Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Discover Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to 8,000+ exhibits spanning art, history, and natural wonders in a stunning historic setting.

4.7

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Home
United Kingdom
Stirling
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow is a renowned cultural landmark featuring 22 galleries with over 8,000 exhibits. Housed in a stunning Spanish Baroque-style building, it showcases a vast collection spanning fine art, natural history, arms and armour, and Scottish heritage. Highlights include Salvador Dalí’s iconic painting 'Christ of St John of the Cross', a Spitfire plane, and works by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Admission is free, making it a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8AG, GB
+441412769599
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Free
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 11 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive galleries and enjoy the free daily organ recitals.
Don’t miss Salvador Dalí’s 'Christ of St John of the Cross' and the Spitfire plane hanging in the West Court.
Visit the Charles Rennie Mackintosh rooms to see unique Art Nouveau designs inspired by nature.
Use public transport for easier access; several bus routes and subway stations are nearby.
The museum is family-friendly with accessible facilities including wheelchair access and hearing loops.

Getting There

Bus

Multiple First Bus services (2, 3, and 77) stop directly outside Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. From Glasgow city centre, the journey typically takes 15-25 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Service frequency varies but is generally every 10-20 minutes during the day.
Subway

Kelvinhall subway station is a 5-minute walk from the museum, while Kelvinbridge and Partick stations are within 10-15 minutes on foot. Subway rides from the city centre take about 5-10 minutes, costing approximately £1.50-£2.00 per trip.
Train and Walk

Partick and Charing Cross train stations are about 10-15 minutes’ walk from Kelvingrove. Trains from Glasgow Central or Queen Street stations to these stops take 5-10 minutes. Walking routes are mostly flat and accessible.
Car

Pay-and-display parking is available at the museum with limited spaces, including 10 free blue badge spaces. Additional parking can be found at Kelvin Hall nearby. Expect parking fees around £2-£5 per hour. Note that parking can be limited during peak times.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

A Majestic Cultural Landmark in Glasgow's West End

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum stands proudly in Kelvingrove Park, adjacent to Argyle Street in Glasgow’s West End. Opened in 1901, this grand Spanish Baroque-style building is a masterpiece of architecture, constructed with distinctive Locharbriggs red sandstone and adorned with intricate sculptures by artists such as George Frampton. Originally built as the Palace of Fine Arts for the 1901 Glasgow International Exhibition, the building itself is an attraction, blending historical grandeur with a welcoming atmosphere.

Diverse and Extensive Collections Across 22 Galleries

Inside, Kelvingrove houses 22 themed galleries exhibiting over 8,000 objects. The collections are internationally significant and encompass natural history, ancient Egyptian artifacts, medieval arms and armour, Scottish history, and the decorative arts. The museum is divided into two main sections: Life, which focuses on natural and human history, and Expression, dedicated to fine art. Visitors can admire masterpieces from European Old Masters, French Impressionists like Monet and Renoir, and celebrated Scottish artists including the Glasgow Boys and Scottish Colourists.

Iconic Exhibits and Artistic Treasures

Among the museum’s most famous exhibits is Salvador Dalí’s surreal masterpiece, 'Christ of St John of the Cross', a striking painting that draws visitors worldwide. Another crowd favorite is Sir Roger, the Asian elephant, alongside an impressive Spitfire plane suspended in the West Court. The museum also celebrates Glasgow’s own Charles Rennie Mackintosh, showcasing his innovative Art Nouveau designs and interiors influenced by nature and Japanese aesthetics.

Family-Friendly Experience and Visitor Amenities

Kelvingrove is designed to be accessible and engaging for all ages, with displays thoughtfully arranged to captivate children and adults alike. Facilities include a café, restaurant, and a gift shop offering unique souvenirs. The museum provides excellent accessibility features such as wheelchair access, hearing loops, and accessible toilets. Free daily organ recitals add a musical dimension to the visit, enriching the cultural experience.

Ongoing Conservation and Community Engagement

The museum is committed to preserving its historic fabric through ongoing restoration projects, including stonework repair and conservation of decorative elements. It also serves as a vibrant cultural hub, hosting temporary exhibitions and events that explore diverse themes, from Glasgow’s colonial legacy to contemporary art. This dedication ensures Kelvingrove remains a dynamic space for education and inspiration.

A Timeless Destination for Art and History Lovers

With free admission and a rich array of exhibits, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of Scotland’s most beloved attractions. Its blend of stunning architecture, world-class collections, and welcoming atmosphere makes it an essential stop for visitors seeking to explore Glasgow’s heritage and artistic achievements. Whether you spend a few hours or a full day, the museum offers a memorable journey through art, history, and culture.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Caledonian Mansions

0.9 km

Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.

Finnieston Crane

1.2 km

Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.

The Sixty Steps

1.3 km

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

Savings Bank of Glasgow building

1.3 km

A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.

The Clyde Arc

1.4 km

Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.

Govan Old Church

1.5 km

Explore the enchanting Govan Old Church, a historical landmark in Glasgow, rich with ancient relics, cultural heritage, and serene beauty.

The Govan Stones

1.5 km

Explore the captivating medieval Govan Stones museum in Glasgow, a hidden gem showcasing Scotland’s rich historical heritage.

The Glasgow School of Art

1.7 km

Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.

McLellan Galleries

1.8 km

Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.

Box Hub

1.8 km

Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.

Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow

2.0 km

Explore endless fun and adventure at Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow, the ultimate indoor amusement center for children and families.

Statue of Light and Life

2.1 km

Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.

ToursByLocals - Glasgow

2.1 km

Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.

glasgow south side

2.2 km

Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.

Riddle Rooms Glasgow

2.3 km

Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.

A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.

Experience vibrant Spanish tapas and lively Mediterranean ambiance in the heart of Glasgow’s West End at Cafe Andaluz.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

University of Glasgow Gift Shop

0.4 km

Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.

VELVET MOON

0.4 km

Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.

Gallus Alice

0.8 km

A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.

Oliver Bonas

0.8 km

Discover joyful style at Oliver Bonas on Byres Road: eclectic fashion, sparkling jewellery, chic homewares, and gifts that brighten everyday life in Glasgow's creative West End.

The Glasgow Vintage Co

0.9 km

Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.

West Vintage

0.9 km

A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.

Amaryllis Westend

1.0 km

Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.

Papyrus

1.0 km

Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.

Downstair Design Co.

1.0 km

Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.

Decadent Riot

1.0 km

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

Cassiopeia Gift Ltd

1.3 km

Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.

Cut Price Gift Shop

1.4 km

Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.

Ae Fond Kiss

1.4 km

Discover Glasgow’s ethical gift and art studio blending fair trade treasures with local creativity in a welcoming boutique setting.

McLay's Gift Shop

1.6 km

Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.

Found

1.7 km

Discover unique and vintage-inspired homewares and lighting in the heart of Partick, Glasgow’s creative shopping district.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Dukes Bar

0.2 km

A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.

The Islay Inn

0.3 km

Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.

The Park Bar

0.4 km

Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.

EightySix

0.5 km

Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.

The Ben Nevis

0.5 km

Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.

The Record Factory

0.6 km

A West End bar with dive‑bar energy, a large beer garden and DJs that keep the party rolling late into the night.

The Aragon Bar

0.6 km

Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.

Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom

0.7 km

Tank-fresh brews and a rotating craft tap list in a warm, industrial-chic taproom tucked on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.

Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom

The Dirty Duchess

0.7 km

A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.

Vodka Wodka

0.7 km

Quirky West End cocktail bar with an all-weather, multi-level beer garden and a colossal vodka list — casual, lively and unpretentious.

Curlers Rest Glasgow

0.8 km

Historic Byres Road pub pouring 25 draught beers amid exposed brick charm and open-kitchen Scottish fare in Glasgow's West End.

Hillhead Bookclub

0.9 km

Retro cinema vibes meet quirky cocktails and ping pong in Glasgow's West End— a multi-level playground for drinks, bites, and unbeatable energy.

Kitty O'Shea's West End

0.9 km

Authentic Irish pub in Glasgow's West End: frothy Guinness, live tunes, and hearty grub fuel lively nights until 2am.

Smiddy Bar

1.0 km

A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.

beGIN

1.0 km

Glasgow's premier gin bar on Byres Road, boasting over 100 global gins with Scottish flair—perfect for cosy starts to vibrant West End nights.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Berkeley Suite

1.2 km

Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.

Firewater

1.6 km

Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.

Saint Judes After Dark

1.8 km

Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.

Buff Club

1.9 km

Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.

The Plug Glasgow

2.0 km

Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.

The Savoy

2.1 km

Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.

142B Lounge

2.1 km

Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.

Bamboo

2.2 km

Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.

Kokomo Glasgow

2.2 km

Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.

Popworld Glasgow

2.3 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

2.3 km

Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.

Platinum Lace Glasgow

2.3 km

Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.

Cathouse Rock Club

2.4 km

Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.

Classic Grand

2.4 km

Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.

Sub Club

2.4 km

Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

A brief summary to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Local tips

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

Getting There

Bus

Subway

Train and Walk

Car

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

A Majestic Cultural Landmark in Glasgow's West End

Diverse and Extensive Collections Across 22 Galleries

Iconic Exhibits and Artistic Treasures

Family-Friendly Experience and Visitor Amenities

Ongoing Conservation and Community Engagement

A Timeless Destination for Art and History Lovers

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Caledonian Mansions

Finnieston Crane

The Sixty Steps

Savings Bank of Glasgow building

The Clyde Arc

Govan Old Church

The Govan Stones

The Glasgow School of Art

McLellan Galleries

Box Hub

Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow

Statue of Light and Life

ToursByLocals - Glasgow

glasgow south side

Riddle Rooms Glasgow

Unmissable attractions to see

Kelvin Hall Open Collections

Statue of Lord Kelvin

Kelvin Way

The Lion and Unicorn Staircase

Kelvingrove Bandstand

Hunterian Zoology Museum

University of Glasgow

Stewart Memorial Fountain

The Suffragette Oak

Kelvingrove Park

Hunterian Art Gallery

The Mackintosh House

Visit West End

Park Terrace

The wild pork statue

Essential places to dine

Ox and Finch

Eighty Eight

The Gannet

UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers

Big Slope

Number 16 Restaurant

Porter & Rye

The Finnieston

Fanny Trollopes

Stravaigin

Ubiquitous Chip

Fallachan Kitchen

Bothy Glasgow

Celino's

Cafe Andaluz

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

University of Glasgow Gift Shop

VELVET MOON

Gallus Alice

Oliver Bonas

The Glasgow Vintage Co

West Vintage

Amaryllis Westend

Papyrus

Downstair Design Co.

Decadent Riot