Barrowland Ballroom Behind the Scenes

An exclusive 1.5-hour backstage tour of Barrowland Ballroom, one of Glasgow's most storied live music venues. Operating since 1934, Barrowland has hosted everyone from Simple Minds and U2 to Nirvana and Arctic Monkeys. The tour accesses areas normally closed to regular gig-goers, including the backstage area, dressing rooms, and viewing platforms. You'll learn stories about well-known performances, technical aspects of running a major venue, and see the building's original architecture alongside modern additions. Tours run on non-gig days and must be booked in advance. Best for Music history buffs and gig-goers. This is a easy activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 4-15. You meet at Barrowland Ballroom stage door. Key highlights: Access to restricted backstage and dressing room areas, The famous Barrowland stage used since 1934, Sound and lighting control room tour.

Price: £35

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 4-15

Minimum age: all ages

Best for: Music history buffs and gig-goers

Best time: Weekday afternoon tours (2-4pm) when the venue has no gigs; book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure dates

Meeting point: Barrowland Ballroom stage door

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

Meet time Assemble at Barrowland stage door and receive safety briefing - Guide explains the tour route and points out key historical features of the building's exterior from 1934.

First 15 min Walk through the main venue floor and view the stage - See the famous stage where thousands of gigs have taken place; guide points out acoustic features and technical setup.

15-35 min Backstage tour including dressing rooms and artist preparation areas - Access areas restricted during gigs; see where bands prepare and learn stories about specific performances.

35-65 min Sound and lighting control room and technical areas - Understand how Barrowland operates technically; engineers explain the venue's capabilities for hosting major acts.

65-85 min Historic archives and venue history room - See photographs and memorabilia from Barrowland's 90-year history, including signed items from major artists.

85-90 min Q&A with tour guide and venue information - Ask questions about upcoming gigs, how to get tickets, and advice on attending shows at Barrowland.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Barrowland Ballroom stage door.

• Access to restricted backstage and dressing room areas
• The famous Barrowland stage used since 1934
• Sound and lighting control room tour
• Historic archives and memorabilia from major performances
• Stories about gigs by Simple Minds, U2, Nirvana, Arctic Monkeys, and others
• Accessibility: Multiple staircases and platforms to climb; some uneven floors backstage; not fully wheelchair accessible; notify operator of mobility requirements

What is included: 1.5-hour guided backstage tour, Access to restricted areas not available during regular gigs, Expert guide knowledge of venue history and major performances, Venue information and gig ticketing guidance.

Not included: Gig tickets (tour is backstage only, not during live events), Meals or drinks, Souvenir merchandise, Photography permissions (confirm with operator). You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, Phone or camera (check photography policy in advance), Water bottle, Warm clothing (backstage areas can be cool). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Weekday afternoon tours (2-4pm) when the venue has no gigs; book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure dates.

Tip: Monthly tours on non-gig days

Tip: Book via venue website

Accessibility: Multiple staircases and platforms to climb; some uneven floors backstage; not fully wheelchair accessible; notify operator of mobility requirements.

Operator: Barrowland Venue Tours | Book directly (opens in new tab)

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Riverside Museum (20 min walk)
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (25 min walk)

This activity is run by Barrowland Venue Tours.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 7 days before; £10 fee for cancellations 3-7 days before; non-refundable within 72 hours.

Accessibility: Multiple staircases and platforms to climb; some uneven floors backstage; not fully wheelchair accessible; notify operator of mobility requirements.

Best time to go: Weekday afternoon tours (2-4pm) when the venue has no gigs; book 2-3 weeks in advance to secure dates.

Can I attend a backstage tour on a gig night?

No, backstage tours only run on non-gig days when the venue is not hosting an event. Check the Barrowland website for upcoming gigs, then book tours on available dates. Tours typically run Tuesday-Thursday when the venue is dark.

How do I book a Barrowland backstage tour?

Tours must be booked directly via the Barrowland Ballroom website or by contacting the venue. Book 2-3 weeks in advance as spaces fill quickly. Tours are limited to 15 people to ensure quality experience.

What major bands have performed at Barrowland?

Barrowland has hosted Simple Minds, U2, Nirvana, Arctic Monkeys, Oasis, The Smiths, and hundreds of others since 1934. The guide shares specific stories and anecdotes from memorable performances during the tour.