places to visit around glasgow

11 Of The Most Picturesque And Quaint Villages And Towns Less Than Two Hours From Glasgow

Time to escape from the city buzz?

It’s easy to forget sometimes that there’s more out there apart from the city, and Scotland is full to the brim with quaint and picturesque spots that are well worth a visit. Feeling the need to escape for a day trip ? Check out our guide to the prettiest towns and villages near Glasgow that are no more than an hour and a half drive away to explore if you’re bored of the same old views of concrete or your bedroom walls.

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Located south of Glasgow in South Lanarkshire , Lanark is a small town with plenty of charm. Wander the high street or venture to nearby attractions and green spots like Castlebank Park and Clyde Valley Woodlands Reserve . Lanark and the surrounding areas offer plenty of tranquillity thanks to the bodies of water in the vicinity, see the River Clyde flow by, head to the Falls of Clyde, a woodland area with breathtaking waterfalls, or enjoy a moment of calm at Lanark Loch. The area is also reaped in history with the former site of Lanark Castle located in Castlebank Park and just a 30-minute walk away you’ll find New Lanark, a World Heritage site which features a mill, cafe, hotel and a water wheel that sends water towards the Falls of Clyde .

How to get there: 42 minutes by car, 56 minutes by train.

2. Arrochar

Stretched along the northern shore of Loch Long , Arrochar is a beautiful village in the Argyll & Bute region. However, Arrochar is not only blessed with one nearby loch but two- and the other is a whopper! Head east towards Tarbet and you’ll find the almighty Loch Lomond with the Trossachs National Park and Ben Lomond towering behind the loch. You can climb a Munro in the Arrochar Alps reach the rocky summit of The Cobbler and be rewarded with views of the glorious landscape. Arrochar is not only a great base for those looking to go hiking or cycling but there are a number of bars, restaurants and cafes in the village where you can eat or drink with views across the water.

How to get there: 1 hour by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus.

3. Helensburgh

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South of Arrochar is another quaint spot in Argyll & Bute in the form of the coastal town Helensburgh with its tree-lined streets and historic architecture. Lying between the Clyde, Gare Loch and Loch Lomond , on a clear day you can sit by the waterfront and see the likes of Greenock and Rosneath across the water. Helensburgh owes its name to the wife of Sir James Colquhoun, Lady Helen- Colquhoun bought the land and encouraged wealthy merchants to leave the smog of the city for the fresh air of his new town (and even now Helensburgh still provides this escapism). On your visit to Helensburgh, you can take a lengthy wander inside the 55-acre Duchess Woods, explore Geilston Garden or venture out on a kayak as the town is the final stop on the Argyll Sea Kayak Trail, a 150km-route that begins in Oban and follows the river south. Be sure to sit by the pier with an ice cream in hand to finish your trip!

How to get there: 54 minutes by car, 44 minutes by train.

4. Durisdeer

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Durisdeer , a hamlet found at the base of the Lowther Hills in Dumfries & Galloway . This cute village is something of an undiscovered treasure, partly due to the two narrow roads which end in the village itself being the only points of access. Salman Rushdie is said to have described Durisdeer as “a village so small it didn’t have a pub”, which he’s not wrong about but don’t let that put you off as visiting this hamlet will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time thanks to its charming cottages and farmhouses nestled within the woodlands and green hills . The parish church is brimming with history having stood on the same sight since medieval times and the luscious green hills behind are just itching to be climbed.

How to get there: 1 hour by car.

5. Dunfermline

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By far the largest town on this list, Dunfermline is Scotland’s former capital in the heart of Fife. This town is covered in cobbled streets and bursting with history , culture and plenty of character. Dunfermline is also blessed with a number of green outdoor spaces to explore including Pitreavie Castle Park, Rex Park, Dunfermline Public Park and Pittencrieff Park which has extensive walking paths and a peacock enclosure. Make a stop at Dunfermline Abbey where you can visit the grave of Robert the Bruce as well as see the stunning French Gothic clock tower of the City Chambers . You’ll find plenty of cute independent shops, cafes and restaurants along the town’s main roads and for an added dose of culture swing by the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries.

How to get there: 50 minutes by car, 1 hour 9 minutes by bus.

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Calling all loch lovers, you can lust over the village of Luss . Located in Argyll & Bute , overlooking Loch Lomond from its west bank Luss is one of the most picture-perfect villages near Glasgow. What Luss may lack in size it certainly makes up for in beauty thanks to the rows of cute stone cottages that lead to the loch, lined with gorgeous flowers in their front gardens during the spring and summer months. If you’re after a postcard snap, a pic down Pier Road with the loch and green mountains in the background is the way to go. You can take a relaxing boat tour from Luss which allows you to see the numerous tiny islands on Loch Lomond close up. The Loch Lomond Faerie Trail is also found in Luss, so kids and grown-ups alike can follow the mystical route.

How to get there: 52 minutes by car, 1 hour by bus.

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This Perthshire location is one of the noteworthy villages near Glasgow, and has previously won Britain in Bloom Award a few times, so we can definitely see why as the picturesque landscape lends itself to blossoming flowers and plants (especially the White Church and its courtyard). Another fan fact about Comrie is that it has more earth tremors than anywhere else in the UK, due to being on the Highland Boundary Fault. But don’t let that shake you as like Luss, there’s a main road running through the village with rows of quaint stone cottages to walk past and admire. Ramblers can walk alongside the Water of Ruchill heading to Cultybraggan then loop back up to the village or follow the Melville Monument Trail to Deil’s Cauldron waterfall. For more blooming wonderful scenery, Drummond Castle Gardens is a short drive away from Comrie .

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Close to Dunfermline, Culross is a village in Fife full of heritage and beautiful buildings. Wander along charming, peaceful streets which were once full of the hustle and bustle of a thriving 17th-century port on the River Forth and look out towards the water on the village pier. It goes without saying that The National Trust of Scotland site Culross Palace , a late 16th to early 17th-century merchant’s house, is a must-visit whilst in the village, plus, you can’t miss it with its bright yellow external walls. But magnificent sights don’t stop there as Culross is surrounded by a number of historic landmarks such as Dunimarle Castle, Blair Castle and Culross Abbey . Better still, you can relive scenes from Outlander as Culross was one of the filming locations for the series.

How to get there: 42 minutes by car, 1 hour 10 minutes by bus.

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At the boundary of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and Stirling on the West of Loch Tay lies Killin , and it’s one of the prettiest villages near Glasgow. You could even go as far as to say that Killin is killing it when it comes to river views. The place is also at the base of Breadalbane Mountains , with plenty of walks available for nature lovers. On top of nature hikes, visitors can also go salmon fishing as well as climb Sron a’Chlachain peak which is a two-mile walk that takes between one and a half to two and a half hours. The 400-metre ascent is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s worth the stunning vistas of Loch Tay once one reaches the top.

How to get there: 1 hour 25 minutes by car.

10. Dunkeld

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As far as pretty villages near Glasgow go, Dunkeld was also named the best place to live in Scotland by The Sunday Times this year. Dunkeld is located in Perthshire , around one hour and 15 minutes drive from Glasgow. The village is a favourite for day trips , and boasts lovely nature walks, soothing scenery and a charming friendly atmosphere. There are plenty of local businesses to check out, such as The Great British Bake-Off star Flora Shedden’s Aran Bakery , The Taybank and The Birnam Arts Institute .

How to get there: 1 hour 15 minutes by car.

11. St Fillans

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St Fillans is located on the shores of Loch Earn towards the end of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park . The village boasts plenty of opportunities for stunning walks, as well as spots for quiet contemplation in nature with views over the loch. St Fillans is also part of the Bliss Trail of art and sculptures, connecting the place with Strathyre, Balquhidder and Lochearnhead.

How to get there: 1 hour 10 minutes

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15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow You Need to Do

While the list of  things to do in Glasgow  is extensive, Scotland ’s largest city is also an ideal base for taking some great day trips to explore the breathtaking countryside, bustling towns and peaceful villages of Scotland .

From the serene beauty of Loch Lomond to the crowded streets of  Edinburgh  – there are plenty of exciting places to visit near Glasgow.

With frequent trains leaving from two main train stations and a well-connected network of buses – planning the day trip couldn’t be any easier.

So, when you get knackered after visiting the fascinating museums , exploring all the colourful street arts on  Glasgow Mural Trail  and discovering the  hidden gems , venture out of the city to see a different side of Scotland.

This article brings together some of the best day trips you can take alongside the information on how to get here. So, add a few of them to your  Glasgow itinerary  on your next visit.

Day trips less than one hour from Glasgow

1. loch lomond.

You can’t visit Glasgow and not take a day trip to the stunningly gorgeous Loch Lomond . From scenic boat tours to numerous hiking trails – this area is a nature lovers’ paradise. With easy public transport options, you can easily escape the hubbub of Glasgow and spend a day in nature.

One of the must-visit places in Loch Lomond is Luss . Often regarded as one of the prettiest villages in Scotland , Luss is located on the western bank of Loch Lomond.

Meander along the pretty village streets and the pier. The streets are adorned with quaint cottages with small gardens, which look very photogenic. Also, this village is a popular site for water sports and adventure activities.

Next, take a relaxing boat cruise around the lake to appreciate the beauty of Loch Lomond and the surrounding landscapes. Also, peel your eyes for wildlife. 

Boat trips pass small islands, castles and villages along the shoreline. Balloch, Balmaha and Luss are popular places to catch a boat tour.

For an awe-inspiring view over Loch Lomond, climb the Conic Hill from Balmaha. Expert hikers might be interested in trekking the mighty Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro.

How to Reach: Getting here using public transport is super easy and budget-friendly. Hop on ScotRail train service from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, which takes around 48 minutes. Otherwise, take a Scottish Citylink bus from Buchanan Bus Station.

2. Edinburgh

No visit to Scotland is complete without seeing its capital city of Edinburgh . The Old and New Town of Edinburgh were added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1995. This city is unarguably one of the unmissable day trip choices from Glasgow.

Start your adventure with the iconic Edinburgh Castle . This 900-year-old castle sits atop an extinct volcanic rock and houses the oldest Crown Jewel in Britain.

Next, meander along the cobbled streets of Royal Mile to explore the historic buildings. Marvel at Scott Monument – a memorial dedicated to renowned Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Climb Arthur’s Seat for the best views of the Edinburgh skyline.

For all Harry Potter fans, a visit to the colourful Victoria Street and Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must. A slight detour to Dean Village and Stockbridge will show you a unique side of the city. End your day with a beautiful sunset over Edinburgh from Calton Hill , before heading back to Glasgow. 

How to Reach: Scottish Citylink and Megabus runs regular bus services from Buchanan Bus Station. At peak hours, the bus leaves every 15 minutes.

Also, you can catch trains from Glasgow Queen Street and Central stations, which take around 45 minutes.

3. Stirling

Steeped in centuries of riveting history, this medieval city is an excellent day trip option for all history lovers visiting Glasgow. There are so many amazing things to do in Stirling .

One of the main attractions in Stirling is the mighty Stirling Castle. Perched over a volcanic rocky hill, Stirling Castle is one of the oldest castles in Scotland . It once served as the home for Scottish kings and queens.

Today, you can explore the Great Hall, the Royal Chapel and the Royal Palace. Also, you will get an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes from here. 

Battle of Stirling Bridge and Battle of Bannockburn – two famous battles of Scottish history were fought near the close vicinity of this castle.

Meander around the Old Town Cemetery and The Church of the Holy Rude adjacent to the castle. Also, you can follow The Back Walk, a dedicated scenic pathway along the old town walls of Stirling.  

Another must-see landmark in Stirling is the National Wallace Monument. The 220-foot tall tower is dedicated to William Wallace, a national hero of Scotland. 

How to Reach: Trains from Glasgow Queens Street Station take about 30 minutes to get to Stirling. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Buchanan Bus Station.

4. Falkirk & Linlithgow

Falkirk makes a great day out from Glasgow by train. The Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies are two main tourist attractions in Falkirk.

The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. You can enjoy boat rides and various water-based sports activities. If you want to stretch your legs, walk to the nearby Antonine Wall. Built by the Romans around AD142, the Antonine Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walk is clearly signposted.

The Kelpies are two gigantic horse-head metal sculptures. Created by reputed Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, this iconic structure is located in Helix Park. It’s a reminder of the horse-driven industrial heritage of this area.

Linlithgow is just a 9-minute train ride from Falkirk. The historic ruins of Linlithgow Palace attract tourists to this pretty town. It is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, one of the most prominent figures in Scottish history. Also, it served as a royal residence in the 15th and 16th centuries.

How to Reach: Trains run regularly between Glasgow Queens Street and Falkirk High Station. It takes only 20 minutes. There are bus and train connections between Falkirk and Linlithgow.

5. Ayrshire

Ayrshire is a popular destination for day-trippers from Glasgow. It is famous for its stunning coastline, numerous golf courses and its connection with Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland. 

You can visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in the village of Alloway. Inside the museum, you will find several artefacts, manuscripts and artworks. You can also see the small cottage where he was born and raised. Meander around the Alloway Auld Kirk and Brig O’ Doon, immortalised in the poet’s work.

Ayrshire is also home to the famous Culzean Castle, one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. Designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century, this castle sits inside a large country park.

Before heading back to Glasgow, ramble around Ayr town centre. This seaside town has a long sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles.

