Wellpark Brewery – The Historic Home of Tennent's Lager in Glasgow
Discover Glasgow’s oldest brewery where centuries of tradition meet the birthplace of Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager.
Wellpark Brewery in Glasgow, established on a site with brewing history dating back to 1556, is the birthplace of Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager. This brewery blends centuries-old tradition with modern brewing techniques, offering visitors immersive tours that reveal the rich heritage, brewing process, and cultural significance of one of the UK’s oldest and most beloved breweries.
A brief summary to Wellpark Brewery
- 161 Duke St, Glasgow, G31 1JD, GB
- +441412027145
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance to secure a spot, especially on weekends and during special events.
- Wear comfortable footwear as the tour involves walking through production areas.
- Try the exclusive beers available only at the brewery’s on-site bar.
- Combine your visit with exploring Glasgow’s East End for a fuller cultural experience.
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
Take the train to Bellgrove or High Street stations, each about 1.5 to 2 km from the brewery, followed by a 20-minute walk or a short local bus ride. Trains run frequently from Glasgow Central and Queen Street stations. Bus routes serving Duke Street operate regularly with fares around £1.80–£3.00.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services from Glasgow city centre take approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £7–£12. This is a convenient option if you prefer direct access without walking.
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Walking
From Glasgow city centre, walking to Wellpark Brewery takes about 35–45 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. This option suits those wanting to explore the city’s East End en route but is less suitable in poor weather or for those with mobility issues.
Wellpark Brewery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Wellpark Brewery
Centuries of Brewing Heritage in Glasgow's East End
Wellpark Brewery stands on a historic site where brewing has been continuous since 1556, making it Glasgow’s oldest commercial brewery. Founded by Robert Tennent, the brewery evolved from a family operation into a major commercial enterprise in 1740 under Hugh and Robert Tennent. Over the centuries, the brewery expanded and innovated, becoming the largest bottled beer exporter worldwide by the mid-19th century. The site was renamed Wellpark Brewery in the 1790s after acquiring neighboring land, marking the beginning of its iconic status in Scottish brewing history.The Birthplace of Scotland’s Pioneering Lager
In 1885, Hugh Tennent introduced the UK’s first pilsner-style lager after being inspired by Bavarian beers. This innovation led to the creation of Tennent’s Lager, which remains Scotland’s market-leading pale lager. Wellpark Brewery was the site of many brewing firsts, including the world’s first draught lager in 1924, the first canned lager in 1935, and the first keg lager in 1963. These milestones highlight Wellpark’s role in shaping modern beer production and culture.A Living Brewery with Modern Innovations
Today, Wellpark Brewery produces around 150 million pints annually, employing over 375 staff dedicated to maintaining the quality and tradition of Tennent’s beers. The brewery sources local Scottish barley and uses pristine water from Loch Katrine, ensuring the distinct flavor and high standards that define the brand. While honoring its heritage, the brewery incorporates modern brewing techniques and sustainability efforts to remain a leader in the industry.Visitor Experience: Tours, Tasting, and Heritage
Visitors to Wellpark can embark on guided tours lasting about 1.5 hours, exploring the brewing process from malting to packaging. The tours include access to the heritage centre, where exhibits showcase the brewery’s rich history, vintage advertising, and memorabilia. Guests finish their visit with a complimentary pint of fresh, unpasteurized Tennent’s lager in the on-site bar. Special experiences such as beer masterclasses and private tours are also available for deeper engagement.Community and Cultural Significance
Wellpark Brewery is more than a production site; it is a cultural icon in Glasgow and Scotland. The brewery has supported local music, sports, and charity initiatives, embedding itself in the social fabric of the region. Its long-standing presence on Duke Street reflects Glasgow’s industrial heritage and ongoing love affair with beer, making it a must-visit for those interested in Scottish culture and craftsmanship.Architectural and Environmental Setting
Located at 161 Duke Street, the brewery complex combines historic and modern industrial architecture. The site includes visitor facilities such as a gift shop and bar, set within a lively urban environment. The brewery is accessible by public transport and offers a glimpse into Glasgow’s industrial past while operating as a vibrant, working brewery today.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bridge of Sighs
0.4 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
Buffalo Bill Statue
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Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.9 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.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.9 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.
