Glasgow Cathedral
Glasgow Cathedral
4.5
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
About
The medieval Glasgow Cathedral has been in constant use for worship for over 800 years, and is of great architectural and historic interest. Highlights include one of the finest post-war collections of stained glass windows in Britain, and the ceiling in the Blackadder Aisle which was built around 1500 by Archbishop Blackadder. Cared for by Historic Scotland and open to visitors throughout the year from 9.30am except Sundays when it is open at 1pm. Recitals and special family events are a regular feature. Closing times vary seasonally.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Neighbourhood: City Centre
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See what travellers are saying
- KarenM1_101,043 contributionsJaw droppingThis is a 10 on the WOW factor. The Cathedral is gorgeous, especially the interior. When you walk in you don’t know where to begin to look since the ceilings, columns and arches are so spectacular. I loved the organ and the stained-glass windows the most. Do not forget to look at the wooden carvings at the ends of the pews to see the intricate carvings. When we visited, the tomb of St. Mungo attracted several visitors along with the other crypts so there was a wait to view but worth the time.Visited July 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 5 October 2023
- Thomas GAmsterdam, The Netherlands1,877 contributionsGreat cathedralThis is one of the most important sights of Glasgow. The church is fantastic both on the inside and on the outside. There are cellars to go to and see the tomb. The best view is when you go up the Necropolis cemetery, which is also interesting to see.Visited August 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 18 October 2023
- Debra S44 contributionsBeautiful cathedralBeautiful cathedral. The self-guided tour with headphones was nice, but it was sometimes hard to find the next stop. If there is a guided tour it may be easier and provide more details. We came late in the afternoon, but we should have allowed more time as the place is very large, especially when you include all the space downstairs.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 23 October 2023
- Bri MOklahoma City, Oklahoma23 contributionsBeautiful - be sure to leave time to explore all around!It was beautiful! Lots of history - lots of places to explore. Be sure to poke your head into all the nooks and crannies. Definitely be sure to leave plenty of time to look around - we arrived a bit too close to closing time and didn't get to explore the lower floor before they closed it up. We explored lots around the grounds and around the cemetery - very lush and green and made for really beautiful pictures. Very peaceful.Visited May 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 29 October 2023
- Kristen TStuttgart, Germany763 contributionsNice visitIt is always nice to visit cathedrals while traveling around Europe and the Glasgow Cathedral was no different. We visited on a rainy day, so the opportunity to explore something out of the rain was a nice treat. There are lots of nooks and crannies to see while inside.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 November 2023
- spc354593 contributionsGlasgow CathedralIt was a pleasant 20 minute leisurely walk that took us past the Buchanan Bus Station and the University of Strathclyde. What impressed me the most were the large number of stained glass windows in the church. They compare very well to the Tiffany's products that I have seen at other places.Visited November 2023Travelled soloWritten 30 November 2023
- northbaychrisNorth Bay, Canada110 contributionsAmazing. Oldest Cathedral in Scotland.The oldest building in all of Glasgow and the oldest Cathedral in all of Scotland. A very impressive and beautiful Cathedral. Very well preserved with even some of the oldest (1197) still can be seen. This is a definite must see when in Glasgow.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 11 December 2023
- london057Dublin, Ohio683 contributionsThis is a Church ⛪️ of Scotland 🏴 CathedralThis is Church of Scotland 🏴 Cathedral. Which is what the Presbyterian church ⛪️ is called in Scotland 🏴. Another thing it is very charming like both ST. Paul’s and Westminster Cathedral down in London. Also it is a very big cathedral too . Lastly, I could visit this church ⛪️ again.Visited August 2023Travelled with familyWritten 25 December 2023
- AzitiZShanghai, China350 contributionsSplendidWorth visiting if in Glasgow on a sightseeing expedition. Very big and impressive structure that has loads of information and even relics on display. 13th century wall remains for example. The Cathedral has quite a lot to explore downstairs in the cloister areas as well. The other thing about visiting this is the Necropolis, which once at the top afford wonderful views of Glasgow and the Cathedral itself. If walking from Buchanan Street area, go along the Clyde River and left turn, then its right at the top of High Street.Visited December 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 December 2023
- Adam BManchester, United Kingdom58 contributionsHistoric building without any facilities.Lovely atmospheric building in stunning location. Unfortunately it has no public toilets which is rather outrageous in 2024, I was told the nearest were at the nearby hospital! Presumably you have disabled, the elderly and those with young children visiting? If the powers that be read this, sort it out!Visited January 2024Travelled soloWritten 4 January 2024
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4.5
3,116 reviews
Excellent
1,765
Very good
1,070
Average
242
Poor
23
Terrible
16
babykong
London, UK1,291 contributions
Aug 2021 • Solo
I didn’t realise that I needed to book to enter the Cathedral (my fault for not checking the website) so after arriving at 10am and discovering this, I went online and booked the earliest available time slot for 4pm that day.
