
The Willow Tea Rooms
Step into a living work of art at The Willow Tea Rooms, a beautifully restored Art Nouveau masterpiece by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

The Willow Tea Rooms

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a living work of art at The Willow Tea Rooms, a beautifully restored Art Nouveau masterpiece by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Book Ahead or Visit Off-Peak
Reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment, or consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Explore the Gift Shop
Discover unique souvenirs inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh's iconic designs in the on-site gift shop.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
British / Cafe
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 141 204 5242
Address
97 Buchanan St, Glasgow, G1 3HF, United Kingdom
Website
willowtearooms.co.uk/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charles Rennie Mackintosh Design
Immerse yourself in the stunning Art Nouveau interiors, a true work of art by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. This is dining surrounded by history and beauty.

Award-Winning Scones
Experience the 'best scones according to reviewers', perfect for afternoon tea. Fluffy, warm, and best enjoyed with their delicious jam.

Traditional Afternoon Tea
Indulge in a classic afternoon tea featuring delicate sandwiches, warm scones, and an array of sweet treats. Refills are available for tea!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead or Visit Off-Peak
Reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment, or consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Explore the Gift Shop
Discover unique souvenirs inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh's iconic designs in the on-site gift shop.
Embrace the History
Take time to appreciate the historical significance and intricate Art Nouveau details of this beautiful tearoom.
Dietary Needs Accommodated
The chefs are happy to accommodate dietary requests like vegan or gluten-free options with advance notice.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead or Visit Off-Peak
Reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment, or consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.
Explore the Gift Shop
Discover unique souvenirs inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh's iconic designs in the on-site gift shop.
Embrace the History
Take time to appreciate the historical significance and intricate Art Nouveau details of this beautiful tearoom.
Dietary Needs Accommodated
The chefs are happy to accommodate dietary requests like vegan or gluten-free options with advance notice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Willow Tea Rooms offer a delightful experience, praised for its stunning Charles Rennie Mackintosh decor and delicious afternoon tea, especially the highly-rated scones. While many highlight the charming atmosphere and attentive service, some diners found certain dishes, like the French toast, to be less satisfying. Overall, it's a must-visit for its unique ambiance and classic tearoom offerings.
"I visited the Willow Tea Rooms with my mom and we had such a lovely time! The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, and the unlimited tea was such a treat. We really enjoyed being able to sit, relax, and chat over endless cups. A wonderful experience I’d happily recommend to anyone visiting.☕️🩷"
Atheer Alfaraidy
"Very nice! Super classy. Bigger than it looks. I was pleased because I had only 30 min to eat before catching a train and they made it happen! Service was EXCELLENT!!! The haggis was ok. I didn’t love the chocolate on the cappuccino, but still an enjoyable experience."
M a r y a n n R o s e
"Been desperate to visit since donating to the 'Save the Willow' campaign.
Blown away by what has been achieved. Thoroughly recommend the guided tour. Megan was an excellent tour guide- informative and very pleasant. The exhibition was also excellent. I will be back soon ."
mags rogers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The Willow Tea Rooms is famous for its stunning Charles Rennie Mackintosh Art Nouveau interiors and its highly-regarded afternoon tea, especially the scones.
Yes, they offer a wonderful selection of gluten-free cakes and can accommodate gluten-free afternoon tea with advance notice.
Yes, reviewers have mentioned being offered a second pot of tea, making the afternoon tea experience even more enjoyable.
While walk-ins are possible, it is recommended to make reservations, especially during peak times, to ensure a table.
The ambiance is charming, cozy, and welcoming, with elegant, high-backed chairs and beautiful leaded glass, creating a unique and relaxing dining experience.
Yes, they inform customers about Halal food options, which is a thoughtful touch for diners seeking this accommodation.
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
The best afternoon teas in Glasgow
In the early years of the 20 th century, local architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed the Willow Tea Rooms at this address for owner Kate Cranston. The result was magnificent feat of art deco creativity but the original business closed in 1919 and wasn’t properly revived until 1983. Today, you can sit here with your serviceable afternoon tea, look around, and see the talent of one of Glasgow’s most famous sons made manifest.
Restaurants in Glasgow
Miss Cranston's Willow Tea Rooms were the ultimate place to be seen in Glasgow in 1903, not only for the tasty tea but for the beautiful art nouveau decor and furniture designed by a young architect by the name of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The original tearooms have now been fully restored here, and you can lunch on traditional Scottish cuisine or take an elegant high tea in the exquisite surroundings of the Salon de Luxe.
