Tolbooth Steeple

This is a very striking medieval landmark which you’ll find at Glasgow
Cross on the east side of the Merchant City area. It is actually all that
remains of a larger building which comprised a debtors’ prison, the town clerk’s office and the council
hall. It was built in 1636 and stands 7 storeys and 126 feet high, being an extremely prominent landmark within the city. This area was, at one time, the centre of Glasgow (now considered to be George Square owing to the first railroad terminus being built at Queen Street).
On the steeple you’ll see some of the oldest sculpture to be found in Glasgow, including a shield which portrays the city’s coat of arms. It has recently been renovated and repaired at a cost of £200,000, and I think it looks quite beautiful! I know that, at one time, it was possible for tourists to view the interior (and views from the top!) but I can’t find out if it’s allowed today. Perhaps someone will tell me, or I’ll ask at a tourist information centre.