Old Police Post, Glasgow
A charming relic of Glasgow’s policing past, the Old Police Post stands as a historic blue police box in the heart of the city.
The Old Police Post at 20 Wilson Street in Glasgow is a historic police call box, emblematic of early 20th-century urban policing in the city. Once part of a widespread network of police boxes used for communication and public assistance, it now stands as a preserved relic and a charming local landmark in Glasgow’s city center.
A brief summary to Old Police Post
- 20 Wilson St, Glasgow, G1 1SS, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 0.75 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details and color of the police box.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Glasgow Police Museum for deeper historical context.
- Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of this iconic urban landmark.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Glasgow City Bus services 2 or 3, which stop near Wilson Street. The journey from Glasgow Central Station takes about 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. A single ticket costs approximately £1.80 GBP.
-
Subway
Use the Glasgow Subway to Buchanan Street Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to 20 Wilson Street. The subway runs every 7 minutes during peak hours, with a ticket price of around £1.70 GBP.
-
Walking
From Glasgow Central Station, walk for about 20 minutes through the city center. The route is flat and suitable for all fitness levels, with pedestrian-friendly streets and plenty of urban sights along the way.
Old Police Post location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Old Police Post
Legacy of Glasgow’s Policing Infrastructure
The Old Police Post at 20 Wilson Street represents a tangible link to Glasgow’s pioneering history in urban law enforcement. Glasgow’s police force, established in 1800, was among the first modern police organizations in the UK, predating even the London Metropolitan Police. By the early 20th century, police boxes like this one were installed across the city as vital communication hubs, allowing officers on patrol to stay connected before the advent of radio technology. These boxes were originally painted red but later became iconic in blue, serving both functional and symbolic roles in Glasgow’s policing landscape.Architecture and Design of Police Boxes
The police box is a small, sturdy kiosk typically constructed from cast iron or wood, designed to be weather-resistant and easily recognizable. It featured a telephone for officers to contact headquarters and sometimes included a small desk and first aid equipment. The Old Police Post’s compact form and distinctive blue color make it a striking urban artifact. Though many such boxes have disappeared over time, this one remains preserved, reflecting the practical yet iconic design that became synonymous with British policing.Transformation and Cultural Significance
While originally utilitarian, many of Glasgow’s surviving police boxes have been repurposed in recent years, some converted into small businesses or coffee kiosks, blending heritage with modern urban life. The Old Police Post stands not only as a piece of police history but also as a cultural symbol, recognized by locals and visitors alike. Its presence evokes memories of a bygone era of policing and has even attracted fans of popular culture, notably Doctor Who enthusiasts, due to the resemblance to the show’s famous TARDIS.Context within Glasgow’s Historic Policing
Glasgow’s police force has a rich and complex history, marked by early innovations such as the introduction of detective constables in 1904 and the use of radio patrol cars in the 1930s. The Old Police Post is a modest but evocative reminder of the city’s long-standing commitment to public safety and law enforcement evolution. It complements other heritage sites like the Glasgow Police Museum, which preserves extensive artifacts and stories from the force’s past.Visitor Experience and Urban Setting
Situated in Glasgow’s bustling city center, the Old Police Post offers a unique photo opportunity and a moment of reflection on the city’s civic history. Its location on Wilson Street places it within easy reach of other cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can appreciate the juxtaposition of this small, historic structure against the modern urban environment, highlighting Glasgow’s layered history and ongoing urban narrative.Preservation and Community Value
Maintained as a heritage landmark, the Old Police Post benefits from local interest in preserving Glasgow’s police history. It stands as a testament to the city’s architectural and social heritage, reminding passersby of the evolution of public services and community safety mechanisms. Its preservation supports Glasgow’s broader efforts to honor and maintain its historical identity amid contemporary development.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walter Scott Monument
0.3 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.3 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.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.3 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.4 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.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.5 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.5 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.5 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Glasgow at St Andrew's in the Square, a historic venue for art, community events, and weddings.
Barrowland Park
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
La Pasionaria
0.6 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
McLennan Arch
0.6 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
0.7 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
glasgow south side
0.7 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.7 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.8 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
Merchant City
0.0 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Pavement
0.0 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.1 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Tobacco Merchant's House
0.1 km
Glasgow’s last 18th-century tobacco merchant villa, a preserved Georgian gem and vivid reminder of the city’s mercantile and colonial past.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's nightlife at Katie's Bar – a vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue welcoming everyone to enjoy great drinks and entertainment.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.2 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
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.
Street Art from The rebel bear
0.2 km
Explore the compelling street art of The Rebel Bear, Glasgow’s mysterious muralist blending social commentary with vibrant urban creativity.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.2 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
Britannia Panopticon
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
Merchant Square
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Trongate
0.2 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
Glasgow City Chambers
0.2 km
Explore the historic Glasgow City Chambers, a stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant George Square.
Royal Exchange Square
0.2 km
A grand neoclassical square in Glasgow blending historic commerce, iconic art, and vibrant city life at the heart of the city centre.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
Essential places to dine
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.1 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Saints of Ingram
0.1 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.1 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Browns Glasgow
0.2 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
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.
The Dhabba
0.2 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
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.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
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.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.3 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
La Vita
0.3 km
Authentic stone-baked Italian pizzas and classic dishes served in Glasgow’s vibrant city centre, open daily from early morning to late night.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Pride of Glasgow
0.2 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.
Eurasia Crafts
0.2 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
0.2 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Geek-aboo
0.2 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Primark
0.2 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.
Fat Buddha Store
0.2 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Social Recluse
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.3 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.
Minted
0.4 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
The Clydeside Collective
0.4 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
House of Fraser
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
The Shop Network
0.5 km
A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Steps Bar
0.0 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.
Bacchus Bar
0.1 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.1 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.1 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Speakeasy
0.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
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.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.2 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Cairns Bar
0.2 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.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Home
0.3 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.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Wunderbar
0.3 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Sloans
0.3 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.
Strathduie Bar
0.4 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Polo Lounge
0.0 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
0.1 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
AXM Glasgow
0.1 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Club X
0.1 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
0.1 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
18 Candleriggs
0.2 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
La Cheetah Club
0.2 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.5 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.5 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Classic Grand
0.5 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.5 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.6 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
0.6 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.7 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.7 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Casual
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
