The Burrell Collection travel guide

The Burrell Collection is one of Glasgow's most treasured cultural institutions, housing an extraordinary array of art and artifacts. The collection was assembled by Sir William Burrell, a wealthy shipping magnate and passionate art collector. In 1944, Burrell and his wife, Constance, generously gifted their extensive collection to the city of Glasgow.

Burrell's eclectic taste is reflected in the collection, which includes everything from medieval tapestries and stained glass to sculptures by Rodin and paintings by Degas.

The Burrell Collection found its permanent home in Pollok Country Park, opening to the public in 1983. The purpose-built museum was designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the visitor experience.

Over the years, the museum has undergone several renovations to preserve its valuable artifacts and improve facilities. The most recent refurbishment, completed in 2021, has transformed the museum into a state-of-the-art facility, ensuring that the Burrell Collection continues to inspire and educate future generations. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, this museum offers an unparalleled journey through history and culture.

The Burrell Collection houses over 9,000 works of art, meticulously curated by Sir William Burrell, a distinguished art collector. What sets it apart is its diverse range of artifacts, spanning from medieval tapestries and stained glass to Chinese ceramics and Islamic art. This eclectic mix offers an unparalleled window into different cultures and eras.

The museum's architecture is another unique aspect, designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding woodland of Pollok Country Park. Large windows flood the galleries with natural light, enhancing the viewing experience and creating a serene atmosphere.

A standout feature is the dedicated space for the works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, including a rare cast of 'The Thinker.' Additionally, the museum's conservation facilities are world-class, allowing visitors to observe the meticulous processes involved in preserving these invaluable pieces.

Interactive displays and digital installations bring the collection to life, catering to modern audiences and making the art accessible to all ages. This blend of historical artifacts with contemporary technology ensures that The Burrell Collection remains a dynamic and engaging destination.

The Burrell Collection boasts over 9,000 works of art, ranging from ancient civilizations to modern European pieces, all meticulously curated by Sir William Burrell. Among its treasures is a rare set of Chinese porcelain from the Ming Dynasty, renowned for its intricate designs. The museum also houses one of the largest assortments of medieval stained glass in the world, with some pieces dating back to the 12th century. The building's design is a marvel too, blending modern architecture with the surrounding woodland in Pollok Country Park. Interestingly, the collection includes a 5,000-year-old Sumerian ziggurat model, offering a glimpse into ancient Mesopotamian civilization. Additionally, the museum's unique open storage display allows visitors to view a greater number of artifacts than traditional exhibits.

Located in the dynamic Glasgow City, the popular The Burrell Collection is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Glasgow or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Scotland.

Glasgow is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Glasgow offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Glasgow and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable George Square, Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Glasgow Green, and Pollok Country Park.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Glasgow has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Glasgow, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Scotland!

The best time to explore The Burrell Collection in Glasgow, Scotland, is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, enhancing the overall experience of visiting the museum and its surrounding Pollok Country Park. You'll also find that the crowd levels are generally lower compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate exploration of the extensive collection.

Summer, from July to August, is also a good time to visit, particularly if you enjoy a more vibrant atmosphere and don't mind larger crowds. The extended daylight hours and warmer weather make it convenient for combining a visit to the museum with outdoor activities in the park. Special events and temporary exhibitions often take place during the summer, adding an extra layer of interest to your visit.

To avoid the busiest times, consider planning your trip for weekdays rather than weekends. This will offer a more tranquil environment to appreciate the art, artifacts, and historical items on display. Overall, the best time to explore The Burrell Collection is when the weather is favorable, and crowd levels are manageable, ensuring you have a memorable and enriching experience.

The Burrell Collection is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Glasgow, Scotland. If you're flying in, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 37.2 miles (59.8 km) away from Glasgow. From there, you can easily reach The Burrell Collection by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Glasgow, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach The Burrell Collection, which is located 3.1 miles (5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to The Burrell Collection, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT, UK, Scotland.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Burrell Collection!

Conveniently explore The Burrell Collection and plenty more captivating attractions in Glasgow by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to The Burrell Collection and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Glasgow has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting The Burrell Collection below.

Aside from The Burrell Collection, Glasgow is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Glasgow, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely George Square, Kelvingrove Park, and Glasgow Botanic Gardens.

George Square is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Glasgow, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of George Square is Glasgow G2 1DH, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Glasgow is Kelvingrove Park. Like George Square, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 13,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Park Terrace, Glasgow G3 6BY, UK.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Glasgow. This park and top attraction in Glasgow has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 730 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Glasgow below.