The graduation hall of the University of Glasgow, Bute Hall lies at the centre of the main Gilmorehill building. It is a fine Gothic revival building, planned by Sir George Gilbert Scott (1811-78) but executed between 1878-84 by his son John Oldrid Scott (1841 - 1913). The work was paid for by John Crichton-Stuart, 3rd Marquess of Bute (1847 - 1900), who brought his considerable influence to bear to ensure the interior was designed in his favoured style, florid Gothic, with numerous pointed arches and slender cast-iron columns, decorated with heraldic motifs and in colours to honour his gift. Pendulous light fittings, designed to resemble the head of the University Mace, descend from an impressive wooden vaulted ceiling. The fine stained glass windows which commemorate notable academics connected with the University represent the work of Sir Edward Coley Burne-Jones (1833-98), Henry Dearle (1860 - 1932), Henry Holiday (1839 - 1927) and Douglas Strachan (1875 - 1950). The organ was the work of Lewis & Co of London, installed in 1904 and rebuilt in 1962.
Graduation ceremonies remain traditional, with the conferment of degrees and much of the proceedings conducted in Latin. The hall is also used for examinations, public lectures, conferences, weddings and other functions, with seating for 1010.
The adjacent Randolph Hall, which was built at the same time, is separated from the Bute Hall by a screen. This was the gift of marine engineer Charles Randolph (1809-78). Both halls were subject to an extensive restoration in 1986.
