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.
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
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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.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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 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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Buffalo Bill Statue
2.8 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
3.3 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Bridge of Sighs
3.7 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
3.8 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
3.9 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
4.1 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.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
4.1 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.
St Rollox Monument
4.2 km
A striking tribute to Glasgow’s railway pioneers and the historic St Rollox locomotive works in Springburn.
The Glenlee Propellers
4.3 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
4.4 km
Explore the vibrant Mural Trail #.09 in Glasgow, celebrating Billy Connolly's legacy through stunning public art. A cultural gem awaits your discovery.
Gorbals
4.4 km
Discover the vibrant transformation of Gorbals, a unique housing development in Glasgow blending history, culture, and contemporary living.
Old Police Post
4.4 km
A historic blue police box marking Glasgow's pioneering role in British law enforcement and urban policing innovation.
Glasgow City Chambers
4.5 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.
Tobacco Merchant's House
4.6 km
Explore the Tobacco Merchant's House, a historic site in Glasgow that reveals the fascinating story of the tobacco trade and its impact on the city's heritage.
The Gatekeeper
4.6 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cuningar Loop
1.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant community woodland with adventure play, outdoor bouldering, scenic trails, and striking public art on the River Clyde.
Celtic Park
1.6 km
Experience the passion and heritage of Celtic Football Club at Glasgow’s iconic Celtic Park, one of Europe’s largest football stadiums.
Glasgow Women's Library
2.9 km
Scotland's pioneering library celebrating women's histories, archives, and voices through collections, events, and community.
Wellpark Brewery
3.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s oldest brewery where centuries of tradition meet the birthplace of Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager.
Glasgow Green
3.4 km
Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest park, blends rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant events across expansive green spaces by the River Clyde.
Doulton Fountain
3.5 km
The world’s largest terracotta fountain, a Victorian masterpiece celebrating Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and Glasgow’s imperial heritage.
People's Palace
3.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s rich social history and relax amidst tropical plants in the iconic People's Palace and Winter Gardens.
Seven Lochs Wetland Park
3.6 km
Explore Scotland’s largest urban wetland park, where seven lochs, rich wildlife, and historic landscapes meet vibrant community spirit.
The Glasgow Necropolis
3.6 km
Explore the haunting beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a historical cemetery with stunning architecture and breathtaking city views.
Drygate Brewing Co.
3.6 km
Glasgow’s pioneering experiential brewery with craft beers, fearless food, panoramic brewhouse views, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Barrowland Ballroom
3.6 km
Glasgow’s legendary live music venue with iconic neon sign, superb acoustics, and a storied history as a dance hall turned concert landmark.
Barras Market
3.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Barras Market, a lively weekend bazaar famed for antiques, street food, and authentic local culture every Saturday and Sunday.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
3.8 km
Explore Glasgow’s Victorian Necropolis—a stunning garden cemetery rich with history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Glasgow Cathedral
3.8 km
Discover Glasgow Cathedral, a breathtaking medieval Gothic treasure and spiritual heart of Scotland’s largest city, open daily with free entry and rich history.
St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art
3.9 km
Explore world religions and spiritual art in Glasgow’s historic museum featuring Britain’s first Zen garden and free entry.
Essential places to dine
Bilsons Cafe Bistro
2.9 km
Experience innovative Scottish brunch and unique wine pairings in a charming Glasgow bistro known for fresh, seasonal dishes and warm hospitality.
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
3.5 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.
Celentano's
3.8 km
Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
Cafe Gandolfi
4.1 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
The Italian Kitchen
4.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
4.2 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Mono
4.2 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
4.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Bar Soba Merchant City
4.2 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Table Twenty Eight
4.2 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
The Dhabba
4.2 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
4.2 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
4.3 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Saints of Ingram
4.4 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kirkwood of Scotland
1.5 km
Elegant and comfortable British-made womenswear for mature women, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship in Glasgow’s Forge Shopping Centre.
Highland Tweed
3.4 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and traditional Scottish woollen garments crafted with heritage and care in Glasgow’s Rutherglen district.
Modern Love Store
3.6 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
3.6 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Frida and Coco
3.9 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Minted
4.2 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
4.2 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Social Recluse
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Boots
4.3 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
4.3 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
4.4 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
4.4 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Pride of Glasgow
4.5 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
4.5 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Grab n Go convenience store
4.5 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pig 'n' Whistle
3.7 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
Strathduie Bar
4.0 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Home
4.1 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.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
4.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
DnH Craft Cocktails
4.2 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
4.2 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Bar 91
4.3 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.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
4.4 km
Glasgow's 200-year-old riverside pub icon: live music, historic vibes, and Clutha spirit since 1819—pints, pizzas, and performances await.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
4.4 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Speakeasy
4.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Sharkeys Bar
4.4 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
Steps Bar
4.4 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
4.4 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
4.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant underground LGBTQ+ bar with live music, themed nights, and affordable drinks in the heart of Merchant City.
The Piper Whisky Bar
4.5 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
4.2 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
4.4 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
4.5 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
4.5 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
4.5 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
4.5 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
4.7 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Classic Grand
4.9 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
4.9 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Cathouse Rock Club
4.9 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
5.0 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
5.0 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Club Tropicana & Venga
5.0 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Kokomo Glasgow
5.1 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
5.1 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Family Friendly
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly