Tennent's lager is as Glaswegian as the Clyde, and the Wellpark Brewery on Duke Street, in the East End, is where it is made. Brewing on this site goes back to the sixteenth century, long before the red and white cans, and the Wellpark works are among the oldest in Scotland. A tour here is a short, informal look at how beer is made, and a good complement to the city's other great drink, whisky. The guided tour lasts about an hour and a half and includes admission to the brewery and a pint of unpasteurised Tennent's tank lager, which fans say tastes fresher than the canned version. Food and additional drinks are not included, and a non-alcoholic option is mentioned in reviews. Tours are for ages 18 and over only, so this is not a family activity.
Practical details
The brewery is at 161 Duke Street, G31 1JD, about a mile east of Glasgow Cathedral and a short bus ride or a walk of around twenty minutes from the Merchant City. You choose a start time when booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour page notes that it is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for people with back problems, pregnant women or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions, with a moderate fitness level recommended because the route includes stairs and walking.
What to expect
You will see the working parts of the brewery, hear how the ingredients become beer, and finish with the tasting. Reviews mention that production does not run every day, and one reviewer noted that the site was closing early on a Friday afternoon, so a weekday morning is a reliable choice if you want to see the brewery in action. Wear closed, flat shoes and be prepared for noise and heat in some areas. The tour is a fun, social outing, and the pint is the reward.
Making a half day
Combine the tour with Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis, which are a short walk away, and with the Celtic Park stadium tour, which is also in the East End. For whisky, the Clydeside Distillery gives the complementary Glasgow drinks experience on the other side of town. Eat before the tour, and plan to head to the city centre afterwards rather than driving.
What to expect
The experience
A guided tour of the Wellpark Brewery on Duke Street, including admission and a pint of unpasteurised Tennent's tank lager. Ages 18 and over only.
Best time
A weekday morning, when production is most likely to be running.
How long
About an hour and a half.
Tips
Wear flat closed shoes, eat beforehand and check the access notes on the tour page.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beer lovers and curious visitors who want a classic Glasgow brand story.
- Families
- Not suitable for children, as the tour is for ages 18 and over.
- Couples
- A relaxed, social activity that ends with a drink.
- Pair with
- Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis, or the Clydeside Distillery on another day.
- Time needed
- Allow half a day with travel and lunch.
Good questions
How long is the Tennent's brewery tour?+
It lasts about an hour and a half.
What is included?+
Admission to the brewery and a pint of unpasteurised Tennent's tank lager. Food and extra drinks are not included.
Is there an age limit?+
Yes, the tour is for ages 18 and over.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?+
The tour page says it is not wheelchair accessible, and it is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions.
Where is the brewery?+
At 161 Duke Street in the East End, about a mile from Glasgow Cathedral.
