About Us
37 years of Opening Glasgow's Doors
Glasgow Doors Open Days Festival is Scotland's largest free celebration of heritage, culture and community — inviting everyone to discover, explore and be part of Glasgow's story, a city steeped in heritage and alive with creative energy.
Organised by Glasgow Building Preservation Trust, the festival is a key part of our charitable work and has grown from our first festival in 1990, to become Scotland's largest free celebration of heritage and culture. Every year, tens of thousands of people explore buildings they've always wondered about, discover new corners of their community, or simply share a day out with friends and family. For many, it's a moment of pride — a reminder of just how vibrant, diverse and surprising Glasgow really is.
But heritage isn't just about the past — it's about the future too. That's why we're working to reach new, younger and more diverse audiences through our Schools Programme and festival events, helping heritage feel relevant, creative and alive.
At its heart, the festival is about people. It's about inviting everyone — whatever their background, age or experience — to see themselves in Glasgow's story. It encourages pride, curiosity and confidence, and helps ensure our city remains a place where every community feels heard, valued and included.
Festival At-A-Glance
Festival At-A-Glance
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Glasgow Building Preservation Trust
Glasgow Doors Open Days Festival has been organised by Glasgow Building Preservation Trust since it began in 1990 as part of Glasgow’s City of Culture celebrations.
GBPT is a charity dedicated to protecting, repairing and promoting Glasgow’s historic buildings. The festival is a key part of that mission, helping people explore the city’s architecture, heritage and stories through free access to buildings, events, walks and talks.
Glasgow Doors Open Days is the largest of Scotland’s Doors Open Days events, which take place across the country each September. The national programme is coordinated by the Scottish Civic Trust, supported by Historic Environment Scotland, and forms part of European Heritage Days.
Each year, the festival is made possible thanks to the support of venues, volunteers, sponsors and donors, including Glasgow City Council.
Made possible by our supporters
As a free, city-wide festival delivered by GBPT, a registered Scottish charity SC015443, Glasgow Doors Open Days Festival depends on the support of partners, funders and audiences to keep its doors open to everyone.
Your support helps us work with schools and community groups, create engaging events and experiences, and ensure the festival remains accessible, inclusive and inspiring for all. Together, we can continue to celebrate Glasgow's heritage, spark curiosity, and connect people with the stories and places that make the city unique.
Visit our Get Involved pages to find out more about how you can support and take part in the festival.
What’s On: Browse the Full GDODF 2026 Programme
With 150+ free events taking place across Glasgow, there's something for everyone. Learn more about the programme, then start exploring.
Plan Your Visit
Planning how to get to your venue or tour? Find out the best ways to get around the city, explore our festival cycle routes, and venue accessibility information.
Festival Crowdfunder
Can you help us raise £5,000 by 20 September? We need your support to keep Glasgow Doors Open Days thriving for years to come. To donate to our Crowdfunder and find out more click below.