Discover Glasgow | A Visitor's Introduction to Glasgow

Why is Glasgow Worth a Visit?

Glasgow is worth visiting for its unique blend of history, culture, and creativity. The city has reinvented itself from its industrial past into one of the UK’s leading cultural hubs, boasting more than 20 museums and galleries, many of which are free to enter. Its architectural landscape is a stunning mix of grand Victorian buildings and striking modern designs, while the local music scene is legendary, with bands like Simple Minds, Franz Ferdinand, and Chvrches hailing from the city. Glasgow is also a UNESCO City of Music, with live performances happening every night across its many iconic venues. With an unrivalled selection of shopping, a thriving food and drink scene, and easy access to the beautiful Scottish Highlands, Glasgow is a perfect destination for travellers seeking a diverse and exciting city break.

Glasgow Highlights: Things to See and Do in Glasgow

1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

One of the most popular attractions in Scotland, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must-visit in Glasgow. Housed in a stunning red sandstone building, this museum boasts 22 galleries featuring everything from European masterpieces (including works by Van Gogh and Dalí) to ancient Egyptian artefacts. The museum is also home to a fascinating collection of natural history exhibits and Scottish cultural artefacts. Best of all, admission is free, making it a great place to spend an afternoon immersed in art, history, and culture.

2. Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis

Glasgow Cathedral is one of the city’s oldest and most striking buildings, dating back to the 12th century. This medieval cathedral, with its stunning stained glass windows and gothic architecture, offers visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Just behind the cathedral is the Glasgow Necropolis, a sprawling Victorian cemetery with over 3,500 monuments. A walk through the Necropolis offers incredible views of the city and a fascinating insight into Glasgow’s past, as many of the city’s prominent figures are buried here.

3. Riverside Museum

If you’re interested in Glasgow’s industrial heritage and transportation history, the Riverside Museum is the place to go. Designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this modern museum is dedicated to Glasgow’s rich maritime and industrial history. Exhibits include everything from vintage cars and trams to locomotives and bicycles. The museum sits on the banks of the River Clyde and is also home to the Tall Ship Glenlee, a fully restored sailing ship that visitors can explore.

4. The Glasgow School of Art

Designed by one of Glasgow’s most famous sons, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Glasgow School of Art is an iconic building and a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture. Although the building suffered significant fire damage in recent years, it remains a pilgrimage site for architecture and design enthusiasts. Visitors can still explore the Mackintosh legacy through guided tours of the Mackintosh House at the Hunterian Art Gallery and other Mackintosh-designed buildings around the city.

5. The West End and Byres Road

The West End is Glasgow’s bohemian and cultural district, known for its leafy streets, independent boutiques, and vibrant cafés. At the heart of the West End is Byres Road, a bustling street lined with trendy restaurants, vintage shops, and charming pubs. The West End is also home to Ashton Lane, a cobbled street famous for its fairy-lit bars and restaurants. During the summer, the West End comes alive with events like the West End Festival, a celebration of the area’s creativity and community spirit.

6. George Square and Glasgow City Chambers

At the heart of Glasgow lies George Square, the city’s main civic square, surrounded by impressive Victorian buildings and statues of famous Scots. Overlooking the square is the Glasgow City Chambers, a grand, imposing building that reflects Glasgow’s wealth during the 19th century. Free guided tours of the City Chambers are available, offering a glimpse into its stunning interiors, including its ornate marble staircases and impressive council chambers.

7. The Barras Market

For a taste of authentic Glasgow, head to The Barras Market, a lively weekend market in the city’s East End. The Barras is a Glasgow institution, where you can find everything from antiques and vintage clothing to street food and live music. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking to experience the true character of the city, with its mix of old and new, traditional and quirky.

