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Parks #14 in Glasgow

Bellahouston Park

4.4 · 4,521 reviews
Expansive and versatile
Bellahouston Park, 16 Dumbreck Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G41 5BW, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The 1938 Empire Exhibition held here attracted over 12 million visitors during its six-month run.

2

The Palace of Art is the only structure remaining from the 1938 Empire Exhibition.

3

House for an Art Lover was not actually built until 1996, despite being designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1901.

4

The park features a permanent, closed-loop cycle track used for competitive training and recreation.

5

The landscape was transformed by the 1988 Glasgow Garden Festival, which used parts of the park for horticultural displays.

Overview

Bellahouston Park spans 170 acres in Glasgow's south side, originally formed from the estate of the Bellahouston family. The grounds feature the historic Bellahouston House, a Georgian-style mansion, alongside the meticulously maintained Sunken Walled Garden. The site served as the primary location for the 1938 Empire Exhibition, which left behind the iconic Palace of Art. Visitors will find the House for an Art Lover, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, integrated into the park's landscape. The park terrain is notably hilly, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Clyde Valley. It contains extensive woodland, formal flower beds, and a dedicated cycling facility. The park is a major hub for both local recreational sport and large-scale public outdoor events.

Photo spot

The arched entrance and geometric topiary within the Sunken Walled Garden.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy footwear as the park features significant inclines and unpaved woodland paths.

Visit the House for an Art Lover cafe for a view of the garden, but check their event schedule as it is a popular wedding venue.

Utilize the designated cycle circuit if you are a road cyclist, as it is separate from pedestrian pathways.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk through the cycle circuit while competitive events or organized training sessions are in progress.

Etiquette

Keep dogs on a lead in formal garden areas; do not pick flowers in the Walled Garden.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for the rhododendrons in bloom or autumn for the changing colors in the woodland areas.
Address
Bellahouston Park, 16 Dumbreck Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G41 5BW, United Kingdom
55.846, -4.314
Get directions
Details
Botanical FeaturesSunken Walled Garden and mature woodland trails
Architectural HighlightsHouse for an Art Lover and the Palace of Art

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for the rhododendrons in bloom or autumn for the changing colors in the woodland areas..

The arched entrance and geometric topiary within the Sunken Walled Garden.

Close by you'll find Ibrox Stadium, Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.