Hampden Park
The world's oldest international football stadium, where Scottish football history was written and the modern game took shape.
Scotland's national football stadium and one of the world's most historically significant sporting venues. Located in Glasgow's Mount Florida district, Hampden Park opened in 1903 and has hosted Scotland's home internationals, Scottish Cup Finals, and major European competitions. With a capacity of 51,866, it remains the spiritual home of Scottish football and a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide.
A brief summary to Hampden Park
- Letherby Dr, Glasgow, G42 9BA, GB
- +441416204000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book stadium tours in advance, especially during match days. Tours typically last 90 minutes and include access to the pitch, dressing rooms, and trophy room, providing intimate insight into the ground's history and operations.
- Arrive early on match days to soak in the pre-match atmosphere. The surrounding area fills with supporters hours before kick-off, creating an authentic Scottish football experience with street vendors and fan gatherings.
- Visit the Scottish Football Museum located within the stadium to explore comprehensive exhibits on Scottish football history, including artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays spanning over 150 years.
- Check the fixture calendar before visiting, as access and atmosphere vary dramatically between match days, European nights, and quiet periods. International matches and Scottish Cup Finals offer the most electric atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with exploration of Glasgow's football heritage by visiting nearby Ibrox Stadium (Rangers) and Celtic Park, allowing comparison of the three historic grounds that once held the world's largest stadiums simultaneously.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport from Glasgow City Centre
Take the Subway (Underground) from Buchanan Street Station toward Govan, exiting at Crosshill Station. Journey time is approximately 10–12 minutes. From Crosshill Station, walk 8–10 minutes downhill along Letherby Drive to reach Hampden Park. The Subway runs frequently throughout the day, with trains every 4–6 minutes during peak hours. Single fare costs approximately £1.75 GBP; day passes are available. This is the most convenient and cost-effective option for most visitors.
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Bus from City Centre
Multiple bus routes serve the Mount Florida area. Routes 5, 5A, and 31 run from the city centre to stops near Hampden Park, with journey times of 20–25 minutes depending on traffic and time of day. Buses run regularly throughout the day, with reduced frequency in evenings and on Sundays. Single fares cost approximately £1.75 GBP; multi-day passes offer better value for frequent travel. Buses can be slower than the Subway but provide a more direct surface route.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, local firms) are available throughout Glasgow. Journey time from the city centre is typically 15–20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Fares generally range from £12–18 GBP. This option is most convenient for groups or when arriving with luggage, though it is more expensive than public transport. On match days, demand surges significantly, potentially increasing wait times and fares.
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Parking at Hampden Park
Limited on-site parking is available at Hampden Park for approximately £5–8 GBP per vehicle on match days. Street parking in surrounding residential areas is available but can be difficult to find, especially during events. Parking restrictions apply in many streets; check signage carefully. Visitors are advised to use public transport when possible, as parking availability is unpredictable and traffic congestion is common on match days.
Hampden Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Hampden Park
A Century of Scottish Football Heritage
Hampden Park stands as the oldest international football stadium in the world, a distinction that places it at the very heart of global football history. When it opened on 31 October 1903, it was the largest stadium on Earth, a record it held until 1950 when Brazil's Maracanã was completed. The current ground represents the third incarnation of Hampden—the first opened in 1873 as the world's first purpose-built international football stadium, and the second operated from 1884 until Queen's Park outgrew it in the early 1900s. This lineage connects modern football directly to its Scottish roots, where the passing game was invented and refined before spreading across the globe.Record-Breaking Crowds and Legendary Moments
Throughout the 20th century, Hampden became synonymous with extraordinary attendance figures and unforgettable matches. The stadium witnessed a world record crowd of 127,307 when Scotland faced England in 1912, a figure that stood for decades. In 1960, Real Madrid's fifth consecutive European Cup victory over Eintracht Frankfurt drew 127,621 spectators—the highest attendance ever recorded at a European Cup final. The terraces have absorbed the roar of countless Scottish Cup Finals since 1904, with the ground becoming the de facto sole venue for this competition after 1925. Wartime internationals, the Coronation Cup of 1953, and the 2002 Champions League Final featuring Zinedine Zidane's legendary volley have all etched themselves into Hampden's storied fabric.Modern Stadium Evolution and Transformation
By 1999, Hampden underwent a comprehensive transformation into a modern all-seater stadium with a capacity of 51,866, earning UEFA's highest category four status for its upgraded facilities. This modernisation preserved the stadium's character while meeting contemporary safety and comfort standards. The ground has hosted diverse events beyond football, including Billy Graham's evangelical crusade in 1955, which drew 100,000 people, and major concerts featuring artists such as U2, Bruce Springsteen, and AC/DC. The 2012 London Olympics and numerous international matches have further cemented its status as a world-class sporting venue.Architectural Significance and Design
The original bowl-shaped design of the 1903 stadium established a template that influenced stadium construction worldwide. Its innovative features—including purpose-built grandstands, dedicated toilet facilities, and turnstile entry systems—were revolutionary for their time. The current structure, while modernised, retains the essential character of a traditional football ground, with its distinctive terracing and atmospheric design creating an intimate connection between supporters and the pitch. The stadium's location in Mount Florida, approximately three miles from Glasgow city centre, provides a sense of pilgrimage for visitors approaching the ground.Cultural Impact and Community Significance
Hampden Park transcends sport as a symbol of Scottish national identity and pride. Generations of Scottish football fans have made pilgrimages to witness their national team play, creating memories that define family histories and community bonds. The ground represents not merely a venue but a physical manifestation of Scotland's pioneering role in developing modern football. Its influence extends far beyond Glasgow, as the passing game perfected on these pitches fundamentally shaped how football is played globally. The stadium remains a living archive of Scottish sporting achievement and cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Snuff Mill Bridge
1.4 km
Historic cast iron bridge over White Cart Water, blending Glasgow’s industrial heritage with scenic riverside charm.
The Gatekeeper
2.2 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
2.9 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
The Glenlee Propellers
2.9 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
3.0 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
3.0 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Statue of Light and Life
3.3 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
Tolbooth Steeple
3.5 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
3.6 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.
Merchant Square
3.6 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant cultural scene at Merchant Square, a premier events venue combining great dining and lively entertainment.
Tobacco Merchant's House
3.6 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.
Old Police Post
3.7 km
A historic blue police box marking Glasgow's pioneering role in British law enforcement and urban policing innovation.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
3.7 km
Explore the rich musical heritage and stunning architecture of City Halls & Old Fruitmarket, a premier live music venue in Glasgow.
Box Hub
3.7 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
Good as Gold Street Art
3.7 km
Explore Good as Gold Street Art in Glasgow - a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing stunning murals and street art that reflect the city's creative spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scottish Football Museum
0.1 km
Explore Scotland's football legacy at the Scottish Football Museum, home to iconic trophies and immersive Hampden Park tours.
Queen's Park Playground (South)
1.1 km
A lively, family-friendly playground nestled in Glasgow’s historic Queen's Park, offering nature, play, and community spirit in the South Side.
Queen's Park
1.3 km
A vibrant Glasgow park offering scenic ponds, panoramic city views, diverse sports facilities, and family-friendly playgrounds in a tranquil urban setting.
Southside Studios
1.4 km
A vibrant creative hub in Govanhill, Southside Studios nurtures artistic collaboration and community spirit in Glasgow’s cultural Southside.
Freddy
1.7 km
A vibrant Shawlands burger spot famed for fresh, flavorful meat and vegan patties in a lively, welcoming setting.
Holmwood House
1.9 km
Discover Alexander 'Greek' Thomson’s exquisite 19th-century villa in Glasgow, blending classical elegance with vibrant Grecian detail and historic charm.
The Hidden Gardens
1.9 km
A vibrant, award-winning community garden in Glasgow fostering cultural exchange and peaceful urban greenspace.
Linen 1906
1.9 km
A neighbourhood grill and bar on Pollokshaws Road offering grilled plates, pints and a warm, music-led atmosphere for casual nights out.
Tramway
1.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Tramway arts centre, a vibrant blend of historic charm and cutting-edge contemporary performance and visual art.
Southern Necropolis
2.0 km
Explore Glasgow’s Southern Necropolis, a historic Victorian cemetery rich in working-class heritage, evocative monuments, and intriguing local legends.
Newlands Park
2.1 km
Discover Newlands Park, a peaceful and beautifully maintained green oasis in Glasgow’s south side, perfect for relaxation and community connection.
Quaich
2.2 km
A friendly, no-fuss Shawlands pub: reliable pints, simple food and the warm hum of a well-loved local.
Linn Park Waterfall
2.3 km
Discover the tranquil Linn Park Waterfall, a serene natural cascade nestled within Glasgow’s expansive Southside woodland park.
Linn Park
2.4 km
Discover Linn Park, Glasgow’s lush 200-acre riverside haven with historic bridges, woodland trails, and a stunning waterfall just minutes from the city.
Gorbals
2.4 km
Historic Glasgow district blending rich immigrant heritage, striking architecture, and vibrant urban renewal on the south bank of the River Clyde.
