The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, Glasgow
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant social history and tranquil Winter Gardens in a landmark museum nestled within historic Glasgow Green.
The People’s Palace in Glasgow Green is a historic museum dedicated to the social history of Glasgow and its people from 1750 to the present. Housed in a striking red sandstone building with an attached Victorian Winter Gardens glasshouse, it offers rich exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and recreations of Glaswegian life. Currently closed for major refurbishment, it promises a revitalized experience upon reopening, preserving this cultural gem for future generations.
A brief summary to People's Palace
- The Grn, Glasgow, G40 1AT, GB
- +441412760788
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the official website for reopening dates and refurbishment updates before planning your visit.
- Explore the Doulton Fountain outside, the largest terracotta fountain in the world, even if the museum is closed.
- Visit the Winter Gardens on a clear day to enjoy the exotic plants and peaceful atmosphere.
- Use nearby public transport options such as buses and trains for easy access to Glasgow Green.
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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Bus
Multiple First Bus services (18, 64, 263) stop on London Road near the People’s Palace, with additional services (2, 40, 60, 61, 240, 255) stopping on Gallowgate, all within a short 3-5 minute walk. Typical journey times from central Glasgow range from 15 to 25 minutes. Tickets cost around £1.80-£3.00 GBP depending on distance.
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Train
The People’s Palace is approximately a 15-minute walk from Argyle Street, Bellgrove, and High Street train stations. Trains from Glasgow Central and Queen Street stations serve these stops frequently, with fares starting at £2.50 GBP for short journeys.
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Subway
St Enoch subway station is the closest underground stop, about a 20-minute walk to the People’s Palace. The subway runs every 5-10 minutes, with a single fare costing around £1.80 GBP.
People's Palace location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about People's Palace
A Cultural Beacon in Glasgow Green
The People’s Palace stands prominently within Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest public park, serving as a vibrant social history museum. Since its opening in 1898, it has chronicled the lives of Glaswegians through centuries of change, capturing the spirit of the city’s working-class communities. The building itself, with its austere red sandstone facade, contrasts beautifully with the light-filled Victorian Winter Gardens at the rear, creating a unique architectural dialogue between solidity and transparency.Exploring Glasgow’s Social Fabric
Inside, visitors encounter a rich tapestry of historic objects, photographs, prints, and films that vividly illustrate how Glaswegians lived, worked, and played from the mid-18th century to modern times. Exhibits include recreations of a tenement kitchen and the famous 'Steamie' public washhouse, providing immersive insights into daily life. The museum’s collection also features the world’s largest terracotta fountain, the Doulton Fountain, which stands proudly outside, adorned with sculptures representing Britain’s colonies and Queen Victoria.The Winter Gardens: A Tranquil Urban Oasis
The adjoining Winter Gardens offer a contrasting experience of tranquility and natural beauty. This glasshouse conservatory shelters exotic plants and provides a peaceful retreat from the city bustle. Visitors can enjoy the light-filled space, relax on benches, or visit the café for refreshments. Due to the fragility of the structure, the Winter Gardens occasionally close for maintenance, but they remain a cherished part of the People’s Palace experience.Ongoing Transformation and Preservation
Currently, the People’s Palace is closed for a major refurbishment funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This transformative project aims to restore and reimagine the museum and Winter Gardens, ensuring the preservation of this invaluable cultural and heritage asset. When it reopens, the People’s Palace will continue to tell the evolving story of Glasgow and its people with enhanced displays and facilities, safeguarding its legacy for generations to come.Architectural and Historical Significance
The People’s Palace is not only a repository of social history but also an architectural landmark. Its Victorian design and the delicate iron and glass structure of the Winter Gardens exemplify late 19th-century civic pride and philanthropy. The juxtaposition of the solid palace and the airy glasshouse reflects Glasgow’s industrial heritage alongside its aspirations for public wellbeing and education.A Living Museum of Community and Heritage
Beyond its exhibits, the People’s Palace has long served as a cultural hub for the local community, hosting events and educational programs. Its location within Glasgow Green situates it at the heart of the city’s social and recreational life. The ongoing redevelopment includes community consultation and youth engagement initiatives, reinforcing its role as a living museum that connects past, present, and future Glaswegians.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
0.2 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.2 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.4 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.7 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.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.8 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.8 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.
Bridge of Sighs
1.2 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
The Gatekeeper
1.3 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Glasgow City Chambers
1.3 km
A grand Victorian town hall in the heart of Glasgow, where civic power meets opulent architecture and free guided tours reveal the city’s proud history.
Glasgow Cathedral
1.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Gothic architecture and rich heritage of Glasgow Cathedral, a must-visit for every traveler in Scotland.
The Glasgow Necropolis
1.3 km
Explore the historical beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery offering stunning views and rich stories of Glasgow's past.
Royal Exchange Square
1.3 km
Discover the lively Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow, a cultural landmark renowned for its stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere.
La Pasionaria
1.3 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
1.4 km
Discover the Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington in Glasgow, a quirky landmark that merges history with local humor.
Walter Scott Monument
1.4 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Doulton Fountain
0.1 km
The world’s largest terracotta fountain, a Victorian masterpiece celebrating Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and Glasgow’s imperial heritage.
Glasgow Green
0.3 km
Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest park, blends rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant events across expansive green spaces by the River Clyde.
Barras Market
0.4 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Barras Market, a lively weekend bazaar famed for antiques, street food, and authentic local culture every Saturday and Sunday.
Barrowland Ballroom
0.4 km
Glasgow’s legendary live music venue with iconic neon sign, superb acoustics, and a storied history as a dance hall turned concert landmark.
St Andrew's in the Square
0.5 km
An exquisite 18th-century classical church turned vibrant cultural centre celebrating Scotland’s music, history, and heritage in Glasgow’s historic East End.
Barrowland Park
0.6 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
McLennan Arch
0.6 km
Historic sandstone archway marking the grand entrance to Glasgow Green, a timeless symbol of Glasgow’s architectural heritage.
Glasgow Women's Library
0.6 km
Scotland's pioneering library celebrating women's histories, archives, and voices through collections, events, and community.
Tron Theatre
0.8 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
o2 accadamy
0.8 km
Historic art deco music venue in Glasgow's Gorbals, hosting diverse live shows with a lively atmosphere and accessible facilities.
Trongate
0.9 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
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.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
0.9 km
Explore Clutha & Victoria Bar in Glasgow, a lively pub offering live music, delicious pizza, and a warm Scottish atmosphere.
Britannia Panopticon
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.9 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
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
0.4 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.
Mono
0.7 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.9 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
The Dhabba
0.9 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
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.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
The Italian Kitchen
1.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
1.0 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Saints of Ingram
1.2 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
1.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
1.2 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Modern Love Store
0.4 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Never miss a gift
0.4 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Minted
0.7 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.7 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Social Recluse
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Boots
0.8 km
Discover the best in beauty and health at Boots in Glasgow, your one-stop cosmetics shop for quality products and expert advice.
Shop local
0.9 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
0.9 km
Experience the best vaporiser shop in Glasgow at Bob's Bubbles, where quality meets expertise in a vibrant atmosphere.
Co-op Food - Glasgow - Crown Street
0.9 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Grab n Go convenience store
1.0 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Frida and Coco
1.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Pride of Glasgow
1.1 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
1.1 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Shop Small at St Enoch
1.2 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.
Primark
1.2 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pig 'n' Whistle
0.6 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.8 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.8 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
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.
Sharkeys Bar
0.9 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
DnH Craft Cocktails
1.0 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
Bar 91
1.0 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.
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.
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.
Brazen Head
1.2 km
A lively Celtic and Irish pub in the Gorbals, famed for match nights, football memorabilia and live music in an intimate, unpretentious setting.
Cairns Bar
1.2 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.
Speakeasy
1.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
1.2 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.9 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Polo Lounge
1.1 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
AXM Glasgow
1.1 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Riding Room
1.2 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
1.2 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
1.2 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
1.3 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Sub Club
1.5 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
1.5 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
1.5 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
1.6 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
1.6 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
1.7 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
142B Lounge
1.8 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.8 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- 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
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly