The Burrell Collection is an art museum in Pollok Country Park, on Glasgow’s southside. Sir William Burrell gave the collection to the city in 1944; its thousands of objects span around 6,000 years and include Chinese ceramics, medieval tapestries and stained glass, Roman sculpture, and paintings by Degas and Cézanne. The light-filled galleries pair art with views of the surrounding woodland, while interactive displays help explain selected works. Admission is free, and you can explore independently or join a free guided tour.
A collection given to Glasgow
The museum brings together the art and objects collected by Sir William Burrell, a Glasgow shipping merchant and philanthropist. He gave his collection to the city in 1944. The holdings number in the thousands and cover about 6,000 years, with works from Europe, Asia and other regions.
There is no single period or medium to follow. The galleries range from ancient Egyptian pottery and Roman sculpture to Chinese ceramics, medieval stained glass and tapestries, and European paintings. That variety makes it useful to choose a few areas that interest you, then leave room for discoveries as you move between displays.
Works to look for
The collection includes paintings by French artists such as Edgar Degas and Paul Cézanne, alongside works by Manet and other artists. Degas’s ballet subjects are among the paintings associated with the museum. Medieval art is another strong thread, with stained glass, tapestries and arms and armour among the objects on display.
Chinese art forms a substantial part of the collection, including ceramics, bronzes and jade. Roman sculptures and Egyptian objects offer a different view of the ancient world. The range means you can move from a painting to a decorative object or historic artefact without leaving the museum.
The galleries and the park
The museum building sits within Pollok Country Park. Its large windows bring the wooded setting into view from the galleries, and the building’s airy spaces provide a setting for the varied collection. Interactive displays and explanatory graphics add context to selected works; families can also look out for activities designed to keep children engaged.
Set aside time for the park as well as the museum. Woodland paths and open grounds surround the building, and Highland cattle can be seen in the park. Pollok House is also within walking distance, so the area can fill a longer day if you want to add another stop.
Planning your visit
Admission to the museum is free, and you can explore at your own pace. Free guided tours start from reception; ask there about joining one during your visit. A guide can help connect individual objects with the history of the collection and its former owner.
There is a restaurant and coffee stops in the building, along with visitor facilities for families. If you are coming by public transport, shuttle bus services have been reported between the museum and nearby bus or train stations; check current arrangements before setting out. Drivers can use the paid parking available in the park.
Perguntas frequentes
Is admission to The Burrell Collection free?
Yes. Admission is free.
How long should I spend at The Burrell Collection?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore the galleries. You may want extra time for a walk in Pollok Country Park.
Are there guided tours?
Yes. Free guided tours start from reception. Ask there about joining one.
Where is The Burrell Collection?
It is in Pollok Country Park on the southside of Glasgow.