How to Reach: Trains from Glasgow usually take about 50 minutes to get to Ayr. Also, there is a bus service operated by Stagecoach.

6. New Lanark

This day trip from Glasgow is perfect for all history and heritage enthusiasts. In 1786, David Dale built cotton mills and housing in New Lanark by the River Clyde. Later, under the pioneering Robert Owen, the mills flourished. He implemented many revolutionary ideas that were way ahead of his time. The mills operated until 1968. 

Visitors can explore and learn about the history of these 200-year-old restored mills and houses. In 2001, UNESCO added this historic place to their list of World Heritage Sites. New Lanark is now one of the six UNESCO sites in Scotland.

While here, take a short woodland walk to see the magical Falls of Clyde, stunning cascading waterfalls. Also, watch out for the wildlife.

If you are a keen walker or mountain biker, follow the Clyde Walkway, which goes through this village.

How to Reach: From Glasgow Central Station, catch a train to Lanark, which takes about an hour. Once there, you can hop on a local bus or walk around 1.3 miles to get to the New Lanark Visitor Centre.

Day trips between one to two hours from Glasgow

7. inveraray.

Nestled on the bank of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is one of the most charming small towns in Scotland. Also, it is one of our favourite day trip destinations from Glasgow.

One of the main tourist attractions in Inveraray is the magnificent Inveraray Castle. It is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Campbell. The castle is usually open from April to October. Take a tour of this green castle to learn about its colourful past. 

After visiting the castle, climb to the nearby Dun Na Cuaiche Viewpoint. This walking circuit is properly waymarked and takes about two hours to complete. From the top, admire the breathtaking panoramic view over Loch Fyne, the surrounding mountains, and the town.

Next, meander along the shore of Loch Fyne, the longest sea loch in Scotland. Look out for the beautiful Inveraray War Memorial. Sit on one of the benches near the loch and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. 

Also, pop into the quaint white-washed independent shops, cafes and restaurants in the town centre.

How to Reach: Catch CityLink bus service 926 or 976 from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. It typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach Inveraray. By car, it takes about an hour and a half from Glasgow.

With frequent train services from Glasgow Queen Street Station, a day trip to Dundee is super easy. Home to the V&A, Dundee is famous for its ‘jute, jam and journalism’ and industrial past. Opened in 2018, the visually striking building of V&A Dundee displays art and designs from Scotland. Also, it is the first V&A museum to exist outside of London. 

Right next to the museum, stands the RSS Discovery – the historical ship that took Captain Scott to Antarctica. Inside, you will find extensive galleries, video and film shows, and artefacts used by the crew in their voyages. Also, take a leisurely stroll along the gorgeous waterfront of Dundee.

Next, walk towards the city centre. Watch out for the Desperate Dan Statue on the High Street. Visit the McManus, Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum to see a superb collection of fine arts. The stunning Gothic-Revival architecture of the exterior is very photogenic as well.

Climb the Dundee Law for a stunning view over the city skyline and the River Tay.

If you are not too short on time, we recommend a visit to the nearby Broughty Ferry and Glamis Castle.

How to Reach: It takes around one and a half hours from Glasgow by train.

9. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is an incredibly beautiful island in the Firth of Clyde. Known as “Scotland in Miniature”, this island is an epic day trip choice from Glasgow. It showcases all the best things of Scotland in a nutshell – dramatic mountain peaks, castles, scenic coastlines, waterfalls, distilleries and quaint little villages. 

It might be a small island, but there is so much to keep you busy. Brodick is the main town of Arran. You will find many shops and restaurants there. History lovers will like a tour of Brodick Castle. It was once home to the powerful Dukes of Hamilton. 

There are many hiking trails around the island suitable for all levels. Experienced hikers can climb Goat Fell, the highest mountain on the Isle of Arran. For beginners, we recommend a walk to Machrie Moor stone circles, Glen Sannox and King’s Cave circuit.

One of our favourite places on this island is Lochranza. Located in the northern part of Arran, Lochranza has a ruined castle, a distillery, red deer and stunning views over to the Firth of Clyde.

How to reach: Board a train from Glasgow Central Station to Ardrossan Harbour, which takes about 45 minutes. From Ardrossan, hop on a CalMac ferry to Brodick in Arran. The crossing takes around 25 minutes.

10. St Abbs, Scottish Border

You can add this picturesque fishing village to your road trip itinerary down the North Sea coast of Scotland. While getting to St Abbs using public transport is quite time-consuming, it is a perfect place for a wee day trip from Glasgow by car.

It might be a tiny fishing village on the Berwickshire coast, but there are plenty of amazing things to do in St Abbs . Also, it happens to be one of the prettiest villages in Scotland .

St Abbs was featured in Avengers: Endgame movie and a Harry Styles music video. It is famous for its rugged coastline, abundance of wildlife, eye-catching views and various nature trails.

From the village, follow the waymarked path to see the seabird colony and a scenic lighthouse on St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve. The circular circuit takes around two hours to complete.

You can also take a wildlife boat tour departing from the village harbour.

Before leaving St Abbs, don’t forget to sample some delicious freshly caught seafood at Ebbcarrs Cafe, near the harbour.

How to Reach: From Glasgow, it typically takes about an hour and forty minutes to get to St Abbs by car.

11. Isle of Bute

Regarded as one of the most accessible Scottish islands, the Isle of Bute is a great choice for spending a day out from Glasgow.

Rothesay is the largest town on the island and a charming Victorian seaside resort. The main ferry terminal on the island is also located here. Take a ramble around the marina and admire the waterfront. 

One of the main tourist attractions of the town is the Rothesay Castle. It dates back to the early 13th century. Built by the influential Stewart family, this ruined castle was once a royal residence. 

Next, take a local bus to visit the magnificent Mount Stuart, a neo-gothic mansion. This 19th-century country house was designed by Scottish architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. Also, it is the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Bute. Take a tour of the house to explore the grand interior of Mount Stuart. Later, take a walk around the extensive gardens.

Before catching a return ferry, climb the Canada Hill viewpoint at Rothesay for a spectacular view of the town and the bay.

How to Reach: From Glasgow, catch a train to Wemyss Bay. Next, hop on a ferry to Rothesay, which takes only 35 minutes.

12. Largs and Great Cumbrae

Leave behind the hustle and bustle of Glasgow to enjoy a relaxing day trip in nature. Largs is a beautiful seaside town on the west coast of Scotland. Start your adventure with a walk along the lovely promenade. Lined with several restaurants, ice-cream shops and amusement centres, it is a vibrant place.

To learn the Viking heritage of Largs, visit Viking!, an interactive experience. Also, you can participate in the Largs Viking Festival held every year in early September.

Located on the outskirts of Largs, Kelburn Castle is one of the most unusual castles in Scotland. The exterior of this 13th-century castle is painted in bright and bold designs by Brazilian graffiti artists.

The Isle of Cumbrae is just a short ferry ride from Largs. Millport is the main town of the island and boasts stunning coastal views. Watch out for the Crocodile Rock, a beloved Cumbrae landmark. This island has a range of walking, cycling and kayaking opportunities.

How to Reach: Trains from Glasgow Central Station take about an hour to reach Largs. From Largs, the ferry crossing to Cumbrae takes only ten minutes.

13. Falkland & Culross

For all Outlander fans visiting Glasgow, this day trip is a must. You will get to explore two famous Outlander filming locations in Scotland. 

Culross is one of the prettiest historic villages in Scotland . Take a wander along the winding cobbled streets of this beautifully preserved village. Take a tour of the Culross Palace to learn its fascinating history. You will get a breathtaking view of the village and the Forth of Firth from the top of the Culross Palace garden.

Nestled at the foothill of the Lomond Hills in Fife, the pretty village of Falkland has appeared many times in the Outlander TV series. Falkland was shown as the city of Inverness, where Claire and Frank went for their second honeymoon.

One of the main tourist attractions of this village is the historic Falkland Palace & Garden. It served as the royal residence of several Scottish Kings and queens. Also, this royal dwelling was a firm favourite with the Mary, Queen of Scots. Also, you will find the world’s oldest surviving real tennis court inside the palace.

How to Reach: Although there is public transport available for both places, they are quite time-consuming. So, a car is preferable for this particular day trip. From Glasgow, it takes only an hour to drive to Falkland.

Day trips over Two hours from Glasgow

14. glen coe and fort william.

A road trip to Fort William via Glen Coe takes around two and a half hours from Glasgow. So, it’s a tempting day trip option to explore one of the most beautiful corners of Scotland.

Glen Coe is world-famous for its dramatic scenery, wild and rugged landscape, diverse wildlife and tragic past. There are many hiking trails around. You can stop at various viewpoints to take in the breathtaking vistas. Also, this area appeared in several blockbuster movies, like Harry Potter, Braveheart and Skyfall. 

Known as the outdoor capital of Scotland, Fort William is the home of the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis. There are a variety of things to do in Fort William .

Also, Fort William sits on the famous West Highland Line. It is renowned for being one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The train line starts from Glasgow Queen Street station and continues to Mallaig through the Harry Potter famed Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Instead of a day trip, we recommend spending the night in Fort William and extending your trip to the magical Isle of Skye via a ferry from Mallaig, about 40 miles from Fort William.

15. Loch Ness

Home of the notorious Loch Ness monster, Loch Ness is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in Scotland.

If you are short on time, a day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow may not be the craziest idea. Although, we would recommend using a car instead of public transport to maximise your time here.

Located on the bank of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of the most-visited castles in Scotland . Take a tour of the castle to discover the fascinating past of this historic fortress. Also, admire a stunning view over Loch Ness from here.

Take a boat tour to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes. Who knows, you might even spot Nessie. That would surely make a very memorable day trip.

Before driving back to Glasgow, stroll around the tiny village of Fort Augustus.

If you have more time, spend the night in Inverness, known as the capital of the Highlands.

Map of the Day Trips from Glasgow

Here is a map of all the amazing places mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google Map on your phone, which you can use later. It also works when you are offline.

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16 Top-Rated Day Trips from Glasgow

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Nov 26, 2021 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Glasgow sits in an enviable position. Not only is it within easy reach of many of Scotland's most popular tourist attractions , there are also no end of fun things to do within an easy day trip of the city. And best of all, many of them are easily accessible via public transport, as Glasgow and its surrounds boasts a superb transportation network.

From here, great places to visit include the Scottish Highlands, Robbie Burns country along the Ayrshire coast, Aran Island, as well as Oban. And, of course, famous Loch Ness is within reach, although you may want to make an overnight stay of it (it's doable, but is a three-hour drive away).

Beautiful Loch Lomond is even closer and is popular for outdoor enthusiasts for its hiking and biking adventures. Stirling Castle, along with a number of equally attractive castles and manor houses, is also within easy reach of Glasgow.

Whatever season you visit, if you do ever tire of Glasgow's lively cultural and music scene - or simply want to experience a different side of Scotland - there are plenty of options for spending time outside the city.

Plan your adventures with this list of the best day trips from Glasgow, Scotland.

1. Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands

2. loch lomond and the west highlands, 3. stirling and stirling castle, 4. isle of arran: scotland in miniature, 5. outlander day tour from glasgow, 6. benmore botanic garden, 7. newark castle, 8. the ayrshire coast: robbie burns country, 9. dumbarton castle, 10. oban and the west highlands, 11. the hill house, helensburgh, 12. the forth and clyde canal and the falkirk wheel, 13. summerlee museum of scottish industrial life, 14. paisley abbey and the thomas coats memorial church, 15. gourock: granny kempock's stone, 16. greenock, map of day trips from glasgow.

What trip to Scotland would be complete without visiting Loch Ness , home of the fabled sea serpent, Nessie? While it's a lengthy three-hour drive from Glasgow , it should certainly rank near the top of your Glasgow day trips list.

This spectacularly beautiful 23-mile-long and extremely deep body of water fills the geological fissure known as the Great Glen , whose steep green walls make it one of Scotland's loveliest sights. Hour-long boat trips from Fort Augustus or Inverness , or scenic drives along the loch's shore reveal stunning vistas of the rocky peaks of the Scottish Highlands.

Tours to Great Glen, such as the 12-hour Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Small Group Day Trip from Glasgow , stop in the remote and atmospheric Glencoe , scene of the historic massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. The entire region is filled with breathtaking scenery of high mountains, rocky ridges, fast-running rivers, and tumbling waterfalls.

"Yon bonnie banks and yon bonnie braes" of Scotland's largest freshwater loch are only half an hour from Glasgow, at the southern end of Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park . In fact, so pretty are the lochs and mountains here that they've earned the park the nickname "The Highlands in Miniature."

In addition to the haunting beauty and romantic vistas that this traditional Scottish song speaks of, Loch Lomond is a center for outdoor adventures. Boaters and other water sports enthusiasts are drawn here, as are golfers, who head for the Carrick Golf Course at Cameron House . Here, you'll find one of Scotland's finest championship-standard golf courses, boasting incredible views of Ben Lomond across the waters of the loch.

Hiking and bicycle trails abound throughout the park, and Loch Lomond cruises depart from Balloch at the southern end of the lake. Balloch is also where you'll find the Loch Lomond Shores shopping area, as well as the SEA LIFE Aquarium, one of the region's top family attractions.

