Categories > Guides and Tips

15 Museums in Glasgow That Are Free

15 Museums in Glasgow That Are Free

| Last Updated: January 2024

Whether you’re a history buff, an art fan, or a science geek, Glasgow’s got you covered with its free museum! From towering art galleries to specialist museums and even museums for police life, there’s a place for everyone.

Free of charge doesn’t mean poor quality—quite the contrary! That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best free museums in Glasgow that are absolutely free, so read on!

Riverside Museum

Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/riverside-museum 

Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 287 2720

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday and Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM 

The Riverside Museum is all about transport and travel. It’s like you’ll leap through centuries of history, from horse-drawn carriages to modern sports cars and from tall ships to steam trains, all displayed under one cracker of a zig-zag roof.

But hey, it’s not just about staring at old steam trains and the like. Interactive exhibits and even recreated city streets make it brilliant for both kids and the young at heart. And outside, you won’t want to miss exploring the Tall Ship—what a beauty!

Pro tip: 

If you fancy a break, don’t miss out on the boardwalk and riverfront views. And for a spot to munch some food, there’s a café on-site, or you could head to nearby Partick or Finnieston, both just a stroll away.

Website: https://www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=16589 

Address: Park Terrace, Glasgow G3 6BY, United Kingdom

Contact details:  +44 141 334 6363

Operating hours: 

  • Open 24 hours

Next up, let’s talk about the fabulous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This Victorian grandeur, flanked by lush gardens, houses an eye-popping collection of, well, almost everything.

One of its main draws is the work by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow’s very own Art Nouveau legend. But with 22 galleries spanning art, history, and wildlife, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy.

Pro tip: 

Make sure to be there for the daily organ recital—it’s quite the treat. 

Glasgow Police Museum

Website: http://www.policemuseum.org.uk/ 

Address: First Floor, 30 Bell St, Glasgow G1 1LG, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 552 1818

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
  • Sunday – 12 PM to 4:30 PM

Next, we have a wee gem that’s often overlooked: the Glasgow Police Museum. Nestled in the heart of the Merchant City, this humble museum packs a punch with its collection dedicated to the rich history of Britain’s first police force.

This museum is hosted in the old police station, making it even more authentic! Exhibits range from police equipment from various eras and areas to fascinating crime stories.

Pro tip: 

The museum isn’t massive, so it’s perfect for a quick dive into law enforcement history. Afterwards, you can head to nearby Wilson Street and grab a slice of cake at Once Upon a Tart—you won’t regret it!

Website: https://www.gla.ac.uk/hunterian/ 

Address: University of Glasgow, 82 Hillhead St, Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 330 4221

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Let’s swing by the Hunterian now. Part of the University of Glasgow and tucked away in the charming west end, this place showcases a rich array of art and houses a staggering collection spread out across multiple buildings.

Our favourite, the gallery flaunts work by artists like Whistler and Charles Mackintosh, plus the world’s largest permanent display of the work of James McNeill. While there, don’t miss the Mackintosh House—an amazing recreation of the artist’s home.

Pro tip: 

Try to combine your visit with a wander around the University of Glasgow and a grub to Ashton Lane, which is chock-full of quirky eateries.

The Burrell Collection

Website: https://burrellcollection.com/ 

Address: Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 287 2550

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday, Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM

Nestled in Pollok Country Park and after some renovations, the Burrell Collection promises plenty of wow moments. The building itself is a masterpiece, but the treasures inside (more than 8,000 objects collected by Sir William Burrell) are beyond spectacular!

From Chinese ceramics to medieval art, this collection is as varied as it is vast. The stunning park view from the museum and the surrounding woodland walks make it a top pick.

Pro tip: 

And once you’re done, you might want to head over to the park’s courtyard for a bite at the Café at Pollok House.

People’s Palace

Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/peoples-palace 

Address: Green, Templeton St, Glasgow G40 1AT, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 276 0788

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday and Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM

People’s Palace, overlooking the grandeur of Glasgow Green, tells the tale of the city’s colourful history through the eyes of the folk who call it home. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of artefacts, photographs, and film clips.

Each of them gives a voice to the unique stories of Glaswegian life from the 18th to the 20th centuries. It’s not just about dates and old artefacts; it’s about people, their stories, triumphs, heartaches, and joys.

Pro tip: 

You might want to check out the Winter Gardens adjacent to the museum—Glaswegians love the lush indoor plants and exotic birds.

Royal Highland Fusiliers Regimental Museum

Website: http://rhf.org.uk/rhf/ 

Address: 518 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3LW, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 332 0961

Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Friday – 10 AM to 3:30 PM

Next up, we’re marching to the Royal Highland Fusiliers Regimental Museum. Housed in a handsome Victorian townhouse, this military museum is a top destination for anyone interested in Scotland’s military heritage.

It’s brimming with collections related to the famous Scottish regiment, detailing its history from the 18th century to the present. From poignant personal stories to exhibitions about world-changing wars, the museum is a real page-turner.

Pro tip: 

After your visit, you can take a leisurely stroll in the nearby Kelvingrove Park.

St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art

Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/st-mungo-museum-of-religious-life-and-art 

Address: 2 Castle St, Glasgow G4 0RH, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 276 1625

Operating hours: 

  • Temporarily closed

Now, we’ll go into the world’s major religions at the St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art—one of the only museums of its kind in the world! This place takes the prize when it comes to understanding and appreciating religious differences.

