Hielanman's Umbrella

Hielanman's Umbrella is a Victorian railway bridge at Glasgow Central station that spans across Argyle Street. It features Venetian-style windows and shelters various shops and retail spaces beneath its arched structure.

The bridge was built during the Highland Clearances in the 1800s, providing shelter for displaced Gaelic-speaking Highlanders who had relocated to Glasgow. It emerged as a key railway infrastructure project that shaped the city's transportation network.

The bridge earned its name from Highland workers who gathered beneath it on weekends to exchange news and maintain their community bonds. These gatherings served as a vital gathering point for preserving their cultural connections.

The bridge connects the railway station platforms while providing shelter from rain for pedestrians moving through the area. It serves as a convenient passage with easy access to shops at street level regardless of weather conditions.

In 1927, this location became the site where the first long-distance television pictures were transmitted in the United Kingdom. This technical milestone made the bridge a significant place in the history of British telecommunications.

Location: Glasgow City

Part of: Glasgow Central station

GPS coordinates: 55.85850,-4.25824

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42