Glasgow is renowned around the world for its remarkable Victorian architecture, much of which still lines the city’s streets today.
Yet many buildings that once played a central role in Glaswegian life have disappeared, leaving gaps in the skyline where some truly extraordinary structures once stood.
Today, we’re looking back at several of the most striking buildings Glasgow has lost over the years. Protecting our architectural heritage is vital; without it, cities risk becoming dominated by anonymous glass towers that lack the character and identity of historic streetscapes.
It’s only in more recent decades that the importance of preserving historic buildings has been widely recognised. During the 19th and much of the 20th centuries, however, Glasgow Corporation frequently approved the demolition of magnificent Gothic and Victorian landmarks — decisions that many later generations have come to deeply regret.
Here are 13 lost architectural wonders of Glasgow we wish were never demolished.
1. Union Corner
Union Corner at Glasgow Central station dated back to 1851 but was destroyed after a vape shop on Union Street went on fire. The B-listed Victorian building collapsing several hours later as flames spread. | Vinegar Tom (Flickr)
2. McNeill Street Bakery
The colossal United Co-Operative Baking Society building on McNeil Street was built in 1886 and resembled a grand French chateau. It later became a bakery and was demolished in 1977. | Eric Watt/Glasgow Museums
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3. St Enoch Railway Station
St Enoch station hotel was constructed behind the St Enoch railway terminal and was a beautiful, elaborate example of Glasgow’s Victorian architecture. The hotel was a work of art and was a huge part of Glasgow city centre up until 1976, when it was demolished and later replaced by St Enoch shopping centre. | Glasgow City Archives
4. The Apollo
The Apollo, formerly known as Green’s Playhouse, occupied the site of Cineworld on Renfrew Street. It was one of Glasgow’s busiest music venues in the 1970s and 80s and hosted the likes of Johnny Cash, David Bowie, and The Rolling Stones. The venue was demolished in the mid-1980s. The building was demolished in September 1987 following a fire that rendered the building structurally unsafe. | Glasgow Eyese