One of the stars of the Clyde waterfront regeneration area on the southern banks of the Clyde River, Glasgow Science Centre (acronym GSC) was opened in not too distant 2001 by none other than her majesty Queen Elizabeth. The Glasgow Science Centre is a full blown entertainment complex that has two other buildings… Glasgow Tower and IMAX cinema. The buildings are exhibits in themselves and they have won multiple design and architecture awards like Bentley Success Award 2003, Dynamic Place Award 2002, RIBA Award for Architecture 2002, Glasgow Institute of Architects Design Award 2001 etc.
Inside its science themed Disneyland, you get the opportunity of seeing yourself as the energy minister, learning about quantum physics, mapping your physiological functions or going off in a space odyssey. One of the world’s most tech savvy planetariums and the country’s biggest amazing IMAX broadcasting documentaries will thrill all kids and adults.
History
Like the STV and BBC headquarters, Armadillo and SSE Hydro, Glasgow Science Centre is part of the Pacific Quay redevelopment project that successfully aimed to completely recreate the Clyde waterfront. This was once Prince’s Dock that was a mere Cargo port but now is the snazziest and most visited part of Glasgow.
The science mall is a 3 floored building that’s visually stunning to look at. The ground floor has ticket desk, cloakrooms, cafes and a gift shop. Besides this there is a lecture space known as auditorium, educational space called Egg and a corporate venue. The first floor has science show theatre and Glasgow planetarium access. The second floor has the Lab, workshop spaces and interactive exhibition spaces. The third floor was redeveloped and reopened to public in 2013… this contains bodyworks, research capsules etc.
It took 33 million pounds to build the trio i.e. Glasgow Science Mall, IMAX, Planetarium plus the cafes and shop… the place was opened to the public in 2001. The 260 degree rotating Guinness book award winning Glasgow tower itself took about 10 million pounds to be built in 2001 but since then it has been closed multiple times for repair and refurbishment work. The buildings are designed in a way to deliver smaller carbon footprints and offer natural stack effect ventilation, optimal thermal mass concrete structures etc.
The interiors are designed to fully take advantage of the cool river breezes. The building is completely wrapped in hi tech aluminium and titanium and the pathways like fabric roof and discovery tunnel join all of them together. The design of the buildings was accomplished by BDP (Building Design Partnership) though the Glasgow Tower design is credited to Buro Happold (engineering) and Richard Horden (architecture).
What To See & Do
Question of Perception
In this section the theme is illusions and visual experiences plus some physical and mental challenges. There is the Ames room which will allow you to grow and shrink like Alice when she bit into the magic mushroom. There are visual illusions, mind bender puzzles and physical tasks that test the coordination between your mind and body. You can further dip into your tryst with illusions at the database curated by Centre for the study of Perceptual Experience. Simply log in here and browse…
Bodyworks
This is a highly interactive sort of permanent exhibition at the 3rd floor of GSC. Both adults and kids will love the scope that this exhibition offers of measuring (and recording) individual physical and physiological characteristics. The ‘About You’ section is especially interesting with reaction timers, hang tests, grip tests and homunculus. There is a balance board and sprint track and you can record your performances in MY Bodyworks using a barcode that will allow you to compare results with millions of other visitors.
Then there are other interesting experiences like research capsules that showcase cutting edge experiments in biomedical science and they explain the defence, digestive, endocrine, respiratory, cardio vascular and reproductive functions of the body. The DNA and cell biology section will also be interesting to visitors with an interest in genetics and biology.
Powering the Future
One of the most environmentally and socially conscious exhibitions in the GSC, this is one interaction that you should definitely not miss in these modern times that shamelessly advocate the abuse of energy resources. There is a zone here called ‘The Big Picture and You’ which is a complex energy puzzle that shows the security of our energy supply, energy costs etc. Try the Illumination Consumption Globes that show the earth’s capacity vis a vis our consumption patterns and the energy footprint mapper.
