Glasgow Science Centre Tower
Scotland’s tallest free-standing rotating tower offering breathtaking panoramic views and a unique engineering experience in Glasgow.
The Glasgow Science Centre Tower, standing 127 meters tall on the south bank of the River Clyde, is Scotland’s tallest free-standing structure. Designed to rotate with the wind, it offers panoramic views of Glasgow and beyond. The Tower is part of the Glasgow Science Centre complex, which features interactive science exhibits, an IMAX cinema, and a planetarium. Though the Tower is seasonally open and closes in high winds, it remains an iconic engineering marvel and a highlight for visitors interested in science and spectacular cityscapes.
A brief summary to Glasgow Science Centre Tower
- 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow, G51 1DA, GB
- +441414205000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- 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 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as the Tower closes when wind speeds exceed 25 mph for safety reasons.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to descend 523 spiral stairs if an evacuation occurs.
- Combine your Tower visit with the Glasgow Science Centre’s interactive exhibits and IMAX cinema for a full day of exploration.
- Visit during the summer season when the Tower is open and rotating; it is closed in winter months.
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 Exhibition Centre station, then walk approximately 15 minutes across the Millennium Bridge to reach the Glasgow Science Centre. Frequent bus services (First Bus No. 89/90 and Arriva Bus No. 23/24) also stop nearby. Travel time from Glasgow city centre is about 20-30 minutes. Tickets cost £2-£4 depending on the route.
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Car
Drive to 50 Pacific Quay where paid parking is available on site. Parking fees vary but typically range from £5 to £10 for a day. Be aware that nearby street parking may be limited. Travel time from Glasgow city centre is approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
From Glasgow city centre, a scenic 30-minute walk along the River Clyde via the Clyde Walkway and Millennium Bridge leads to the Science Centre. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most fitness levels but may be challenging for wheelchair users due to some uneven surfaces.
Glasgow Science Centre Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Glasgow Science Centre Tower
An Engineering Marvel Above the Clyde
Rising 127 meters, the Glasgow Science Centre Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in Scotland and a landmark on Glasgow’s riverside skyline. Its revolutionary design allows it to rotate 360 degrees with the wind, a world-first engineering feat that showcases innovative structural science. This dynamic movement means the Tower sometimes sways, which can be an unusual sensation for visitors. The structure’s engineering complexity is a testament to Glasgow’s industrial heritage and modern technological ambition.Immersive Visitor Experience and Views
Visitors begin their journey at ground level, exploring a timeline tunnel that chronicles Glasgow’s past century through archive images and interactive displays. A five-meter-long map of the River Clyde features touchscreens revealing historic footage and the area’s transformation over time. The highlight is the ascent to the Tower cabin, a 2.5-minute elevator ride offering unrivaled panoramic views across Glasgow, the Clyde, and the surrounding landscapes. On clear days, the vistas extend far beyond the city, making it a prized viewpoint for photographers and sightseers alike.Seasonal Access and Safety Considerations
The Tower operates primarily during the summer months and remains closed in the winter and on days when wind speeds exceed 25 mph at cabin height to ensure visitor safety. In the event of sudden high winds, visitors inside the cabin are evacuated via a 523-step spiral staircase, requiring guests to be physically able to descend unaided. Due to this, the Tower is not suitable for those with limited mobility, young children, or expectant mothers. When closed, visitors can still enjoy the ground-level exhibitions free of charge.Integration with Glasgow Science Centre
Situated within the Glasgow Science Centre complex at 50 Pacific Quay, the Tower complements the Centre’s mission to engage the public with science. The Centre features over 300 interactive exhibits spread across three floors, including BodyWorks, Powering the Future, and a digital planetarium. Additional attractions include Scotland’s largest IMAX cinema and the Newton Flight Academy. The Science Centre is a registered charity focusing on education and outreach, making the Tower part of a wider cultural and scientific hub.Visitor Amenities and Surroundings
The Science Centre campus offers a café, a gift shop, and accessible facilities, enhancing the visitor experience. The surrounding area is landscaped with a Fibonacci Garden and a wetland moat, providing a scenic outdoor environment. The location is well served by public transport, with nearby bus stops and a train station within walking distance, though parking is available for a fee. The Tower’s riverside setting offers a tranquil contrast to the bustling city centre just minutes away.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Beyond its function as an observation tower, Glasgow Tower stands as a symbol of the city’s blend of historic industrial prowess and forward-thinking innovation. It attracts engineering enthusiasts, families, and tourists alike, offering a unique perspective on Glasgow’s evolution. Its Guinness World Record-holding status and striking silhouette make it a memorable highlight of any visit to Scotland’s largest city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
0.7 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
The Clyde Arc
0.8 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
1.4 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Statue of Light and Life
1.8 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
Caledonian Mansions
2.0 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
The Glasgow School of Art
2.2 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
McLellan Galleries
2.2 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Maxwell Park
2.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
The Sixty Steps
2.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
2.4 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
2.4 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
La Pasionaria
2.5 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
The Lighthouse
2.5 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
2.6 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Good as Gold Street Art
2.6 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Paddle Steamer Waverley
0.0 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Glasgow Science Centre
0.2 km
Explore science hands-on with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and Scotland’s tallest rotating tower on the scenic banks of the River Clyde.