Cafe Tempo Tea Bar - Glasgow's Best Bubble Tea
Paesano Pizza 94 Miller St, Glasgow G1 1DT, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par463 utilisateurs The Lighthouse 11 Mitchell Ln, Glasgow G1 3NU, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par242 utilisateurs Riverhill Coffee Bar 24 Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3PU, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par240 utilisateurs Bread Meats Bread Glasgow 104 St Vincent St, Glasgow, Glasgow City G2 5UB, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par227 utilisateurs Glasgow Glasgow, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par195 utilisateurs The Willow Tea Rooms 217 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow, Glasgow City G2 3EX, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par218 utilisateurs Cafe Gandolfi 64 Albion St, Glasgow G1 1NY, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par193 utilisateurs The Wilson Street Pantry 6 Wilson St, Glasgow G1 1SS, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par195 utilisateurs Waxy O'Connors 44 W George St, Glasgow G2 1DH, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par174 utilisateurs Spitfire Espresso 127 Candleriggs, Glasgow G1 1NP, Royaume-Uni Ajouté par137 utilisateurs
Best Places For Afternoon Tea In Glasgow 2023
It was designed in 1904, during the temperance movement, when there was a local push to create beautiful spaces to enjoy tea rather than alcohol. Constructed under the eye of architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Willow Tea Room is perhaps the best known tearoom among historians, and the restoration process to get it to its original style was extensive. The menu boasts the traditional three-tiered cake tray full of baked treats and sandwiches, but the chefs are more than happy to accommodate any dietary requests such as vegan offerings or gluten-free pastries as long as they receive advance notice.
Glasgow with Kids - Top 16 Things to Do, lots of them FREE!
The Mackintosh at The Willow Exhibition is fun for kids as it explains the history of Mrs Cranston’s iconic Glasgow tearooms, the original site of Charles and Margaret Macdonald’s eye-catching designs, architecture and furnishings. For adults display boards are filled with information about this turn of the century delight, while kids (and big kids) can listen to giant teacups, build their own Mackintosh high-backed chair, wear tearoom fancy dress, watch short films and choose their own 19th century tea menu with touchscreen gadgets. FREE to NTS members, non-members prices here.
is it amongst the best in Europe?
I have a personal leaning towards Thomson although Macintosh’s Japanese-influenced style is better known and can be seen at the Glasgow School of Art (his masterpiece) and the Willow Tea Rooms in the city centre. Thomson’s influence is everywhere in Glasgow from the modern and trendy Merchant City to the tombs of the Necropolis. It can be easily identified by the powerful Greek-style pillars or the almost Egyptian-looking carvings in the stonework of buildings.
Best afternoon tea in Glasgow: 11 places to scoff scones, tea and cake
What: This tea room is over a century old, and it's still buzzing every week with locals and visitors alike dropping in for classic afternoon and cream teas. All teas come with your choice of loose leaf tea or freshly brewed coffee, as well as classic finger sandwiches, warm scones and a lovely collection of sweets, including a Peach Melba entremet and a pistachio and cherry macaron.Where: 215 217 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3EXBook now: Mackintosh at the Willow
The top Glasgow restaurants for British cuisine
What sets Mackintosh at the Willow apart is its flawless blend of architecture and gastronomy — situated within a breathtaking A-listed building crafted by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, this café presents a sophisticated interpretation of British classics. The intricate designs of the space mirror the attention to detail in the cafe’s dishes. From delicate finger sandwiches to sumptuous scones paired with homemade jams, each offering is a work of art.
Experience the Best Afternoon Teas in Glasgow
Willow Tea Rooms - The tea rooms, which were created by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a Glasgow-born artist and designer, are a must-see for those interested in the city's art and design heritage. Mackintosh at the Willow offer a classic afternoon tea in Glasgow from £28 per person for all dietary requirements including vegetarian and vegan in a stunning setting. They offer a variety of teas, sandwiches, savouries, scones, and cakes to enjoy.
What to Eat in Glasgow: 14 Treats You Should Not Miss
If you want to go somewhere special, then you can book a table at one of the city's afternoon tea rooms, such as The Willow Tea Rooms or Cupcake Coffee Company. It makes for a very civilized way to beat an afternoon hunger and enjoy a classic part of British culture along with some delicious food. And, both the Windows Restaurant and Carlton George Hotel offer afternoon tea with a view from their rooftop restaurants in Glasgow.
7 Best Afternoon Teas in Glasgow on AboutBritain.com
Book an afternoon tea with Mackintosh at the Willow and you're in for a memorable experience:. Mackintosh at the Willow's afternoon tea has a theme, such as Japanese Inspired, or British Summer, making for a unique menu, quite distinct from what you might find elsewhere. For example, the British Summer themed afternoon tea features a Watermelon & Mint Chilled Soup and Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese savouries.
Best afternoon teas in Glasgow based on Tripadvisor reviews ahead of the Jubilee
After their visit, one user wrote on the reviewing site: "From the minute we arrived, the level of service, quality of food and the general attention to detail was excellent! This was my 4th visit to Cup and my parents 1st- all agreed that the afternoon tea was the best we had ever had- the rolls were so soft and fresh with delicious fillings, the cakes were amazing and the scones warm and freshly baked.
Rooftop Bars Glasgow: 14 Best Bars with Amazing Views [2024]
Mackintosh at the Willow’s terrace is one of only two South facing terraces in the whole of Glasgow city centre. So if you want to fully enjoy the sunshine while it’s around, then this is the place for you. The beautiful rooftop terrace is carefully designed to show off its original brickwork as well as give you views of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed chimney, which is a beauty.
The 7 most delicious afternoon teas in Glasgow
A gem in the heart of the city centre, the stunning Charles Rennie Mackintosh-designed Willow Tea Room is a true slice of history. The original was commissioned by tea mistress Kate Cranston in 1901 and over a century later, it’s still one of the best spots in the city for ladies that lunch. History lesson aside, make room for dainty ham sandwiches, sugary cakes and colourful treats.
24 of the best things to do in Glasgow
Once you know where to look, you’ll find fingerprints of Glasgow’s genius polymath Charles Rennie Mackintosh all over the city. The most famous and perhaps obvious example is the Glasgow School of Art, a building designed by its famous former student, which has tragically been beset by fires in recent years. Currently more accessible are the excellent tea rooms on Sauchiehall Street.
40+ Must Visit Places for your Glasgow Bucket List [2025]
This is one of Glasgow’s hidden gems and a must for all the Charles Rennie Mackintosh fans!. Designed by the famous Glasgow-born architect, artist and designer, “ Mackintosh at the Willow” is his last surviving tea room. Located on Sauchiehall Street and spread over three floors (including a roof terrace), this establishment is more than just a tea room; it’s a living piece of art.
7 top Glasgow Attractions
The work of celebrated architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, has come to be synonymous with Glasgow, and admirers of his work should definitely visit Mackintosh at the Willow on Sauchiehall Street. Originally created for one of his contemporary supporters, these trendy tea rooms are an excellent example of Mackintosh’s superb ability to fuse function with decoration.
Glasgow’s Top Tea Havens for a Brew-Tiful Journey
The renowned Willow Tea Rooms is a landmark spot for an authentic Glasgow high tea experience. Their tea menu boasts both classic and contemporary infusions, so you can nibble on a cucumber sandwich paired with brisk Earl Grey or a Chilli Rooibos. The Willow also brings you specialty infusions, ranging from delicate white teas to bold fruity explosions.
20 Fun Things to Do in Glasgow for Couples
A visit to Glasgow is incomplete without experiencing the traditional afternoon tea, and The Willow Tea Rooms is just the place for it. Designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, its unique interior is a nod to Glasgow’s rich design heritage. Couples can indulge in a selection of teas, scones, sandwiches, and cakes, making it a top Glasgow date idea.
Best Afternoon Tea Glasgow 2025
Top floor of Watt Brothers, 119-121 Sauchiehall Lane, G2 3EL. A lovely spot for afternoon tea Mackintosh at the Willow is a world class cultural and heritage attraction. Miss Cranston’s original Willow Tea Rooms is recognised internationally for its importance as the only surviving tea room designed in its entirety by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
7 of the Best Art Nouveau Buildings in Glasgow
This re-creation of one of the 1903 tearooms features Mackintosh-designed furniture, which bears a distinct Art Nouveau geometry and craftsmanship. The Willow Tea Rooms, which are currently being restored, were once part of a series of successful eateries opened by Glasgow’s famous Miss Cranston. This content is subject to copyright.
One Day in Glasgow: Things to Do, Map & Itinerary
Just near the Gallery of Modern Art, you’ll find the Willow Tea Rooms – a great place to enjoy afternoon tea in Glasgow. Inspired by tea rooms from the early 1900s, the interior features high-back chairs and windows with leaded glass. The Chinese rooms upstairs give you a wonderful view of one of Glasgow’s busiest streets!
17 Things to do in Glasgow
For a fancy tea experience, a must in the UK, visit the Willow Tea Rooms, recently relocated to the Watts Brothers store. If afternoon tea isn’t your style, you can also enjoy morning coffee, breakfast or lunch at the tea room. Don’t miss the cake cabinet, full of sweet delicacies like meringue, tarts and cheesecakes.
25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland)
While everyone has different tastes, one of the two Willow Tea Rooms venues will be worth seeing while you’re in Glasgow. Going back to the famous Rennie Mackintosh, he played a large part in their design back in 1903. In fact, he designed everything about them, from the architecture to the waitresses’ outfits.
Ten great breakfasts in the city
10.- Willow Tea Rooms (Sauchiehall Street, City Centre) – Designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Willow Tea Rooms is surely the tourist’s favourite. It’s quaint decor cannot be rivaled by the others. They have an impressive range of teas, proper French Toast and a good selection of buns and preserves.
Family friendly restaurants and cafés
Designed by architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Mackintosh at the Willow is an important part of Glasgow’s history. Their afternoon tea menus feature a selection of sandwiches and cakes and a special menu just for children. Daily tours are also available to learn more about the space.
Outdoor Eating and Drinking in Glasgow
The historic Mackintosh at the Willow has a rooftop terrace where they serve nibbles and drinks. Visit mackintoshatthewillow.com to book a table at this south-facing suntrap, which includes views of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed chimney - a hidden architectural treasure!
The 50 Best Gluten-Free Cafés in Glasgow
My family stopped here almost immediately after arriving in Glasgow for the first time. We were exhausted from a long flight, barely standing!. The Willow Tea Rooms brought us back to life - it’s rare all of us to enjoy something at the same time, but this won everyone over.
25 Things To Do In Glasgow
Treat yourselves to a delicious traditional, savoury, or luxury afternoon tea at the iconic Willow Tea Rooms. If sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, shortbread, and other goodies can’t tempt you, try some of the establishment’s traditional Scottish fare.
18 Best Things to Do in Glasgow
The Willow Tea Rooms in Glasgow are worth checking out if you’re in the city. Historically, Rennie Mackintosh was at the center of their design back in 1903. Everything about them was designed by him, including the architecture and the waitresses’ clothing.
25 Romantic Things To Do in Glasgow: Date Ideas in Glasgow
If you and your partner both like tea, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Glasgow. You find here a lot of different types of tea that you can have with your partner. There are all kinds of black, green, fruit, and herbal teas.
Best Rooftop Bars Glasgow 2023: Here are 8 of the best rooftop bars in Glasgow
Mackintosh at the Willow, located on Sauchiehall Street, comes with an outstanding 4.8 star Google Reviews score. Customers say it offers "ambience and character" and a carefully-curated drinks menu. Photo: Mackintosh at the Willow Facebook
15 Things to See & Do in Glasgow
After an exhausting day of sightseeing and shopping, there’s nothing better than having afternoon tea in this famous tea room. The decor is spectacular, designed by Mackintosh, and all the teas, sweets and sandwiches are delicious.
5 best coffee shops Glasgow according to Tripadvisor reviews
Review: “Popped in for coffees and scones on a sunny afternoon in Glasgow. Great spot for a catch up with beautiful surroundings, friendly staff and great local coffee!. Can’t wait to return and highly recommend cup tea lounge
The 16 Best Beer Gardens for Hire in Glasgow
The Beer Garden is an outstanding feature at Number 10 Hotel. Set within our spacious gardens, with easily accessible entrances from the side of the hotel and our function suite for easy access, our spacious beer garden is
Gluten Free Glasgow
The Willow Tea Rooms in Glasgow is another great place for gluten free options!. They do a fantastic gluten free afternoon tea featuring sandwiches, scones, shortbread, and meringue.
Breakfast/Brunch in the City Centre? : glasgow
Macintosh at the willow' on Sauchiehall St is great for a sit down brunch. Wonderful recently rennovated building with a wee museum exhibit about the restoration to boot.
34 of the best wedding venues in Glasgow
At Mackintosh at the Willow, intimate and bespoke weddings take centre stage amidst the backdrop of Scotland’s rich history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit