Vibrant, modern, edgy, artistic and beautiful are just some of the words that can be used to describe the largest city in Scotland - Glasgow. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, the city is one of the most important centres for culture and trade in the Western Lowlands. The city is also an important access point for the rest of the country, and the perfect place from which you can explore the rest of the places like the Highlands and the capital city of Edinburgh.
The city is also brimming with some of the most significant historical attractions in the UK, including the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral, Necropolis, The Botanical Gardens, and The Lighthouse. You can explore the myriad facets of the culture of Glasgow in the many museums that can be found in the city as well. Places like Finestone and Merchant City are also ideal for shopping.
When you are exploring the city, make sure you don’t mind out on some of the essential experiences like walking or cycling tours, visiting the many whiskey distilleries for a taste of the finest whiskey in the world and eating at amazing restaurants that serve delectable Scottish food and also some of the best curries in this part of the world. Glasgow is also known for its vibrant music scene, so make sure you catch a concert while you’re at it.
If you’re wondering when to visit, then the best time would be between March and August when the weather is pleasant and cool, and there is enough daylight. The altitude of Glasgow as well as the mountains and the rivers make it a cold place with little daylight through most part of the year.
1. Glasgow Cathedral: The Glasgow Cathedral is one of the most significant structures in the city, dating back to the 12th century. It is one of the most striking features of the Glasgow skyline, dominating the horizon with its sharp and tall spired and mid-century architecture. It is also home to the tomb of St Mungo, who is known as the founder of the Bishopric.
Location: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Friday (10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.), Saturday and Sunday (1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)
2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is located in one of the most famous streets in Glasgow, namely Sauchiehall Street. The Museum is home to one of the finest collections of British and European art, including paintings by Van Gogh, Salvador Dali and Alexander Reid. There are also fascinating specimens of weaponry, pottery and other artefacts from various centuries.
Location: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
3. Necropolis: One of the most fascinating places to visit in Glasgow is Necropolis, located adjacent to the Glasgow Cathedral. This Victorian Gothic Garden dates back to the 12th century and is home to over 50,000 natives who have been buried here over the centuries. The graveyard and garden are also home to some ancient and famous sculptures that can give you wonderful insight into the art and culture of Glasgow.
Location: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0UZ, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (7:00 am. - 4:30 p.m.)
4. The University of Glasgow: One of the most famous landmarks in Glasgow is Glasgow University, which is the second oldest seat of education in all of Scotland. The University is not only home to some of the most gifted students in the world, but also boasts of illustrious alumni.
You can also check out several famous and significant works of art in the museum and art gallery inside the university premises. The structure itself is a beautiful specimen of 15th-century architecture that is very uniquely Scottish.
Location: Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
5. Glasgow Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace: The Kibble Palace is one of the most famous and largest glasshouses in all of Britain and houses many rare and unique orchid species. The property was built in 1873 and has tropical plants that were brought over from all over the world over the centuries. There is a lovely tea room as well as a sprawling patio in the gardens where you can take in the surrounding natural beauty of the place.
Location: Botanic Gardens, Glasgow G12 0UE, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (12 noon - 4:00 p.m.)
6. The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel: It is safe to say that the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel in Glasgow has the finest display and collection of transport-related memorabilia in the world. Transport was a massive part of British and Scottish culture, where they used naval means to travel the world and connect with various cultures. Mementoes and souvenirs from those travels, including parts of the vessels, other industrial relics from the past and other exciting things can be found here in the museum.
Location: 100 Pointhouse Road, Partick, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Thursday and Saturday (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
7. Glasgow Science Centre: The Glasgow Science Centre is a highly coveted seat of learning in Glasgow and also a wonderful place to explore the many scientific discoveries that have come from Britain and Scotland. The museum also has a planetarium and organises several interactive workshops, exhibitions and displays on a regular basis that is fun for people of all ages to explore.
Location: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow G51 1EA, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)
8. The Lighthouse: Another place that you absolutely must visit when you are in Glasgow includes the Lighthouse, which is the centre of design and architecture in the city. The LIghthouse was opened to the public in 1999 and is a fascinating place to explore because of its unique design, the winding staircase and the incredible view of the city from the top of the structure.
The Lighthouse was designed by Charles Ronnie Mackintosh. You can also grab a bite to eat at the in-house cafe and restaurant located at the base of the structure.
Location: 11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Saturday (10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.), Sundays (12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m.)
Some of the best things you can take back home with you from Glasgow include:
- Knitwear and other woollen items
- Auchentoshan whiskey
- Football shirts, memorabilia, etc.
- Celtic jewellery