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Tollcross Park: Glasgow’s Victorian Green Haven with Rose Gardens and Animal Farm

Historic Victorian park in Glasgow’s East End, famed for its rose gardens, restored Winter Gardens, and family-friendly animal farm.

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Tollcross Park is a historic 91-acre public park in Glasgow’s East End, renowned for its internationally acclaimed rose garden, restored Victorian Winter Gardens, and a charming children’s animal farm. Offering expansive walking paths, picnic spots, and scenic views from its hilltop, the park is a tranquil urban oasis perfect for families and nature lovers. Free to enter and open daily during daylight hours, it blends cultural heritage with natural beauty.

A brief summary to Tollcross Park

  • 254B Wellshot Rd, Glasgow, G32 7AX, GB
  • +441412875064
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon 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 in June or July to see the rose gardens at their peak bloom for a spectacular floral display.
  • Don’t miss the children’s animal farm with llamas, sheep, and other friendly animals—great for families.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive walking paths and hilltop views.
  • Check local information on Winter Gardens events as the glasshouse is now used for conferences and gatherings.
  • Bring your own refreshments as there are no cafes or food outlets inside the park.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Regular bus services from Glasgow city centre to Tollcross Park take approximately 25 to 35 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, but service frequency reduces in the evening. Tickets cost around £2.50–£4.00 GBP one way.

  • Train and Bus Combination

    Take a train from Glasgow Central to Carntyne station (about 10 minutes), then a short 10-minute bus or walk to Tollcross Park. Train fares start at £3.00 GBP. This option suits those preferring a mix of transport modes.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from Glasgow city centre to Tollcross Park takes about 15–20 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8–£12 GBP. This offers direct and flexible access, ideal for groups or visitors with mobility needs.

  • Walking

    For the adventurous, walking from Glasgow city centre to Tollcross Park is possible in about 1.5 to 2 hours along mostly urban terrain. The route includes some hills and is suitable for those comfortable with longer urban walks.

Tollcross Park location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Tollcross Park

A Victorian Legacy in Glasgow’s East End

Established in 1858 and formally opened to the public in 1897, Tollcross Park is one of Glasgow’s last great Victorian parks. It was created to provide much-needed recreational green space amidst the city’s industrial expansion. The park’s design reflects Victorian aesthetics with its iron gates, tree-lined paths, and carefully planned gardens. Its elevated position offers sweeping views over the surrounding East End, including neighboring Alexandra Park and notable city landmarks.

Iconic Rose Gardens and Restored Winter Gardens

The park’s internationally famous rose garden is a highlight, especially spectacular in June and July when award-winning roses bloom in a layout shaped like a rose itself. This garden draws horticultural enthusiasts worldwide. Nearby stands the recently restored Winter Gardens conservatory, a B-listed Victorian glasshouse that suffered storm damage but has been refurbished to host events and conferences rather than exotic plants, preserving its architectural heritage.

A Family-Friendly Urban Farm and Wildlife Experience

Tollcross Park is home to a small but delightful children’s animal farm featuring llamas, sheep, goats, highland cattle, rabbits, guinea pigs, and various birds. This farm area, along with a children’s play zone, offers educational and interactive experiences for families. Visitors often spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful aviary and pond areas, making it a perfect spot for children and adults alike to connect with nature.

Recreational Activities and Scenic Walks

The park’s extensive network of paths and open fields invites long walks, jogging, and picnicking. The summit area includes sports fields used by local baseball teams and offers panoramic views over Glasgow’s urban landscape. The wooded sections with gurgling burns and varied tree species, including rare weeping beeches, add to the park’s tranquil atmosphere. It is also the venue for the popular weekly Tollcross Parkrun, a free 5km timed run attracting locals and visitors.

Community and Cultural Significance

Tollcross Park remains a beloved green space for Glasgow residents, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage. The park’s Victorian features, combined with modern community facilities like the nearby leisure and sports centre, make it a hub for outdoor activities and social gatherings. While some historic structures await further restoration, ongoing efforts ensure the park’s legacy endures as a vital urban sanctuary.

Visitor Amenities and Practical Information

Entry to Tollcross Park is free, and it is open daily from dawn to dusk. While there are no cafes or extensive refreshment facilities within the park, seating areas and picnic spots are plentiful. The park is well-served by public transport, and its safe, open layout makes it suitable for families, solo visitors, and nature enthusiasts. Visitors are advised to come prepared, especially if planning longer stays or visits to the farm and gardens.

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