Essential places to dine
Buck’s Bar Southside
0.5 km
Authentic rock’n’roll vibes meet legendary buttermilk fried chicken in Glasgow’s lively Mount Florida neighborhood.
Battlefield Rest
0.9 km
Historic Italian dining in a quirky 1914 landmark with hearty food, lively atmosphere, and a beloved Southside Glasgow vibe.
The Rum Shack
1.6 km
Authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant live music create a tropical escape in Glasgow’s Southside at The Rum Shack.
Lobo
1.6 km
Mediterranean-inspired small plates in Glasgow’s Southside, blending vibrant flavors with a warm, rustic atmosphere and a dedicated vegan menu.
Stag and Thistle Bar & Restaurant
1.6 km
A lively Southside pub with diverse menus, craft beers, and a sunny outdoor patio perfect for social gatherings in Glasgow.
The Bungo
1.7 km
Glasgow south side gastro pub serving grills, breakfast hashes, and vegan delights in Strathbungo's cozy, neighborhood embrace—open daily from 10am for relaxed bites and brews. (162 characters)
Six By Nico Southside
2.1 km
Innovative six-course tasting menus with rotating themes in a cozy Southside Glasgow setting.
Loks Bar and Kitchen
2.3 km
A vibrant Shawlands hotspot serving modern British cuisine with a lively bar, flexible event spaces, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Palmtree Kitchen - مطعم النخلة
3.1 km
Experience the rich, authentic flavors of Yemen with generous portions and warm hospitality in Glasgow’s vibrant Palmtree Kitchen.
Mono
3.3 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
3.4 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.
Boteco Do Brasil
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
3.6 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
The Dhabba
3.6 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Cafe Gandolfi
3.6 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine No.1
0.4 km
Discover Scotland's handmade heart: Sunshine No.1 curates vibrant gifts, jewelry, and art from over 100 local makers in cozy Mount Florida.
Studio South
1.4 km
Unwrap Glasgow's creative soul at Studio South, where local artisans craft gifts that capture the heart of Scotland's vibrant south side.
Ruby Woo Boutique - Shawlands
1.8 km
Discover stylish women's fashion and unique gifts at Ruby Woo Boutique, Shawlands’ independent boutique with fast UK delivery and a friendly vibe.
Hell Yeah
1.8 km
Vibrant vegan gift haven in Shawlands: indie designs, eco treats, and pure shopping joy from small makers that make you say 'Hell Yeah!'
Highland Tweed
1.9 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and traditional Scottish woollen garments crafted with heritage and care in Glasgow’s Rutherglen district.
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
2.5 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
2.5 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Shop local
2.6 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Boots
2.6 km
Discover the best in beauty and health at Boots in Glasgow, your one-stop cosmetics shop for quality products and expert advice.
Grab n Go convenience store
2.8 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
3.3 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Minted
3.3 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Modern Love Store
3.3 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Social Recluse
3.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Never miss a gift
3.4 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beechings Bar
1.2 km
A friendly, affordable local pub in Cathcart with a rooftop beer garden, live music, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Allison Arms
1.6 km
Glasgow southside's craft beer gem: dog-friendly, queer-welcoming pub with malts, malty vibes, and neighborhood warmth on Pollokshaws Road.
Lunar Wine & Cocktail Bar
1.8 km
Cosy southside sanctuary for lunar-cycle cocktails, natural wines, and dog-friendly vibes in Glasgow's Strathbungo—creative sips in glowing intimacy.
The Corona Bar & Kitchen
1.8 km
Vibrant Shawlands pub serving global beers, hearty comfort food, and Sunday roasts in a spacious, quirky setting—perfect for mates, dates, or solo pints.
Georgic
1.8 km
Stained-glass glow, live tunes, and Southside cheers at Glasgow's friendliest neighborhood pub on Pollokshaws Road.
Phillies of Shawlands
1.9 km
Fusion bites and craft pours in Shawlands' cozy bar haven—Japanese fried chicken, wagyu burgers, and quirky vibes await on Pollokshaws Road.
DnH Craft Cocktails
2.2 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
Pig 'n' Whistle
2.4 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
Brazen Head
2.5 km
A lively Celtic and Irish pub in the Gorbals, famed for match nights, football memorabilia and live music in an intimate, unpretentious setting.
Sharkeys Bar
2.8 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
Laurieston Bar
3.0 km
Glasgow's 1960s time-capsule pub: flawless pints, diverse crowds, and unyielding Southside soul in the heart of Gorbals.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
3.4 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
3.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Cairns Bar
3.6 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.
Sloans
3.6 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
