University of Glasgow Memorial Chapel

History

Work began in August 1914 but stopped during the First World War, resuming in 1923 and finishing in 1929. Tablets behind the Communion Table name the university's First World War dead, and others near the stalls record the 405 members of the university community who died in the Second World War. It is a Category A listed building.

What to look for

Douglas Strachan designed the ten stained glass windows installed in 1931, and the Benedicite Window above the Communion Table was added by Lawrence Lee in 1962. Archibald Dawson carved the wooden stalls. The organ was built by Henry Willis & Sons in 1927 and later refurbished. The Lion and Unicorn Staircase is close by in the quadrangle.

Visiting

The chapel is a working place of worship, with services during term and the Chapel Choir singing on Tuesday evenings. It also hosts the annual Glasgow International Organ Festival. Combine it with a walk round the cloisters and the Bell Tower, then head downhill to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It also hosts baptisms, weddings for graduates, students and staff, and seasonal services such as Nine Lessons and Carols, so check before visiting in case a private service is on.

Highlights

• Scots Gothic design by John James Burnet
• War memorial consecrated in 1929
• Stained glass by Douglas Strachan and Lawrence Lee
• Category A listed
• Home of the Glasgow International Organ Festival

Good to know

• It is an active chapel; respect services in progress.
• Chapel Choir sings Tuesdays at 6pm during term.
• Check the chaplaincy website for events and recitals before visiting.

Frequently asked questions