elcome to The Britannia Panopticon Music Hall situated in Glasgow down New Wynd Lane, Trongate. This Music hall began in 1857 in the midst of the Victorian era when Glasgow's population was booming and streets were over crowded with folk desperate to work in one of the largest cities new industries. Music Halls were a popular form of entertainment and oten built at the back of pubs, though this one is different, being on the floor above! It would have held over 1500 visitors, eager to be amused and let off steam while watching the acts that ranged from singers, dancers and comedians. In 1906, an eccentric showman, A.E Pickard, brought in the carnival freak show and zoo where visitors could catch a glimpse of the Himalayan Bear in the basement or the Tattooed Lady in the attic.

We are a registered charity, operating in the heart of Glasgow’s City Centre. Our aim is to promote and continue the legacy of the world’s oldest surviving music hall, advance the conservation and ensure the building’s future as a viable visitor attraction, museum and working venue. It's a huge part of Glasgow's entertainment history and we rely a lot on our wonderful customers who leave donations. If you wish to contribute in any way please click on support. We would love to have you onboard!

We are open for free general viewing Tuesday - Saturday noon - 5pm. Please note that we do not at this time have disabled access. We have a fantastic program of events which help to fundraise for this building such as silent films, comedy clubs, Drag-opticon, sing alongs and much more including our monthly old time music hall memories. For more upcoming shows, please look at our events for a great mix of entertainment suitable for all.

Inside there is an exhibition of ephemera, a merchandise stall with postcards, bags, posters, mugs, tee-shirts, stickers etc and of course our friendly staff and volunteers will be available to regale you with tales of the history of the world’s oldest surviving music hall from the unique acts that graced our stage, to the boisterous crowds and the secret to how this building never burnt down like so many other music halls!