There is even an entire wall of living plants called the Bio Wall. Slightly older kids will enjoy the Harness and Transform section which focuses on using different sources of energy and creating usable commodities from them. There is the Wind machine, Solar Panel and even a Nuclear Decay Model. Science lovers can spend hours in the Transmission and Storage section that demonstrates the journey of wind, electricity and hydro power in open experiments.
The star of this zone is however the Manage and Control section which lets you perform as the Energy Minister for the day via an interactive game called My DECC 2050 and devise an optimal energy strategy in Energy Island while in Meeting Demand you need to manage demand and supply by switching off demand.
Science Show Theatre
By far, one of the most entertaining and light hearted sections of the Science Mall… the Science Show theatre is even perfect for non-science lovers. There are half an hour theatrical style shows here but focused on Science… these are full of drama so expect lots of bangs, flames, crashes and explosions. See the program conductors create geysers, lie down on a bed of nails or set someone’s hand on fire. There is stuff like liquid nitrogen demos and the science here is easy enough for everyone to understand and enjoy seats here sell out fast… this is a first come first served section.
Quantum Technologies
This exhibition on the second floor of GSC is only aimed at adults and hard-core science lovers as it focuses on the complex yet magical world of Quantum physics. The focus here is on QUANTIC i.e. a consortium of universities (with their head hub at Glasgow Uni) that are working on cutting edge quantum technologies.
Workshops
You don’t need to pay extra to attend any workshops in GSC… these are included in your science mall ticket. Workshops may last around 30 to 120 minutes and are targeted towards different age groups. For examples there may be a workshop on wind energy or one on animal camouflage or engineering electronics etc… these are all offered on a first come first served basis. You need to check the ‘Whats On’ section on the official website to know what workshops are currently being offered at the science mall.
Glasgow Tower
Glasgow Tower can rotate 360 degrees in the wind and the Guinness book of World record recognises it as the tallest fully rotational free standing structure in the world. The radical design of the tower has been the stuff of magazines and documentaries which marvel at its balancing on one point and being rotationally affected by electric power.
The Glasgow Tower experience begins when you learn about its history on the ground level and walk through the timeline tunnel that contains records of historic city events in the last century. There is a 5 meter long map of the Clyde River that shows footage of how the riverside area has changed with time. The journey to the tower viewing cabin takes 2.5 minutes via a high speed lift (100 meter up) and you can see a panoramic view of the city, Clyde River and landscapes beyond. Those wishing to see further views can explore virtual ones on IPads that use GAR (Geo-location Augmented Reality technology). There will be a guide to provide live commentary on the tower features, city landmarks and other attractions
As mentioned, the Glasgow tower sways in the wind and for some the experience can be disturbing at high wind speeds. The tower closes when wind speed exceeds 25 mph at cabin height. When an emergency situation arises visitors need to descend 523 steps through a narrow spiral staircase unaided. This is exactly why young kids and people with mobility issues are advised to consult the tower officials before embarking on the visit.
Space Zone and Planetarium
Glasgow Science Centre Planetarium is considered to be one of most technologically superior planetariums in the world… it has a marvellous fulldome digital projection system. An expert team of science bods and astronomers run the planetarium shows and there are LED lit live presenter enabled demonstrations that simulate journeys through Milky Way, solar system etc.
There are fulldome films that are spread in a 360 degree display across the huge (15m) hemispherical dome of the planetarium creating an immersive atmosphere. There are movies like ‘Back to the Moon for Good’ and ‘We are Aliens’ which are narrated by celebrity voice artists. On weekends and holidays the planetarium hosts some nice public shows while on weekdays there are usually school group shows.
The Space zone is an interactive walkway that leads to the entrance of the Planetarium. You can observe the planets under fascinating hues and learn surprising facts about them. There is even a section that teaches you to trace different stars and patterns in the night sky without using binoculars. The Space zone lets you have the feel of being an astronaut and you have the gifted chance of visiting Scotland from the Cupola… just like they do at the Space Stations.
In case you need a hearing loop you need to know that 10 such devices are available in the planetarium. Speak to the staff beforehand to book one.