Although you can easily reach the loch by train, Loch Lomond is often part of tours of the West Highlands from Glasgow. The full-day guided West Highland Lochs, Glencoe and Castles Small Group Day Trip from Glasgow includes attractions such as Kilchurn Castle, the town of Inveraray, and Castle Stalker on Loch Laich.

Official site: www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do around Loch Lomond

Just 30 minutes from Glasgow by car or direct train, the town of Stirling is famous as the location of the Battle of Bannockburn . It was here in 1314 that Robert the Bruce defeated the English invaders. It was also where legendary William Wallace beat the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, a victory for Scottish independence. Both these important battles are commemorated at the excellent Bannockburn Heritage Centre .

Between Stirling and the quaint village of Bridge of Allan stands the majestic Wallace Monument, a spectacular 246-step tower with sweeping views of the area, as well as artifacts that belonged to Wallace.

The spectacular 12th-century Stirling Castle, built atop a 76-meter-high volcanic crag, has played an important role throughout Scotland's rich history and is open to visitors. You can visit Stirling and the castle and also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Trossachs on the Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle Tour from Glasgow .

Address: Castle Wynd, Stirling, Scotland

Official site: www.stirlingcastle.scot

The lovely Isle of Arran is only 267 square kilometers in size but contains examples of just about everything that makes Scotland one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. It's for this reason that the island has earned the nickname, "Scotland in Miniature."

Just a one-hour ferry ride from Ardrossan, which itself is an easy train trip from Glasgow, Arran is marked by magnificent mountains, moorland, sandy beaches, an abundance of wildlife, castles, and fishing harbors. It's also a popular golf destination, and offers three great courses.

Arran is also a walker's paradise, and buses run regularly around the island from the ferry terminal at Brodick to its various tourist attractions. Although the best places to visit on Arran – including Brodick Castle and Goat Fell mountain (873 meters) – can be seen in a day (including the ferry ride), you'll want to spend at least a few days exploring this wonderful part of Scotland.

Fans of the hit TV series, Outlander , will definitely be interested in adding a great tour of the series' film locations to their Glasgow travel itinerary. The popular Outlander day tour from Glasgow is an immersive eight-hour adventure departing from central Glasgow that features stops in a number of spots fans will instantly recognize.

For many, a highlight of the tour is the chance to visit the picturesque village of Culross, which stood in for the fictional Crainesmuir. It's the last stop of the tour, and you'll have plenty of time to explore the old village square, which dates from the 1600s, as well as a historic home dating from the same period.

The attractive Doune Castle is another notable location you'll visit. This remarkably well-preserved medieval fortress starred as Castle Leoch in Outlander, and you'll have plenty of time to explore it armed with a great audio-guide (provided).

The village of Falkland is also on the itinerary, where you'll have a chance to grab a bite of lunch and explore at your leisure. Also included are stops at Blackness Castle and Midhope Castle. Inclusions with this tour are transportation and the services of a professional guide.

Benmore Botanic Garden, set amidst spectacularly rugged mountain scenery north of Glasgow at the southern end of Loch Eck, is part of Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden . The avenue of giant Californian redwoods planted in 1863 line the long driveway to the property, where you'll be rewarded with a chance to wander around more than 300 different species of rhododendron and azaleas.

Other highlights include Puck's Hut, a wooden memorial to Isaac Bayley Balfour who had the idea to create the gardens, and a bronze statue dating from 1875, A Boy with Two Dolphins , donated by the owner of adjacent Benmore House, now an outdoor learning center.

Nearby Argyll Forest Park is also well worth checking out. Established in 1935, it was the first of its kind in Britain and boasts an impressive 186 mile network of footpaths.

Location: 4 Uig, Benmore, Dunoon, Scotland

Official site: www.rbge.org.uk/visit/benmore-botanic-garden/

In the industrial town of Port Glasgow, just 25 miles west of Glasgow's city center, stands the 15th-century Newark Castle. This attractive mansion, with its gatehouse and tower, was once the seat of the (sometimes murderous) Maxwell family.

Although the Tower House rooms are not open to visitors, you can see the building's lovely Jacobean exterior and the fascinating "below stairs" rooms. Here, interesting exhibits relate to the working conditions and lives of the family's staff.

Address: Castle Rd, Port Glasgow, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/newark-castle/

Fans of the poetry and songs of Robbie Burns, Scotland's beloved national poet, will want to explore the places he lived and the countryside he immortalized. At the same time, you'll see one of the most beautiful coastal regions of Scotland.

Follow the Burns Heritage Trail from the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, on the outskirts of Ayr, where you'll see the beautifully preserved thatched house where the poet was born and lived as a child.

After visiting the 16th-century Auld Kirk where his father is buried, this circular tour heads south to Dumfries and the Robert Burns House, where the poet lived for the four years before he died here in 1796, at age 36. The house is now a museum and gives a good portrait of his life. His grave is in the nearby St. Michael's Churchyard.

Another highlight of the Ayrshire coast is Culzean Castle and Country Park , with woodland trails and landscaped gardens that include a Victorian Walled Garden. You can visit the Burns sites and Culzean Castle on the Ayrshire Coast Day Trip from Glasgow: Robert Burns Country and Culzean Country Park tour, with a guide who will tell more about Burns and Culzean castle, including its connections with President Eisenhower at the end of World War II.

Dumbarton Castle perches dramatically on a basalt rock on the north bank of the Clyde facing Port Glasgow. This strategically important stronghold was started in the 6th century and was central to the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde's rule over the surrounding area until 1018. Only the dungeon and 12th-century gateway remain of this medieval edifice where Mary Stuart embarked for France at age five.

Other highlights of this star of the Game of Thrones series include the wonderful views, the Georgian artillery fortifications, and the Governor's House with its interesting artifacts from the castle.

Address: Castle Road, Dumbarton, Dunbartonshire, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/dumbarton-castle/

The pretty Victorian town of Oban, the seafood capital of Scotland , sits on the coast and is the main port for the ferries that connect southern Scotland to Mull, Skye, and the Hebrides islands.

For a view that encompasses the town and harbor and reaches all the way to the Isle of Mull on clear days, climb to the top of McCaig's Tower . This impressive Victorian monument was built to resemble the Colosseum in Rome .

The route to Oban from Glasgow passes through some of Scotland's most scenic countryside, a land of mountains, moors, lochs, and castles. On the Oban and the West Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow , you'll ride through this scenic land, along the shores of Loch Fyne, Loch Awe, and Loch Lomond , where you'll stop in the village of Luss.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Oban

Lovers of Art Nouveau styling won't be disappointed by a visit to Hill House in Helensburgh. Designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh after plans were drawn up for his Art Lover's House , Hill House was built in 1904 overlooking the Firth of Clyde.

Surrounded by a delightful garden, the house is somewhat reminiscent of Scottish fortified manor houses, while the figural elements, rounded edges, oriel windows, and small chimney stacks bear all the hallmarks of the gifted designer.

The home is currently the subject of an ambitious renovation project that has resulted in it being encased in a large steel frame. Called the " Hill House Box ," this impressive structure - anticipated to be in place for up to 15 years - is something of an architectural wonder in itself. Built to keep the weather out and allowing the house's exterior walls to dry, guests can actually climb the frame to enjoy never before seen views of the structure.

Meanwhile, the interior remains open to visitors. In the wide hall, the dark wooden panels contrast with the light wallpaper, supplemented with abstract patterns and delicate pastel shades. Art Nouveau patterns in pink and light green soften the effect of the walls, windows, and lamps.

The bedroom on the first floor above the lounge is regarded as the most successful of Mackintosh's "White Rooms." Mackintosh also designed the furniture, and his wife, Margaret Macdonald, designed and made many of the textiles and a stunning fireplace panel.

Address: Upper Colquhoun Street, Helensburgh, Greater Glasgow and Clyde Valley, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/property/the-hill-house/

The Forth and Clyde Canal, built in 1790, winds its way through the Strathkelvin District to the north of Glasgow. The fully restored 35-mile waterway was an important link for seagoing vessels between the Firths of Clyde and Forth, joining the River Clyde at Bowling and the River Forth at Grangemouth. Today, you can take a very pleasant outing from Kirkintilloch aboard one of the vessels operated by the Forth and Clyde Canal Society.

Be sure to allow time to explore the spectacular Falkirk Wheel at the eastern end of the canal. Capable of carrying up to eight boats, this unique piece of modern engineering – part sculpture, part boatlift – connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal near the important industrial town of Falkirk.

Visitors can experience the hour-long journey aboard special boats and learn more about its operation at the visitor center. Behind-the-scenes tours of this engineering marvel are also available.

Address: Lime Road, Falkirk, Scotland

Official site: www.scottishcanals.co.uk/falkirk-wheel/

The Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life is based around the 20-acre site of 19th-century Summerlee Iron Works. Opened in 1836 and once one of the region's biggest employers, today this sightseeing trip is fun for kids as well as adults. Highlights include Scotland's only still-operating vintage tramway, a recreated mine, workers' cottages, and various Victorian steam engines. Guided tours of the abandoned mines are also available, and admission is free.

Address: Heritage Way, Coatbridge, Scotland

Some surviving parts of Paisley Abbey date from its original construction in 1163. Highlights of a visit include the choir stalls and a walk up 197 steps to the Tower.

Another Paisley landmark is the ornate Thomas Coats Memorial Church. Funded by one of Scotland's leading textile manufacturers and completed in 1894, its intricate stonework was the product of numerous apprentice stonemasons.

While in the area, pay a visit to Paisley Museum and Art Gallery , with its interesting displays relating to the development of the textile industry and the story of the distinctive "drop motif" on the world-famous Paisley pattern. Exhibits include the old looms on which the best-selling designs were produced, as well as original woven and embroidered shawls from Kashmir, the inspiration for the Scottish production.

Address: Abbey Close, Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland

Official site: www.paisleyabbey.org.uk

By the coast at Gourock, some 28 miles west of Glasgow, stands an interesting six-foot-tall slate monolith reputed to have been a meeting place for Druids. It's known as Granny Kempock's Stone. Fishermen would make small offerings in return for fine weather and good catches, and it's still customary for local newlyweds to circle the stone to bring good luck to their marriage.

The views across the Clyde Estuary toward the southwest Highlands make the journey to this seaside town worth the effort. The Gourock Highland Games are held here in May.

Greenock is another former industrial center near Glasgow that's worth a visit (in fact, you'll pass through it on your way to Gouruck, above). It's an easy hour-long train ride from Glasgow Central Station.

Greenock is famous as the birthplace of engineer James Watt, who made the Clyde navigable. the great engineer's life is celebrated here in the Watt Institution, a former library and now official archives dedicated to his life and work. Greenock is also famous for being the final resting place of "Highland Mary," immortalized by Robbie Burns.

Other highlights of a visit include McLean Museum & Art Gallery, and the interesting Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Museum and Heritage Centre with its collection of rare vehicles. If you've time and energy, make the 20-minute climb up Lyle Hill for its spectacular views over the Clyde and Greenock's wonderful skyline.

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Scotland Vacation Ideas : Home to Edinburgh Castle , Scotland's most visited tourist attraction, the romantic city of Edinburgh is a must-visit for any traveler to this beautiful country. The Highland city of Inverness is also worth including on your Scotland travel itinerary for its attractive riverside setting, and also serves as a great jumping-off point for another top Scottish destination: Loch Ness .

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15 Great Towns and Villages Near Glasgow

Are you looking for a new destination to escape the business of the city? This guide lists the best 23 towns and villages near Glasgow for you to explore and visit. 

Glasgow is located on the west side of Scotland and is not far from Ayrshire , Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Argyll, Stirlingshire and Perthshire.

Near the city, there are rolling green hills, brilliant mountain landscapes and crystal clear Scottish spring water. Also, there are hidden gem villages dotted along the loch. 

Aberfoyle is a charming village located on the banks of the River Forth next to the superb Queen Elizabeth Forest Park. Go Ape is nearby and you can enjoy zip lines and the high rocks course in the forest.

Visitors can learn about the area’s natural beauty and history of the area at the Trossachs Discovery Centre. Also, the Scottish Wool Centre is informative and provides an insight into the story of wool, including spinning and working sheepdogs.

A couple of lochs are near Aberfoyle . You can explore the surroundings of Loch Ard on the Loch Ard Sculpture Trail or sail the SS Sir Walter Scott on Loch Katrine.

Things to do in Aberfoyle

• Loch Katrine
• SS Sir Walter Scott
• Loch Ard Sculpture Trail
• Scottish Wool Centre
• Trossachs Discovery Centre

Arrochar is a pretty village located along the shores of Loch Long in the Cowal Peninsula. Long Long is one of the stunning lochs located in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. 

You can get stunning views from a mountain called The Cobbler (Ben Arthur). Or you can climb Beinn Ime or Ben Narnain for scenic views of Arrochar, Long Long, and Loch Lomond National Park are as far as Ailsa Craig in the south and the Lawers range in the east. 

Also, in Arrochar, there is a good selection of bars, restaurants and cafes in the village. 

Arrochar is located near a village called Tarbet. Tarbet is located on the shores of Loch Lomond and you can get magnificent views of Ben Lomond.

Things to do in Arrochar

• The Cobbler
• Ben Vorlich
• West Highland Line

Blantyre is the birthplace of famed explorer David Livingston and is located on the River Clyde. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Blantyre was the centre of cotton-related products and coal mining. 

