‘New’ Burrell set to collect even more visitors
THE famous
Burrell Collection – described as “one of the greatest gifts ever made to any city in the world” – has reopened in Glasgow after five years of major renovations.
The museum is home to more than 9000 objects gifted to the city of Glasgow in 1944 by shipping magnate Sir William Burrell and his wife Constance, Lady Burrell.
These remarkable objects take you on a tour of 6000 years of history, with treasures from all over the world.
You can see priceless works of art, from the iconic Rodin sculpture The Thinker, to paintings by Degas and Manet, and a Rembrandt self-portrait.
Highlights include one of the most significant collections of Chinese art in the UK and objects from ancient civilisations, including Roman sculpture and Egyptian pottery.
There is stunning stained glass, intriguing weapons and armour, as well as 200-plus tapestries that rank among the finest anywhere on the planet.
But the museum itself, an unusual modernist pavilion, is regarded as one of Scotland’s finest 20th century buildings and as part of the renovations it is now more accessible, with a step-free entrance, lifts to all three floors, as well as digital displays about the collection featuring BSL, captions and 10 languages.
The £68million refurbishment has also increased the Burrell’s exhibition space by 35 per cent, adding interactive displays and enhanced lighting to better show off one of the world’s greatest museum collections.
The redesigned galleries include a vast array of works of art, brought to life by immersive experiences. It’s an often-used phrase, but there really is something for everyone, including lots to entertain children.
You can explore all three floors for the first time.
The new Makers Galleries on the first floor examine the skills and techniques involved in creating some of the stunning objects on show, while the museum’s stores on the lower ground floor provide an opportunity to learn about how works of art are cared for when not on display.
A full day out will require refreshments and The Burrell has a range of options, with two coffee stops as well as the main restaurant with a new outdoor terrace. All serve excellent, innovative Scottish produce.
The Burrell’s location at the heart of Pollok Country Park is also one of the things that makes a visit to the museum such a unique experience, almost like a hidden treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Pollok is the largest of Glasgow’s many parks and the only country park within the city boundary.
The park and its extensive woodlands and gardens attract about two million visits each year, while still providing a quiet sanctuary for both visitors and wildlife.
And it’s free to visit, so make a date to see the “new” Burrell Collection for a world-class day out for all ages.