The Willow Tea Rooms recreate Glasgow’s social history in café spaces inspired by the designs of famous Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Savor expertly prepared Scottish food or meet your friends for a cup of tea in surroundings that will transport you to life in early-1900s Glasgow.
Step into the world of Catherine Cranston, usually known simply as “Miss Cranston,” a Glaswegian temperance activist who opened tea rooms across the city. She collaborated with Mackintosh on elegantly designed, immensely popular social spaces, becoming a local celebrity in the process. The Willow Tea Rooms were inspired by Miss Cranston’s café of the same name.
Today, a branch of the Willow Tea Rooms stands on Buchanan Street next to the site of one of Miss Cranston’s original establishments. Find the other branch on the third floor of the Watt Brothers building on Sauchiehall Street.
Take a seat in rooms with period furniture, where everything looks like it has come straight from one of Mackintosh’s sketchbooks. Glass panels decorate the rooms, mimicking the aesthetic of Miss Cranston’s tea rooms.
Sample food from an eclectic Scottish menu, with options such as traditional breakfasts, cullen skink or crab cakes. Menus change throughout the year.
Alternatively, simply come for “afternoon tea,” a British tradition that involves a cup of tea, light bites and scones, served on a traditional, three-tiered cake stand. Pick from over 25 loose leaf teas or just opt for a simple and refreshing breakfast tea to accompany your food.
Browse the on-site store to pick up gifts and souvenirs inspired by the famous tearooms. Pick up tea towels, jewelry and glasswork based on the designs of Mackintosh.
Both sites for the Willow Tea Rooms are located centrally in Glasgow and can be reached on foot in less than 10 minutes from Queen Street and Glasgow Central train stations. Menus for children are also available and the rooms are open throughout the year. Book ahead to guarantee a place at either of the charming locations.
