Glasgow is a port city on the River Clyde in Scotland.
It is the largest city in Scotland and the third largest city in the United Kingdom.
This exciting city is known for its shipbuilding, engineering and textiles industries, and was also home to the first public library in the UK, and the first passenger railway line in Britain.
Today, Glasgow is a major centre for business and finance, as well as arts and media.
The city is also home to two universities, and several museums and art galleries.
Glasgow is a vibrant and friendly city, with a lot to offer visitors so whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy the great outdoors, Glasgow is sure to please.
Things To Do In Glasgow
1. Glasgow Cathedral
Glasgow Cathedral is a magnificent building that dates back to the 12th century and is one of the best examples of Scottish Gothic architecture.
The cathedral is located in the heart of Glasgow, with the present building completed in 1198, although it has been greatly added to over the centuries.
It is home to many beautiful stained glass windows including the famous Rose Window, and has a stunning carved wooden ceiling.
Glasgow cathedral also has a fascinating history, as it was on this site that Glasgow’s patron saint, St Mungo, was buried in 612AD.
The cathedral is free to enter and is a great visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.
Address: Glasgow Cathedral, Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ
2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum opened in 1901 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Glasgow.
Located in Kelvingrove Park, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has 22 galleries showcasing a wide variety of art from different periods and cultures.
Including paintings by Scottish artists such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Jack Vettriano, as well as international masters such as Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso.
The museum also has an extensive natural history collection, with specimens ranging from dinosaurs to animals to ancient Egypt.
Visitors can explore Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum at their own pace or take part in one of the many guided tours offered by the museum.
Besides all the exhibits, Kelvingrove Art Gallery has a restaurant, a café and a gift shop.
The Museum is completely free to visit and with so many things to see and do, it makes a great day out.
Address: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG
3. Glasgow Science Centre
Glasgow Science Centre is a fantastic place to visit, especially for those who are interested in science and technology.
The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, and the views from the top floors are simply breath-taking.
The exhibits are very well designed and interactive, making them enjoyable for both adults and children.
There is also a planetarium and IMAX cinema on site, which are definitely worth a look.
Overall, Glasgow Science Centre is a great day out for the whole family, it’s educational, entertaining and most importantly, fun!
Address: Glasgow Science Centre, 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow G51 1EA
4. The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel
The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel is located at the junction of the River Kelvin and River Clyde.
The museum opened on 21st June 2011 and features over 3,000 objects on display, including cars, trains, bicycles and boats.
Kids can enjoy a Treasure Hunt, which is available to download and an entire recreated railway station with a number of railway coaches and carriages.
There are also many hands-on areas where children can play with some of the exhibits on display.
The museum is open seven days a week and admission is free.
The Riverside Museum is a must-visit for families, or anyone interested in transport and Glasgow’s history.
Address: The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel, 100 Pointhouse Rd, Partick, Glasgow G3 8RS
5. Glasgow Green
Glasgow Green is a 55-acre public park located within walking distance of the city centre, east of the Saltmarket.
It is the oldest public park in the city and is one of the finest examples of a traditional Scottish green.
The park is home to a number of important historical and cultural sites, including the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, Doulton fountain and Glasgow Necropolis.
There are a many footpaths, Clyde viewing platforms and an Orienteering course, and kids can play in the play village and designated play areas.
The park is popular with both locals and visitors alike and is an important part of Glasgow’s heritage.
Address: Glasgow Green, Greendyke St, Saltmarket, Glasgow G1 5DB
6. Royal Exchange Square
Royal Exchange Square is one of the most iconic squares in Glasgow, and for good reason – it’s home to some of the best shopping, dining and attractions in the city.
The square also has some notable landmarks that include the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) and the Glasgow Stock Exchange.
Royal Exchange Square is also surrounded by a number of high-end shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring.
Address: Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, Scotland
7. Glasgow Central Station
Glasgow Central Station is located on Gordon Street in the city centre and is one of the busiest railway stations in the United Kingdom.
The station was opened in 1879 by the Caledonian Railway and has twenty-six platforms, making it the largest railway station in Scotland.
One of Glasgow’s most iconic landmarks, it is also one of the few stations in the UK to have a double-deck concourse.
Walking tours can be booked that give visitors a behind the scenes look at the station.
The tour takes you to the subterranean passageways, then a visit to the railway vaults where you will hear stories about the famous that have stood on the platforms.
This walking tour is great for anyone interested in history or railways, and tickets can be bought online.
Address: Glasgow Central Station, Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3SL
8. Glasgow Film Theatre
The Glasgow Film Theatre is an independent cinema that first opened in 1939.
It’s a great venue for film fans, with a wide selection of films showing every week.
The cinema is also home to a number of special events and screenings, so there’s always something new to see.
If you’re looking for a great night out at the movies, Glasgow Film Theatre is the place to be.
With its wide selection of films, friendly staff and comfortable seats, it’s the perfect place to relax and escape from the everyday world.
