Wellington Church, Glasgow

Wellington Church is the most impressive looking building the Hillhead area. You will find it on University Avenue, opposite the University of Glasgow. It is often frequented by students even though the University has its own chapel.

The church was built in 1883 by Thomas Lennox Watson. It has a wonderful Neo-classical portico with eight Corinthian columns and resembles a Greek temple. Students often hold peaceful protests and “sit-ins” on the wide flight of steps leading up to the entrance door.

A previous church with the same congregation was on Wellington Street, but by 1878 it was too small for the population, so the new church was built, changing the location, but keeping the name.

As well as being an active church with a large congregation, Wellington Church also hosts music concerts and recitals on the lovely pipe-organ, built by Forster and Andrews.

When you have finished your visit, don’t leave without stopping by the church’s Crypt Café. The entrance is on University Avenue. Here you can enjoy a light snack which includes pizzas, toasted sandwiches, soup and baked potatoes as well as buns and cakes. The coffee is reputed to be the best on the campus and the tea is excellent.