David Livingston’s Birthplace is surrounded by parkland near the River Clyde. Visitors can follow the footpaths here and view Bothwell Castle and Blantyre Priory.

Things to do in Blantyre

• Bothwell Castle
• David Livingston Birthplace

Dumbarton 

Dumbarton is a town located on the River Clyde – west of Glasgow. Long ago in the fifth century, Dumbarton was once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde.

The town’s establishment was so successful due to Dumbarton Castle being located on volcano rock. The well-exposed rock was formed 350 million years ago.

Overtoun Estate has a variety of landscapes, wooded glens and gorges. The estate is located on the west of the town. The mansion on the estate dates back to 1859. 

Denny Tank Museum is one of the town’s most popular visitor attractions. In the museum, visitors can learn about Clyde’s shipbuilding.

Things to do in Dumbarton

• Dumbarton Castle
• Overtoun House
• Denny Tank Museum
• Balloch Castle and Country Park

East Kilbride

East Kilbride is one of the largest towns in South Lanarkshire. It was established after World War II as one of the new town developments to deal with overcrowding in Glasgow. 

There is a variety of parks in East Kilbride. Calderglen Country Park is a lovely park which features the ruins of Calderglen Castle and Craigneith Castle.

James Hamilton Heritage Park is another park which features a lake and water sport facilities which are overlooked by the privately owned tower house – Mains Castle.

Things to East Kilbride

• Calderglen Country Park and Zoo
• National Museum of Rural Life
• James Hamilton Heritage Park

Greenock grew from a fishing community to become the first dock on the Clyde in 1711. Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, Greenock was most famous for ships, steam and sugar. 

A fun fact about Greenock is that the person behind the discovery of steam power, James Watt, was born here. There is a museum, scientific library and statue to commemorate Watt. 

Visitors can view the impressive Victorian buildings including the 245-foot Victoria Tower which remains incomplete.

Also, the town is home to the McLean Museum and Art Gallery, Old West Kirk, the Clyde Torpedo Factory and the world’s first Burns Club.

Nearby to Greenock is Greenock Cut in the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park . The area is home to some of the best walks in Scotland and offers amazing views across the Clyde. 

The Greenock Cut Visitor Centre has an interactive exhibition and café. Finally, visitors can head to Lunderston Bay which is one of the closest sandy beaches to Glasgow .

Things to do in Greenock

• Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
• Greenock Cut
• McLean Museum and Art Gallery
• The Beacon Arts Centre
• Lunderston Bay
• The Watt Institute
• Newark Castle

Hamilton is a lovely historic town located in the heart of Lanarkshire between Motherwell and East Kilbride. Many landmarks in the town were constructed by the Dukes of Hamilton. 

The Hamilton Mausoleum lies on the grounds of the previous Hamilton Palace and is the resting place for the Hamilton family. Two important buildings in Motherwell are Low Parks Museum and Hamilton Old Parish Church.

In Chatelherault Country Park you can enjoy one of the many trails, have a coffee at the Oaks Café and explore the ruins of Cadzow Castle.

Things to do in Hamilton

• Chatelherault Country Park
• Hamilton Mausoleum
• Low Parkes Museum 
• Hamilton Old Parish Church

Helensburgh

Helensburgh is a small town northwest of Glasgow. The settlement is located between the Clyde, Gare Loch and Loch Lomond.

Helensburgh was established as a holiday town for wealthy merchants. Lady Helen-Colquhoun, the wife of Sir James Colquhoun, encouraged people to escape from the smog of the city in Glasgow and to come and enjoy the fresh air in the new town. 

On a visit to Helensburgh , you can explore Duchess Woods or explore Geilston Garden. The town is the final stop on the 150-kilometre Argyll Sea Kayak Trail. 

On a clear day, you can sit on the banks of River Clyde and get nice views across to Greenock and Rosneath. Helensburgh is the starting point for the John Muir Way. 

There are lovely formal gardens and places to have picnics at the Hermitage Park or Geilston Gardens. At Hill House, you can explore the finest domestic masterpiece by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. 

Things to do in Helensburgh

• West Highland Railway Line
• Argyll Kayak Trail
• The Hill House
• John Muir Way

Killin is located on the northeast boundary of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. There is so much beautiful scenery surrounding Killin, the village is set at the foot of the Breadalbane Mountains. 

There is a variety of walks to enjoy for those who love the outdoors. The Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve is nearby, there is a selection of Munros to bag in this area.

For keen walkers, the peak of Sron a’Chlachain, a peak of 400 metres and enjoy the news of Loch Tay. In addition, Killin has some of the best Salmon fishing in Scotland. 

One of the things Killin is most well known for is the Falls of Dochart. The rapids run through the village and you can soak in the atmosphere at the Falls of Dochart Inn. 

Things to do in Killin

• Falls of Dochart
• Finlarig Castle
• Sron a’Chlachain
• Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve

Lanark & New Lanark

Lanark is a small town with plenty of charm located south of Glasgow. There is plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Lanark. 

Visitors can explore the World Heritage Site at New Lanark and views the mesmerising Falls of Clyde. The site is perfect for history buffs and engineering nerds and features a mill, café, a water wheel and a hotel. 

New Lanark is one of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Scotland. The location was founded in 1786 by David Dale who built cotton mills and homes for workers by the River Clyde.

In 1799, leading industrialist Robert Owen took over the mill and the village transformed into a socialist utopia at a time when workers were often exploited to death.

Castlebank Park and Clyde Valley Woodlands Reserve are located near the main street in Lanark . There are great places to go for peace and quiet.

Things to do Lanark

• Castlebank Park
• Clyde Valley Woodlands Reserve
• Falls of Clyde

Largs is a charming seaside resort located on the west coast of Scotland. There is a small Victorian promenade and a choice of ice cream parlours and shops. 

It is nice to take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the views of the Isle of Cumbrae in the water. Largs Yacht Haven is the largest marina in Scotland. 

Just outside the town are Kelburn Castle and Country Park. The 13th-century castle in the park has impressive bright bold graffiti art on the side of the castle. 

Things to do in Largs

• Vikingar! Leisure Centre
• Pencil Monument
• Largs Yacht Haven 
• Kelburn Castle & Country Park

Lennoxtown is a town located at the foot of Campsie Fells in East Dunbartonshire. The town has a good selection of local shops and a wide variety of cafes and pubs to eat in.

One of the most notable buildings in Lennoxtown is the ruined Campsie High Kirk. The kirk was built in the early 19th century and was destroyed in the 1980s.

Lennox Castle was commissioned by John Lennox Kincaid and was designed by David Hamilton. Lennox Castle was used as a maternity and mental hospital until 2002 and is now a ruin as it was destroyed in a fire in 2008.

Things to do in Lennoxtown

• Lennox Castle
• Clachan of Campsie
• Campsie High Kirk

Luss is a stunning village located on the banks of Loch Lomond in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. The village is less than an hour’s drive away from Glasgow.

The conservation village dates back to medieval times. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was housing for workers for nearby slate quarries.

There are rows of cottages that have gorgeous flowers that come to life during the Spring and Summer months. A good place to o for a great photo opportunity is Pier Road, the round has a loch and tall mountains in the background.

From Luss, you can take a boat trip to see the numerous islands in Loch Lomond. Also, a good activity for everyone of all ages in Loch Lomond Faerie Trail, this is a great mystical route.

Ben Lomond is located on the opposite side of the loch and it towers over the village. The small beach is a lovely location for wild swimming or sunbathing.

There is a golfing championship that is held at Rossdhu House every year in July. Luss is a good stop-off point while exploring the Loch Lomond area. 

Things to do in Luss

• Loch Lomond Faerie Trail
• Rossdhu House

Milngavie is a town north of Glasgow. The name is pronounced ‘mill-guy’ and is known as being the starting point for the West Highland Way.

Back in the 18th century, the town was a small village. Remains of the village can be seen at the Corbie Ha’ meeting hall, Cross Keys Pub and Gavins Mill watermill. 

Mugdock Country Park is home to the castle ruins of Mugdock Castle and Craigend Castle. Also, Craigmaddie and Mugdock are lovely perfect reservoirs that are popular places for a stroll.

The Whangie is also known as Queens View and is another lovely area. There are great well defined paths with stunning views towards Loch Lomond and the Campsie Fells.

The Devil’s Pulpit is a stunning waterfall area where the green moss on the walls of the gorge contrasts with the bold red sandstone. To get there you will have to go down Jacob’s Ladder. 

Things to do in Milngavie

• Mugdock Country Park
• Blairskaith Linn
• West Highland Way
• The Whangie
• Glengoyne Distillery
• The Devils Pulpit

Motherwell becomes a town due to the popular steel and coal industries. At the North Lanarkshire Heritage Centre, visitors can learn about the history of the area all the way from the Roman era.

One of the most notable buildings in Motherwell is the Motherwell Cathedral and Dalzell House on the outskirts. Motherwell Concert Hall is a good venue for concerts and other shows.

On the outskirts of Motherwell and Hamilton, you can find Strathclyde Country Park. The country park has a theme park, water sports facilities, remains of a Roman Fort and a bath house.

Things to do in Motherwell

• Strathclyde Country Park
• Motherwell Cathedral
• Dalzell Estate

Paisley is one of the biggest towns in the west of Scotland. There is a rich history in the textile industry and a rich heritage which began almost 1,000 years ago. 

Paisley Abbey is a historical landmark with links to Robert the Bruce, William Wallace and many other important figures.

Another outstanding historical building to visit is one of the most stunning Baptist churches in Europe – Thomas Coats Memorial Church. 

There are a dozen or so features which honour the textile industry – Anchor Mills, Sma’ Shot Cottages and The Paisley Thread Museum. Paisley Museum is home to examples of Paisley shawls, working looms and pattern books.

Gleniffer Braes Country Park has lovely viewpoints across Glasgow and Paisley, Craigie Linn and Paisley Golf Club. 

Things to do in Paisley

• Paisley Abbey
• Gleniffer Braes Country Park
• Coats Observatory
• Anchor Mills
• Sma’ Shot Cottages
• The Paisley Thread Museum

Other towns and villages near Glasgow

• Bishopbriggs
• Cumbernauld
• Kirkintilloch
• Newton Mearns
• Port Glasgow

What towns are on the outskirts of Glasgow?

There are plenty of towns on the outskirts of Glasgow. These are Kilsyth, Cumbernauld, Coatbridge, Airdrie, Bellshill, Hamilton, East Kilbride, Newton Mearns, Paisley Renfrew, Greenock, Port Glasgow, Bishopbriggs, Kirkintilloch, Milngavie and Dumbarton. 

Glasgow is the main city in Scotland . This post is a great guide of towns and villages near Glasgow.

There are so many nice towns and villages near Glasgow to explore. 

Some of the towns and villages explore the past and cultural influences that have shaped the west side of Scotland today. The towns were once part of the shipbuilding industry, cotton, steel, coal and textile industries. 

Also, some of the towns and villages are perfectly located near Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. There are plenty of fun touristy attractions to take part in or you can simply enjoy a walk in nature. 

There is a wide variety of museums, country parks, ruined castles, waterfalls and golf courses. The towns and villages near Glasgow are perfect places to explore for a day or afternoon if you are visiting Glasgow.

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10 Amazing attractions and things to see and do in Glasgow City Centre

From dawn to dusk and into the night, there are a huge range of things to do in Glasgow. The city is home to some of Scotland's best cultural attractions and most of them are completely free! Explore Glasgow's music scene on a city walking tour, or uncover countless treasures inside its fantastic museums and art galleries. 

Explore The Burrell Collection Pollok Country Park

Glasgow Burrell Collection

The Burrell Collection is one of the greatest art collections ever amassed by one person, consisting of more than than 9,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history. The award-winning collection is housed in the heart of Pollok Country Park and includes work by artists such as Rodin, Degas and Cézanne. Spend the day getting inspired by the range of collections on show, from late medieval artefacts to Islamic art. 

• On Public Transport Route
• Hearing Loop
• Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
• Level Access
• Accessible toilets
• Cafe or Restaurant

Join an Invisible Cities Walking Tour Across Glasgow

Invisible Cities offer alternative walking tours around Glasgow, all run by experienced tour guides who have been affected by homelessness. Delve beneath the surface of the city and learn more about its history, people and landmarks all through the eyes of a local. The tour revenue is invested in providing support to the guides who run the tours and donations are welcome. 

Relax at Glasgow Botanic Gardens West End

Kibble Palace; Glasgow Botanic Gardens

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Wander 50 acres of leafy parkland in the heart of the west end at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Visit Kibble Palace, a magnificent wrought iron-framed Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic tree ferns. You can also step inside the 11 other balmy glasshouses to see rare orchids and a collection of begonias. If you feel like stretching your legs, you can follow the path to reach the riverside walk. This provides a picturesque route through the city towards Kelvingrove Park and the art gallery and museum.

Sample the coffee scene Across Glasgow

1841 coffee shop

© 1841 coffee

Glasgow is a sprawling city to explore, so there are plenty of spots to take a break and watch the world go by. Slow down and connect with Glasgow's characterful neighbourhoods by stopping for a brew at an artisan coffee spot across the city. From beans roasted in the Outer Hebrides to Italian-inspired elegance in the city centre, there are so many places to refuel with a strong coffee and meet the locals. Be sure to sample some of the freshly served bakes alongside your coffee to complete the experience! 

Get your culture fix at Kelvingrove West End

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is home to an incredible array of 8,000 exhibits, spanning everything from a World War II Spitfire to Salvador Dalí's mesmerising Christ of St John of the Cross . Discover dinosaur skeletons, medieval armour, stunning works by the Dutch Old Masters, French Impressionists and the Scottish Colourists. Other highlights include Sir Roger the Elephant, a taxidermy measuring 10.5 feet in height and one of Kelvingrove's most popular exhibits. It's without a doubt a must-visit in Glasgow!

Enjoy live music in a Glasgow pub Across Glasgow

The Scott Wood Band perform at Celtic Connections Festival at Òran Mór

© FirstThreeSongs / James Carney

Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, so it's unsurprising that there are always opportunities to enjoy live music in the city. Liven up your evening and experience some traditional music sessions, from authentic folk music in a cosy pub to cutting-edge contemporary bands in a sleek city bar. 

Sample a dram at Clydeside Distillery City Centre

The Copper Stills in the Still House Overlooking The Clyde

© The Clydeside Distillery

No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to a whisky distillery to sample our national drink! The Clydeside Distillery is in the heart of Glasgow and is the first dedicated Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery in the city for over 100 years. Book a tour with an expert guide and learn more about the whisky industry and its rich history in Glasgow and follow it up by sampling some delicious whisky with views out over the Clyde. 

Follow the City Centre Mural Trail Across Glasgow

The Glasgow City Centre Mural Trail

On of the most famous Glasgow attractions is the street art. Follow this trail to admire these urban artworks which have enlivened walls and corners of the city centre. See standout creations by acclaimed street artists like Ali Wyllie, Art Pistol and Ejek, including the  Spaceman  on New Wynd by Wyllie and Recoat and the stunningly realistic  Hand Shadow Puppets  found on the Cowcaddens underpass by Rogue-One. The trail also features other famous examples of Glasgow street art, such as the life-like  Four Seasons  on Ingram Street and the vibrant murals framed by the rail arches on Clyde Street.

Discover Glasgow Music City Tours Across Glasgow

Glasgow Music City Tours

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Music has long been the beating heart of Glasgow, as music journalist Fiona Shepherd knows only too well. Join her or one of her fellow music afficionados on a choice of walking tours of Glasgow's musical heritage. Along the way, set foot in hallowed venues where iconic bands, DJs and other great artists cut their teeth, from the legendary Barrowland Ballroom to King Tut's Wah Wah Hut. You won't find a better introduction to one of the most vibrant and diverse music scenes in the world.

Find your next great read at Glasgow Women's Library Bridgeton

Glasgow Women's Library in Bridgeton

Glasgow's Women's Library is a library like you've never experienced before! It's the only accredited museum in the UK dedicated to the stories, history and achievements of women. As well as a lending library, you can browse their engaging collections and exhibitions from Sufragette memorabilia to dress-making patterns. They also frequently run events and workshops throughout the year, including their Women's Heritage Walks which offer tours across the city to uncover the history of the women who shaped it. 

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25 Best Things To Do in Glasgow

Updated Apr. 14, 2021

Although Glasgow tends to be overshadowed by Edinburgh , travelers say Scotland's largest city is not to be overlooked. With an out-of-this-world shopping scene that features everything from couture items to thrift-shop steals (and all that lies in

• All Things To Do

The Burrell Collection The Burrell Collection free

Travelers express astonishment at this museum's near pitch-perfection. The Burrell Collection's glass walls not only encase a variety of objects and artworks, but they also usher in the surrounding woodlands. In the collection, donated by the late millionaire Sir William Burrell, you'll find everything from Chinese ceramics to Rodin sculptures to more than 20 Degas paintings. After you've had your fill of the museum, you can wander around the surrounding Pollok Country Park .

The Burrell Collection can be viewed for free. Travelers highly recommend you take advantage of this steal, saying the museum's variety of art and its milieu are beyond compare. 

Glasgow Cathedral Glasgow Cathedral free

Dedicated to the city's patron saint, St. Mungo, the Glasgow Cathedral was consecrated in the 1100s but was finished around 300 years later. Of almost equal delight – to experts and travelers alike – are the cathedral's architecture (specifically the nave, crypt and chapel) and the legends surrounding St. Mungo's life. And in fact, the symbols found on Glasgow's coat of arms relate directly to the St. Mungo legends, including the tree, bird, fish and bell. (In brief: the tree refers to one that St. Mungo burned in a holy fire, the bird to one that he accidently killed but restored to life, the fish – depicted with a ring in his mouth – to an episode in which the saint orchestrated the retrieval of a piece of royal jewelry that had been lost in the Clyde, and the bell to one commissioned in the saint's honor.)

Recent visitors frequently described the building's architecture and stained-glass windows as "amazing." Reviewers also applauded the volunteer guides that are on hand to answer any questions and offer hourlong guided tours. 

Riverside Museum Riverside Museum free

This free museum displays the city's transportation history. Its holdings include everything from trains and buses to skateboards and baby carriages – more than 3,000 items in all. On a related note, the museum sits alongside the River Clyde not far from the iconic Finnieston Crane, a symbol of the period when shipping made Glasgow a key industrial hub. You'll also find a tall ship on the river that's free for visitors to peruse – a perk for recent travelers.

Some travelers highlight an exhibit recreating the cobblestoned streets of another era, while others enjoyed the Clyde Room's model boats. Visitors were also highly impressed with the in-house cafe. The museum is widely regarded as a great spot to bring children thanks to the engaging displays, including one that allows patrons to help put out a "fire" with an interactive fire engine. There's also a scavenger hunt for little ones.

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City Chambers City Chambers free

Accommodating some sort of governing body since the late 1800s, the Victorian-style City Chambers today hosts the Glasgow City Council. You'll find the impressive building on the east side of George Square, and if you take one of the building's free guided tours, you'll view an ornate entrance hall, the debating chamber, banqueting hall and some extravagant staircases, among other features.

Recent visitors expressed awe at the impressive building and its rich architectural details and said it is worth touring. Many of Glasgow's top tours make a stop at the City Chambers.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum free

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another favorite museum (that's also free!). Built at the turn of the 20th century to resemble a Renaissance-style castle/cathedral, the museum was closed for about three years in the early 21st century for major renovations. Now, the Kelvingrove is one of the most visited galleries and museums in Scotland. Amongst its collection of European masters, such as Botticelli and Monet, you'll discover exhibits on Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Scottish storytelling and Scottish armory, among others. Other highlights include Salvador Dali's "Christ of St. John of the Cross" and a restored Spitfire plane that hangs from its ceiling. In all, the museum boasts 22 galleries and more than 8,000 objects.

Museum-goers express pleasure over the immensity and variety of the Kelvingrove's exhibitions. The museum houses an organ from 1901, and recitals are held multiple times a week, which past visitors recommend attending.

Pollok Country Park Pollok Country Park free

Comprising about 360 acres, Pollok Country Park makes for a peaceful retreat – one that is peppered with grazing Highland cattle, formal gardens and long expanses of unadulterated Scottish greens. Among its highlights are the Pollok House – a Georgian Mansion built between 1747 and 1752 for a Scottish politician and philanthropist – and the Library and Parterre Garden, which feature clipped hedges, decorative ironwork and intricate flowerbed designs. The park is also home to the Burrell Collection – an art museum currently closed for renovations until 2021.

According to recent travelers, visiting the park is like going to the countryside – but without leaving the city. Runners and dog walkers in particular enjoy the park.

Kelvingrove Park Kelvingrove Park free

If you're planning to spend an afternoon at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , you should also allot some time for lounging in the lush, 85-acre Kelvingrove Park. You can walk along the River Kelvin, which meanders through the park, or stroll by the duck pond and numerous monuments before stopping by the park's open-air theater to see if any performances are being held. The park's facilities include lawn bowling greens, tennis courts and a skate park, among other amenities. It also hosts numerous seasonal events, including concerts in its bandshell.

Recent travelers highly enjoyed this park for its variety of things to do, and its proximity to the university makes it popular with students. What's more, reviewers applauded its clean facilities and peaceful atmosphere.

Glengoyne Distillery Glengoyne Distillery

What's more Scottish than Scotch whisky? For a reasonable price, visitors to Glengoyne Distillery – which originated in 1833 – can learn how the spirit is made and enjoy a complimentary dram (small drink). You'll also get a chance to see the distillery's waterfall and hidden glen.

Recent visitors praised the Glengoyne Distillery, saying the guided tour was very interesting and informative and that the sample was smooth. Others gushed about the beautiful grounds.

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Hunterian Museum & Art Gallery Hunterian Museum & Art Gallery free

The Hunterian, which was founded in 1807, ranks as Scotland's oldest museum. It operates multiple venues on the main campus of the University of Glasgow, including the Hunterian Art Gallery and the Mackintosh House. The latter is a recreation of the former home of architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the artist Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh, who resided in the original house in the early 20th century. The home is furnished much as it was then using furniture of Charles Mackintosh's own design. Meanwhile, the Hunterian Museum houses exhibitions relating to archaeology, paleontology, entomology, ethnography, geology, medicine, numismatics and zoology. The Hunterian Art Gallery boasts works by prominent artists like Rembrandt, Rubens and James McNeill Whistler, as well as some modern British artists and works by Charles Mackintosh. 

Past visitors typically found the Hunterian's diverse collections highly interesting, though some said the museum is somewhat difficult to find on the university's campus. The Mackintosh House in particular impresses visitors who have an interest in design.

Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace free

The Botanic Gardens are yet another free attraction in Glasgow. Bursting with colorful flora and fauna along the River Kelvin, the gardens also showcase a number of greenhouses, including the fantastic Kibble Palace, which contains a rainforest of tropical plants and trees. The gardens offer a nice reprieve from the city, especially if you're on your way from the restaurants, bars, cafes and shops that line buzzy Byres Road. What's more, there are also well-regarded tearooms in the former curator's house near Kibble Palace serving breakfast and lunch.

Past visitors praised the gardens. Many travelers were especially drawn to the more exotic plants grown here, including the carnivorous ones in the greenhouse. Others recommended stopping here for afternoon tea.

People's Palace and Winter Gardens People's Palace and Winter Gardens free

Located on the Glasgow Green – a park in the east end of Glasgow – the free People's Palace is a museum dedicated to the social history of Glaswegians. For instance, past exhibits detailed Glasgow's distinctive vernacular, while another displayed the desk of political activist (and Glasgow resident) John MacLean. Adjacent to the museum are the Winter Gardens – a greenhouse that acts as a cozy reprieve for people and tropical plants alike. Stop in for a coffee at the in-house cafe before venturing on.

While past visitors frequently called the exhibits both informative and entertaining, some say they might be beyond the grasp of young children.

The Necropolis The Necropolis free

Adjacent to the Glasgow Cathedral, the Necropolis is comparatively new, dating back to 1830s, while the cathedral is several hundred years older. Approximately 50,000 people are interred here; not all of them have gravestones, but there are about 3,500 tombs. The cemetery, modeled after the famed Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, is often called Glasgow's Victorian "City of the Dead."

Recent visitors found that the garden cemetery also offers expansive views of the city of the living. Many simply find the hillside site a pleasant place to take a walk.

Clydeside Distillery Clydeside Distillery

Visits to more than one distillery are certainly in order when traveling through Scotland. Clydeside Distillery, as its name announces, sits aside the River Clyde in what was once the Pumphouse, which originally controlled entrance to the Glasgow Queen's Dock. The maker of Clydeside single malt whisky is a relatively recent addition to the country's roster of distilleries, having started in 2017. 

The distillery offers various tours. Its standard 60-minute tour, which includes tastings of three varieties of whisky, takes place hourly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets start at around 15 pounds (or around $19.50). The 90-minute Chocolate & Whisky Tour adds tastings of handmade artisanal chocolate to the mix; schedules vary by season and tickets cost around 28 pounds (roughly $36). On Thursdays, Clydeside also offers an in-depth two-hour tour conducted by the distillery manager. Tickets for the latter start at around 129 pounds (approximately $170).

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Gallery of Modern Art Gallery of Modern Art free

Glasgow's Gallery of Modern Art – known as GoMA – in Royal Exchange Square displays local and international works by artists like Andy Warhol, John Bellany and David Hockney, among others. In addition to its four galleries, the building (which dates back to 1778) also houses a library and educational facilities, as well as a permanent exhibit that details the history of the building.

As its name would indicate, the Gallery of Modern art appeals especially to those with an interest in modern art. Nevertheless, past patrons appreciated both the exhibits and the historic building housing them. Visitors frequently remark on the statue of the Duke of Wellington that stands outside the building that always has an orange traffic cone on its head (which is not part of the gallery's official collection). However, some art lovers find the GoMA somewhat small.

Celtic Park Celtic Park

Glaswegians are famous for their love of football (or soccer to Americans), which makes Celtic Park – home of the Celtic Football Club – an obvious destination for those who want to learn more about local life. Plus, the stadium is an attraction itself: It's the largest stadium in Scotland, with a capacity to welcome more than 60,400 fans. 

