride of Glasgow
1.2 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.
Geek-aboo
1.3 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Eurasia Crafts
1.3 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
1.3 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Fat Buddha Store
1.4 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Primark
1.4 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.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
1.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.4 km
Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Strathduie Bar
0.8 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Home
0.9 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
0.9 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.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
1.0 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
1.1 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Speakeasy
1.1 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
1.1 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Bacchus Bar
1.1 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Steps Bar
1.1 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.
The Piper Whisky Bar
1.2 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
The Alchemist Glasgow
1.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
1.3 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Cairns Bar
1.3 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.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
1.3 km
Glasgow's 200-year-old riverside pub icon: live music, historic vibes, and Clutha spirit since 1819—pints, pizzas, and performances await.
The Social
1.4 km
Cocktail haven in Merchant City with quirky drinks, wood-fired eats, terrace views, and late-night DJ vibes in Royal Exchange Square.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Cultural Heritage
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Business Friendly
