The People's Palace and Winter Gardens in Glasgow, Scotland, is a museum and glasshouse situated in Glasgow Green, and was opened on 22 January 1898 by The 5th Earl of Rosebery.
The idea of "palaces for the people" drew on the writings of John Ruskin, William Morris and Annie Besant and the Glasgow People's Palace took inspiration from its counterpart on Mile End Road in the East End of London. At the time, the East End of Glasgow was one of the most unhealthy and overcrowded parts of the city, and the People's Palace was intended to provide a cultural centre for the people. It was designed by the City Engineer, Alexander B. McDonald, and decorated with sculptures representing Art, Science, Shipbuilding, Industry and Progress by William Kellock Brown. At the opening ceremony, Lord Rosebery described it as: "A palace of pleasure and imagination around which the people may place their affections and which may give them a home on which their memory may rest". He declared the building "Open to the people for ever and ever".
This place is good. It's dug friendly. There is free parking. The staff were friendly and the food was good. The area is a bit rough round the edges, but that does not bother me. Good solid place for a tasty meal. Although not doing anything ground breaking-ly new it is certainly worth a look.
Banner HamptonJan 30, 2018
People Palace one best museums in Glasgow. learn the history of the city great local culture to bee seen in museum. also a cafe and winter gardens and tourist gift shop. The Glasgow bus tour stops at side of the main building. the museum is free entry check with main website opening hours.
Tommy ButlerJan 16, 2018
The garden space is very beautiful and the café is decent, they make their sandwiches fresh and serve with a good side salad. The exhibits in the museum were interesting but also pretty tired, they could really do with refreshing but it looked like this was a work in progress already in some areas.
James HallFeb 17, 2018
Kind of a small museum but with great history behind it. Same some time to visit it as there as lots of interesting things there. The coffee is great in a comfortable and quiet garden indoors and you can still enjoy a green area around the museum. I wouldn't say it is a must-see, but it is worth the visit.
Tobias SirianniDec 12, 2017
A really nice place for a break if you are passing through. Not very quiet as it does get busy, but a nice place to keep warm and enjoy some plants.
Paul CounsellFeb 21, 2018
Interesting space. The museum has some interesting information on the history of Glasgow - the newer displays are quite good, there are some older ones too which are not too great. The indoor garden is beautiful! No lockers/cloakroom though - was quite uncomfortable carrying my large bag around.
Inge Kalle-den OudstenMar 5, 2018
Interesting museum of the people of Glasgow, a crowded city with much poverty. Amazing glasshouse on one side filled with plants. Cafe.
Adrian PriceMar 28, 2018
Fascinating history of Glasgow. Truly is the People's Palace! Iconic images and moving stories of ordinary lives of Glasgwegians
Walter PattersonMar 31, 2018
This is a very good museum about the people of Glasgow, and the struggles of the poor. I really like this museum. There is a beautiful winter garden out back with palm trees and lots of lovely plants. There is a cage, but you can also bring your own lunch as there are sitting areas and tables for all. Very friendly place. Clean restrooms, a little cafe too. We did not eat here but the cage looks nice, basic coffee and sandwiches. There is an elevator and I saw a few people in wheelchairs and walkers, so it's very accessible for all I believe. Also, this is the warmest place we have been while here in Glasgow during a cold spell. The winter garden is so very lovely. The gentleman at the door is so kind, pointed out the old carpet factory across the street which has a German brewery where you can get a pint and some food. He was so welcoming and nice to talk to. Glasgow folks are so kind.
Corey PoppApr 30, 2018
Has been on my to do list a while and today was the day. Not disappointed. Lovely building, great exhibition. Really great to show the kids the ' single end' among other things from days gone by. Loved the history of the palace itself donated to the people of Glasgow ' for ever and ever'. Guy at the door was so welcoming as was the guy in the shop. Great personalities. Can't say much about the cafe. It's a great setting but definitely poorly organised. Small queue yet took an age to serve each customer. Did feel a time and motion study could fix that Almost gave up but could see the soup looked lovely - and it was. Would've liked a kids portion size of soup for young kids but not available. Shame. I will return to the palace as lots of bits n pieces of interest still to read. On a sunny day there is a fabulous play park near the entrance that would be a great stop for the kids. Please leave a like.
