The Burrell Collection opened in 1983, and remains one of the world’s greatest personal collections. National Lottery funding will modernise the collection and secure its place at the heart of Glasgow’s thriving cultural scene. 

Optimising spaces and visitor circulation will open up the building's three floors, with flexible displays for rotating artworks and spaces for temporary exhibitions. The plans will increase access so 95% of the museum's objects can be publicly viewed, giving an insight into the breadth and depth of the collection.

The building which houses the collection is one of Scotland’s finest examples of post-war architecture but is no longer fit for purpose. It will be repaired, and a new roof and modern glazing will greatly improve its energy management.

Visitors will also benefit from a new entrance, café and learning space, and terraces at the front of the museum will link with its parkland setting and provide an events venue.

Catalyst for Change

Councillor David McDonald, Chair of Glasgow Life, said, “HLF has supported the development of Glasgow Museums for almost two decades and its significant investment has played a vital role in the success and growth of the city’s cultural offer. With HLF’s support and commitment, the Burrell Collection is once again a catalyst for change, driving regeneration of the historic and cultural heritage of Pollok Country Park, greatly enhancing the wider cultural offer Southside of Glasgow and playing an important role in the city’s growing tourism offer by contributing to the economic impact tourism brings to the city.”

Seona Reid, Deputy Chair of HLF and Chair of the Scotland Committee, said, “The Burrell Collection was one of the greatest gifts ever given to a city and the seed that helped Glasgow grow into the thriving cultural centre it is today. It is timely then that in a year when we are celebrating Scotland’s History, Heritage and Archaeology, we are able to support such an important collection. Thanks to National Lottery players, it will be transformed so that it can continue to be a place of joy and inspiration for local, national and international visitors for many years to come.”

The collection was donated to the City of Glasgow by Sir William and Lady Burrell. It has a rich scope, from prehistoric artefacts to ground-breaking impressionist works. Its strengths lie in medieval art, Chinese ceramics, bronzes and jades, Islamic pile carpets and French 19th-century paintings.