Provand’s Lordship

Provand’s Lordship. Photographic Print of Provands Lordship from Robert Harding.

Provand’s Lordship is Glasgow’s oldest house and the
only surviving medieval building in the city apart from
the cathedral, which it faces.

Bishop Andrew Muirhead built the house in 1471 as a
manse for St Nicholas Hospital and the cathedral. It
was the country house of the prebendary of Barlanark.
Provand’s Lordship has a fascinating history. Mary,
Queen of Scots is supposed to have stayed here, and
last century it was used as a tavern, with the city
executioner staying next door. It has also been a
confectioner’s shop, and the sweet-making machines
are still on display.

The building has been greatly altered over the years,
and many of the windows are from the 18th century.
The back of the house, with three crow-stepped gables,
is the nearest to the original building.

Nowadays the house has a splendid collection of 17th century Scottish furniture and there are period displays, including stained-glass panelling.

If you would like to visit this area as part of a highly personalized small group tour of my native Scotland please e-mail me:

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