Uncover Glasgow’s vibrant history through The Exhibition at Mackintosh at the Willow. This cultural experience combines outdoor walking with immersive displays, perfect for history buffs and art lovers alike.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1-2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, mostly walking and standing
Wildlife
History
Mackintosh at the Willow was originally opened in 1903 as part of Miss Cranston’s tea rooms, representing the height of Glasgow’s Art Nouveau movement.
Conservation
The venue actively conserves its historic interior and promotes sustainable tourism by encouraging walking tours and respectful visitation.
Mackintosh at the Willow
Uncover Glasgow’s vibrant history through The Exhibition at Mackintosh at the Willow. This cultural experience combines outdoor walking with immersive displays, perfect for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Mackintosh at the Willow is Glasgow’s only surviving tearoom designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, preserved as a landmark of Scottish Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau architecture. Located in Glasgow, Scotland, the site interprets the story of the tearoom, its founder Miss Kate Cranston, and the creative partnership between Cranston and Mackintosh that helped define a distinctive Scottish aesthetic.
The venue offers two main visitor experiences: a guided Historical Building Tour that provides exclusive access to restored interiors — including the Men's Billiard Room and the luxurious Salon de Luxe — and a self‑guided Exhibition that explores Glasgow’s social and design history in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The guided tour focuses on architectural detail, original decorative schemes, and the tearoom’s role in Glasgow civic life. The Exhibition presents interactive displays and contextual material about the city, the Cranston enterprise, and collaborations with contemporary artists and designers.
Interpreters and curated displays support historical accuracy and visitor understanding. As a conserved historic interior and public cultural site, Mackintosh at the Willow offers immersive, educational experiences for architecture enthusiasts, students, and visitors interested in Glasgow’s heritage. The programming aims to balance scholarly interpretation with accessible storytelling, making it suitable for both specialist and general audiences.
Location
Glasgow
Located in Glasgow, Scotland
Architectural Icon
Mackintosh design
Only surviving tearoom interior
Visitor Options
Guided & Self‑guided
Tours and exhibition available
Historic Era
Late 19th–20th c.
Period explored in displays
Reserve a guided Historical Building Tour or explore the self‑guided Exhibition — limited guided access to key interiors, book ahead.
Plan your visit during weekday mornings
Less crowded times offer a more relaxed and immersive experience.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Strolling through historic buildings and displays requires comfort and ease.
Bring a camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning architecture and engaging exhibits.
Check the opening hours in advance
Ensure the venue is open during your planned visit to avoid disappointment.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring the exhibit comfortably.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the artwork and architecture during your visit.
Light backpack
Carry essentials like water, a notebook, or snacks.
Layered clothing
Adjust for indoor and outdoor temperature changes.