Tuesday February 24th 2026
Inside the Glasgow City Chambers
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Sarah Hilley
Visitors are to be charged to tour and experience one of the city’s most iconic buildings; Glasgow City Council’s A-listed chambers.
Currently the opulent landmark, which has been compared to Hogwarts, can be toured for free.
Boasting Western Europe’s largest marble staircase, ceilings decorated with 1.5 million mosaic tiles and grand granite pillars, the property has emerged as a clear tourist attraction.
Today’s council budget has proposed people pay a fee to visit the building for the first time and another idea is to make the property available for more external events.
Speaking at a council meeting, Councillor Jon Molyneux, Greens, said there is a push “to do more to celebrate this incredible building”.
Pointing out he had recently taken a tour, he said new initiatives are “recognising what an incredible asset we have”.
A report presented to the council said an option to open the city chambers “will investigate the opportunity to capitalise on the unique cultural political and architectural position of Glasgow City Chambers and a revitalised George Square by introducing paid for tours and experiences and increased use for external events”.
The council has not yet released a potential pricing plan.
The building dates back to 1888 and is the headquarters of the council as well as housing offices for staff.
Other highlights include a lavish banqueting hall and imposing chambers where council meetings are held, with Venetian stained glass windows and mahogany panelling.
The Victorian building was designed by Scottish architect William Young and cost £552,028.
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