After curtailing my plans for the day to make sure I was back at the Cathedral on time, I arrived to find the doors were locked shut, and there was a crowd of people outside who had also booked tickets and were waiting to be let in.
After knocking on the doors I decided to try ringing Historic Environment Scotland - who you book the tickets with. I rang just after 4pm, nobody picked up so I left a voicemail. After waiting for a few more minutes in the pouring rain, I decided to leave.
Five days later I received a voicemail from Historic Environment Scotland stating that the Cathedral shuts at 4pm, I was late, and therefore I missed my slot.
I have attached a screenshot of my confirmation email, which clearly shows entry time is between 4-5pm. I didn’t call them back to argue my case, as at that point I was in Skye and not returning to Glasgow.
I am extremely disappointed that I didn’t get to visit the Cathedral, and equally disappointed with their response.
After curtailing my plans for the day to make sure I was back at the Cathedral on time, I arrived to find the doors were locked shut, and there was a crowd of people outside who had also booked tickets and were waiting to be let in.
After knocking on the doors I decided to try ringing Historic Environment Scotland - who you book the tickets with. I rang just after 4pm, nobody picked up so I left a voicemail. After waiting for a few more minutes in the pouring rain, I decided to leave.
Five days later I received a voicemail from Historic Environment Scotland stating that the Cathedral shuts at 4pm, I was late, and therefore I missed my slot.
I have attached a screenshot of my confirmation email, which clearly shows entry time is between 4-5pm. I didn’t call them back to argue my case, as at that point I was in Skye and not returning to Glasgow.
I am extremely disappointed that I didn’t get to visit the Cathedral, and equally disappointed with their response.
Written 22 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Darla O
California658 contributions
Jun 2019
This was one of our favorite Cathedrals we visited in Scotland. It was a little difficult to find parking, but it gave us more time to walk through this beautiful city.
It was wonderful to see how beautiful and intricate all the stain glass windows were, such amazing colors coming through the glass. The architecture was just phenomenal, the arches through out...gorgeous!! On the ceiling of the Cathedral were the family crest of the royal families, very interesting. We saw this in castles as well.
After 800 years and this Cathedral is still used to worship, amazing!! I would have loved to hear the organ, the organ and pipes were huge. This is a must see!!
It was wonderful to see how beautiful and intricate all the stain glass windows were, such amazing colors coming through the glass. The architecture was just phenomenal, the arches through out...gorgeous!! On the ceiling of the Cathedral were the family crest of the royal families, very interesting. We saw this in castles as well.
After 800 years and this Cathedral is still used to worship, amazing!! I would have loved to hear the organ, the organ and pipes were huge. This is a must see!!
Written 19 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hania W
Brampton, Canada33 contributions
Sept 2022
My experience in the Cathedral was excellent !! Before beginning my visit, I checked out the souvenir section, then went around the cathedral which was magnificent. When I finished, the gift area was cordonned off...I respect that there are hours but I only wanted a couple of post cards, as willing to pay cash and the self-important, ungracious young girls refused to let me get my postcards. When I spoke to an attendant outside, he enjoyed singing the " so sorry " song. Surely a couple of postcards paid for by cash would not have caused devastating issues
Written 26 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
richardlgeoc
Birmingham, United Kingdom15 contributions
Dec 2019
Experienced a warm , friendly experience at Glasgow Cathedral on Christmas Day.