Kyle lynchApr 10, 2018
Great place to visit. The kids can explore while you have a seat and a cup of tea. The museum upstairs is worth looking at. The tropical gardens are great.
John DougallMay 4, 2018
Very interesting and thouģtful place. Only downside for me was seeing the beautiful oil painting behind a glass frame. Why not take it from behind the glass and put a roped public barrier there instead? Fabulous painting of the fair on Glasgow Green!
Anne Marie DevlinMay 1, 2018
Excellent exhibition to get a real feel for what Glasgow was like to live in 1800s up until now. Lovely big greenhouse at the back with a lovely cafe to 'chew the fat'. Great for kids
Stuart MorrishApr 22, 2018
Great museum detailing the history of Glasgow and it's people - and like all of our museums, it's free! (Other cities could learn from that...) The winter gardens are also a lovely place to have a quick wander round. The viewing gallery with view of the green and the city is definitely worth a look too.
David LockhartMay 12, 2018
This is another MUST to visit. The staff is friendly and it is an awesome place to learn about the history and culture of the area! (Awesome little coffee shop and bakery there as well!)
Brittany OwensJun 12, 2018
Exhibitions not particularly interesting but nice little conservatory and excellent cafe. Good value food and friendly Glesga staff. Toilets pretty and very clean though single dryer inadequate.
KokotxasJun 9, 2018
The People's Palace in Glasgow Green is a museum exploring and celebrating people's lives throughout the City's long history. Set in a quirky building over 3 levels and with a herbaceous Winter Garden as an annex and also boasts an interesting fountain it gives a memorable sojourn through Glasgow life. It also has a cafe and gift shop and for the more energetic you can take a short walk through the park down to the river
Alan WallaceJul 20, 2018
The site was being prepared for a pop concert, so we didn't get the full advantage of the area. The greenhouse of plants was fascinating, but we weren't as impressed with the history of Glasgow exhibition. It seemed to lack a timeline of the history as the displays were a bit random.
Gareth MorganJul 1, 2018
It's situated at a pretty convenient location, so I think there's no reason not to pop by and take a look. You get to see the history of Glasgow and its struggles and resurgence. You also get to see how Glasgow developed alongside the river Clyde.
Fabian TanJul 5, 2018
Great experience for all the family the excitement builds as you approach the wonderful fountain at the entrance, it's free which is brilliant for all, the glass house gardens and cafe are warm and welcoming with exploring the jungle for the young and peaceful relaxing seating beneath the verdant green canopy for the more mature.... The museum upstairs is full of historical Glaswegian delights..... Every one should pop in and say hello and if your of a mind drop a donation in the box as a thank you
Ian GatensAug 10, 2018
I have been there a number of times and thoroughly enjoyed my visits each time. My Grandfather used to go there on a regular basis in his later years and find peace and good karma in his last years. My father's side of the family were from the Gorbals, and I lived there briefly when I was a small boy. Fab place to visit even now.
Andrew GreenAug 2, 2018
I love visiting the people's palace. A great way to look back at the history of Glasgow. I've been loads of times and still finding really interesting stuff all the time. Looking forward to my next visit.🆒
Steven ArchibaldJul 24, 2018
This place is good. It's dug friendly. There is free parking. The staff were friendly and the food was good. The area is a bit rough round the edges, but that does not bother me. Good solid place for a tasty meal. Although not doing anything ground breaking-ly new it is certainly worth a look.
Banner HamptonJan 30, 2018
People Palace one best museums in Glasgow. learn the history of the city great local culture to bee seen in museum. also a cafe and winter gardens and tourist gift shop. The Glasgow bus tour stops at side of the main building. the museum is free entry check with main website opening hours.
Tommy ButlerJan 16, 2018
The garden space is very beautiful and the café is decent, they make their sandwiches fresh and serve with a good side salad. The exhibits in the museum were interesting but also pretty tired, they could really do with refreshing but it looked like this was a work in progress already in some areas.
James HallFeb 17, 2018
Kind of a small museum but with great history behind it. Same some time to visit it as there as lots of interesting things there. The coffee is great in a comfortable and quiet garden indoors and you can still enjoy a green area around the museum. I wouldn't say it is a must-see, but it is worth the visit.
Tobias SirianniDec 12, 2017
A really nice place for a break if you are passing through. Not very quiet as it does get busy, but a nice place to keep warm and enjoy some plants.
Paul CounsellFeb 21, 2018
Interesting space. The museum has some interesting information on the history of Glasgow - the newer displays are quite good, there are some older ones too which are not too great. The indoor garden is beautiful! No lockers/cloakroom though - was quite uncomfortable carrying my large bag around.
Inge Kalle-den OudstenMar 5, 2018
Interesting museum of the people of Glasgow, a crowded city with much poverty. Amazing glasshouse on one side filled with plants. Cafe.
Adrian PriceMar 28, 2018
Fascinating history of Glasgow. Truly is the People's Palace! Iconic images and moving stories of ordinary lives of Glasgwegians
Walter PattersonMar 31, 2018
This is a very good museum about the people of Glasgow, and the struggles of the poor. I really like this museum. There is a beautiful winter garden out back with palm trees and lots of lovely plants. There is a cage, but you can also bring your own lunch as there are sitting areas and tables for all. Very friendly place. Clean restrooms, a little cafe too. We did not eat here but the cage looks nice, basic coffee and sandwiches. There is an elevator and I saw a few people in wheelchairs and walkers, so it's very accessible for all I believe. Also, this is the warmest place we have been while here in Glasgow during a cold spell. The winter garden is so very lovely. The gentleman at the door is so kind, pointed out the old carpet factory across the street which has a German brewery where you can get a pint and some food. He was so welcoming and nice to talk to. Glasgow folks are so kind.
Corey PoppApr 30, 2018
Has been on my to do list a while and today was the day. Not disappointed. Lovely building, great exhibition. Really great to show the kids the ' single end' among other things from days gone by. Loved the history of the palace itself donated to the people of Glasgow ' for ever and ever'. Guy at the door was so welcoming as was the guy in the shop. Great personalities. Can't say much about the cafe. It's a great setting but definitely poorly organised. Small queue yet took an age to serve each customer. Did feel a time and motion study could fix that Almost gave up but could see the soup looked lovely - and it was. Would've liked a kids portion size of soup for young kids but not available. Shame. I will return to the palace as lots of bits n pieces of interest still to read. On a sunny day there is a fabulous play park near the entrance that would be a great stop for the kids. Please leave a like.
Kyle lynchApr 10, 2018
Great place to visit. The kids can explore while you have a seat and a cup of tea. The museum upstairs is worth looking at. The tropical gardens are great.
John DougallMay 4, 2018
Very interesting and thouģtful place. Only downside for me was seeing the beautiful oil painting behind a glass frame. Why not take it from behind the glass and put a roped public barrier there instead? Fabulous painting of the fair on Glasgow Green!
Anne Marie DevlinMay 1, 2018
Excellent exhibition to get a real feel for what Glasgow was like to live in 1800s up until now. Lovely big greenhouse at the back with a lovely cafe to 'chew the fat'. Great for kids
Stuart MorrishApr 22, 2018
Great museum detailing the history of Glasgow and it's people - and like all of our museums, it's free! (Other cities could learn from that...) The winter gardens are also a lovely place to have a quick wander round. The viewing gallery with view of the green and the city is definitely worth a look too.
David LockhartMay 12, 2018
This is another MUST to visit. The staff is friendly and it is an awesome place to learn about the history and culture of the area! (Awesome little coffee shop and bakery there as well!)
Brittany OwensJun 12, 2018
Exhibitions not particularly interesting but nice little conservatory and excellent cafe. Good value food and friendly Glesga staff. Toilets pretty and very clean though single dryer inadequate.