Project Lab
Drop into this section on the second floor if Science Mall fascinated you… this is a chance to share your opinion/ feedback/ suggestion on different aspects of GSC’s activities and plans. At present there are layouts and plans of how GSC will shape up to be in the future and visitors are openly encouraged to share their creative inputs.
IMAX
The huge eccentric looking shimmering molten silver like building sitting next to the Science Mall is Scotland’s largest IMax and its biggest screen. Most visitors check out IMAX while visiting the Glasgow Science Centre but this is managed by Cineworld. GSC manages the educational film screenings at IMAX and you can get a complete list of educational screenings/ documentaries that are running currently at IMAX from the ‘What’s on’ section in GSC. Film topics centre on wildlife, science, technology, social impacts and current affairs.
Cafes
There are a couple of Cafes inside GSC and they are okay if you want a light meal or some nibbles or maybe a simple hot meal. The Taste Café is open every working day of the GSC and offers sweet dishes, savouries, pizzas, pasta, sandwiches etc. They have a vegan/ gluten free and vegetarian menu too.
The Aroma café is open on weekends and school holidays and it’s known for its curated kids lunch packs and sandwiches and baguettes besides soups. They also offer cakes, baguettes and pastries.
GSC Shop
There is a rather interesting looking GSC Shop located in the link building area between the Science Mall and IMAX. You will get a full range of cute toys to collectibles to science themed souvenirs besides an exciting range of merchandise with the GSC Logo. The takeaway science kits are super fun… they centre around themes like natural science, electronics, and chemistry and even have one that allows you to build a mini planetarium. IQ Tests, desktop gadgets, candles and even mini mobiles are sold in the shop so basically you be spoilt for choice. The shop is open on all GSC Open days.
Call the shop at 0141 420 5035. To know more.
Ticketing
Science Mall Tickets
Tickets for Glasgow Science Centre are called Science Mall Tickets and they come in two formats; with a voluntary donation and without it. A ticket for an adult is about 11.50 pounds with donation and 10.45 pounds without donation. Tickets for kids between the ages 3 to 15 cost 9.5 pounds with donation and 8.6 pounds without donation. It’s important to note that children in this age group are not allowed inside GSC without an adult accompanying them. Kids below the age 3 have free entry. Visitors over the age 60 and those holding student ID Cards have concession tickets and they cost 9.5 pounds with donation and 8.6 pounds without donation.
Buying tickets online for GSC is quite easy. You can book online tickets up to 6 months in advance.
A science mall ticket will get you discounted entry to Glasgow Tower and Planetarium (yes, both of them require separate tickets!!). There is unlimited entry to available workshops and access to all the exhibits.
Tickets for kids and adults suffering from autism is 9.50 pounds though their carer gets free entry too. GSC is quite friendly towards visitors with accessibility issues. In fact carers of mobility impaired visitors get free access to GSC when they accompany the person they support. Book a carer ticket by calling on the following number any day of the week between 9am to 5pm.
Carer ticket booking query phone: 0141 420 5000
Visitors who are planning to access the attractions of Glasgow Science Centre more than once a year can buy the Passport i.e. an annual membership that offers multiple benefits plus unlimited access to the Science Mall. You get to jump queues and parking discounts besides unlimited entries and some offers on parties.
The GSC Passport is priced at 30 pounds per adult and 24 pounds per child (kids under age 3 get free ones). You can buy the passport online here.
Glasgow Tower Tickets
If you buy a Glasgow Tower ticket as an add on to your Science Mall ticket, it will cost 3.50 pounds but when brought separately the same ticket costs 6.50 pounds.
Call 0141 420 5000 for Glasgow tower bookings
Planetarium tickets
If you buy a planetarium ticket as an add on to your Science Mall ticket, it will cost 3 pounds (same rate for adults, kids, seniors, students) but when brought separately the same ticket costs 5.50 pounds.
IMAX Tickets
If you buy an IMAX documentary ticket as an add on to your Science Mall ticket, it will cost 2.50 pounds (same rate for adults, kids, seniors and students) but when bought separately the same ticket needs to be purchased from the Cineworld counter or from the Cineworld official website.