You’ll find objects and artworks that illustrate the beliefs and practices of different faiths alongside a tranquil Zen garden. What’s astonishing is the open-minded approach where religions stand side by side, promoting mutual respect and understanding.

Pro tip: 

Once done, you can grab a bite to eat at the Cathedral House Hotel, which serves delicious dishes right in the patriotic old building next door.

Scotland Street School Museum

Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/scotland-street-school-museum 

Address: 225 Scotland St, Glasgow G5 8QB, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 287 0500

Operating hours: 

  • Temporarily closed due to some major refurbishments

Calling all history buffs and school nostalgics, we’re heading to the Scotland Street School Museum. Now, this isn’t your ordinary school—this Charles Rennie Mackintosh-designed beauty offers an intriguing look at Scotland’s education history.

From vintage classrooms to displays about decades-old schooling traditions, it’s a fascinating trip down memory lane. And don’t worry; no one’s going to tell you off for running in the corridors!

Pro tip: 

For a delicious meal after your visit, Cafezique in Hyndland offers fresh, tasty plates that cater to all.

Website: http://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/GoMA/Pages/default.aspx 

Address: 111 Queen St, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AH, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 287 3050

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday, Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM

Now, we’ve got the Gallery of Modern Art, or, as the locals know it, GoMA. Housed in an iconic neoclassical building in the heart of the city centre, GoMA showcases a diverse array of temporary exhibits and works by national and international artists.

GoMA’s claim to fame lies in its ability to stir discussions through contemporary art about the world we live in. Oh, and don’t forget to rub the nose of the Duke of Wellington’s horse statue outside—it’s a quirky Glasgow tradition!

Pro tip: 

The gallery’s central location means you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink options post-visit, but if you want a true Glaswegian gem, check out Mono Cafe Bar—a vegan eatery and bar with a vinyl record shop inside!

Glasgow Museums Resource Centre

Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/glasgow-museums-resource-centre-gmrc 

Address:  200 Woodhead Rd, Glasgow G53 7NN, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 276 9300

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday – 11 AM to 5 PM

The Glasgow Museums Resource Centre is a kind of secret lair for museums. It’s every culture vulture’s dream because this facility keeps all the treasures that can’t fit in the city’s open museums—over a million gems under one roof!

Taking a free guided tour here guarantees surprising delights around every corner. From stunning African art to an entomology department chock-full of creepy crawlies, it has everything you ever (and never) imagined!

Pro tip: 

Remember to book in advance to secure a free guided tour. After all the excitement, you might want to cool down with an exotic cocktail at Bar Gumbo, just a short walk away.

Fairfield Heritage Centre

Website: http://www.fairfieldgovan.co.uk/ 

Address: 1048 Govan Rd, Govan, Glasgow G51 4XS, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 445 5866

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 1 PM to 4 PM

Next, we’re heading to the Fairfield Heritage Centre, a proper treat for shipbuilding enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Nestled in Govan’s shipbuilding heart, this dedicated museum tells the story of the city’s world-renowned shipbuilding heritage.

Stepping inside transports you to a time when Glaswegian-built ships were the envy of the world. The museum offers a captivating insight into the workers, the industry, and the ships that made Glasgow famous.

Pro tip: 

You can always immerse yourself in maritime history and then step out for a traditional Scottish meal at the nearby McNeills Bar.

The Tall Ship Glenlee

Website: http://www.thetallship.com/ 

Address: 150 Pointhouse Rd, Stobcross Rd, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 357 3699

Operating hours: 

  • Temporarily closed

Onwards now to the Clyde, to the Tall Ship Glenlee. When we say ‘tall ship’, we mean a humongous sailing ship docked right by the Riverside Museum.

It’s one of only five Clyde-built sailing ships still afloat today—impressive, huh? You can explore the hold and cabins and even ring the ship’s bell while trawling through 100 years of maritime history.

Pro tip: 

The Tall Ship often hosts brilliant events, so check their website for the latest.

Provand’s Lordship

Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/provands-lordship 

Address: 3 Castle St, Glasgow G4 0RH, United Kingdom

Contact details: +44 141 276 1625

Let’s step back in time now to medieval Glasgow at Provand’s Lordship. Dating back to 1471, this place is not just the oldest house in Glasgow—it’s one of only four medieval buildings left in the entire city.

A peek inside and you’ll find period furnishings recreating how cunning 17th-century residents lived. The medieval herbal garden at the back is a calming retreat away from the city buzz, too.

Pro tip: 

After visiting Provand’s Lordship, drop by Drygate Brewing Co. for a nerve-settling pint of local craft beer. Don’t forget to take the brewhouse tour and learn the art of brewing to unwind in true Glaswegian style.

Fossil Grove

Website: http://www.fossilgroveglasgow.org/ 

Address: Victoria Park Dr S, Glasgow G14 9QR, United Kingdom

Contact details: Phone: +44 141 287 5918

Last but certainly not least, we have Fossil Grove—Glasgow’s ancient “forest.” It’s not every day you get to walk around a 330-million-year-old forest, eh?

And even though the “trees” are fossilised, you get a real sense of walking in the footsteps of dinosaurs. Preserved in an atmospheric Victorian building and hidden within Victoria Park, it gives a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past.

Pro tip: 

As it’s seasonal, do check its opening times before heading over. And don’t forget to explore the rest of Victoria Park afterwards!

Related topics