Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
The UK's largest mural celebrating Strathclyde University's maritime heritage and achievements.
The Strath Wonderwall Mural is the UK's largest mural, covering over 1,000 square metres across the Graham Hills Building at the University of Strathclyde. Created in 2014 to celebrate the university's 50th anniversary, this monumental street art features vibrant imagery including the historic Land-Ship navigation bridge, the Dansken equatorial telescope, and tributes to the university's people and achievements. Located on George Street in Glasgow's city centre, this iconic artwork blends artistic brilliance with educational history.
A brief summary to Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
- 50 George St, Glasgow, G1 1QE, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for optimal natural lighting that enhances the mural's vibrant colours and creates dramatic shadows across the wall.
- Explore the surrounding streets to discover additional murals on the Glasgow Mural Trail, including Fellow Glasgow Residents Mural and other street art within walking distance.
- Look closely at the bottom portion of the mural to spot the T.A.R.D.I.S. reference and other hidden details that celebrate the university's cultural connections.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the mural's impressive scale and intricate details; the perspective and selective use of colour create exceptional photography opportunities.
- Check out the hashtag #strathwonderwall listed on the mural itself to connect with other visitors and discover shared perspectives on this iconic artwork.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from Glasgow Central Station
Exit Glasgow Central Station and head towards Hope Street. Continue walking along Hope Street until you reach the junction with St. Vincent Street, approximately 5-7 minutes. Turn right onto St. Vincent Street and walk for another 2-3 minutes until you reach George Street. Turn left onto George Street and the mural is located at 50 George Street. Total walking time is approximately 10-12 minutes. The route is flat and well-lit, suitable for all mobility levels.
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Public transport from Buchanan Bus Station
Exit Buchanan Bus Station and walk towards Buchanan Street. Multiple bus services operate in the city centre; take any bus heading towards George Street or the city centre. Journey time is typically 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, walk directly from Buchanan Bus Station to George Street in approximately 8-10 minutes by heading south through the city centre. The mural is clearly visible from the street once you reach 50 George Street.
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Walking from Ramshorn Graveyard
From Ramshorn Graveyard (approximately 100 metres away), head south towards George Street. The mural is located just a short walk away at 50 George Street, taking only 2-3 minutes on foot. This route is ideal if you're exploring nearby historical sites in Glasgow's city centre.
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Taxi or ride-share service
Request a taxi or ride-share to 50 George Street, Glasgow G1 1QE. Journey times from Glasgow Central Station are typically 5-8 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Estimated fare is approximately £6-10 GBP. The location is easily accessible and well-known to local drivers.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
A Monument to Achievement and Innovation
The Strath Wonderwall Mural stands as the UK's largest mural, an extraordinary feat of public art that spans more than 1,000 square metres across the Graham Hills Building at the University of Strathclyde. Created during the summer of 2014, this monumental artwork was commissioned to celebrate the university's 50th anniversary following the conferment of its Royal Charter. The mural's scale is immediately striking—stretching across multiple storeys and incorporating three seven-storey gables, it dominates the streetscape along George Street and serves as a powerful visual anchor in Glasgow's city centre.Artistic Vision and Technical Mastery
The mural was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of renowned street artists Rogue-One and EJEK, working in partnership with Art Pistol. Their approach demonstrates remarkable technical skill and creative vision, with careful attention to perspective, selective use of colour, and intricate detail work. The artists employed sophisticated compositional techniques that create depth and visual interest across the expansive wall surface. The selective application of colour—blending vibrant hues with more muted tones—conveys a sense of temporal passage, reflecting the university's journey from its founding to the present day.Historical Elements and Educational Significance
Embedded within the mural's design are several historically significant elements that tell the story of the university's maritime and scientific heritage. The Land-Ship, a central motif, depicts a revolving platform that once crowned the roof of the School of Navigation in the Royal College. This mock navigation bridge featured a Kelvin compass mounted on its top and was used to teach students the principles of compass adjustment and nautical navigation. The Dansken equatorial telescope, another featured element, represents the university's astronomical teaching legacy—this telescope was historically employed to instruct students in the principles of nautical astronomy. These references transform the mural into a visual history lesson, celebrating the institution's contributions to navigation, engineering, and scientific education.Cultural References and Contemporary Relevance
The mural extends beyond institutional celebration to include broader cultural references that resonate with Glasgow's identity. Sharp-eyed observers will spot a T.A.R.D.I.S. reference at the bottom of the composition, a nod to the university's archives which hold papers belonging to Verity Lambert, the founding producer of the iconic science fiction series Doctor Who. This clever inclusion bridges academic heritage with popular culture, making the mural accessible and engaging to diverse audiences. The artwork also features representations of notable figures associated with the university and contemporary students, creating a visual tapestry that honours both past achievements and future potential.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 50 George Street in Glasgow's vibrant city centre, the mural occupies a prominent position along one of the city's principal thoroughfares. The location places it within easy reach of other significant cultural landmarks, including Glasgow Cathedral, the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art, and Provand's Lordship—Glasgow's oldest building. The mural's position on a major street ensures high visibility and makes it an integral part of the Glasgow Mural Trail, a curated walking route that celebrates the city's thriving street art culture. The accessibility of the location encourages spontaneous discovery and makes it a natural stopping point for both locals and visitors exploring the city centre.Photographic Appeal and Visitor Experience
The mural's scale, colour palette, and compositional complexity make it exceptionally photogenic, attracting photographers and art enthusiasts throughout the day. The interplay of light across the wall surface changes dramatically depending on the time of day and weather conditions, offering different visual experiences from dawn to dusk. Early morning and late afternoon light particularly enhance the mural's colours and create dramatic shadows that emphasise its three-dimensional qualities. The artwork invites extended viewing, rewarding careful observation with new details and connections that emerge upon closer inspection.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.4 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.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Tolbooth Steeple
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Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Walter Scott Monument
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A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Bridge of Sighs
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A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
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Explore Glasgow's heart through the captivating Bronze 3D Map of City Centre, a stunning sculpture and guide to the city's rich heritage.
Barras Market
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Discover the vibrant Barras Market in Glasgow, a cultural gem filled with unique treasures, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere.
Nelson Mandela Pl
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Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