Wonderful, heavenly and moving music from an exceptionaly talented choir and organist. Edifying and erudite sermon delivered from a very eloquent priest. All denominations invited to share in the Eucharist. The atmosphere of this medieval cathedral is also a moving experience to cherish in silence.
Wonderful, heavenly and moving music from an exceptionaly talented choir and organist. Edifying and erudite sermon delivered from a very eloquent priest. All denominations invited to share in the Eucharist. The atmosphere of this medieval cathedral is also a moving experience to cherish in silence.
Written 3 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joe M
Warrington, UK267 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Here is a building steeped in history. Starting in the 12th century this amazing cathedral is a building you need too see. Inside it has a lot of smaller rooms and a large entrance to what can only be discribed as awe inspiring. The architecture is fascinating and how it was built. This like many buildings is free to visit but donations are welcome.
Written 17 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kvothe74
Horley, UK192 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
Easy booking, great friendly staff and well organised. I always like visiting cathedrals while in a city. It is an imposing building on the landscape and has the large Necropolis behind it which is also worth a visit. Some nice stained glass and interesting plaques to read with a good amount of information. We really enjoyed our visit here. I will agree with others who have given lower scores than 5/5 that is not the grandest or most lavish cathedral I have been to compared to ones I have recently visited like Notre Dame, York Minster , St Paul's etc but all of those are expensive to visit, Glasgow Cathedral is quicker to see everything and free so in my opinion a must visit while in Glasgow. Also has a nice shop that I could buy some presents in for my children which also helps to add to your donation the cathedral. Definitely a must visit if you are in Glasgow, I can't understand why some people are giving low rating for something that is free (optional donation) and so interesting to see and experience.
Written 5 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sherpa248071
Atlanta, GA8 contributions
Feb 2020
Take in the city as you walk to this beautiful historic cathedral. Notice the Glasgow University? This is the rumored inspiration for Hogwarts in the 'Harry Potter' books. The cathedral itself is breathtaking. Someone was playing the organ while we were there, and it was hauntingly beautiful. We were not able to access the adjacent graveyard, because they were filming scenes for the new 'Batman' movie, but this did not detract from the visit. Get there early to see the vault.
Written 17 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lizzie e
4 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
I'm from Glasgow but hadn't been to the Cathedral for years. Remedied that today and really glad I did. The Cathedral itself is beautiful and gives you space to sit and think and breathe.
What really made my trip that wee bit special was, however, chatting to one of the guides, John MacAskill. He was delightful and told me and my friend so many truly fascinating stories. I told him I'd come to light candles for a journalist, Daphne Caruana Galizia, who'd been assassinated in Malta 27 months ago that day. I lived in Malta for 12 years and only came back very recently. Getting justice for the assassinated journalist is something I care about deeply.
Turned out John's brother is a journalist and the guy who broke the Edward Snowden story.
Not only is the Cathedral an amazing place to visit but this particular man made today such a memorable one.
Thank you to Glasgow Cathedral and a special thank you to John MacAskill.
What really made my trip that wee bit special was, however, chatting to one of the guides, John MacAskill. He was delightful and told me and my friend so many truly fascinating stories. I told him I'd come to light candles for a journalist, Daphne Caruana Galizia, who'd been assassinated in Malta 27 months ago that day. I lived in Malta for 12 years and only came back very recently. Getting justice for the assassinated journalist is something I care about deeply.
Turned out John's brother is a journalist and the guy who broke the Edward Snowden story.
Not only is the Cathedral an amazing place to visit but this particular man made today such a memorable one.
Thank you to Glasgow Cathedral and a special thank you to John MacAskill.
Written 16 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gabriel A
Ploiesti, Romania4,917 contributions
May 2019
This Cathedral is maybe the oldest great building of the city, being built by Saint Mungo, who have the tomb in the crypt of the church.
