O2 Academy

The O2 Academy Glasgow is one of the city’s premier mid-size live music venues, bringing together a legacy building and modern concert facilities. With a capacity of around 2,500, it hosts big-name acts, rising artists, club nights and eclectic performances in a fantastic Art Deco-inspired space.

O2 Academy

🎶 About the Venue

The O2 Academy (formerly the Carling Academy) is located on Eglinton Street in the Gorbals / Laurieston area of Glasgow.

Its roots lie in the former New Bedford Cinema, which was rebuilt after a fire in 1932 and opened in its modern form in December 1932. The cinema eventually closed in the 1970s and later became a bingo hall, before being transformed into the O2 Academy with a major refurbishment in the early 2000s.

When it reopened as a music venue in March 2003, the first concert featured Deacon Blue. The refurbishment aimed to retain heritage touches. Such as original ceiling features, balcony boxes, the proscenium arch and stairwell paneling, while equipping the venue with state-of-the-art sound and lighting for modern performances.

Operated by Academy Music Group (AMG) and under the O2 branding (after a sponsorship rebrand in 2008), it’s among Glasgow’s go-to venues for touring rock, indie, pop, dance, comedy and club events.

🎟️ What’s On at the O2 Academy

O2 Academy hosts a varied programme. International touring bands, up-and-coming local acts, crossover events like club nights and comedy sets. Its larger capacity makes it a stepping stone between small venues and arenas.

O2 Academy
O2 Academy Events

O2 Academy

121 Eglinton Street, Glasgow, G5 9NT.
Telephone: 0141 418 3000.

Routes: 3, 4, 38, 57.
Night Routes: N38, N57.

We’re easy to get to by all major approach roads, including the M8 motorway.
There are options for on street parking in the surrounding area, subject to a voucher system operated by the City Council. These can be bought at local participating shops, but be sure to check, as some streets are free after 6pm or 8pm.
There is also a 159 space car park at Bridge Street subway station, around 300 metres away on Eglinton Street.

The nearest subway station is Bridge Street, that’s around 300 metres away on Eglinton Street.

Glasgow Central Station is about a 10 minute walk and has links to trains all over Scotland and services to various locations in England.
Glasgow Queen Street Station is about a 15 minute walk and has links to trains all over Scotland and services to various locations in England.

🍽️ Before & After the Show

For food and drinks close to O2 Academy Glasgow, here are some good local options — all walkable and well suited for a concert night:

  • Jinty McGuinty’s (Gorbals / Eglinton Street area) — a local pub with a welcoming atmosphere and decent pub fare.
  • The Gorbals Village (on Caledonia Road) — several café and bistro style places, good for pre-gig dinners or a relaxed post-show meal.
  • Angels & Gypsies (on Caledonia Road) — cozy café/bistro, good option for lighter meals or a quieter sit-down.
  • Velo Café / Bike café options in the nearby area — good for more casual, laid-back eating before heading into a show.

These keep you close to the venue so you aren’t trekking too far after a concert night.