Scottish Event Campus (SEC), Glasgow
Glasgow’s premier integrated venue for world-class conferences, exhibitions, and live entertainment on the vibrant River Clyde waterfront.
The Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow is the UK’s largest integrated conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, it comprises the SEC Centre, the iconic SEC Armadillo auditorium, and the OVO Hydro arena. The campus hosts a wide range of events including international conferences, concerts, exhibitions, and sporting events, offering state-of-the-art technical facilities and flexible event spaces.
A brief summary to Scottish Event Campus
- Exhibition Way, Glasgow, G3 8YW, GB
- +441412483000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Use the Exhibition Centre railway station for direct and convenient access to the campus.
- Check event schedules in advance to experience concerts, conferences, or exhibitions tailored to your interests.
- Explore nearby cultural attractions like the Burrell Collection and Pollok Country Park to complement your visit.
- Take advantage of the campus’s accessible facilities, including hearing loops and level access.
- Plan for intermissions during concerts, as bar areas can become busy and queues may form.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Train
Take the suburban Argyle Line train to Exhibition Centre station, which is directly connected to the SEC by a covered walkway. Trains run frequently with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes from Glasgow Central. Tickets cost around £3-5 GBP one way.
-
Bus
Several city bus routes serve the vicinity of the SEC, including services from Glasgow city centre. Travel time varies between 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Single fares typically range from £2 to £4 GBP.
-
Car
Driving to the SEC is straightforward via the Clydeside Expressway and M8 motorway. Ample parking is available on-site but can fill quickly during major events. Parking fees usually range from £5 to £15 GBP depending on event and duration.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services provide direct access to the SEC from anywhere in Glasgow, with typical journey times of 10-20 minutes from the city centre. Fares generally start around £8 GBP and vary by distance and time of day.
Scottish Event Campus location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Scottish Event Campus
A Premier Hub for Conferences and Exhibitions
The Scottish Event Campus, originally opened in 1985 as the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, has grown into the largest integrated venue of its kind in the UK. It features over 22,000 square meters of exhibition space spread across five interconnected halls, designed to accommodate a diverse range of events from intimate meetings to large-scale international conferences with up to 10,000 delegates. The SEC Centre is renowned for its advanced technical infrastructure, including computer-managed sound, lighting, and audiovisual systems, ensuring seamless presentations and exhibitions.Architectural Icons: The SEC Armadillo and OVO Hydro
The SEC Armadillo, designed by Foster + Partners and opened in 1997, is a striking landmark on Glasgow’s waterfront. Its distinctive sail-like form, inspired by the shape of interlocking ship hulls reflecting the Clyde’s shipbuilding heritage, houses a 3,000-seat auditorium with superb acoustics and excellent sightlines. Adjacent to the Armadillo is the OVO Hydro, a modern arena with a capacity of up to 13,000, hosting major concerts, sporting events, and entertainment shows. Together, these venues complement the SEC Centre to create a versatile campus capable of hosting concurrent events.A Rich History of Events and Cultural Significance
The SEC has hosted a wide variety of notable events, including international music concerts, fashion shows, the 2014 Commonwealth Games weightlifting competitions, and global conferences such as COP26. It also served as the venue for high-profile televised talent auditions that launched careers like Susan Boyle’s. The campus’s location on the former Queen’s Dock ties it to Glasgow’s industrial past while its modern facilities position it as a focal point for contemporary cultural and professional gatherings.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Visitors to the SEC benefit from excellent accessibility, including its own railway station (Exhibition Centre) with a covered walkway, ample parking, and proximity to Glasgow city centre. The campus offers a range of amenities such as licensed bars, restaurants, cafes, restrooms, and seating areas. Accessibility features include hearing loops, level access, and facilities for people with mobility challenges. The SEC also emphasizes sustainability and has received accreditation for its environmental practices.Dynamic Atmosphere and Community Integration
Set on the vibrant banks of the River Clyde, the SEC is part of a lively cultural district that includes nearby parks, museums, and entertainment venues. Its events attract diverse audiences, from business professionals attending conferences to music fans enjoying live performances. The campus’s flexible spaces and modern design foster a dynamic atmosphere that adapts to the needs of each event, making it a central pillar of Glasgow’s social and economic life.Future Outlook and Ongoing Development
Continuing to evolve, the SEC remains Glasgow’s premier venue for large-scale events, with ongoing investments in technology and infrastructure to maintain its competitive edge. Its strategic location and comprehensive facilities ensure it will remain a key destination for international conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment well into the future.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
0.3 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
The Clyde Arc
0.5 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
0.8 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Statue of Light and Life
1.3 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
The Glasgow School of Art
1.6 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
The Govan Stones
1.7 km
Explore the captivating medieval Govan Stones museum in Glasgow, a hidden gem showcasing Scotland’s rich historical heritage.
Govan Old Church
1.7 km
Explore the enchanting Govan Old Church, a historical landmark in Glasgow, rich with ancient relics, cultural heritage, and serene beauty.
Caledonian Mansions
1.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
McLellan Galleries
1.7 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
1.8 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
1.8 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
La Pasionaria
2.0 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
The Lighthouse
2.0 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
2.0 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Good as Gold Street Art
2.1 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
SEC Armadillo
0.1 km
A striking Glasgow auditorium shaped like ship hulls, blending maritime heritage with cutting-edge design and versatile event spaces.
OVO Hydro
0.1 km
Scotland’s premier live arena, the OVO Hydro dazzles with iconic design and world-class events for over 14,000 spectators.
Glasgow Science Centre
0.4 km
Explore science hands-on with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and Scotland’s tallest rotating tower on the scenic banks of the River Clyde.
The wild pork statue
0.5 km
A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.
Paddle Steamer Waverley
0.5 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Glasgow Science Centre Tower
0.6 km
Experience Scotland’s tallest rotating tower with breathtaking panoramic views and cutting-edge engineering on the banks of the River Clyde.
The Clydeside Distillery
0.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s whisky heritage revived at The Clydeside Distillery, where history, craft, and riverside charm blend into a unique tasting experience.
Glasgow City Antiques
0.7 km
Explore Glasgow City Antiques, a vast warehouse of quality vintage furniture and unique collectibles in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant antique scene.
Railway Arches Murals
0.8 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
Stewart Memorial Fountain
0.9 km
A Victorian Gothic masterpiece in Kelvingrove Park honoring Glasgow’s water pioneer, Robert Stewart, and the gift of clean water.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to world-class art, historic artifacts, and captivating exhibits in a stunning historic setting.
Kelvingrove Park
1.0 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Kelvingrove Park — a vibrant Victorian green space with iconic art, serene river walks, and lively community spirit.
Kelvingrove Bandstand
1.0 km
Glasgow's restored Art Deco bandstand hosting vibrant open-air performances in a Victorian park setting.
Statue of Lord Kelvin
1.1 km
A distinguished bronze tribute in Kelvingrove Park honoring Lord Kelvin’s groundbreaking scientific legacy and Glasgow’s rich academic heritage.
Kelvin Way
1.1 km
Kelvin Way connects Glasgow’s West End cultural landmarks, blending historic architecture with leafy parks and vibrant local life.
Essential places to dine
The Finnieston
0.5 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Porter & Rye
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
The Gannet
0.5 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
Fanny Trollopes
0.5 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Ox and Finch
0.6 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
Big Slope
0.6 km
Cozy Finnieston basement bar serving top-tier pub grub, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly vibes in a shabby-chic haven with summer beer garden bliss.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
0.6 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Fallachan Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
The Buttery
1.0 km
Experience classic Scottish cuisine in a warm, elegant setting at Glasgow’s historic and beloved The Buttery.
Baby Grand Bar & Grill
1.2 km
Live piano music, refined British cuisine, and timeless elegance in Glasgow's city centre.
Eighty Eight
1.3 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Chillies West End
1.3 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in Glasgow’s West End with fresh flavors, a lively atmosphere, and friendly BYOB dining at Chillies West End.
Number 16 Restaurant
1.4 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Stravaigin
1.4 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Mini Grill Steakhouse - Glasgow
1.5 km
Cozy Glasgow steakhouse serving expertly cooked Scottish steaks with warm hospitality and classic sides in a relaxed, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gallus Alice
0.5 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
VELVET MOON
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
McLay's Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Braw Wee Emporium
1.6 km
Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
Decadent Riot
1.6 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Downstair Design Co.
1.7 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
1.7 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Oliver Bonas
1.7 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.
West Vintage
1.8 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
Amaryllis Westend
1.9 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Papyrus
1.9 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Geek Retreat Glasgow
1.9 km
Discover Geek Retreat Glasgow, where gaming culture meets community in a cozy café atmosphere filled with boards, books, and brews.
Cut Price Gift Shop
1.9 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
House Of Cashmere Glasgow
2.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish cashmere craftsmanship and timeless luxury in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Sky Bar
0.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
The Ben Nevis
0.5 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
The Dirty Duchess
0.5 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
The Park Bar
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.
The Islay Inn
0.7 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.
Dukes Bar
0.8 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Bon Accord
1.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s Bon Accord, a legendary pub boasting over 900 beers and an award-winning whisky bar in a vibrant, historic setting.
EightySix
1.3 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
1.4 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 Duke's Umbrella
1.5 km
Cozy Glasgow gastropub blending fine-dining comfort food, live music, and rustic charm in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Tiki Bar & Kitsch Inn
1.5 km
Glasgow’s vibrant tropical escape blending exotic cocktails, authentic Thai cuisine, and a lively beer garden in the heart of the city.
The Aragon Bar
1.5 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
Slouch: Live Music, Kitchen & Late Night Venue
1.5 km
A stylish Glasgow gastropub blending live jazz, blues, and rock with hearty food and creative cocktails in a cozy, speakeasy-inspired setting.
Smiddy Bar
1.6 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
Tennents Byres Rd Glasgow
1.6 km
Classic Glasgow West End pub with rich history, live sports, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere on vibrant Byres Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