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
1.0 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
1.1 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
1.1 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant Mural Trail #.09 in Glasgow, celebrating Billy Connolly's legacy through stunning public art. A cultural gem awaits your discovery.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
1.2 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Walter Scott Monument
1.2 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
George Square
1.2 km
Discover the essence of Glasgow at George Square, a vibrant hub of history, culture, and stunning architecture, perfect for your travel adventures.
Tobacco Merchant's House
1.3 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.
James Watt Statue
1.3 km
Discover the James Watt Statue in George Square, Glasgow - a tribute to innovation and the Industrial Revolution's pioneer, celebrating Scotland's engineering legacy.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
1.3 km
Discover the Equestrian Statue of the Duke of Wellington in Glasgow, a quirky landmark that merges history with local humor.
Royal Exchange Square
1.4 km
Discover the lively Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow, a cultural landmark renowned for its stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Drygate Brewing Co.
0.2 km
Glasgow’s pioneering experiential brewery with craft beers, fearless food, panoramic brewhouse views, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Glasgow Necropolis
0.4 km
Explore the haunting beauty of the Glasgow Necropolis, a historical cemetery with stunning architecture and breathtaking city views.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s Victorian Necropolis—a stunning garden cemetery rich with history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Glasgow Cathedral
0.5 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
0.5 km
Explore world religions and spiritual art in Glasgow’s historic museum featuring Britain’s first Zen garden and free entry.
Provand's Lordship
0.5 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.
Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary Museum
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s medical heritage through pioneering innovations and inspiring stories at this unique hospital museum.
Barrowland Ballroom
0.6 km
Glasgow’s legendary live music venue with iconic neon sign, superb acoustics, and a storied history as a dance hall turned concert landmark.
Mural of Woman, child and robin (St. Mungo and mother)
0.6 km
A heartfelt modern mural celebrating Glasgow’s patron saint, his mother, and the legendary robin that symbolizes the city’s spirit.
Barras Market
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Barras Market, a lively weekend bazaar famed for antiques, street food, and authentic local culture every Saturday and Sunday.
High St
0.7 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
0.8 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Glasgow’s maritime heritage and the University of Strathclyde’s academic achievements through stunning street art.
Barrowland Park
0.8 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.9 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Celentano's
0.4 km
Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
Bilsons Cafe Bistro
0.5 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
0.6 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.
The Italian Kitchen
0.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.9 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.9 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.9 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
The Dhabba
1.0 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Boteco Do Brasil
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Mono
1.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Saints of Ingram
1.1 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
Frida and Coco
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Never miss a gift
0.6 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Modern Love Store
0.6 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Minted
1.1 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Social Recluse
1.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
1.1 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
1.2 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Pride of Glasgow
1.2 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.
Geek-aboo
1.3 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Eurasia Crafts
1.3 km
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
1.3 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Fat Buddha Store
1.4 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Primark
1.4 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
1.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.4 km
Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Strathduie Bar
0.8 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Home
0.9 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.
Bar 91
0.9 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.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
1.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
1.1 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Speakeasy
1.1 km
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
1.1 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Bacchus Bar
1.1 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Steps Bar
1.1 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.
The Piper Whisky Bar
1.2 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
The Alchemist Glasgow
1.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
1.3 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Cairns Bar
1.3 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.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
1.3 km
Glasgow's 200-year-old riverside pub icon: live music, historic vibes, and Clutha spirit since 1819—pints, pizzas, and performances await.
The Social
1.4 km
Cocktail haven in Merchant City with quirky drinks, wood-fired eats, terrace views, and late-night DJ vibes in Royal Exchange Square.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
1.0 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
1.1 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
1.2 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
1.2 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
1.2 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
1.2 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
1.4 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
1.6 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
1.6 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Cathouse Rock Club
1.7 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
1.7 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Club Tropicana & Venga
1.7 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Sub Club
1.7 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.7 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
1.7 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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly