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Glasgow City Chambers

Completed in 1888 and overlooking George Square, Glasgow City Chambers is one of the city’s most prestigious buildings.

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm. This grand edifice is a symbol of Glasgow’s historic wealth and has, for more than a century, been the headquarters of successive councils serving the City of Glasgow. Tours of the City Chambers are available and are conducted twice daily at 10.30am and 2.30pm.

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

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Explore the City Chambers with our new digital tour!

Posted October 24th 2023

The City Chambers is one of the most prestigious buildings in Glasgow. It’s a place where famous visitors are welcomed, and where big events such as civic receptions and award ceremonies are held. However, many Glaswegians have never been inside, or are unaware that free public tours take place every day. Our new online learning resource, ‘Our City Chambers’, aimed mainly at primary school aged children, enables them to explore the building in a way that is accessible, engaging and fun, even if they aren’t able to visit in person.   Explore the resource here

It features animations of key rooms within the building, including the Banqueting Hall and Council Chambers. It also shows areas that are not always accessible to the public, such as the Councillors’ Corridor, the Lord Provost’s Office and the Portrait Gallery. It covers the architecture, design and social history of the Chambers, identifying the materials and the traditional skills and techniques employed in its construction and decoration. It also demonstrates how the building is still a functioning workplace for the council, and the role it plays in providing key public services to the people of Glasgow.

We worked closely with the design team at SUUM studio to create this resource. We would like to give our heartfelt thanks to them and to the staff at the City Chambers for their support and insights during the project. Children at St Mungo’s Primary School participated in a series of workshops in the development stages of the project, including a visit to the Chambers. Their perspectives on the building and the city of Glasgow were inspiring and joyful, and were instrumental in shaping the final resource.

A free printed resource to accompany the website has also been produced. It is available to pick up from the City Chambers and from GCHT’s office at 54 Bell Street in the Merchant City. A downloadable PDF will also be added here in due course.

We’d love to see some pictures of you visiting the Chambers – you can show them to us on our Twitter , Instagram or Facebook pages – use the hashtag #ourcitychambers

Glasgow’s Gorgeous City Chambers Boast ‘More Marble Than The Vatican’

Glasgow’s City Chambers are an architectural dream.

The wealth generated by Glasgow between the 18th and 20th centuries dotted the city with amazing architectural builds. And one of the many buildings showcasing the riches earned is none other than the Glasgow City Chambers, opened way back in 1888 by Queen Victoria herself and costing over half a million pounds at the time.

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As it stands, the building is home to the Glasgow City Council. It happens to be one of the most beautiful civic buildings found anywhere in the UK, making it a favourite among tourists and locals who love pointing out Glasgow’s very own Statue of Liberty (in actuality, the Statue of Truth) rising from the central apex of the façade.

However, the abundance of wealth can only truly be appreciated once inside the building.

Right from your very first steps in the building, you will notice the mosaic of the city’s coat of arms. But look around and you’ll notice that mosaics are found throughout the building, on ceilings and domes, with an estimated 1.5 million individual tiles used and laid by hand.

One of two main drawcards for the city chambers is the marble staircase, made entirely from imported Italian Carrara marble. It is the biggest of its kind in Western Europe, meaning it’s one storey taller than the Vatican City staircase. Take that, Rome.

The second drawcard of the city chambers is the Banqueting Hall, where both Nelson Mandela and Sir Alex Ferguson received their Freedom of the City award. But since you won’t see either of them hanging about, look around the room and take in the history and culture of Glasgow as painted by the Glasgow Boys, namely Sir John Lavery, Alexander Roche and George Henry.

Other impressive demonstrations of the wealth and grandeur that Glasgow maintained include the level three ceiling and dome, the council chamber made primarily from Spanish mahogany, and the leaded Venetian windows found throughout. There’s also a gorgeous marble lion on the first floor that, legend has it, gives you good luck if you rub its nose.

Much like The Lighthouse , home to Glasgow’s creative industries and an amazing viewing platform, tours of the Glasgow City Chambers are done on a first-come-first-served basis. However, two tours are run per day, Monday to Friday, with the first at 10:30am and the second at 2:30pm. They last around 45 minutes. Group sizes are capped to about 25 people but group bookings can be organised if you contact the city chambers.