KokotxasJun 9, 2018
The People's Palace in Glasgow Green is a museum exploring and celebrating people's lives throughout the City's long history. Set in a quirky building over 3 levels and with a herbaceous Winter Garden as an annex and also boasts an interesting fountain it gives a memorable sojourn through Glasgow life. It also has a cafe and gift shop and for the more energetic you can take a short walk through the park down to the river
Alan WallaceJul 20, 2018
The site was being prepared for a pop concert, so we didn't get the full advantage of the area. The greenhouse of plants was fascinating, but we weren't as impressed with the history of Glasgow exhibition. It seemed to lack a timeline of the history as the displays were a bit random.
Gareth MorganJul 1, 2018
It's situated at a pretty convenient location, so I think there's no reason not to pop by and take a look. You get to see the history of Glasgow and its struggles and resurgence. You also get to see how Glasgow developed alongside the river Clyde.
Fabian TanJul 5, 2018
Great experience for all the family the excitement builds as you approach the wonderful fountain at the entrance, it's free which is brilliant for all, the glass house gardens and cafe are warm and welcoming with exploring the jungle for the young and peaceful relaxing seating beneath the verdant green canopy for the more mature.... The museum upstairs is full of historical Glaswegian delights..... Every one should pop in and say hello and if your of a mind drop a donation in the box as a thank you
Ian GatensAug 10, 2018
I have been there a number of times and thoroughly enjoyed my visits each time. My Grandfather used to go there on a regular basis in his later years and find peace and good karma in his last years. My father's side of the family were from the Gorbals, and I lived there briefly when I was a small boy. Fab place to visit even now.
Andrew GreenAug 2, 2018
I love visiting the people's palace. A great way to look back at the history of Glasgow. I've been loads of times and still finding really interesting stuff all the time. Looking forward to my next visit.🆒
Steven ArchibaldJul 24, 2018
This place is good. It's dug friendly. There is free parking. The staff were friendly and the food was good. The area is a bit rough round the edges, but that does not bother me. Good solid place for a tasty meal. Although not doing anything ground breaking-ly new it is certainly worth a look.
Banner HamptonJan 30, 2018
People Palace one best museums in Glasgow. learn the history of the city great local culture to bee seen in museum. also a cafe and winter gardens and tourist gift shop. The Glasgow bus tour stops at side of the main building. the museum is free entry check with main website opening hours.
Tommy ButlerJan 16, 2018
The garden space is very beautiful and the café is decent, they make their sandwiches fresh and serve with a good side salad. The exhibits in the museum were interesting but also pretty tired, they could really do with refreshing but it looked like this was a work in progress already in some areas.
James HallFeb 17, 2018
Kind of a small museum but with great history behind it. Same some time to visit it as there as lots of interesting things there. The coffee is great in a comfortable and quiet garden indoors and you can still enjoy a green area around the museum. I wouldn't say it is a must-see, but it is worth the visit.
Tobias SirianniDec 12, 2017
A really nice place for a break if you are passing through. Not very quiet as it does get busy, but a nice place to keep warm and enjoy some plants.
Paul CounsellFeb 21, 2018
Interesting space. The museum has some interesting information on the history of Glasgow - the newer displays are quite good, there are some older ones too which are not too great. The indoor garden is beautiful! No lockers/cloakroom though - was quite uncomfortable carrying my large bag around.
Inge Kalle-den OudstenMar 5, 2018
Interesting museum of the people of Glasgow, a crowded city with much poverty. Amazing glasshouse on one side filled with plants. Cafe.
Adrian PriceMar 28, 2018
Fascinating history of Glasgow. Truly is the People's Palace! Iconic images and moving stories of ordinary lives of Glasgwegians
Walter PattersonMar 31, 2018
This is a very good museum about the people of Glasgow, and the struggles of the poor. I really like this museum. There is a beautiful winter garden out back with palm trees and lots of lovely plants. There is a cage, but you can also bring your own lunch as there are sitting areas and tables for all. Very friendly place. Clean restrooms, a little cafe too. We did not eat here but the cage looks nice, basic coffee and sandwiches. There is an elevator and I saw a few people in wheelchairs and walkers, so it's very accessible for all I believe. Also, this is the warmest place we have been while here in Glasgow during a cold spell. The winter garden is so very lovely. The gentleman at the door is so kind, pointed out the old carpet factory across the street which has a German brewery where you can get a pint and some food. He was so welcoming and nice to talk to. Glasgow folks are so kind.