Booking group tickets (more than 10 people) at any of these above venues have discounts if booked in advance. You need to call 0141 420 5000 to know more.
GSC is one of the most accessibility friendly organisations in Scotland and it’s commendable that they have gone all out to ensure that at least 90% of their space is comfortable for people who are differently abled. There are accessible toilets and baby changing areas on the ground floor and second, third floor. All lifts can accommodate wheelchairs and there are dedicated spaces for wheelchair users inside the centre. IMAX Cinemas, auditorium, science show theatre and front desk have a decent supply of hearing loops. Visitors with autism don’t have to queue during rush hours and there are special staff to assist them. There are special and discounted parking lots for those with limited mobility
Open Hours
Glasgow Science centre is open every day from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. in summers i.e. 1st April to 3rd November. In winters i.e. 4th November to 27th March, Glasgow Science centre is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, the GSC is open from 10.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. while on Saturdays and Sundays GSC is open from 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.
The Glasgow Tower is open from 11.00 a.m. to 5.00 pm (last admission 4.30 p.m.).
There are special days at GSC which are dedicated to visitors with autism though they are most welcome to visit on all other normal days too. These days (and hours) have special shows with reduced volume, ear defenders, weighted blankets and special sensory experience more suited for autisms. You can find more details here.
Location & Contacts
Glasgow Science Centre is just ten minutes of walk away from the Exhibition Centre Train station or the Cessnock Subway station. From the Cessnock subway station, you need to take a left turn and then a right turn to enter Brand Street. After brand street turn left to enter Lorne Street and then again left to Pacific Drive. Entrance to Glasgow Science Centre is at the roundabout (nearly 25 minutes from the Cessnock Subway).
If you arrive by train then get off at the Exhibition Centre Station… regular connections are available from Patrick and Glasgow central stations. You will find a covered walkway from the Exhibition Centre station to SECC and then you can cross the Crowne Plaza Hotel enroute before reaching the river bank and the GSC. It’s only 10 minutes of walk from the Exhibition train station to GSC.
There are lots of bus connections to the GSC. Stagecoach X19 will drop you off to Govan Road / Pacific Quay while First Bus No 90 will go up to Paisley Road West. McGill’s Bus 23 and 26 will drop off visitors to the Pacific Drive. If you take a Glasgow sightseeing bus tour then get off at stop 11 and cross the river on foot. It’s great to combine your visit to the GSC with sightseeing bus tour as your bus ticket will get you a 20% discount on your GSC entry ticket.
Driving to GSC is super easy as there are marked routes from the M8, M77 and Clydeside expressway. Once you arrive at the Glasgow Science Centre you can use the car park for a fee of about 3 pounds. For the record, GSC is also approachable via the National Cycle Route 7 and there are multiple cycle stands located near the car park close to Glasgow Science Centre. GSC is one of those attractions that makes for an easy walk from the Glasgow city centre… it’s a pleasant half an hour walk along the riverside.
50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow, G51 1EA
Email: [email protected]; Website
If you don’t want to lunch at the café there are plenty of restaurants around. There is Premier Inn Thyme restaurant on Pacific Quay that serves simple British food while Crown Plaza on Congress Road is where you should go for a fancy meal. There is a Starbucks near the IMAX in the Cineworld complex and it serves delectable raisin bread too. The nearby roads are also full of nice places to dine like Big Street Food Social (Govan Road), Fanny Trollope’s (Argyle Street) and Ox & Finch (Sauchiehall Street).
You will require at least half a day to explore the science museum properly especially if you are going with kids. More time is required to catch a documentary show at IMAX and explore the marvels of the Glasgow Tower. It’s unlikely that you can combine the GSC attractions with other major sightseeing but you might want to pop into the Clydeside distillery for a mini evening tour or simply walk on the Clyde Arc Bridge for soaking in the gorgeous views.
A travel addict. Still celebrating the day when he quit his high-profile corporate job to pursue his passion for travel writing.