Good as Gold Street Art
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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.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
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Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
The Glasgow Necropolis
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Explore the historical beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery offering stunning views and rich stories of Glasgow's past.
The Lighthouse
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Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
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Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
McLennan Arch
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A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
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Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ramshorn Graveyard
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Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
Mural of Woman, child and robin (St. Mungo and mother)
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A heartfelt modern mural celebrating Glasgow’s patron saint, his mother, and the legendary robin that symbolizes the city’s spirit.
High St
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Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.3 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
Merchant Square
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's nightlife at Katie's Bar – a vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue welcoming everyone to enjoy great drinks and entertainment.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
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A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Glasgow City Chambers
0.4 km
Explore the historic Glasgow City Chambers, a stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant George Square.
Provand's Lordship
0.4 km
Step back to 1471 in Glasgow’s oldest house, a medieval gem showcasing centuries of history with period furnishings, royal portraits, and a tranquil herb garden.
Pavement
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Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
City Sightseeing Glasgow
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Discover Glasgow’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods with flexible hop-on hop-off bus tours featuring live guides and multilingual audio commentary.
St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art
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Explore world religions and spiritual art in Glasgow’s historic museum featuring Britain’s first Zen garden and free entry.
Old Police Post
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Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Essential places to dine
The Italian Kitchen
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
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Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
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Bar Soba Merchant City
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Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
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Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Cafe Gandolfi
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A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
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Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Saints of Ingram
0.3 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
The Dhabba
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Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
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Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Browns Glasgow
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Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Boteco Do Brasil
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Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Celentano's
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Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
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Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Frida and Coco
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Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
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Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Social Recluse
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Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Pride of Glasgow
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Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
Geek-aboo
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Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Fat Buddha Store
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Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Minted
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Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Eurasia Crafts
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Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
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A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Primark
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Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
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A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
The Shop Network
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A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Tartan House of Scotland
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Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
Wee scottish shop
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Strathduie Bar
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Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Home
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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.
Bar 91
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Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Speakeasy
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A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
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Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
The Piper Whisky Bar
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Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Bacchus Bar
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Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
The Alchemist Glasgow
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Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Steps Bar
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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.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
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Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
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Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
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Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Cairns Bar
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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.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Wunderbar
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Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
AXM Glasgow
0.4 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
18 Candleriggs
0.4 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Polo Lounge
0.5 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Delmonicas
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Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
Club X
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Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Riding Room
0.5 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
La Cheetah Club
0.6 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.8 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
0.9 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
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Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.9 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
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Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.9 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
1.0 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
1.0 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Street Art
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