The Cathedral was built in Scottish Gothic style.
There we admired the columns with Gothic arcades, the upper galleries, and the beautiful stained glasses.
I recommend a visit in this place full of peace and history.
The Cathedral was built in Scottish Gothic style.
There we admired the columns with Gothic arcades, the upper galleries, and the beautiful stained glasses.
I recommend a visit in this place full of peace and history.
Written 30 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
geordan
Glasgow, UK21 contributions
Apr 2024 • Friends
Glasgow cathedral: was consecrated in 1197 and remains a sturdy and impressive example of Scottish gothic architecture both inside and out. The Necropolis is Glasgow's gloriously atmospheric cemetery inspired by Père Lachaise in Paris The building commonly known as “Glasgow Cathedral” is not strictly speaking a cathedral in the technical sense of being the seat of a bishop. It belongs to the Church of Scotland which is Presbyterian and therefore has no bishops. Mourning candles: A memorial candle can be a great way to celebrate the life of a lost loved one and bring joy and comfort to family and loved ones by enabling the ritual of remembrance to be perpetuated and a candle lit each day to ease the pain of loss. Candles can also be used by those who do not identify with a religious tradition.James lumden: The younger man (also James Lumsden, 1778-1856) held a number of public offices in Glasgow and was much involved in philanthropic activities; 1838, one of the founders of the Clydesdale Bank; 1843, Lord Provost of Glasgow; his statue stands outside the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow. Bell - Glasgow Cathedral:
This bell was recast in 1790, but is believed to be one of the bells given by Archbishop Dunbar in the 16th century. It used to hang in a now-demolished bell tower close to here outside the Cathedral. The Old Bell has a very peculiar story to tell, too... and it's told on the face of the bell, which was replaced in 1896 after cracking for a third time. Scots guards: A memorial in the nave to Scots Guards who died on active service in Northern Ireland or were killed as a result of terrorist activity in the UK. Scots Guards Memorial. The plaque commemorates those who died in Northern Ireland or due to terrorist activity. The upper plaque states a nearby window was dedicated in 1950 by the Duke of Gloucester to Scots Guards who died on active service in earlier conflicts.
This bell was recast in 1790, but is believed to be one of the bells given by Archbishop Dunbar in the 16th century. It used to hang in a now-demolished bell tower close to here outside the Cathedral. The Old Bell has a very peculiar story to tell, too... and it's told on the face of the bell, which was replaced in 1896 after cracking for a third time. Scots guards: A memorial in the nave to Scots Guards who died on active service in Northern Ireland or were killed as a result of terrorist activity in the UK. Scots Guards Memorial. The plaque commemorates those who died in Northern Ireland or due to terrorist activity. The upper plaque states a nearby window was dedicated in 1950 by the Duke of Gloucester to Scots Guards who died on active service in earlier conflicts.
Written 25 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So, a collar shirt without a sport coat would be okay for men for a Sunday morning service?
Written 27 August 2022
While we did not attend an actual service, we did tour the cathedral and no dress code was in effect for that. I suspect a collared shirt would be appropriate without coat.
Written 28 August 2022
Quanto è il prezzo per visitare la cattedrale?
Written 10 May 2020
Hi
Is parking available at the cathedral?
Written 11 August 2019
Do you need to purchase tickets to enter the cathedral?
Written 17 June 2017
Hi there, although this building is listed as being an attraction to tourists, it is nevertheless still a place of worship. Therefore you may enter and view its architecture and artifacts but remember there may be a service being conducted at the alter end of the Cathedral. So if this is the case pay your visit quietly and respectfully.
Written 17 June 2017
A Tripadvisor member
Northampton, United Kingdom
31 contributions
Hi
Can anyone tell me the timings of service on Mondays? Can't find them on the website or anywhere else. Thanks.
Written 28 August 2015
There is a Sunday morning Service at 11.00 a.m. and Choral Evensong at 4.00 p.m. Visitors are welcome to attend.
During the week it can be visited and Cathedral Guides are very knowledgeable and can guide you around the building free of charge.
Written 21 August 2016
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