Even if you're not in Glasgow for a match, you can take a tour of Celtic Park, which includes visits to the home team dressing room, the boardroom, the trophy room, the tunnel to the pitch and the dugout. Tours occur every half hour from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sundays, unless games are scheduled, in which case tours take place only in the mornings. Less frequent tours are also offered during the week. Tour tickets for adults cost 13.50 pounds (or around $17.50). Admission for children 11 and younger starts at 8 pounds (or approximately $10).

Citizens Theatre Citizens Theatre

Citizens Theatre, aka "the Citz," is the self-proclaimed "home of great theatre in Glasgow." Its dramatic offerings range from contemporary classics to new Scottish plays to shows for children. Countless famous performers have appeared on its stage since the 500-seat theater opened in 1878.

Over the years, the theater has won praise for its inventive staging of both traditional and contemporary works, as well as for the refreshments on offer in its bar. 

St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art free

Though named for the patron saint credited with bringing Christianity to Scotland in the sixth century, St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art strives to promote greater understanding among people of all faiths – and those with none, too. It sits on the site of a former medieval castle and was designed to evoke that style. In addition to a variety of art and artifacts related to the world's religions, the museum has a cafe that opens on what purports to be the oldest Zen garden in Glasgow. 

While perhaps appealing most to people with an abiding interest in religious history and culture, St. Mungo's is generally regarded as highly informative and entertaining. Past patrons also appreciated the cafe. However, a few noted that the museum could use more space for all its artifacts.

Glasgow Science Centre Glasgow Science Centre

Among noted exhibits at the Glasgow Science Centre are the twirling 417-foot Glasgow Tower, a planetarium, an IMAX theater and exhibits exploring everything from the human body to energy. There's also a theater for live science demonstrations. The center hosts special events for both adults and families. If you have small kids in tow, consider a trip here.

Recent travelers said kids will want to spend all day here exploring the interactive exhibits. However, this museum wasn't a favorite among teenagers or adults traveling without little ones. The high price of admission was another common gripe among recent visitors. (Admission to all the facility's attractions requires various add-ons to the basic single-day admission ticket.) Yes, you can spend half a day at the Glasgow Science Centre, and you'll need to do just that to get your money's worth.

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Glasgow Tigers Speedway Glasgow Tigers Speedway

Motor sports venues are not as common in Scotland as, say, football arenas, which makes the home of the Glasgow Tigers rather special. The motorcycle team competes select days of the week from April through October, and the motorbike races are especially popular with families. The Tigers trace their lineage back to 1946, where they competed in various venues through the decades before settling it at Ashfield Stadium in 1999. (The site became Peugeot Ashfield Stadium in 2015.) 

Recent visitors raved about the conditions of the facilities, and said it's a hit with kids. 

The Tenement House The Tenement House

The Tenement House, which is operated by the National Trust for Scotland, is a kind of walk-in time capsule. Its restored rooms show how a particular Glaswegian, one Agnes Toward, lived from 1911 to 1965. The furniture and other personal possessions on display (including a coal-fired stove and a blackened bar of soap) aim to provide insight into not only what middle-class life was like in the early to mid-20th century, but also what it was like to live as a single working woman at that time.

Past visitors regularly praised the staff here for being informative and helpful as they impart insights into the ways people of another era lived.

The Scottish Football Museum The Scottish Football Museum

The Scottish Football Museum, situated within the Hampden Park stadium, houses thousands of objects of potential interest to sports fans. Among them are the original Scottish Cup – the world's oldest national trophy – and a recreation of the stadium's first dressing room. The museum has a hall of fame celebrating some of the country's most accomplished players. It also screens film clips from storied moments in Scottish football history.

Visitors, even those who aren't ardent football fans, usually find the extensive exhibits of cups, jerseys and gear to be rather interesting and informative. The staff generally wins praise for being consistently friendly and helpful.

Barras Market Barras Market free

The Barras Market, which encompasses a collection of street vendors, indoor markets, shops and pubs, lures bargain hunters and seekers of curiosities. The market dates back to the early 20th century, when vendors sold goods from handcarts.

Some recent travelers disappointingly noted that the Barras Market has declined in quality, calling the goods for sale "junk." However, the majority of visitors seemed to enjoy their few hours digging through piles of flea market goods and haggling in the market, with some even describing it as a "treasure hunt." Indeed, what some might call seediness is for others precisely the appeal of a place like this.

Barrowland Ballroom Barrowland Ballroom

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House for an Art Lover House for an Art Lover

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The 15 best things to do in Glasgow for fun (no kilt required)

Jan 19, 2022 • 8 min read

Cobblestones, strings of lights and fun bars and restaurants make for a charming night out in Ashton Lane © georgeclerk / Getty Images

Glasgow packs a punch with its first-rate museums, distinguished dining venues, elegant outdoor spaces and other more...off-kilter attractions.

As well as ticking off some of the must-sees, you’ll find plenty of weird, wonderful (and just plain creepy) attractions to add to your itinerary in this bustling town. Want to walk through a fossilized forest? Or how about cycling along a 200-year-old canal? The sky’s the limit in Scotland ’s dynamic second city. Here’s some of the best things to do in Glasgow.

Get lost in the eclectic exhibitions of Kelvingrove Gallery & Museum

Set within Kelvingrove Park , the Kelvingrove Gallery & Museum  is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in natural history. This mammoth museum features a real patchwork of exhibits, from contemporary art installations and displays of taxidermy wildlife to rooms full of ancient armor and other war relics. With 22 curated galleries in total, you’ll want to set aside a good chunk of time to take everything in. Free tours of the museum run twice a day, too. 

Admire 360-degree views from The Lighthouse 

Charles Rennie Mackintosh  left an indelible mark on his hometown – and no visit to the city is complete without taking in the work of this celebrated Art Nouveau architect and designer. Admiring his magnificent Glasgow School of Art was once one of the top things to do in central Glasgow, but a devastating fire in 2018 means it’s currently under reconstruction. Luckily,  The Lighthouse  offers an evocative taste of this design innovator’s accomplishments. 

Built in 1895 and tucked away on Mitchell Lane, the former headquarters of the Glasgow Herald was Mackintosh’s first-ever commission; today, building currently houses a permanent exhibition on the designer’s life work. A highlight is the stunning helical staircase leading to a viewing platform that boasts epic panoramas across the city.

Stroll through a forest that’s older than the dinosaurs

While you’ve surely hiked through a leafy forest before, how about a forest that’s over 300 million years old? Fossil Grove in Glasgow’s Victoria Park was discovered by accident in 1887 when the tranquil green space was first mapped out on the site of an abandoned quarry. The 11 fossilized tree stumps are thought to date to the Carboniferous period, and are now protected by Glasgow City Council within the Fossil Grove Building. It’s only very occasionally open to visitors, but worth checking out if the opportunity arises. 

Marvel at the marble in Glasgow City Chambers 

George Square is the hectic heart of the city center, and at the heart of the square is  Glasgow City Chambers . Built in the late 1800s, the edifice is now the headquarters of Glasgow City Council, which runs public tours twice daily. 

A trip to City Chambers is one of the top free things to do in Glasgow . Simply pick up your tickets in the reception hall and prepare to be wowed by its ornate interiors, including a magnificent marble staircase that’s been featured on the silver screen several times over the decades.

Tour the oldest dwelling in Glasgow  

A trip to Provand’s Lordship  – a quaint stone house that sits at the top of Castle Street close to Glasgow Cathedral  – is a unique thing to do for history buffs. Constructed in 1471, the medieval structure is decorated with 16th-century furnishings and houses several fine portraits of Scottish royals. If you have time, tour the St Nicholas Garden next door, which inspired by 15th-century medicinal gardens. 

Discover the drying poles at Glasgow Green

Glasgow Green has had many, many functions over the years, from grazing land for cattle to the venue for one of Scotland’s biggest music festivals. One of its more rustic uses was as a drying green for washing. Venture to its northeast border to find the original iron drying poles used by thousands of working-class residents living in nearby tenements from the 1700s to the mid-1900s. According to local law, Glaswegians still have the right to hang their washing out on the Green (though very few do).

Enjoy an evening out on Ashton Lane

Spending an evening on Instagram-worthy Ashton Lane is easily one of the best things to do as a couple in Glasgow. The cobbled street is crisscrossed with strings of pretty lights and packed with an array of restaurants and bars. Check out Belgian-themed Brel for beer and savory waffles. Alternatively, Ubiquitous Chip has been serving up top-notch Scottish produce – including haggis – since 1971. There’s an independent cinema, too, if you’d prefer a more relaxed night out. 

Learn about law-enforcement history at Glasgow Police Museum

Crime and punishment cast a dark shadow over Glasgow’s history. It was the first city in Britain to have a police force, a fact explored in great detail at the Glasgow Police Museum . Tucked away on Bell Street in Merchant City, this site offers  easily one of the coolest things to do in Glasgow. 

Learn compellingly gruesome details about crimes committed around the city over the centuries, and view various uniforms worn by Glasgow’s constabulary. While the museum is small and only open on Sundays and Tuesdays, it’s jam-packed with information and run by former police officers, giving it authority and grit. 

Check out the flesh-eating plants in the Kibble Palace

Glasgow Botanic Gardens  couldn’t be a better location for a breather as you’re exploring Glasgow’s West End. As well as romantic rose gardens, manicured pathways and an enviable vegetable patch, the park has several impressive Victorian greenhouses. 

The largest is the Kibble Palace, which was painstakingly dismantled and transported to Glasgow from its original home on Loch Long (some 50 miles away) in 2003. Wander inside to gaze up at towering tropical vegetation. At the entrance sits a large pond home to colorful koi carp; there’s also a room dedicated solely to carnivorous plants.

Cycle the Forth and Clyde canal

The Forth and Clyde Canal was built in the 1790s to connect Edinburgh with Glasgow, and still provides a direct 50-mile route between the two cities today (a fact more-active travelers might want to take advantage of). 

Rent a cycle from a local outfit like Bike & Go , then join the traffic-free Route 754 alongside the canal. While part of the journey takes you through not-so-attractive industrial landscapes, you’ll also get to soak up stunning Scottish rural scenery and glimpse local landmarks like the Falkirk Wheel , a futuristic boat lift built in the early 2000s to replace a stretch of crumbling canal locks. 

Cycling along the canal is best in spring or summer when the days are longest. If you poop out along the way, you can return via train to Glasgow, as many Scotrail services have dedicated bike storage onboard.

View the elaborate tombstones at Glasgow Necropolis

If you get a kick out of grand Gothic graveyards, head to Glasgow Necropolis . Situated on a hill behind Glasgow Royal Infirmary, this imposing cemetery dates back to Victorian times and is the final resting place of over 50,000 souls. Wind your way upwards along neat pathways and note the beautifully carved tombstones of the city’s elite, who made fortunes during the Industrial Revolution. Just be sure to exit before dark...

Visit a local brewery

While you certainly don’t want to miss out on visiting whisky distillery in the birthplace of single malt, Glasgow’s long list of pubs and breweries makes it one of the best cities for bar crawls . 

Next door to the Necropolis, you’ll find both the Tennent’s (Scotland’s favorite beer) and Drygate breweries, both of which have taprooms and offer tasting tours. Alternatively, on the edge of Glasgow Green , check out WEST Brewery (with tasty German-inspired snacks served alongside the artisan IPAs) or Shilling Brewing Company, lodged inside an imposing former bank on West George Street.

Follow the Kelvin River

The Kelvin River weaves its way through Glasgow’s West End, offering a beautiful spot for some peace and quiet. Head down the path just behind the Kibble Palace and you’ll reach the riverside. In autumn, it’s a riot of color, with massive trees showering the ground and water with a flurry of orange and yellow leaves. Trace the Kelvin Walkway down to the Riverside Museum on the River Clyde, passing little-known historic sites like the recently excavated flint mill near the Botanic Gardens.

Get some interior inspiration at House for an Art Lover 

If you can’t get enough of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s designs, set aside a few hours for this gem. South of the city center in Bellahouston Park,  House for an Art Lover  was adapted from one of the architect’s final designs before his death in 1928. The handsome manor house functions as an art gallery, studio space and events venue, with many of its stylish interiors inspired by the designs of Mackintosh’s equally gifted wife.

Spark your imagination at Glasgow Science Centre

Searching for fun things to do with children? The Glasgow Science Centre won’t disappoint. Its awesome interactive displays and fun facilities, including a planetarium and IMAX cinema, make it a dream for tech-savvy kids. 

The center also has an immersive experience that lets you discover what it’s like to live in the Arctic, plus gardens designed to teach little ones about different habitats around the world. The Closed until summer 2022, Glasgow Tower offers an observation deck with rotating views across Glasgow and beyond.

You might also like: 10 free things to do in Glasgow The 8 best day trips from Glasgow Two days in Glasgow: 48 hours of fun in Scotland's largest city

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The 30 best things to do in Glasgow right now

From live music to street art and museums to escape rooms, you'll never run out of things to do in this vibrant city

Glasgow is a perfect blanace of a city. Cracking live music venues and nightclubs. Bars full of character. An ever-growing young creative community keeping the party going. But then it’s stuffed full of Victorian architecture, museums and history. 

Here you’ll find fantastic restaurants, great attractions and scenic strolls for days. In fact, you might just find yourself wanting to move here full time (everyone else is doing it). From green space to vintage shops, here are the best things to do in Glasgow right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍔 The best restaurants in Glasgow 🍸 The best pubs in Glasgow 🏨 The best hotels in Glasgow 🏩 The best   Airbnbs in Glasgow

This guide was recently updated by Glasgow-based writer  Laura Menéndez .  At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .  This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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What to do in Glasgow

1.  Escape to Pollock Park

• Parks and gardens

What is it?   A lush green space with the grand old Pollok House at the centre of the grounds. 