Address: Glasgow Film Theatre, 12 Rose St, Glasgow G3 6RB
9. River Clyde
The River Clyde is the ninth-longest river in the United Kingdom, and the third-longest in Scotland.
The River flows through Glasgow and was an important shipbuilding river for many years.
The Clyde waterfront has a great selection of leisure attractions for visitors, including Springfield Quay, the Riverside museum and the Tall Ship.
The river is also popular with tourists who come to admire its scenic beauty, with boat rides available at certain times of the year.
Address: River Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland
10. Pollok Country Park
If you’re looking for a great place to take a walk, have a picnic or just enjoy some time outdoors, Pollok Country Park is the perfect spot.
Located just outside Glasgow, this large park is home to many different species of plants and animals, as well as plenty of beautiful scenery.
There are extensive woodlands and gardens with several different walking trails to choose from, so you can explore the park at your own pace.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at orienteering.
Pollok Country Park also has a playground and a café on site.
Address: Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Rd, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT
11. Hunterian Art Gallery and museum
The Hunterian Art Gallery is one of the best art galleries in Glasgow and houses one of the most important collections of art in Scotland.
It is home to a wide range of paintings, sculptures and other works of art.
The gallery is named after its founder, William Hunter, who was a doctor and collector of art, he then bequeathed his collection to the University of Glasgow on his death.
Admission to the art gallery is free, although there may be charges for some special exhibitions.
Well worth a visit for any art lover especially if you’re interested in seeing some of the finest examples of Scottish art.
Address: University of Glasgow, 82 Hillhead St, Glasgow G12 8QQ
12. Pollok House
Built in the 17th century, Pollok House is a beautiful example of Scottish architecture, and its gardens are simply stunning.
This elegant house is located in the scenic Pollok Country Park on the outskirts of Glasgow.
The house contains a collection of Spanish art, as well as works by Raeburn and Guthrie.
Visitors can explore the house and grounds at their leisure, and there is plenty to see and do.
Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, Pollok House is sure to please.
Address: Pollok House, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT
13. Mackintosh House
Mackintosh House is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the famous Scottish architect and designer, Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
The museum is located in Mackintosh’s former home, which has been restored to its original condition.
Visitors can explore the house and learn about Mackintosh’s work, as well as see some of his original drawings and sketches.
Address: Mackintosh House, 82 Hillhead St, Glasgow G12 8QQ
14. George Square
George Square is one of the most famous squares in Glasgow and is named after King George III.
The square is home to a number of important buildings, including the City Chambers and the Glasgow Stock Exchange.
There are also several statues and monuments in the square, including a statue of Sir Walter Scott.
George Square is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike, and it is also the venue for many events and festivals throughout the year.
Address: George Square, Glasgow, Scotland
15. Glasgow Botanic Gardens
The Glasgow Botanic Gardens are a world-famous horticultural display garden and scientific research facility.
The gardens were first established in 1817, making them one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United Kingdom.
The gardens are home to a large collection of plants from all over the world, as well as a number of greenhouses and glasshouses.
The Glasgow Botanic Gardens are also home to the Kibble Palace, which is one of the largest Victorian glasshouses in Europe.
The gardens host a number of events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions and educational programmes.
There is also a Heritage Trail that runs through the Gardens with almost 30 points of interest.
The Gardens are open all year and have free entry, with the glasshouses open 10am to 6pm.
Address: Glasgow Botanic Gardens, 730 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE
16. People’s Palace and Winter Gardens
People’s Palace and Winter Gardens is one of Glasgow’s most iconic buildings.
Situated in the heart of the city, the People’s Palace was built as a social history museum in 1898.
The Winter Gardens were added in 1902 and are home to a variety of exotic plants.
The museum tells the story of the city and its people from 1750 to the present day.
Visitors can learn about Glasgow’s industrial past, see how the city has changed over time, and find out about the people who have made Glasgow what it is today.
The Winter Gardens are a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city and home to a variety of exotic plants, they provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Address: People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, Glasgow Green, Templeton Street, Glasgow, G40 1AT.
FAQ
Does Glasgow have a good music scene?
Glasgow was crowned the UK’s only UNESCO city of music and it is renowned for it’s live music scene.
There’s a variety of live music venues catering for small gigs to huge arenas hosting the biggest names.
Is Glasgow city chambers open to the public?
The City Chambers is a grand and imposing building overlooking George Square.
The impressive symbol of Glasgow’s political strength been the headquarters of the Glasgow City council for more than a century.
A guided tour of the City Chambers is available twice daily at 10.30am and 2.30pm.
Is Glasgow School of Art open to the public?
The Glasgow School of Art welcomes visitors and prospective students to visit it’s campus throughout the year.
What is Buchanan Street famous for?
Buchanan Street is one of the main shopping areas in Glasgow.
This is a very lively area with many shops, restaurants, arcades, a library and museum, a design centre and some stunning Victorian and Edwardian style buildings.