Corey PoppApr 30, 2018
Has been on my to do list a while and today was the day. Not disappointed. Lovely building, great exhibition. Really great to show the kids the ' single end' among other things from days gone by. Loved the history of the palace itself donated to the people of Glasgow ' for ever and ever'. Guy at the door was so welcoming as was the guy in the shop. Great personalities. Can't say much about the cafe. It's a great setting but definitely poorly organised. Small queue yet took an age to serve each customer. Did feel a time and motion study could fix that Almost gave up but could see the soup looked lovely - and it was. Would've liked a kids portion size of soup for young kids but not available. Shame. I will return to the palace as lots of bits n pieces of interest still to read. On a sunny day there is a fabulous play park near the entrance that would be a great stop for the kids. Please leave a like.
Kyle lynchApr 10, 2018
Great place to visit. The kids can explore while you have a seat and a cup of tea. The museum upstairs is worth looking at. The tropical gardens are great.
John DougallMay 4, 2018
Very interesting and thouģtful place. Only downside for me was seeing the beautiful oil painting behind a glass frame. Why not take it from behind the glass and put a roped public barrier there instead? Fabulous painting of the fair on Glasgow Green!
Anne Marie DevlinMay 1, 2018
Excellent exhibition to get a real feel for what Glasgow was like to live in 1800s up until now. Lovely big greenhouse at the back with a lovely cafe to 'chew the fat'. Great for kids
Stuart MorrishApr 22, 2018
Great museum detailing the history of Glasgow and it's people - and like all of our museums, it's free! (Other cities could learn from that...) The winter gardens are also a lovely place to have a quick wander round. The viewing gallery with view of the green and the city is definitely worth a look too.
David LockhartMay 12, 2018
This is another MUST to visit. The staff is friendly and it is an awesome place to learn about the history and culture of the area! (Awesome little coffee shop and bakery there as well!)
Brittany OwensJun 12, 2018
Exhibitions not particularly interesting but nice little conservatory and excellent cafe. Good value food and friendly Glesga staff. Toilets pretty and very clean though single dryer inadequate.
KokotxasJun 9, 2018
The People's Palace in Glasgow Green is a museum exploring and celebrating people's lives throughout the City's long history. Set in a quirky building over 3 levels and with a herbaceous Winter Garden as an annex and also boasts an interesting fountain it gives a memorable sojourn through Glasgow life. It also has a cafe and gift shop and for the more energetic you can take a short walk through the park down to the river
Alan WallaceJul 20, 2018
The site was being prepared for a pop concert, so we didn't get the full advantage of the area. The greenhouse of plants was fascinating, but we weren't as impressed with the history of Glasgow exhibition. It seemed to lack a timeline of the history as the displays were a bit random.
Gareth MorganJul 1, 2018
It's situated at a pretty convenient location, so I think there's no reason not to pop by and take a look. You get to see the history of Glasgow and its struggles and resurgence. You also get to see how Glasgow developed alongside the river Clyde.
Fabian TanJul 5, 2018
Great experience for all the family the excitement builds as you approach the wonderful fountain at the entrance, it's free which is brilliant for all, the glass house gardens and cafe are warm and welcoming with exploring the jungle for the young and peaceful relaxing seating beneath the verdant green canopy for the more mature.... The museum upstairs is full of historical Glaswegian delights..... Every one should pop in and say hello and if your of a mind drop a donation in the box as a thank you
Ian GatensAug 10, 2018
I have been there a number of times and thoroughly enjoyed my visits each time. My Grandfather used to go there on a regular basis in his later years and find peace and good karma in his last years. My father's side of the family were from the Gorbals, and I lived there briefly when I was a small boy. Fab place to visit even now.
Andrew GreenAug 2, 2018
I love visiting the people's palace. A great way to look back at the history of Glasgow. I've been loads of times and still finding really interesting stuff all the time. Looking forward to my next visit.🆒
Steven ArchibaldJul 24, 2018
Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Friday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Sunday | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |