Glasgow: Cinema, Theatre and Art
Our pick of Glasgow's cultural venues, from cinemas to galleries overrun by mini-moshers...
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Glasgow Film Theatre
12 Rose St 01417787773
The GFT, as most know it, has been part of Glasgow’s cultural scene since 1939. The building itself is famous for its art deco design and having a fair bit more charm than your average cinema. The two screens show a range of international releases, rare and late night screenings, as well as acting as the hub of the Glasgow Film Festival every spring.
Grosvenor Cinema
Ashton Ln 01413398444
While it may have lost some of its alternative charm, the regular classic movie marathons and the generally solid programming give it a strong appeal. The quaint Ashton Lane backdrop doesn’t hurt either, and makes grabbing a pre-film bite or pint an enjoyably cobbled affair.
Tron Theatre
63 Trongate 01415524267
The Tron Theatre stands out in its city centre location, and the theatre it hosts stands out too. Additionally, it plays host to many of the city's arts festivals such as Glasgay!, Celtic Connections and the Merchant City Festival. As well as all that, the 16th century building also hosts exhibitions in the Long Gallery and boasts a swanky theatre bar.
Theatre Royal
282 Hope St 08448717627
The oldest theatre in Glasgow, the Theatre Royal screams tradition. A grand auditorium with plush seating and an ornate ceiling is just the place for Scotland's resident companies – Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet. If those don’t appeal, then the occasional appearances by big-name comedians might see you take a visit.
Tramway
25 Albert Dr 01412760950
Few venues are more rooted in Glaswegian history than Tramway, having operated as a tram depot, a transport museum, and now as a performance and exhibition space. Tramway 1 hosts performance-based events including theatre, contemporary dance, gigs and much more, while Tramway 2 is the primary gallery space.
GOMA
Royal Exchange Sq 01412873050
Glasgow's Gallery of Modern Art houses a collection of contemporary Scottish art as well as an extensive library and a programme of exhibitions featuring big hitters from the international art world. Centrally located, it has traditionally been a haven for emo kids on a Saturday afternoon so if you haven’t grown out of it yet, fire away.
Common Guild
21 Woodlands Tce 0141 428 3022
Housed in a beautiful Victorian building, the Common Guild holds exhibitions as well as stocking a range of art books, catalogues, publications and periodicals. As well as running gallery-based exhibitions, The Common Guild is responsible for the direction of 2013's Scotland pavilion at the Venice Biennale.
Transmission Gallery
28 King St 01415527141
Founded in 1983 by GSA graduates, Transmission Gallery continues to fulfil its original mandate to offer exhibition space and opportunities for young artists. Transmission encourages interaction between its members to create an inspirational atmosphere. The gallery also hosts film screenings and an annual exhibition of members' work.
Centre for Contemporary Arts
350 Sauchiehall St 01413524900
A multi-functioning arts venue, CCA plays host to a dynamic programme of contemporary film, music, performance, and the odd painting as well. It houses the bookshop Aye Aye Books, studio and gallery space for collaborative workshops, and the Saramago cafe bar with its delicious tapas, quality beers and outdoor terrace.
The Lighthouse
11 Mitchell Ln 01412765360
The Lighthouse is the perfect place to start learning about Glasgow’s most famous architectural son, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Visit the Mackintosh Interpretation Centre on the third floor to learn about the man and the sights to see around town, and check out the architecture and design exhibitions in the rest of the building.