Scotland’s largest city and the third largest city in the UK, Glasgow exudes style, sophistication and vibrant energy in its cultural heart of the City Centre, Merchant City and West End. In recent times, the city has experienced transformation in a colossal scale and has shaken off it’s ‘Mean City’ image. It is no surprise that Glasgow was awarded ‘European City of Culture’ in 1990 and ‘UK City of Architecture in 1999’.
A major hub for transportation, business and culture, Glasgow is an important UK destination for city breaks and vacations in Scotland, being accessible from most of the UK and Europe and having direct flights from North America and Dubai. Glasgow welcomes over 2 million staying visitors per year generating a substantial income to the local economy.
A cosmopolitan city with a vibrant arts scene and eclectic cultural calendar, Glasgow showcases some of the world’s finest art collections, exhibited at the resplendent Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in the West End, a must-see attraction. Music flows through the veins of every Glaswegian (Glasgow natives) and in any given night of the week, live music of various genres is performed in bars and music venues from the city centre to the West End and in our own neighbourhood, The Merchant City.
A city of many contrasts and pleasant surprises, Glasgow never seizes to inspire visitors from all corners of the globe. This ‘dear green place’ is endowed with the highest concentration of public parks than any other UK city. Wander around Pollok Country Park and see highland cattle grazing in Glasgow’s largest outdoor space. Take a wander around nearby Glasgow Green and explore the city’s social history in the People’s Palace, housing a plethora of artefacts, film and interactive displays.
A ‘Jewel in the Crown’ on the banks of the River Clyde, The Riverside Museum is home to some of the finest transport collections in the UK and offers a fantastic day out. Alternatively, take a trip out of town and experience beautiful countryside surrounding the city. Loch Lomond is a mere 45 minutes by train from Glasgow Queen Street Low Level Station.
Desire some retail therapy? Glasgow will certainly not disappoint the most avid of shoppers. The City Centre and Merchant City are the best bet for designer emporiums, independent boutiques, department stores and familiar high street stores. Sauchiehall Street and nearby Argyle Street are the city’s key shopping areas lined with high street names such as M&S and Debenhams. For upscale shopping, look no further than The Merchant City, Buchanan Street and Buchanan Galleries.
Arta
62 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1PA
Step from the cobbled streets of the Merchant City into the Mediterranean atmosphere of Arta. Patrons return time and time again to enjoy a drink, meal, dance or a live band. Sumptuous surroundings and late licence, an ideal venue to start or finish your day in the Merchant City.
Corinthian
191 Ingram Street, Glasgow G1 1DA
The Corinthian has evolved over the years from a bank to a high court to a now impressive social venue. As well as private member areas there is a public bar, piano bar, restaurant and night club.
Glasgow Cathedral
2 Castle Street, Glasgow G4
Majestically standing next to Saint Mungo’s Museum of Religious Life and Art is Glasgow’s own cathedral. Patron Saint of Glasgow, St Mungo has his tomb in the lower church of the cathedral. The original rebuilt cathedral dates back to the 13th century.
Merchant Square
71-73 Albion Street, Glasgow G1 1RB
Merchant Square is a sheltered courtyard offering a selection of pubs and restaurants. Guests can sit within the bars or restaurants or enjoy the airy continental feel of the courtyard. Browse through the menus on display outside the eateries before booking your table for the evening.
Provand’s Lordship
3 Castle Street, Glasgow G4 ORB
Provand’s Lordship is a medieval house situated opposite Saint Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art. The first floor has seventeenth century furniture gifted by Sir William Burrell. More of Sir William Burrell’s collections can be enjoyed in Pollok Park in the Southside of Glasgow.
Saint Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art
2 Castle Street, Glasgow G4 ORH
The aim of this museum is to promote an understanding of different faiths and also of non belief. The museum has various galleries and exhibitions. At the end of your trip browse through the gift shop for memorabilia.
The Lighthouse
11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU
The Lighthouse was designed by Glasgow’s own Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The interior is a tribute to his works and includes scale models of buildings and furniture that he designed. Spanning 6 floors with the top floor offering panoramic views of Glasgow. There is also a gift shop and rooftop café/bar.