15 Things to do in Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is known for its flourishing arts scene, rich history, stunning architecture, and friendly locals. It’s a city of contrasts where the modern meets the traditional, making it a unique place to visit. Here are 15 of Glasgow’s most captivating sites:

1. Glasgow Cathedral: A remarkable example of Scottish Gothic architecture, Glasgow Cathedral dates back to the 12th century. It’s one of the few medieval churches in Scotland that survived the Reformation unscathed. Website
2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Home to one of Europe’s great civic art collections, Kelvingrove boasts 22 galleries and more than 8,000 objects. Here, you’ll find everything from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Website
3. The Riverside Museum: This award-winning transport museum showcases over 3,000 objects related to transportation, from skateboards to locomotives. The unique, modernist architecture of the building is a sight in itself. Website
4. The Glasgow Science Centre: A world-class science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a tower offering panoramic city views. It’s an exciting and educational day out for all ages. Website
5. The Necropolis: This Victorian garden cemetery offers a tranquil walk, boasting stunning monuments and sweeping views across the city. It’s a place of peace and reflection, steeped in history. Website
6. The University of Glasgow: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, it’s also a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. Don’t miss the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery located on the campus. Website
7. The Lighthouse: As Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, The Lighthouse hosts a variety of exhibitions and events. You can also climb the Mackintosh Tower for a beautiful view of the city. Website
8. Glasgow Botanic Gardens: This green oasis features a series of glasshouses, including the impressive Kibble Palace. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Website
9. City Chambers: This is the city’s focal point of municipal administration. The stunning Victorian interiors and grand façade of the building are worth exploring. Guided tours are available. Website
10. People’s Palace and Winter Gardens: This museum provides a unique view into Glasgow’s history, while the Winter Gardens house exotic plants. Website
11. House for an Art Lover: Based on a design by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, this house is a celebration of the Arts and Crafts movement. Website
12. Pollok Country Park: The park is home to Pollok House, a grand country mansion filled with Spanish artwork, and the Burrell Collection, an art collection donated to the city by shipping magnate Sir William Burrell. Website
13. Glasgow Green: The city’s oldest park and the site of many historic events, Glasgow Green includes attractions such as the People’s Palace and the impressive Doulton Fountain. Website
14. The Barrowland Ballroom: For music lovers, this iconic venue offers a unique, intimate concert experience. Website
15. King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut: Legendary for launching the careers of many big-name bands, this small venue is a must-visit for any music fan. Website

Getting Around Glasgow

Glasgow has a comprehensive public transport system which includes buses, trains, and a subway – affectionately known as the “Clockwork Orange” due to its circular route. Buses are managed by First Glasgow, and you can find the routes and timetables on their Website. The city’s subway and train system is operated by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT), and you can plan your journey on their Website. For more flexible travel, taxis and rideshares are also readily available through companies like Uber.

Biking is another great way to get around, with Nextbike offering bike rentals throughout the city. You can check out their Website for more details.

Glasgow Weather Guide

Remember, Glasgow weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for rain regardless of the season!