Glasgow City Chambers, 82 George Square, G2 1DU

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80 George Sq, G2 1EH

City Chambers

The City Chambers serve as the headquarters of Glasgow City Council, where important decisions are made and the city's future is shaped. It's also home to a wealth of historical artefacts, including beautifully preserved documents, portraits, and artefacts that offer a fascinating glimpse into Glasgow's past.

Architecture

Step inside this grand Victorian building, and marvel at the intricate stonework, the ornate ceilings, and the exquisite craftsmanship that adorns every corner of this architectural masterpiece. As you explore the halls and chambers, you'll uncover the stories of Glasgow's past, from its rise as an industrial powerhouse to its vibrant cultural evolution.

Visiting the Glasgow City Chambers is an opportunity to witness the city's enduring spirit and to appreciate the beauty of its architectural heritage. Whether you are drawn to its historical significance, its stunning interiors, or simply the desire to immerse yourself in Glasgow's past, a visit to the City Chambers is an experience that will leave you inspired and with a deeper appreciation for the city's remarkable journey through time.

Visit The City Chambers

Book a tour of Glasgow City Chambers with Glasgow City Council below.

Getting There

The City Chambers holds a prestigious position in the heart of Glasgow. Located on George Square, one of the city's most iconic and bustling public spaces. 

It is conveniently served by public transportation, with several bus stops, train stations and subway stations in the vicinity. This makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike, allowing visitors to seamlessly incorporate a visit to the City Chambers into their exploration of Glasgow.

The location of the City Chambers also places it within easy reach of other prominent landmarks and attractions. Just a short stroll away, you'll find the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Buchanan Galleries, ensuring that there is always something to see and do nearby.

Glasgow City Chambers

Glasgow city chambers are one of the most beautiful civic buildings in the uk and a huge favourite amongst locals and tourists alike.

About Glasgow City Chambers

The focal point of George Square is one of the city’s most iconic and imposing buildings, the City Chambers, whose magnificence tells the story of the wealth and industrial prosperity of the Second City of the Empire. There are free guided, public tours of the Chambers on weekdays at 10.30 & 14.30, lasting 45 minutes. No booking is required - just turn up.

Upcoming Events at Glasgow City Chambers

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City Chambers

Top choice in Glasgow

The grand seat of local government was built in the 1880s at the high point of Glasgow's wealth. The interior is even more extravagant than the exterior, and the chambers have sometimes been used as a movie location to represent the Kremlin or the Vatican. You can have a look at the opulent ground floor during opening hours. To see more, free guided tours are held at 10.30am and 2.30pm Monday to Friday; it's worth popping in earlier that day to prebook.

Get In Touch

0141-287 2000

https://​www​.glasgow​.gov​.uk​/

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A Tour of Glasgow City Chambers

One of the best and free things to do in Glasgow is to tour the City Chambers, home to Glasgow Council. The Glasgow City Chambers building is one of the most notable pieces of architecture in the city. It is certainly one of the most photographed buildings, standing proud on George Square. It has been the council’s municipal headquarters for over a century, but the closest most people get to it, is admiring the grand and imposing exterior from George Square.

You would think going inside would be off limits as it is a working council building, however it’s actually one of the easiest things you can  do! Just walk in and ask to join one of the twice daily tours and you’ll be in for a treat!

Table of Contents

Glasgow City Chambers Interior

The interior of Glasgow City Chambers is even more sumptuous than the exterior. The architect had visited Rome and so was preoccupied with bringing a flavour of Italy to Glasgow.

The first thing you notice as you walk through the entrance is the ‘Keramic Mosaic’ of the City’s Coat of Arms on the floor.

The use of mosaic is continued in the entrance hall ceilings and on other floors throughout the building. It is estimated that more than 1.5 million tiles were laid by hand in the vaulted ceilings and domes.

The Hallways & Stairwells

Once you’re inside Glasgow City Chambers and facing the reception desk, everything that lies to the left of the entrance is the ‘Civic’ part of the building and everything to the right is the ‘Working’ part.

It is in the civic part of the building where most of the infamous marble interior exists. There are three levels of stair-casing made from Carrara marble. The Vatican in Rome only has 2 levels, so Glasgow is very proud of its additional floor of marble. Although the whole area looks like it is made from marble, it is actually only the steps themselves. The balustrades and wall panels are made from alabaster.

Needless to say, we don’t use these stairs, but instead move to those in the ‘working’ side of the building which are more suitably made from dark freestone.

Again, most of the interior looks like it’s made from marble, but is of course alabaster and plaster-work. The exception is the one piece of pure white marble on the first floor carved in the shape of a lion. This mimics the lions that stand guard of Glasgow City Chambers in George Square.

It is considered “lucky” to rub the lion’s nose every time you pass by. All council workers do so, as did everyone on the tour as we ascended the stairs.

In the corridor outside the council chamber our guide Claire introduced us to the current Lord Provost Sadie Docherty. She explained the role carried out by her which is similar to those carried out by English mayors.

The Glasgow City Chambers Council Chamber

The Council Chambers are where the council meets formally. The seating is laid out in concentric semi-circles facing a platform where the Lord Provost, Deputy Lord Provost, Chief Executive and Head of Finance sit. Each of the 79 councillors has a designated seat, each with their own individual microphones.

Council Chamber Etiquette

On entering you are invited to take up one of these 79 seats whilst the proceedings are explained. Each councillor has a card which they insert into a panel in front of them when they want to speak. There are two clerks who sit at the front and below the Lord Provost facing the councillors who control when they can speak. The indication of time remaining is controlled by a traffic light system on a pole beside them. Green indicates: talk, Amber : windup and prepare to stop and Red : stop speaking. This allows a councillor to speak for approximately 10 minutes.

The Mace is carried ceremonially ahead of the Lord Provost on entering the chambers for full council meetings. It is commonly thought that the council rise in honour of the Lord Provost, but actually they rise to honour the mace which represents the people of Glasgow.

Features of the Council Chamber

Behind where the councillors sit there is an area known as the “bed recess”. This is a reference to an architectural feature of old Glasgow tenements. It is where further council officials sit, as well as the Lord Dean of Guild who represents the Merchants House and the Deacon Convener of the Trades House. These are the city’s second and third citizens, the Lord Provost being the first. (Details taken from Glasgow City Chambers brochure)

Above this area is the public gallery with 25 seats which we are reliably informed are a darn sight more uncomfortable than the councillors’ chairs.

The dark wood throughout the council chamber is made primarily from Spanish Mahogany. This wood actually came from Cuba, but was brought over to the UK by a Spanish ship therefore gaining the name.

The windows are made from a special Venetian glass that cuts out the noise from George Square completely.

Also of note in the chambers are the 2 impressive chimney pieces and the gold leaf embroideries around the top of the walls. There really is a hotch-potch of materials inside this room, but it all seems to work together.

Before moving on to the next room, we are all offered the opportunity to sit in the Lord Provost’s chair, something I relished to opportunity to do.

Glasgow City Chambers Banqueting Hall

From one impressive room to another, the tour of Glasgow City Chambers continues along the floor to the civic side and into the Banqueting Hall.

Wow, what a magnificent interior! Very regal looking, the colours gold and red dominate.

The banqueting hall has been used for a whole host of civic functions as well as presentation ceremonies, charitable events, youth celebrations and fashion shows. Nelson Mandela received his Freedom of the City award in 1993 here, as did Alex Ferguson in 1999.

Large murals line the walls, painted by the “Glasgow Boys” artists including Sir John Lavery, Alexander Roche and George Henry. The paintings depict scenes of Glasgow’s history and culture, with the four paintings above the entrance doors representing the four principal rivers of Scotland – the Tay, the Forth, the Clyde and the Tweed.

The guide will provide a lot more information on the individual paintings in the room. Unfortunately I was slightly distracted by the beauty of it all, so I only took in small amounts of information. One thing I did glean however is that the carpet, (split into four sections due to its size) mimics the ornate ceiling pattern. No wonder it all seems to gel perfectly.

Third Floor Dome and Ceiling

Unfortunately the tour did not include the third floor at the time I visited. This is where the dome and impressive ceiling that is visible from lower floors can be viewed better. So a wee glimpse from below had to suffice.

Glasgow City Chambers Visitor Information

Once back down on the ground floor and the tour ends, you can leave comments in the visitors book and pick up a free visitor brochure. This offers information on other rooms not included on the tour, a brief history of how the council came to be located here and details on the design and construction of the building. It also provides a brief overview of the council’s purpose.

I can thoroughly recommend adding the tour of Glasgow City Chambers to any Glasgow itinerary.

Tour Times and How to Get Tickets

Public tours are held on weekdays only at 10.30am and 2.30pm. Occasionally a tour will be cancelled if a council meeting is in progress. Unfortunately there is no hard and fast rule as to when this happens, so ring ahead if you need to check a certain day.

There is sadly no pre-booking facility. Tickets can only be obtained from the City Chambers reception up to half an hour before each tour. Tickets are allocated on a first-come-first-serve basis. At busy times, numbers are limited to 25 visitors on any one tour.

Get in Touch…

Have you been inside this magnificent building? If not, have I convinced you it’s worth a look next time you’re in Glasgow? Drop me a line in the comments below and let me know – I’d love to hear from you!

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Further Reading…

Looking for other things to do in Glasgow, then check out my post on the Glasgow Sightseeing Bus Tour  – it’s the perfect way to see the city!

Other Scottish travels – have a look at Kildonan on the Isle of Arran.

Love a city break, then why not check out the UK cities of Liverpool , Cardiff , Derby , Preston or Wakefield during the rhubarb festival. Or head over to the continent to visit Brussels , Paris , Amsterdam in autumn, Hamburg in autumn or Valletta & Mdina in Malta.

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Kim | 17th Feb 23

Visited in May 2019. Canadian girls on holiday. Very impressive. Thankful for this post to remind me why I took the photos I did 😆

Tilly Jaye Horseman | 17th Mar 23

Thank you for your comment Kim. Glad you had a fab holiday to this part of the world! 🙂

Jennifer Wilson | 6th Apr 21

Great info ! I love the City Chambers as I live in Glasgow !

Tilly Jaye Horseman | 7th Apr 21

It’s so great that this remains a free activity too! Such beautiful architecture, and a shame the majority of people who visit Glasgow miss seeing it!

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Glasgow City Chambers – the most beautiful town hall in Scotland

Glasgow has no castle and no palace – but inside the town hall is a magnificent palace of the people. And admission is free.

The location is already majestic. The Glasgow City Chambers dominate George Square in the centre of the city. A huge building with classical columns, reliefs and a tower. The grey façade looks rather cool and gives no hint of the splendour of colour and warmth inside.

Only a few tourists take the time to explore the interior of Glasgow City Hall. Twice a day, City Chambers staff guide visitors through the corridors and rooms of the building. And because it is a people’s house, these tours don’t even cost anything.

Even the entrance area is astonishing. The cold grey of the façade gives way to warm shades of beige and brown. Italian-style arches support canopies with rich mosaic decoration. On the floor, visitors walk over the old city coat of arms – also made up of small stone slabs.

Today, experts estimate that there are around 1.5 million mosaic tiles in the entire building. All laid by hand!

The classic Italian flair is no coincidence: architect William Young was inspired by a trip to Rome. He was particularly fond of the Arch of Constantine. No wonder that the entrance area features a very similar passageway.

Light is not only generated here by the elaborate hanging lamps, it also streams in from outside through the beautifully decorated stained glass.

Visitors can also marvel at the entire lower area without a guided tour. However, the upper floors can only be accessed with an official guide, who also opens the doors and has a lot to tell. The way up is through the staircase.

This is where the heart of the city administration beats. What the mayor is here is called “Lord Provost” in Glasgow. Meetings can only take place if the sceptre that represents the people is also present. It is kept safely in the Lord Provost’s antechamber.

This insignia is made of silver clad in gold. In English, it is the “municipal mace” – a fitting name considering its size.

However, not every tour can see the sceptre – it always depends on whether the people in charge are there and have time. But even without seeing it, there is plenty to see here. The famous Councillors’ Corridor, for example. Its vaulted ceilings are clad in faience, tiles glazed in yellow, white and blue colours. Many councillors pass through here when they go to the meeting room.

And of course this leads to the centrepiece of the City Chambers, the Council Chamber. This is where Glasgow City Council meets.

Modern technology has found its way between the old seats and the wood panelling. The MPs sit in a semi-circle around the Lord Provost’s desk. They don’t have much room, but the atmosphere is marvellous.

There is no room for receptions here, that is what the banqueting hall is for. Celebrities have gathered here – such as Nelson Mandela, who received an award here. The paintings on the wall in the banqueting hall are remarkable. They were created by artists from the Glasgow School, including Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Margaret MacDonald Mackintosh. And another real “highlight” are the lights above – the chandeliers. They were already electrically operated at the time, which was a sensation. They still shine today, even though some of the bulbs have been replaced over time.

The tour finally ends in the gallery on the top floor. The portraits of the city’s many mayors hang here.

The Glasgow City Chambers, which appear cold and imperious from the outside, surprise on the inside with their warm and opulent interior architecture. Being able to explore them on a tour – and for free – is one of the best experiences when visiting Scotland’s largest city.

Knowledge: Glasgow’s many town halls

When John Ure laid the foundation stone for Glasgow’s new town hall in 1883, it marked the end of a long journey. For decades, the representatives of the citizens wandered from one accommodation to another. Firstly from Trongate, where the Tollbooth Steeple still marks the spot where a building with a prison and administrative offices once stood.

Then the courthouse on Glasgow Green.

There were more buildings in between before the city council finally arrived in 1888 where it shines in all its glory today: in George Square in the centre of Glasgow. From here, the Lord Provost and the City Council rule over the 600,000 inhabitants.

Incidentally, the City Chambers are considered eclectic. This means that they are a mix of different architectural styles from different eras. Architect William Young came from the neighbouring town of Paisley and won the commission through a competition. Work on the interior of the building dragged on for a long time and the mayor’s room was still being renovated in 1910.

The opulence of the building was intended to demonstrate the wealth and trading power of the “second city of the Empire”.

The Town Hall is located in George Square, where not only many bus routes meet, but also Glasgow Queen Street railway station. It is therefore easy to get there by public transport or on foot. Travelling by car is not advisable.

Another note: The number of participants on the tours is limited. So don’t turn up too late.

Glasgow City Chambers Infos

What it is Glasgow City Hall

Opening hours Tickets available from 30 minutes before the start of the tour at City Chambers reception

Entry fees free

Postcode for Satnav G2 6LL

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Guide to City Chambers

The building contains many examples of visual and tactile fine art and, whilst no attempt is made to describe this in detail, we hope to rouse readers' interest sufficiently to attract you to one of the  guided tours  of the building.

The building occupies the east side of George Square and is within easy walking distance of bus stops in George Square itself plus Queen Street and Central rail stations.

• How to reach the City Chambers
• The General Layout and Reception  
• The Ground Floor  
• The Second Floor  
• The Third Floor  
• The Marble Staircase

Rooms and Facilities

• The Banqueting Hall
• The Councillors' Corridor
• The Council Chamber
• The Mahogany Room
• The Octagonal Suite
• The Satinwood Suite
• Public Toilets

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City Chambers

Price & Hours

• Facilities 3.5
• Atmosphere 5.0

Accommodating some sort of governing body since the late 1800s, the Victorian-style City Chambers today hosts the Glasgow City Council. You'll find the impressive building on the east side of George Square, and if you take one of the building's free guided tours, you'll view an ornate entrance hall, the debating chamber, banqueting hall and some extravagant staircases, among other features.

Recent visitors expressed awe at the impressive building and its rich architectural details and said it is worth touring. Many of Glasgow's top tours make a stop at the City Chambers.

Open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the City Chambers are free to tour. Free guided tours occur at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. For more information, visit the Glasgow City Council website .

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Can you go inside Glasgow City Chambers?

• May 7, 2023

Table of Contents

Introduction, history of glasgow city chambers, architecture and design of glasgow city chambers, guided tours of glasgow city chambers, events and functions at glasgow city chambers, interesting facts about glasgow city chambers.

Yes, it is possible to go inside Glasgow City Chambers.

The history of Glasgow City Chambers dates back to the late 19th century when the city was experiencing a period of rapid growth and development. The city council decided to build a new municipal building that would reflect the city’s status as a major industrial and commercial center. The building was designed by the renowned architect William Young and construction began in 1882.

The building was completed in 1888 and was officially opened by Queen Victoria. It was built at a cost of £578,232, which was a significant sum of money at the time. The building is constructed of red sandstone and features a stunning clock tower that stands at 220 feet tall. The clock tower is one of the most recognizable features of the building and is a popular tourist attraction.

The interior of Glasgow City Chambers is equally impressive. The building features a grand entrance hall that is adorned with marble columns and a magnificent staircase. The council chamber is located on the first floor and is decorated with ornate plasterwork and stained glass windows. The chamber is still used for council meetings and is open to the public.

One of the most impressive features of Glasgow City Chambers is the Banqueting Hall. The hall is located on the ground floor and is used for official functions and events. The hall is decorated with murals that depict scenes from Glasgow’s history and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Victorian decorative art in the world.

Over the years, Glasgow City Chambers has played an important role in the city’s history. It has been the venue for many important events, including the signing of the Treaty of Union between Scotland and England in 1707. The building has also been used as a location for many films and television shows, including the popular BBC series “Doctor Who.”

Today, Glasgow City Chambers is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its history and architecture. The tours are free and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can also explore the building on their own and take in the stunning architecture and artwork.

In conclusion, Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building that is steeped in history and culture. It is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Glasgow. Whether you are interested in architecture, history, or art, Glasgow City Chambers has something to offer. So, if you are planning a trip to Glasgow, be sure to add this iconic landmark to your itinerary.

Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland. It is the headquarters of Glasgow City Council and is considered one of the most impressive examples of Victorian architecture in the city. The building is a popular tourist attraction, and many people wonder if they can go inside Glasgow City Chambers. In this article, we will explore the architecture and design of Glasgow City Chambers and answer the question of whether or not you can go inside.

The architecture of Glasgow City Chambers is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. The building was designed by Scottish architect William Young and was completed in 1888. The exterior of the building is made of red sandstone and features intricate carvings and sculptures. The most notable feature of the building is the central tower, which stands at 220 feet tall and is topped with a statue of Lady Liberty.

The interior of Glasgow City Chambers is just as impressive as the exterior. The building features a grand entrance hall with a marble staircase and ornate plasterwork. The council chamber is the most impressive room in the building, with a vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows. The room is used for council meetings and is not open to the public.

Despite the grandeur of the building, many people wonder if they can go inside Glasgow City Chambers. The answer is yes, but with some restrictions. The building is open to the public for guided tours, which take place on weekdays at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. The tours last approximately 45 minutes and are free of charge. However, due to the building’s use as the headquarters of Glasgow City Council, access to certain areas of the building is restricted.

During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to see the grand entrance hall, the council chamber, and the banqueting hall. The banqueting hall is another impressive room in the building, with a barrel-vaulted ceiling and a large fireplace. The room is used for official functions and events and is not open to the public.

In addition to the guided tours, Glasgow City Chambers also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These events include concerts, exhibitions, and talks. The building is also available for private hire, with the banqueting hall and council chamber being popular choices for weddings and corporate events.

In conclusion, Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building that is well worth a visit. The architecture and design of the building are impressive, and the guided tours offer a glimpse into the history and workings of Glasgow City Council. While access to certain areas of the building is restricted, the guided tours and events offer plenty of opportunities to experience the grandeur of Glasgow City Chambers. So, if you’re ever in Glasgow, be sure to add Glasgow City Chambers to your list of must-see attractions.

Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland. It is the headquarters of Glasgow City Council and is considered one of the most impressive civic buildings in the United Kingdom. The building was completed in 1888 and has been a symbol of Glasgow’s prosperity and civic pride ever since. Many people wonder if they can go inside Glasgow City Chambers and explore its grandeur. The answer is yes, you can go inside Glasgow City Chambers, and it is well worth a visit.

Guided tours of Glasgow City Chambers are available to the public, and they offer a unique opportunity to explore the building’s history, architecture, and art. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the building’s various rooms and tell you about their significance. The tours are free, and they run several times a day, so there is no need to book in advance.

The tour begins in the building’s grand entrance hall, which is adorned with marble columns, intricate carvings, and a stunning stained-glass window. The guide will explain the history of the building and its importance to the city of Glasgow. From there, you will be taken to the council chamber, where the city’s elected officials meet to make decisions that affect the lives of Glasgow’s citizens. The chamber is a beautiful room with ornate decorations and a large, impressive chandelier.

Next, you will be taken to the banqueting hall, which is used for official receptions and events. The hall is a grand space with a high ceiling, large windows, and beautiful paintings on the walls. The guide will tell you about the history of the hall and the events that have taken place there over the years.

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Lord Provost’s room. The Lord Provost is the ceremonial head of the city of Glasgow, and his or her room is a beautiful space with a large desk, comfortable chairs, and impressive artwork. The guide will tell you about the role of the Lord Provost and the history of the room.

Another interesting room in Glasgow City Chambers is the committee room, where council committees meet to discuss and make decisions on various issues. The room is decorated with beautiful wood paneling and has a large table in the center. The guide will explain the workings of the council and the importance of the committee room.

The tour ends in the building’s basement, where you can see the original Victorian jail cells that were used to hold prisoners. The cells are a stark reminder of the building’s past and the harsh conditions that prisoners had to endure.

In conclusion, if you are interested in history, architecture, or art, a guided tour of Glasgow City Chambers is a must-see. The building is a stunning example of Victorian architecture, and the guided tour provides a fascinating insight into the history and workings of the city of Glasgow. The tours are free, and they run several times a day, so there is no excuse not to visit. Whether you are a local or a visitor to Glasgow, a tour of Glasgow City Chambers is an experience not to be missed.

Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland. It is the headquarters of Glasgow City Council and is considered one of the most impressive civic buildings in the United Kingdom. The building is a popular tourist attraction, and many people wonder if they can go inside Glasgow City Chambers.

The answer is yes, you can go inside Glasgow City Chambers. The building is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore its grand halls and impressive architecture. However, access to certain areas of the building may be restricted, depending on the time of day and the purpose of your visit.

One of the most popular reasons to visit Glasgow City Chambers is to attend an event or function. The building is a popular venue for weddings, conferences, and other special occasions. The grandeur of the building and its stunning architecture make it a perfect setting for any event.

If you are interested in hosting an event at Glasgow City Chambers, you will need to contact the events team to discuss your requirements. The team can provide you with information on the different rooms available for hire, as well as the catering options and other services that are available.

In addition to hosting events, Glasgow City Chambers is also home to a number of important civic functions. The building is the seat of local government in Glasgow, and it is where the city council meets to make important decisions about the city’s future.

If you are interested in learning more about the workings of local government in Glasgow, you may be able to attend a council meeting at Glasgow City Chambers. Meetings are open to the public, and you can find information on the council’s website about when and where they are held.

Another reason to visit Glasgow City Chambers is to take a guided tour of the building. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide you with information about the history and architecture of the building. You will be able to explore the grand halls, see the stunning stained glass windows, and learn about the important role that Glasgow City Chambers has played in the city’s history.

Guided tours of Glasgow City Chambers are available on a regular basis, and you can find information about them on the council’s website. The tours are a great way to learn more about this impressive building and its place in Glasgow’s history.

In conclusion, Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building that is open to the public. Whether you are interested in attending an event, learning more about local government, or simply exploring the building’s grand halls, there is something for everyone at Glasgow City Chambers. So why not plan a visit and discover the beauty and history of this impressive building for yourself?

Glasgow City Chambers is a magnificent building located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland. It is the headquarters of Glasgow City Council and is considered one of the most impressive civic buildings in the United Kingdom. The building is a popular tourist attraction, and many people wonder if they can go inside Glasgow City Chambers. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and share some interesting facts about Glasgow City Chambers.

Firstly, it is important to note that Glasgow City Chambers is open to the public. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and explore its many impressive rooms and features. The tours are free of charge and take place on weekdays at set times throughout the day. It is recommended that visitors book their tour in advance to avoid disappointment, as the tours can be very popular.

One of the most impressive features of Glasgow City Chambers is its grand entrance hall. The hall is adorned with marble columns, intricate carvings, and a stunning stained-glass ceiling. Visitors can also see the magnificent staircase, which is made of Italian marble and features a beautiful wrought-iron balustrade. The entrance hall is a popular spot for photos, and visitors can take their time admiring the intricate details of the architecture.

Another highlight of the Glasgow City Chambers tour is the council chamber. This is where the city council meets to discuss and make decisions about the running of the city. The chamber is a grand room with a high ceiling, ornate decorations, and a large wooden table at its center. Visitors can sit in the public gallery and observe the council in action, although it is important to note that visitors are not allowed to participate in the proceedings.

One of the most interesting facts about Glasgow City Chambers is that it was built in the late 19th century at a cost of over £600,000. This was a huge sum of money at the time, and the building was designed to reflect the wealth and importance of the city. The building was officially opened in 1888 by Queen Victoria, and it has been an important part of Glasgow’s civic life ever since.

Another interesting fact about Glasgow City Chambers is that it was used as a filming location for the popular television series Outlander. The building was transformed into the Palace of Versailles for the show, and many of the grand rooms were used as sets. Visitors on the tour can see some of the areas that were used in the filming and learn more about the history of the building.

In conclusion, Glasgow City Chambers is a stunning building that is open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can explore the grand entrance hall, council chamber, and other impressive rooms, and learn more about the history and significance of the building. The tours are free of charge, but it is recommended that visitors book in advance to avoid disappointment. Glasgow City Chambers is an important part of Glasgow’s civic life and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city.

1. Can you go inside Glasgow City Chambers? Yes, visitors are allowed to go inside Glasgow City Chambers.

2. What are the visiting hours for Glasgow City Chambers? The visiting hours for Glasgow City Chambers are Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

3. Is there an admission fee to enter Glasgow City Chambers? No, there is no admission fee to enter Glasgow City Chambers.

4. Are guided tours available inside Glasgow City Chambers? Yes, guided tours are available inside Glasgow City Chambers.

5. What can visitors see inside Glasgow City Chambers? Visitors can see the grand hall, the council chamber, the banqueting hall, and various other rooms and halls inside Glasgow City Chambers.

Yes, visitors can go inside Glasgow City Chambers for guided tours.

Glasgow City Chambers

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The Glasgow City Chambers in Glasgow have been the seat of municipal government in the city since 1889. Like similar municipal buildings around the UK dating back to this time, it is an impressive structure, meant to impress with the authority that came with massive wealth created by commerce and industry.

However, the exterior, imposing as it is, fails to indicate what you will experience in the interior of the building, which is best described perhaps as opulence.

You could be forgiven for thinking you were inside some kind of palace, and in fact film-makers would agree. The 1983 movie An Englishman Abroad featured scenes shot here that were meant to the interior of the Kremlin, and the 1986 movie Heavenly Pursuits similarly used the interiors to represent the Vatican.

The Glasgow City Chambers was designed by Scottish architect William Young (1843-1900) who won the competition that drew hundreds of entries.

Young had traveled in Rome and Italy and it shows. Entering the Chambers from George Square the visitor enters a long gallery with arches and vaulted ceilings.

The floors are covered in mosaics as are the domes, and it is estimated that in the domes alone 1.5 million tiles were used. The pillars are polished Scottish granite topped with dark green marble.

The gallery leads to a pair of magnificent staircases, the one on the left made out of Carrara marble. The balustrades of both as well as the wall panels are alabaster.

Upstairs are numerous office and chambers, the most impressive being the Banquet Hall where large scale events and ceremonies are held surrounded by murals by Scottish painters.

Other rooms include the Satinwood Suite , finished in Australian satinwood and featuring an alabaster fireplace, the Mahogany Suite , and the Octagonal Suite .

Along with the Library , the Council Chamber , and the Lord Provosts Office , all these rooms have outstanding architectural features and materials including Venetian glass.

The Chambers are free to enter, but twice a day guided tours take you into some of the most impressive rooms that are not normally open to the public, and, of course, supply lots of background information.

The tours are on a first-come-first-served-basis and take pace at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Tours are limited to 25 people and tickets can be had 30 minutes before the tour from the reception desk. There is no charge.

Glasgow City Chambers George Square, Glasgow G2 1DU Tel: 0141 287 2000 Open 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday.

A 3 minute walk from Glasgow Queen Street Station with connections to Edinburgh Waverley , Aberdeen, Dundee, Inverness and Stirling.

Renting a car is another option for getting around Scotland.

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