20 September 2025 (12:00 - 17:00)
Explore the World’s oldest surviving music hall! Panopticon volunteers will be on hand throughout the day to share fascinating stories and insights about the rich history of this iconic venue. Enjoy our captivating exhibition of historic ephemera alongside special displays celebrating 850 years of Glasgow theatre and entertainment.
The Britannia is opening its doors for Doors Open Days. There will be an exhibition of ephemera from the music hall and also special display boards representing 850 years of Glasgow Theatre and Entertainment which is part of the Glasgow 850 celebrations. Panopticon Volunteers will be on hand to tell visitors stories about the history of the music hall.
There will be colouring-in sheets and worksheets available for children ages 3 and upwards. The dressing up & prop box will also be available for children (and adults) to play with.

Overview:
The Britannia is the oldest surviving Music Hall in the World. Music Halls were a popular and cheap form of entertainment and were the birthplace of Variety - the acts on stage ranged from singers, dancers and comedians to novelty acts and circus performance. From August 1896 Moving Pictures became a regular part of the program. In 1906 showman, A.E Pickard, added a carnival, freak show, wax works and zoo. Pickard changed the name of the building from Britannia to Panopticon (meaning to see all). In 1938, the Panopticon become outmoded and closed. Today it is a miracle survivor best remembered for debut performances by Jack Buchanan and Stan Laurel.

We do not have a lift, however we do now have a Stair Climber which can take one wheelchair at a time up the stairs. We also have 2 Evac chairs.

Address
113-117 Trongate, Glasgow, G15HD