Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, sits at 36 meters (118 ft) above sea level on the River Clyde. Scotland's commercial and industrial heartland, Glasgow is surrounded by hills with the city centre occupying a relatively flat river plain.
Key Facts at a Glance
| River Clyde level | 5–10 m |
|---|---|
| Average city elevation | 36 m |
| Highest point (Cathkin Braes) | 217 m |
| Coordinates | 55.8642° N, 4.2518° W |
| Country / Region | Scotland, UK |
Elevations by District
| District / Area | Elevation |
|---|---|
| City Centre / Merchant City | 20–40 m |
| West End / Kelvingrove | 30–60 m |
| South Side / Pollokshields | 30–60 m |
| East End / Parkhead | 20–45 m |
| Bearsden / North suburbs | 60–100 m |
| Cathkin Braes (south) | 150–217 m |
Compare: Glasgow and Nearby Cities
| City | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Edinburgh | 54 m |
| Dundee | 30 m |
| Aberdeen | 18 m |
| Inverness | 8 m |
Interesting Facts About Glasgow's Elevation
- Glasgow's shipbuilding legacy comes from its position on the Clyde – at just 5–10 m above sea level, the river was ideal for launching ocean-going vessels.
- Kelvingrove Park, home to Glasgow's famous museum, sits at 25–45 m in the West End.
- Glasgow's Necropolis cemetery, a Victorian garden cemetery, sits on a hill at 60 m overlooking the cathedral – one of the city's most dramatic viewpoints.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Elevation of Glasgow
What is the elevation of Glasgow?
Glasgow city centre sits at approximately 36 metres (118 feet) above sea level on the River Clyde.
Is Glasgow flat or hilly?
The city centre is relatively flat, but Glasgow is surrounded by hills. The Campsie Fells to the north rise to over 500 m, and even within city limits, hills like Cathkin Braes reach 217 m.
How does Glasgow compare to Edinburgh in elevation?
Edinburgh (54 m) is slightly higher on average than Glasgow (36 m), but Edinburgh's volcanic landscape – including Castle Rock and Arthur's Seat – makes its terrain much more dramatic.