The Clydeside Distillery
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s whisky heritage revived at The Clydeside Distillery, where history, craft, and riverside charm blend into a unique tasting experience.
Railway Arches Murals
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
Scottish Event Campus
0.6 km
Scotland’s largest integrated venue for world-class exhibitions, concerts, and conferences on Glasgow’s vibrant River Clyde waterfront.
SEC Armadillo
0.6 km
A striking Glasgow auditorium shaped like ship hulls, blending maritime heritage with cutting-edge design and versatile event spaces.
OVO Hydro
0.7 km
Scotland’s premier live arena, the OVO Hydro dazzles with iconic design and world-class events for over 14,000 spectators.
Riverside Museum
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s transport heritage through interactive exhibits and historic street scenes at the award-winning Riverside Museum on the River Clyde.
The Tall Ship Glenlee
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Tall Ship Glenlee, a beautifully restored 1896 steel sailing barque and living museum of maritime heritage on the River Clyde.
The wild pork statue
0.9 km
A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to world-class art, historic artifacts, and captivating exhibits in a stunning historic setting.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
1.1 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End setting.
The Govan Stones
1.2 km
Explore the Govan Stones, a stunning collection of Viking-age carved monuments revealing the power and culture of medieval Strathclyde in Glasgow.
Govan Old Church
1.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s ancient Christian heart through the Govan Stones and a Victorian church set on a sacred site over 1,500 years old.
Glasgow City Antiques
1.2 km
Explore Glasgow City Antiques, a vast warehouse of quality vintage furniture and unique collectibles in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant antique scene.
Essential places to dine
Fallachan Kitchen
0.5 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
The Gannet
0.9 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
Porter & Rye
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
The Finnieston
0.9 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Argyle House Restaurant
1.0 km
Modern British and European dining in Glasgow’s South Side with a stylish atmosphere and approachable prices.
Fanny Trollopes
1.0 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Ox and Finch
1.0 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
1.0 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
1.1 km
Cozy Finnieston basement bar serving top-tier pub grub, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly vibes in a shabby-chic haven with summer beer garden bliss.
Eighty Eight
1.2 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Number 16 Restaurant
1.3 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Celino's
1.3 km
A lively Italian restaurant and deli in Partick offering authentic flavors and a bustling atmosphere with moderate prices.
The Buttery
1.5 km
Experience classic Scottish cuisine in a warm, elegant setting at Glasgow’s historic and beloved The Buttery.
Roastit Bubbly Jocks
1.6 km
A vibrant modern European restaurant in Glasgow’s Partick, celebrated for exceptional Scottish-inspired cuisine and warm, lively hospitality.
Stravaigin
1.7 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VELVET MOON
0.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Gallus Alice
1.0 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.5 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Cut Price Gift Shop
1.6 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
McLay's Gift Shop
1.7 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
Oliver Bonas
1.8 km
Discover joyful style at Oliver Bonas on Byres Road: eclectic fashion, sparkling jewellery, chic homewares, and gifts that brighten everyday life in Glasgow's creative West End.
Found
1.8 km
Discover unique and vintage-inspired homewares and lighting in the heart of Partick, Glasgow’s creative shopping district.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
2.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
Decadent Riot
2.0 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
2.0 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Downstair Design Co.
2.0 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
West Vintage
2.0 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
Papyrus
2.0 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Amaryllis Westend
2.0 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Braw Wee Emporium
2.1 km
Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Sky Bar
0.9 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
Dukes Bar
0.9 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Islay Inn
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.
The Park Bar
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.
The Ben Nevis
0.9 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
The Dirty Duchess
1.0 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
EightySix
1.2 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
1.3 km
A West End bar with dive‑bar energy, a large beer garden and DJs that keep the party rolling late into the night.
Smiddy Bar
1.4 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
Deoch An Dorus
1.5 km
Authentic Glasgow pub in Partick offering hearty fare, well-poured pints, and a lively sports atmosphere with friendly local vibes.
The Aragon Bar
1.5 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
The Bon Accord
1.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s Bon Accord, a legendary pub boasting over 900 beers and an award-winning whisky bar in a vibrant, historic setting.
Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom
1.7 km
Tank-fresh brews and a rotating craft tap list in a warm, industrial-chic taproom tucked on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.
Vodka Wodka
1.7 km
Quirky West End cocktail bar with an all-weather, multi-level beer garden and a colossal vodka list — casual, lively and unpretentious.
Curlers Rest Glasgow
1.8 km
Historic Byres Road pub pouring 25 draught beers amid exposed brick charm and open-kitchen Scottish fare in Glasgow's West End.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
1.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
2.0 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
2.2 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Buff Club
2.2 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
142B Lounge
2.4 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
The Plug Glasgow
2.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Sub Club
2.4 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
2.4 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Club Tropicana & Venga
2.4 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Cathouse Rock Club
2.4 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
The Savoy
2.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
2.5 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
2.5 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
2.5 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
2.5 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly