Located to the west of Edinburgh, Scotland’s second city Glasgow sits along the banks of the River Clyde. What was previously a city that relied heavily on industry has now evolved into a friendly and vibrant cultural hotspot.
Glasgow has a great public transport system, although many of its top sights and attractions can be easily reached on foot. Start at elegant George Square and admire the surrounding historic architecture, statues and monuments. Glasgow erupts in celebration on 30 November every year to commemorate their own patron saint, St. Andrew, while Hogmanay (the Scottish New Year) is one of the biggest parties in the city.
Don’t let the typical Scottish rain get in the way of your visit – Glasgow offers plenty of indoor attractions and entertainment, with twenty different museums, including the Gallery of Modern Art, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Huntarian. Visit the imposing Glasgow Cathedral for a glimpse of Gothic architecture.
The life and work of Glasgow’s celebrated architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh is on display at the Lighthouse, while the interactive displays and giant hamster wheel at the Glasgow Science Centre are perfect for children and young visitors.
If the sun makes an appearance, then head to the riverfront and relax on Glasgow Green. Enjoy the social history and horticulture displays, explore the monuments and give the kids a free reign in the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, Glasgow’s oldest public park.
Sample a single malt Scotch whisky or local ale at the Scotia Bar, Glasgow’s oldest pub. If you’re feeling brave, ask the locals about the latest news on Rangers and Celtic – the city’s competing football teams – and be prepared to hear all about it in detail!
Both the national football stadium and an occasional live music venue, the Hampden is also home to the football Hall of Fame. For theatre and other live music performances, make your way over to the smaller King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut concert hall.
Just an hour outside the city is Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Take a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of Glasgow life and appreciate the natural diversity of the Scottish highlands.