Named after King George III, this spacious square sits at the very heart of Glasgow. George Square is a popular meeting and gathering place during large celebrations like Christmas, Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve), student fairs and the patron St. Andrew’s Day.
What started out as a muddy field was transformed into private gardens and Georgian townhouses in the late 18th century. One hundred years later, the site was made into a public square and is now a popular meeting point for Glasgow residents. George Square is home to the city’s Tourist Information Centre, a great place to head upon arrival in Glasgow to learn more about what the city has to offer.
Notice the lovely 19th-century Glasgow City Chambers that are situated on the east side of the square. The old Bank of Scotland is an Italian Renaissance-style building that is now home to a pub and restaurant, perfect for a quick drink or tasty meal.
Taking pride of place in the square is a tall column that was constructed to commemorate the writer Sir Walter Scott. Underneath the column is a sculpture of the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns, the writer behind the New Year classic Auld Lang Syne. Other statues in the square include those of the inventor James Watt, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
It’s not unusual for street performers to set up in George Square, so you may catch some impromptu live bagpipe music or a performance by a local band. The square will feature heavily in the coming 2014 Commonwealth Games – have a look at the Glasgow City Council website for more information.
During the winter months, an ice rink is erected in the square, and the whole area becomes a festive fairground over Christmas, with a big wheel and classical carousel.
Thanks to its central location, George Square can be easily reached from many of Glasgow’s other top sights and attractions, including the Gallery of Modern Art and the Lighthouse. Take the train to Glasgow Central or Glasgow Queen Street, or hop on one of the many buses that stop near the square.
