The Sixty Steps: Glasgow’s Architectural Stairway

Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.

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The Sixty Steps

The Sixty Steps is a historic and architecturally significant staircase in Glasgow’s West End, connecting Kelvinside Terrace South to Garriochmill Road. Designed by the renowned Alexander 'Greek' Thomson, the steps are part of a B-listed wall and form a cherished local landmark. The site offers a glimpse into Glasgow’s Victorian-era urban development and community spirit, surrounded by elegant terraces and green spaces in the Kelvinside district.

A brief summary to The Sixty Steps

Kelvinside Terrace S, Glasgow, GB
Visit website
Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate stonework and surrounding greenery.
Combine your visit with a stroll around Kelvinside to explore its Victorian terraces and community gardens.
Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the steps and the neighborhood’s architectural details.
Wear comfortable shoes as the steps involve a moderate climb connecting two streets.

Getting There

Bus

Take the Number 6 or 6A bus from Glasgow city center towards Kelvinside; journey time is approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single fare costs around £1.80.
Subway and Walk

Use the Glasgow Subway to Hillhead station, then walk about 15 minutes uphill through the West End to reach Kelvinside Terrace South and the Sixty Steps. The walk involves some incline and is best suited for those comfortable with moderate terrain. Subway fare is approximately £1.70.
Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from Glasgow city center takes roughly 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £8-£12. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially suitable for travelers with mobility concerns.

The Sixty Steps location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Sixty Steps

A Testament to Alexander 'Greek' Thomson’s Vision

The Sixty Steps stand as a remarkable example of the work of Alexander 'Greek' Thomson, one of Glasgow’s most celebrated 19th-century architects. Known for his distinctive style that blends classical Greek motifs with Victorian design, Thomson crafted this staircase to connect Kelvinside Terrace South with Garriochmill Road, integrating functionality with aesthetic appeal. The steps are part of a B-listed wall, underscoring their architectural and historical importance in the city’s fabric.

Kelvinside’s Elegant Setting and Community Roots

Nestled in the affluent Kelvinside district, the Sixty Steps are surrounded by grand Victorian villas and terraces that reflect the area’s heritage as a former country estate transformed during the 19th century. Kelvinside is known for its tranquil, leafy streets and vibrant community atmosphere, with green spaces and gardens that have been lovingly preserved and nurtured by locals. The steps themselves serve as a physical and symbolic link between different parts of this historic neighborhood.

A Walk Through Glasgow’s West End History

The Sixty Steps offer more than just a route between streets; they invite visitors to experience a slice of Glasgow’s urban evolution. The West End, famed for its cultural and architectural richness, finds in the steps a quiet yet evocative landmark. The design reflects the Victorian era’s emphasis on elegant public infrastructure, marrying utility with beauty. Nearby, the community garden and shared green spaces further emphasize the area’s commitment to preserving heritage and fostering social connections.

Architectural Details and Visual Appeal

The staircase is notable not only for its practical purpose but also for its intricate stonework and classical design elements characteristic of Thomson’s style. The balustrades and stone walls complement the surrounding terraces, creating a cohesive visual experience. The steps provide an iconic viewpoint within Kelvinside, offering glimpses of the neighborhood’s distinctive rooftops and tree-lined streets, making it a favored spot for photography and quiet reflection.

Community Engagement and Preservation Efforts

Local residents have long valued the Sixty Steps as a heritage asset, supporting efforts to maintain and protect the structure and its adjoining garden grounds. The steps are part of a broader narrative of community activism in Kelvinside, where green spaces and historic features have been defended against development pressures. This collective care ensures that the Sixty Steps remain a vibrant part of Glasgow’s West End, cherished by both locals and visitors alike.

Experiencing the Sixty Steps Today

Today, the Sixty Steps continue to serve pedestrians navigating the West End, offering a peaceful passage framed by historic architecture and greenery. The site is accessible year-round and provides a serene contrast to the bustling city center. Its blend of history, design, and community spirit makes it a unique landmark that encapsulates the charm and character of Kelvinside and Glasgow’s broader heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Sixty Steps

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Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.

Caledonian Mansions

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McLellan Galleries

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Savings Bank of Glasgow building

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SEC Armadillo

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Finnieston Crane

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Glasgow Science Centre Tower

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Box Hub

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Essential places to dine

Cail Bruich

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Paesano Pizza West End

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La Lanterna West End

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Cafe Andaluz

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Goat in the Tree

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The Bay Tree

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Ubiquitous Chip

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Stravaigin

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Bothy Glasgow

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The Hug and Pint

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Chillies West End

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Bistro du Vin Glasgow

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Number 16 Restaurant

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Eighty Eight

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Ox and Finch

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ae Fond Kiss

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West Vintage

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Amaryllis Westend

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Papyrus

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The Glasgow Vintage Co

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Downstair Design Co.

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Decadent Riot

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A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.

Oliver Bonas

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University of Glasgow Gift Shop

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Cassiopeia Gift Ltd

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Gallus Alice

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McLay's Gift Shop

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

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beGIN

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Curlers Rest Glasgow

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Vodka Wodka

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The Aragon Bar

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The Record Factory

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EightySix

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Dukes Bar

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The Islay Inn

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The Park Bar

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The Ben Nevis

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Smiddy Bar

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The Dirty Duchess

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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The Sixty Steps: Glasgow’s Architectural Stairway

A brief summary to The Sixty Steps

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Subway and Walk

Taxi or Rideshare

The Sixty Steps location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Sixty Steps

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Sixty Steps

A Testament to Alexander 'Greek' Thomson’s Vision

Kelvinside’s Elegant Setting and Community Roots

A Walk Through Glasgow’s West End History

Architectural Details and Visual Appeal

Community Engagement and Preservation Efforts

Experiencing the Sixty Steps Today

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

The Sixty Steps

Caledonian Mansions

McLellan Galleries

Savings Bank of Glasgow building

SEC Armadillo

Finnieston Crane

Glasgow Science Centre Tower

Glasgow Science Centre

Govan Old Church

The Govan Stones

The Clyde Arc

Riddle Rooms Glasgow

glasgow south side

ToursByLocals - Glasgow

Box Hub

Unmissable attractions to see

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Hunterian Art Gallery

The Mackintosh House

The Loveable Rogue

University of Glasgow

The Suffragette Oak

Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow

The Book Nook

The Lion and Unicorn Staircase

Ruchill Park

Hunterian Zoology Museum

Kelvin Way

Statue of Lord Kelvin

Park Terrace

Kelvingrove Bandstand

Essential places to dine

Cail Bruich

Paesano Pizza West End

La Lanterna West End

Cafe Andaluz

Goat in the Tree

The Bay Tree

Ubiquitous Chip

Stravaigin

Bothy Glasgow

The Hug and Pint

Chillies West End

Bistro du Vin Glasgow

Number 16 Restaurant

Eighty Eight

Ox and Finch

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ae Fond Kiss

West Vintage

Amaryllis Westend

Papyrus

The Glasgow Vintage Co

Downstair Design Co.

Decadent Riot

Oliver Bonas

University of Glasgow Gift Shop

Cassiopeia Gift Ltd

VELVET MOON