Why go?   This slice of gorgeous countryside is just a rather scenic ten minutes away from Glasgow Central on the train. Once there, get the blood pumping with a stroll through serene surroundings, followed by some cooing over the Highland cows and Clydesdale horses.

Don’t miss:   Stop inside Pollok House to see its collections of antique furniture, silverware, ceramics and fine art. Its collection of Spanish paintings is one of the finest in Britain. 

2.  Wander around the atmospheric Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis

• Religious buildings and sites

What is it?  Glasgow’s big gothic attractions, with signature spires in tow. 

Why go?  Glasgow Cathedral   was consecrated in 1197 and remains a sturdy and impressive example of Scottish gothic architecture both inside and out. The other big attraction nearby is the   Necropolis , Glasgow’s gloriously atmospheric cemetery inspired by Père Lachaise in Paris and dating back to 1833. Amble among the monuments, look out over the city and wonder just how green and bucolic the view was more than two centuries ago. Ankle-length black leather coat and Demonia boots optional.  If you’ve seen the latest Batman movie you might recognise the bridge you’ll need to cross to walk from the cathedral to the necropolis.

Don’t miss:   Glasgow Cathedral has one of the most impressive post-war collections of stained glass windows in Britain, including John K Clark’s Millennium Window.

3.  Sample craft beer at Drygate Brewery

• Bars and pubs

What is it?   An ‘experiential’ micro-brewery, beer hall, and restaurant. 

Why go?   A joint venture between craft brewers Williams Brothers and macro-brewers Tennent’s located partly in a 1930s former box factory beside the Tennent’s brewery on Duke Street in the East End, Drygate has a beer hall with big screens for sports and space for music and comedy events, and a terrace for those rare Glasgow days when the rain isn’t pouring down.  You can sample 26 rotating beers on tap and countless more bottled varieties. If you’re looking to go behind the scenes, that’s easily sorted: just go along to one of the brewery tours and you’ll discover exactly how Drygate’s fantastic beers come to be.

Don’t miss:   Feeling peckish? Grab some of the delectables on offer at Drygate’s kitchen, and don’t forget to look at the Tenants factory, right beside it.

4.  Get to know the city’s emerging artists at Gallery of Modern Art

What is it? Glasgow’s foremost centre for contemporary art, showcasing some of the city's greatest talents.

Why go? You'll find Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) in the stately neoclassical building in Royal Exchange Square in the heart of the city, just off Buchanan Street. With its thriving contemporary art scene surrounding the world-renowned Glasgow School of Art, which has produced many a Turner Prize success story over the years, GoMA exists to showcase not just the work of the city’s most talented artists but also to highlight what those artists share in common with others in terms of influences and practices.  It has recently been the only place to showcase world-renowned Bansky’s latest exhibition ‘Cut and Run’.

Don’t miss:  The grand carving of the Duke of Wellington that sits outside the front door of the gallery. It's probably even more famous than GoMA itself among ordinary Glaswegians – mainly because he wears a plastic traffic cone on his head,  and allegedly the reason why Bansky chose Glasgow for his exhibition.

5.  See historic forms of transport at The Riverside Museum

What is it?  This award-winning structure houses the contents of the former Museum of Transport, including trams, prams and rockets.

Why go? This Zaha Hadid-designed waterside museum  carries an extensive collection of vehicles including ambulances, buses, police cars, horse-drawn taxis and motor cars that look like they drove to Glasgow from the set of a 1930s action movie. Formerly housed in the old Museum of Transport at Kelvin Hall, they’ve been cherished by Glaswegians for generations.

Don’t miss:  The impressive late Victorian, three-masted Tall Ship that’s berthed outside the museum in the River Clyde – a stunning monument to Glasgow’s rich maritime heritage.

6.  Explore Glasgow Botanic Gardens

What is it? One of the prettiest green spaces you'll spy in Glasgow, filled to the brim with history, botany and fine architecture.

Why go? Originally laid out in 1841 as part of the University of Glasgow, the Botanic Gardens  were acquired by the city and made public in 1891. In 1873 the most distinctive building – the eccentric domed glasshouse Kibble Palace – was erected, followed a few years later by the Main Range teak glasshouse. Both have been beautifully preserved and brim with exotic plant life, from arid lands to tropical rainforests.

Don’t miss:  The long east-west facing green in front of the glasshouses teems with life on warm days, be it families, groups of students or yoga classes. 

7.  Marvel at The Finnieston Crane and The Clyde

What is it?  Two of the city’s most iconic shipbuilding cranes which have turned into rather popular visitor attractions.  The Finnieston crane stands for Glasgow’s shipbuilding past and has become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It erects ominously over the river Clyde, proudly bearing the city’s industrial heritage.

Why go?   A relic of the age when Glasgow’s shipyards made this one of the most powerful and important industrial cities in the world, the giant grey Finnieston crane – still emblazoned with the title of its former owners Clydeport, and one of just four remaining such cranes on the Clyde – is no longer in working order. But it has been wisely retained and recontextualised in new proximity to such shiny modern buildings as the Armadillo, The Hydro, the Glasgow Science Centre and the BBC Scotland headquarters, as a potent and emotive 174-feet-tall symbol of proud engineering heritage.   The Finnieston Crane is just one among several landmarks on the Clyde which can be experienced along a relatively short walk from Glasgow Green east of the city centre upriver to Govan. From the St Andrews footbridge to The Clyde Arc (or the Squinty Bridge, as it’s known, for its odd shape), there’s a crossing for practically every era of modern Glasgow history.

Don’t miss: Carry on past Pacific Quay and the Finnieston Crane and you’ll eventually reach Glasgow’s spectacular Riverside Museum.  Head to the Red Sky Bar to get a rooftop view of the crane and the river.

8.  Watch a gig in retro splendour at The Barrowland Ballroom

• Music venues

What is it? One of the most iconic and cherished music venues in the world, and for an enduringly good reason.

Why go? You’ve never really experienced live music in Scotland until you’ve stumbled into the famous Barrowland Ballroom – a dusty, old, family-owned Glasgow institution that’s been embraced by several generations of live music fans alike for more than four decades. All while retaining independence, integrity and a gloriously retro feel like few other spaces of its size.  Barely altered in architecture, décor or spirit since it opened, the Barrowland’s shows today include new and veteran acts alike – every major promoter in Scotland books here. The mere view of the venue’s massive garish flashing coloured neon sign hovering into view down the Gallowgate on a show night is sufficient to give gig-goers a buzz of anticipation.

9.  Grab a single malt whiskey at Clydeside Distillery

What is it?   Glasgow’s very first dedicated Single Malt Whisky distillery in more than 100 years.

Why go?  Hidden inside the old Pumphouse building that once controlled entry to the famous Queen’s Dock – and thus Scotland’s whisky exports to the world – Clydeside became one of the first new distilleries in generations to operate in Glasgow when it started running its huge copper stills in 2017. Take a  tour of their pristine and impressive facilities to see the operation in action. 

Don’t miss: A chocolate and whisky tour allows visitors to savour five carefully selected single malt whiskies, each expertly paired with freshly-made artisan chocolate handcrafted by Sugar Wings of Glasgow.

10.  Get cultured at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

What is it?  One of the UK’s most visited museums, Kelvingrove’s vast collection of items is free to see and covers everything from natural history to civic art.

Why go? Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , which opened in 1901 and is Glasgow’s most popular tourist attraction, is a striking piece of architecture in the Spanish baroque style, fashioned out of red sandstone.  There is some truly wonderful art here, with galleries given over to Scottish colourists and French impressionism, for example. Look up as you enter and you’ll see Sophie Cave’s spooky floating heads, all sporting eerie human expressions. In the adjacent museum you’ll find a Spitfire fighter jet suspended from the ceiling, above stuffed animals including old favourite Sir Roger the elephant.

More great things to do in Glasgow

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• 15 Places To Visit Near Glasgow

Places To Visit Near Glasgow

Here are some of the best places to visit near glasgow:, quick navigation.

• Popularly known as the capital city of Scotland, in addition to being the largest city in the country as well as the seat of the government, Edinburgh is also one of the best places to visit near Glasgow. 
• Located a short one hour distance away from Glasgow, this city is known for its lush open spaces, the rich history as well as the vibrant local culture.
• It is here where you can witness a stunning blend of the old and the new, evident in its tiny historic centre which comprises of the Old Town and the New Town.
• Some of the major attractions of Edinburgh include the spectacular Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Arthur’s Seat and the National Museum of Scotland, among others 

Loch Lomond

• Known as the largest freshwater loch in all of Scotland, the Loch Lomond ranks as one of the best places to visit near Glasgow.
• Often referred to as “The Highlands in Miniature,” Loch Lomond is also a major hotspot of a plethora of outdoor activities, from boating and golf, hiking, cycling and a lot more.
• Stretching over an expanse of more than 30 kilometres, this freshwater lake is also famous for the cruises that depart from its southern end, where numerous shopping and dining facilities, as well as the SEA LIFE Aquarium are situated.
• With around 30 islands dotting the lake and making it a rarity in the British Isles, you can also enjoy kayaking, motor boating and swimming in Loch Lomond

• Home to the fabled sea serpent Nessie, Loch Ness ranks as one of the most infamous places to visit around Glasgow, located a three-hour drive away from the city.
• Stretching across 23 miles, this deep lake is located in the Great Glen, which surrounds the lake and makes it a sight to behold.
• It is also the second largest loch or lake in the United Kingdom, with the breath-taking vistas of the high mountains, rocky ridges and gushing waterfalls making it a perfect place to spend a day or two at.

• When looking for offbeat tourist places to visit near Glasgow, head over to the Scottish burgh or town of Pitlochry, which is often considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the country.
• Located around an hour and a half drive towards the northeast of Glasgow, Pitlochry is the place where the Scottish Highlands begin, thereby giving you a chance to witness the actual outdoor regions of the country.
• This quaint town gained fame as a tourist destination sometime in the mid-19th century, when Queen Victoria visited this place
• It is in Pitlochry where you can soak in the beautiful blend of the wilderness of the outdoors with the cosiness and comforts of being in your own home

• Your search of some of the most picturesque tourist places to visit around Glasgow should end at Glencoe, also known as Glen Coe, a national nature reserve located around two hours to the north of the city.
• Glencoe is also said to be the real Highland Country in Scotland, which was once ruled by Scottish clans and tribes who used to wear kilts.
• This mountainous region is a popular destination to indulge in outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing as well as climbing and exploring nature trails.
• It has also been featured in numerous films, including James Bond’s Skyfall, and several of the Harry Potter films franchise.

• Amongst the most popular tourist attractions near Glasgow is the Victorian town of Oban, which is also considered to be the seafood capital of Scotland.
• Located right on the coast, it acts as the main port for the ferries and ships that connect the country’s southern regions to Mull, Skye and the Hebrides Islands.
• It is also home to attractions like the McCaig’s Tower, which offers some of the most stunning views of the entire city as well as the harbour.
• Oban is also a popular holiday resort destination in the country, with the Oban Bay being one of the most spectacular in all of Scotland.

• When looking for places to visit near Glasgow with a historical significance, visit the town of Inveraray, located on the western banks of Loch Fyne.
• The town is a former royal burgh, and once served as the ancestral seat to the Duke of Argyll.
• It is most famous for the Inveraray Castle, which dates back to the mid-18th century, and was built by the Duke of Argyll.
• It is in Inveraray where you can get a taste of true Scottish hospitality and nobility, whilst also gaining insights into the lifestyle of the Scottish nobles in the bygone eras.

• Known as the place where the famous poet Robert Burns first published his work, Kilmarnock is amongst the most popular places to visit around Glasgow.
• It has also gained famed as the hometown of Johnnie Walker, the founder of the world-famous whiskey line of Johnnie Walker, which has been brewed and bottled in this Scottish town for almost three centuries now.
• The rich history of this town also suggests that it is here where the Alexander Fleming, who discovered penicillin, was educated.
• Other places of attraction here include The Dick Institute, Dean Castle and Country park, The Kay Park and more.

Ayrshire Coast

• Amongst the best tourist places to visit near Glasgow, especially for a weekend getaway, the Ayrshire Coast is also one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the country.
• It is best known for being the place where Robbie Burns, the national poet of Scotland, lived and gained inspiration for his works of poetry.
• Complete with numerous tranquil islands, traditional Scottish hamlets as well as hiking and walking paths, the Ayrshire Coast is one place where you can simply relax and unwind as well.
• Some of the major attractions of the Ayrshire Coast include the Burns Heritage Trail, the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, the Robert Burns House as well as the Culzean Castle and Country Park. 

Culzean Castle

• Located on the Ayrshire Coast, and one of the region’s most significant attractions, the Culzean Castle is also amongst the best tourist places to visit around Glasgow.
• Perched atop a high cliff, and built over the Firth of Clyde, the castle dates back to the late 18th century, and is a great place to visit if you wish to learn about the history of Scotland.
• Currently owned by the National Trust for Scotland, the castle was the former home of the Marquess of Ailsa, the chief of the Kennedy clan of the country.
• The castle has also appeared on the reverse side of the Scottish five pound note from 1972 to 2015.