8. The SSE Hydro and Glasgow’s Music Scene

The SSE Hydro is one of the city’s premier music venues. Hosting international stars and major events, this futuristic, dome-shaped arena is one of the busiest in the world. For a more intimate experience, visit King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, a legendary venue where Oasis was famously discovered. Glasgow’s music scene is diverse, with live performances happening nightly at venues ranging from the Barrowland Ballroom to the O2 Academy.

9. Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Located in the West End, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city. The gardens are famous for their beautiful Victorian glasshouses, including the Kibble Palace, which houses a collection of tropical plants and sculptures. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially in the warmer months when the flowers are in full bloom. There’s also a lovely tearoom on-site for a relaxing afternoon break.

10. Merchant City

Merchant City is one of Glasgow’s oldest quarters and has undergone significant regeneration, transforming it into a stylish district filled with boutiques, galleries, and upmarket restaurants. The area’s cobbled streets and grand Georgian buildings reflect Glasgow’s mercantile past, while its bars and cafés make it a vibrant spot for a night out. During the summer, the Merchant City Festival brings the streets alive with street performances, live music, and arts events.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:

Glasgow is well connected to the rest of the UK and beyond. Glasgow Airport is located just 15 minutes from the city centre and offers flights to a variety of domestic and international destinations. The city is also accessible by train, with Glasgow Central Station providing services from London (around 4.5 hours) and other major cities. Queen Street Station serves routes to Edinburgh, which is just 50 minutes away by train. Glasgow is also easy to reach by road, with the M8 motorway running through the city, connecting it to Edinburgh and the rest of Scotland.

Getting Around:

Glasgow’s public transport system is efficient and easy to use. The Subway, known locally as "the Clockwork Orange," connects the city centre with the West End and other key areas. Buses run frequently throughout the city, and there are plenty of taxis and rideshare options available. If you prefer exploring on foot, Glasgow’s grid layout makes it easy to navigate, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Parking:

If you’re driving, there are several car parks in the city centre, such as the Q-Park on Waterloo Street and NCP Car Park on Mitchell Street. Parking can be pricey, especially during weekdays, so it’s worth checking if your accommodation offers parking or considering park-and-ride options from outside the city.

Dining:

Glasgow’s food scene is one of the best in the UK, with a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine. For fine dining, try Cail Bruich, Glasgow’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes. The Ubiquitous Chip in the West End is a long-standing favourite, offering modern Scottish cuisine in a rustic setting. For a more casual bite, Paesano on Miller Street serves some of the best pizza in the city, while Mono in the Merchant City is a great spot for vegan food and live music.

Shopping:

Glasgow is one of the UK’s top shopping destinations, with everything from high-street brands to independent boutiques. Buchanan Street is the main shopping thoroughfare, home to Buchanan Galleries and Princes Square, which feature designer stores and luxury brands. For vintage clothing and quirky gifts, head to the West End or The Barras market. Glasgow Fort and Silverburn shopping centres, located on the outskirts, are also worth a visit for their wide range of shops and dining options.

When to Visit:

The best time to visit Glasgow is during the warmer months, from May to September, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals. The summer months bring long days and lively street festivals like the West End Festival and Merchant City Festival. Glasgow’s Christmas markets and light displays make it a magical place to visit during the winter, though be prepared for chilly and wet weather.

Local Events:

Glasgow is home to a packed calendar of events throughout the year. The Celtic Connections Festival in January celebrates traditional and contemporary Celtic music with concerts, ceilidhs, and workshops. Glasgow International Comedy Festival, held in March, attracts some of the biggest names in comedy. In the summer, TRNSMT Festival brings international music acts to Glasgow Green, while Piping Live! in August is the world’s largest bagpipe festival.

Exploring Beyond Glasgow:

Glasgow’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of Scotland. The scenic shores of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park are just a 40-minute drive away, offering stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. A day trip to Stirling allows you to explore the impressive Stirling Castle and learn about Scotland’s historical battles. The city of Edinburgh, with its iconic castle and medieval old town, is just an hour away by train.