Glasgow restaurant
Mackintosh at the Willow is the Google/project name for Glasgow’s original Willow Tea Rooms at 215–217 Sauchiehall Street, G2 3EX — since February 2026 officially styled The Mackintosh Tearooms and cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. Charles Rennie Mackintosh, working with Margaret Macdonald, designed both the exterior and interiors for Miss Catherine (Kate) Cranston; the tearooms opened in October 1903. It is a Category A listed building and the only surviving in-situ Cranston tearoom where Mackintosh controlled the whole scheme (façade, rooms, furniture and fittings), including the celebrated Salon de Luxe (Room de Luxe) with Macdonald’s Willowwood gesso panel. After decades of later uses (including Daly’s department store), the Willow Tea Rooms Trust — founded by Celia Sinclair Thornqvist MBE — bought and restored the building 2014–2018 (Simpson & Brown; roughly £10m, with major National Lottery Heritage Fund support), reopening as working tearooms in July 2018 under the name Mackintosh at the Willow (royal opening 7 September 2018). NTS took ownership in January 2024. The same Sauchiehall Street unit should not be confused with the separately branded “Willow Tearooms” outlets on Buchanan Street / elsewhere, which stem from an earlier trademark split. Today it is a heritage tearoom, exhibition and visitor attraction: Front and Back Saloons plus Gallery (~200 covers across two floors), Salon de Luxe and Billiard Room (often via tour), interactive exhibition, gift shop and venue hire. Lunch and afternoon tea run daily 11:00–17:00 (last orders); gift shop and exhibition from 10:00; guided tours daily at 10:00 and 11:00 (40–60 minutes, max six, booking essential). Exhibition admission is Adult £10 / Child £5 / Concession £7.50 / Family £25 / One-adult family £15 (NTS members free to the exhibition; specialist tours are charged events even for members). Book tables via the NTS Book a table page (highly recommended); phone 0141 204 1903. FHRS Pass (inspected 4 June 2024). Google’s project listing is about 4.6 from roughly 736 reviews. Cowcaddens Subway is about 0.3 miles / a short walk; Cambridge Street bus stop is round the corner; Buchanan Bus Station and Glasgow Central are each about half a mile.
What a fabulous cafe that has a great selection of tea, cakes and food all in a beautiful setting. Can be busy so you may want to book a table in advance so you can guarantee a seat. The staff are excellent as well. A true gem in the centre of Glasgow.
Read on Google MapsA special treat to have come across the Mackintosh Tea Room. I was delighted with the soft and subtle art nouveau architecture only to discover who the architect was. The scones were warm and delicious, tea was exceptional. Beware, when ordering the prosecco option, it only includes one glass.
Read on Google MapsWhile this was a unique and memorable experience, one you likely wouldn’t encounter unless you’re someone who still enjoys traditional afternoon tea, it was a lovely opportunity to share with my family. The setting and historical ambiance added a special touch, and the afternoon tea itself was delightful, with thoughtful options for both vegan and gluten-free diets. That said, there was no child-friendly menu available. Since the offerings are fixed, younger kids may not enjoy much of what’s served. The portions are generous, so expect to leave with a takeaway box. My only real complaint is the duration, our experience lasted about two hours, which can be a challenge for little ones with shorter attention spans. If it had been just my wife and me, it would’ve been an easy 5-star rating. However, given the lack of accommodation for children, I’m giving it 4 stars
Read on Google MapsWe had the most wonderful tour with Megan. Informative and engaging. I've been dying to see the saved tearooms since donating way bay to the Save the Willow campaign. Just Wow! I found it quite emotional. The exhibition was excellent and informative too. Thank you to the lovely lady in the shop . She was so very kind and extremely welcoming. Thank you to all the staff. We will definitely be back.
Read on Google MapsOur tour guide Oliver, could not have been better. In addition to being incredibly knowledgeable about all things MacKintosh; he had a great sense of humor & was a natural story teller, which added to the enjoyment of the tour. Strongly recommend this tour for its historical insights and the ability to view an iconic building that has been lovingly maintained.
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