The 9 Best History Museums in Glasgow, Scotland

The Trust owns Bridgeton Bus Garage. This was built for Glasgow Corporation Transport opening as a bus garage in 1965. It was closed by Greater Glasgow PTE in 1976 and was later used as a local authority internal transport depot. Whilst 1960s architecture is usually functional rather than decorative, the building deserves to be retained as a fine example of the building style of that period. The garage is now well established as a heritage centre for buses and commercial vehicles. There are over 100 buses, coaches, commercial vehicles and fire appliances in the collection. Vehicles are usually owned by individuals or small groups and range from hulks rescued from scrap yards and awaiting restoration to fully restored and active examples. The garage is open to the public on various dates in the year but at the moment this is not possible due to the Coronavirus restrictions. Our open days will return as soon as it is safe for us to do so.

Welcome to the historic Maryhill Burgh Halls, a space for community events, local heritage, businesses, and a good cup of coffee. We strive to make culture and heritage accessible for all and are run on volunteers and donations. We host guided tours, family activities, and much more. Discover Maryhill with us! We also let out spaces for events, and are proud to have hosted weddings, birthday parties, concerts, and more at the Halls.

** Currently closed due to Covid 19 crisis ** The Tenement House is a National Trust for Scotland property in Glasgow's City Centre. With 1892 original features it provides a rare glimpse into life in Glasgow in the early 20th century. The house, lived in by Miss Agnes Toward for over half a century is a unique opportunity to experience collections in their unchanged environment. See what it meant to be an 'independent woman' in the first half of the 20th century; experience how ordinary folk lived, and appreciate how many of the household amenities we now take for granted were considered luxuries less than a century ago. Authentic gas lighting has been installed to recreate the atmosphere of the house, which didn't have electric lighting until 1960. An exhibition on the ground floor makes the most of Miss Toward's extensive personal archive, providing a valuable time capsule for visitors today. Toilet facilities and a gift shop are available on the exhibition floor.

The People's Palace and Winter Gardens, set in historic Glasgow Green, the oldest public space in the city, tells the story of Glasgow and its people from 1750 to the end of the 20th century. Adjacent to the People's Palace is the extravagant and recently restored Doulton Fountain, unveiled in 1888 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee.

A visit to Glenlee takes you back in time to experience what life was like on the high seas. Visit the galley, ring the bell, and explore the depths of the ship. Where did she sail? What cargo was transported around the globe? What was it like to command a ship in mid-ocean? Experience a fun and exciting day out, and discover what life was really like aboard a tall ship. Restored to her former glory, Glenlee is one of only five Clydebuilt steel sailing ship still afloat, and the only example in the UK. The Tall Ship Glenlee is an independent museum, dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of Glenlee and the maritime history of the area for the benefit of the local community and visitors to Glasgow. Be sure to visit our souvenir shop, and enjoy a tasty lunch in our newly refurbished cafe. Booking is not required. In line with current restrictions, we have a one-way system in place. Certain areas of the ship are closed temporarily. Masks are required in all indoor areas.

As restrictions continue to ease, we are reopening our venues in phases and look forward to welcoming you back safely! Admission remains free and by pre-booked timed ticket but we have made some changes to our opening hours. The Hunterian Museum will reopen at weekends from Saturday 1 May 2021. The Hunterian Art Gallery and Mackintosh House remain closed for now. We will provide an update on our reopening plans as soon as possible. Hunterian Museum Sat 1 and Sun 2 May, open 11am–5pm Fri 7, Sat 8 and Sun 9 May, open 11am–5pm Fri 14, Sat 15 and Sun 16 May, open 11am–5pm Fri 21, Sat 22 and Sun 23 May, open 11am–5pm Fri 28, Sat 29 and Sun 30 May, open 11am–5pm Fri 4, Sat 5 and Sun 6 June, open 11am–5pm Admission free. Timed tickets are required for entry.

See more than 2500 exhibits in 14 galleries, walk amongst Scotland’s footballing legends in the Hall Of Fame and take the Stadium tour…. It’s who we are. The Hampden Experience will reveal the sights, sounds, and stories of the world's favourite game, in the country that took football to the world. Spend a day enjoying Scotland's football heritage, remembering the legends that inspire the champions of today. On the Stadium Tour you will see the Stadium as the players do on Matchday - visit the underground roadway, team changing rooms and have the speed of your shot electronically measured in the players warm up area. Walk down the tunnel, hear the famous Hampden Roar and then follow the footsteps of legends by climbing the stairs to the Cup Presentation Area. You can also relax in the Museum cafe and purchase gifts and souvenirs from the Hampden shop.

Scotland Street School Museum, a working school until the late 1970s, hosts regular fun family events. It offers a fascinating insight as to what school days were like in the reign of Queen Victoria, during World War II, and in the 1950s and 60s, in three reconstructed classrooms. Architecturally significant, the school was designed by Scotland's most famous architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. His designs for the school are on display. Refreshments can be taken in the Willow Cafe.