• If you are a nature lover, and are looking for places to visit near Glasgow with immense natural beauty, the wild forested glens of Trossachs, located towards the north of the city, are the best place to head to.
• Exuding a typical Scottish romantic ambience, complete with rolling hills, rugged scenery as well as tranquil and peaceful surroundings, the area of Trossachs are great to spend a few hours away from the bustling city streets.
• The area is full of dense woodlands and numerous lakes, in addition to small streams and waterfalls, making it perfect to enjoy hiking, and camping.
• Trossachs also gained fame for being the place where poet Walter Scott wrote “The Lady on the Lake”.

St. Andrews

• Home to the oldest university in the whole country, St. Andrews is one of the most famous places to visit around Glasgow, and is said to be the city where the game of golf was invented.
• Located towards the northeast of Glasgow, this city sits on the coast above Edinburgh, and has played a significant role in the history of Scotland.
• Furthermore, it is here where you can explore a plethora of different museums, universities and other landmarks related to the rich Scottish history, including the St. Andrews Cathedral, Old Course and Scotland’s Secret Bunker, to name a few .

• Located two hours to the northeast of the city, the city of Dundee is amongst the top tourist places to visit near Glasgow.
• Known as the sunniest city in Scotland, it is home to the only Victoria and Albert Museum outside of London in the whole world, in addition to other attractions, like the statue of Desperate Dan, a comic book character that calls Dundee his home.
• Dundee is also recognised as a UNESCO City of Design, and boasts of numerous stunning structures, from museums and galleries, to theatres, restaurants and more.
• One of the best places to go to in Dundee in the museum that is dedicated to Captain Scott’s Arctic expedition, wherein you can also learn about the city’s rich nautical history, as well as its shipbuilding industry.

• Located on the shores of the River Tay in central Scotland is the city of Perth, an age-old city that doubles up as one of the most popular places to visit around Glasgow.
• It has served as the capital city of Scotland for five centuries, and is said to be one of the most easily accessible cities in the whole country.
• Boasting of an ultra-modern cultural scene, with many theatres, bars, pubs and other landmarks, Perth is one place where you can enjoy a great and vibrant nightlife during your Scottish holiday.

• Located a mere 30 minutes from the city, the town of Stirling is considered to be amongst the top places to visit near Glasgow.
• It is predominantly known as the site of the Battle of Bannockburn of 1314, in which Robert the Bruce defeated his English enemies.
• According to history, Stirling is also the place where the Battle of Stirling Bridge was fought between William Wallace and the English, which gained the country its independence.
• The town is also the birthplace of numerous Scottish kings throughout the different eras, including King David I,
• Some of the other attractions that you can visit here include the Wallace Monument, and the 12th century Stirling Castle, among others.

People Also Ask About Glasgow

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Glasgow Top Attractions

Stop searching for the best places to go in Glasgow by visiting George Square and the Merchant District. George Square is the heart of Glasgow, and it boasts twelve different statues and old buildings built by illustrious architects of yesteryears. It holds many cultural events and concerts, but in the past, it was the location of protests. At Christmas, the entire area transforms into a carnival site with a carousel, giant Ferris wheel, and an open-air market. During the weekly Barras Street Markets, you can see hundreds of vendors selling food, housewares, antiques, and more.The Merchant District is a designer-shopping mecca and vibrant historic cafe quarter. It gives you a glimpse of Glasgow's medieval past as you walk through the Georgian townhouses and grand neo-classical halls built for rich shipping merchants. You'll also find here Trongate 103, home to many splendid art spaces, including Street Level Photoworks, The Glasgow Print Studio, and Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre.Recommended Read: Things To Do In London

The Necropolis is Scotland's first garden cemetery that was opened in 1833 on the site of the former Fir Park. It gives a pleasing tiered view and honors the deceased by giving them aesthetic places to lie in peace. The Necropolis holds sixteen WW1, twenty Commonwealth, and four WW2 personnel. Constructed in the Revival architectural style, the Necropolis was laid off in 1831 by the Merchants' House of Glasgow. It houses John Knox's monument from where you can have an exemplary view of the city.As you walk through the cemetery, past the monuments and gravestones, you'll notice several Celtic Crosses adorning the stones. In the morning, The Necropolis comes alive with the pleasing sounds of squirrels and birds who have made their home among the dead. The variety of plants, animals, and lush green trees give a peaceful feel to The Necropolis.Suggested Read: Places To Visit In London

The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Glasgow for art lovers, history buffs, and architecture enthusiasts. It is one of Scotland's best cultural assets that adds a lot of prestige to the rich crown of Glasgow University. It was first opened to the public in 1807 near Glasgow Cathedral. In 1870 it was shifted to a breathtaking building designed by Gilbert Scott.It features the world's largest permanent display of James McNeill Whistler's work and The Mackintosh House. A permanent gallery dedicated to the Roman material from Antoine Hall and William Hunter exists inside The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery. It also houses the three hundred and thirty million-year-old Bearsden Shark, dinosaurs from Scotland, and important Scientific instruments. Temporary exhibitions, special events, and discussions are held occasionally at the museum. The art gallery hosts Mackintosh's exhibitions throughout the year.Also Checkout: Places To Visit In Birmingham

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The 18 best things to do in Glasgow

By Steve King and Rosie Conroy

Among the things you need to know about Glasgow that tend to get left unsaid: it is a spectacularly beautiful city that did as much as almost anywhere else in Western Europe to shape the modern world and the way we live now. For more information, keep reading – or better still, go there and ask a Glaswegian. Any Glaswegian. Glaswegians like a wee blether, so they do. They're mouthy, irreverent, tipsy with talk, and pleased to supply perfect strangers with up-to-the-minute bulletins as to their state of personal well-being and the human condition. And, of course, they swear wonderfully too.

Glasgow 's mostly Victorian city centre is said to resemble that of 19th-century New York . Filmmakers love it for this reason (go to the intersection of Hope Street and St Vincent Street, and you'll see why). But Glasgow 's grandeur is its own. A little frayed around the edges, perhaps, yet the grandeur remains. Take a few steps off George Square and into the City Chambers and look up. Gleaming acres of marble, alabaster, gold leaf, mosaics and mahogany, recede in mad Piranesi perspectives.

You get the grandeur in smaller doses, too, in places where you least expect to find it, and it is a feature of the city's present as well as its past. Contradiction is the key. There is real strife here, but great wit and beauty and spirit too. Glasgow is a city that requires a kind of double vision if you are to see it clearly.

These are the 18 best things to do in Glasgow

1. The Waverley

The UK’s iconic paddle steamer, The Waverley, with its scarlet chimneys and formidable horn, is a sea-faring slice of history, being the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer. It turned an impressive 75 years old in 2022, and inside you’ll find a tearoom, dining room, bar and the boat’s vital organs: the hot, hardworking steam engine, and, beyond the portholes behind you, its vast rotating paddle wheels. Boarding it in the morning from outside the Science Centre in Glasgow, you’ll cruise up the River Clyde, passing the Glenlee , a moored 19th-century sailing ship, the Zaha Hadid-designed Riverside Museum , then onwards under the monumental Erskine Bridge and into open water. Get off at the village of Tighnabruaich to discover stunning west coast scenery, before catching the steamboat back in the late afternoon.

Address : 36 Lancefield Quay, Glasgow, G3 8HA Website : waverleyexcursions.co.uk Opening times : Various sailings

2. House for an Art Lover

Charles Rennie Mackintosh was one of Glasgow’s most famous creators, an architect and artist who spearheaded the Scottish Art Nouveau movement. Celebrated works include the Glasgow School of Art and the Hill House in Helensburgh, but one of the unique places to see his style is at House for an Art Lover. This multifaceted space was created in 1989, some six decades after Mackintosh died. It was recreated from competition drawings the artist had submitted during his lifetime. The results were painstakingly put together by a group of Mackintosh fans who took exacting measures to make it true to the creator’s plans. Unlike most of Mackintosh’s other work, this house didn’t have a client, so it is the perfect representation of his most authentic style, with no compromises having had to be made.

Address : House for an Art Lover, 10 Dumbreck Road, Glasgow, G41 5BW Website : houseforanartlover.co.uk Opening times : Monday-Sunday: 10am-4pm

3. Take a Trip to the Theatre

Glasgow is home to the west of Scotland’s principal producing theatre, Citizens Theatre. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see work by the country’s finest playwrights, including the likes of David Harrower and Zinnie Harris. Shockingly affordable tickets are best found at the Òran Mór, where a daily lunchtime event ‘A Play, a Pie and a Pint’ showcases more new writers than any other British theatre (and, yes, your £16 ticket gives you the bonus of a pie and a pint). For something more musical, high-production performances by Scottish Opera can be watched at the historic Theatre Royal Glasgow.

Address: Citizens Theatre, 119 Gorbals Street, Gorbals, Glasgow G5 9DS; Òran Mór, Byres Road, Glasgow G12 8QX; Theatre Royal Glasgow, 282 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 3QA Website: citz.co.uk ; oran-mor.co.uk ; theatresonline.com

4. Clydeside Distillery

Spearheading the renaissance of Lowland Whiskies, the Clydeside Distillery has become a beacon of change – part of the pack contributing to a very marked shift in how Glaswegian drams are viewed. In times gone by, the Highlands and Islands held all the clout, but the creation of this new distillery heralded a new age of the south. The building itself – in the old dock Pump House on the side of the Clyde – is not only an impressive amalgamation of classic and contemporary architecture but also the birthplace of Stobcross Whisky (the first single malt whisky made in Glasgow in over a century.). To get yourself fully immersed, book one of the tours. Our favourite is the chocolate whisky one which combines treats and tipples.

Address : 100 Stobcross Road, Glasgow, G3 8QQ Website : theclydeside.com Opening times : Monday-Sunday: 10am-5pm

5. Facials at Facespace

Part of the pleasure of visiting any city is trying to live like a local for a few days. If you’re in town for the weekend – or even a resident looking for new ways to unwind – you can’t beat a bit of relaxation. Take a break and even out your step count with an hour of being horizontal on the bed at Facespace. Here you’ll find a cosy room painted in a cosseting dark blue and a table piled high with feather bedding. Nicole Campbell Watson, who heads up the community of practitioners here, is passionate about being non-brand affiliated. This means everyone uses a range of products they genuinely believe in, tailoring each treatment to their client.

Address : 101 Portman Street, Glasgow, G41 1EJ Website : nicolecampbellwatson.com Opening times : Times vary by appointment

6. Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

There is nowhere quite like the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre, with its moving displays of kinetic sculptures and hand-carved characters. It’s a weird and wonderful world dreamt up by Eduard Bersudsky and theatre director Tatyana Jakovskaya with the displays having started life in St Petersburg before being moved to Glasgow after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The best way to see it is to drop in for one of the shows, where you’ll find yourself guided through two rooms of miniature, moving animals and characters synced with light and sound to create an arresting art piece. Because there’s little to no narrative, it appeals to all ages, and the creators encourage people to create their own stories while they wander around.

Address : Trongate 103 - A Centre for Arts & Creativity 103, Glasgow G1 5HD Website : sharmanka.com Opening times : Opening times vary in relation to shows

7. Central Station Tour

What sounds like a bad school trip is a fascinating look behind the scenes at one of the largest transport hubs in Scotland. Much more exciting than the title denotes, the tour lasts two hours and includes walking through underground passageways, dressed to the nines in full safety gear, and exploring railway vaults. All of this is served with a side of history, too, with guides explaining Glasgow’s place in the UK’s industrial expansion, and there’s even a celebrity story or two thrown in for good measure.

Address : Gordon Street, Glasgow, G1 3SL Website : glasgowcentraltours.co.uk Opening times : Times vary by tour

8. Listen to Some Live Music

Particularly famous among Glasgow’s diverse music venues is the East End’s historic Barrowland Ballroom . In its time, it has held concerts with David Bowie, Oasis and the Foo Fighters. Jazz lovers should check out the intimate Blue Arrow Club ; those who like classical can browse the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall’s programme, which may feature orchestral performances of John Williams soundtracks or sitarist Anoushka Shankar. Fans of experimental genres can drop into The Hug and Pint , which also happens to have one of the city’s best vegan kitchens; and for house and techno, tickets to Subclub – one of the world’s best basement nightclubs – are compulsory. If you’re looking for something romantic, a candlelight concert by Fever is just for you.

Charley Ward

Olivia Morelli

Lauren Burvill

CNT Editors

9. Reset Yoga

Somewhat industrial Kinning Park might not be the obvious place to find a yoga studio, but the contrast is all part of the charm. Up a few flights of stairs in an architect-led office space, you’ll find the Reset Studio. Its panelled walls are brilliant white, there’s a double-height ceiling, and twelve-pane sash windows flood the room with light. Take a position on the stripped-back wooden floor (mats, blocks and straps are all provided) and let the skilled teachers gently guide you through a series of poses before bedtime. After a day of sightseeing, candlelit yoga is like a restorative reset button. If you’re feeling more up to a sweaty workout, the studio also runs pilates classes, and in the summer , there are outdoor rooftop sessions.

Address : 101 Portman Street, Glasgow, G41 1EJ Website : resetyogahub.com Opening times : Class times vary from 7.30am-7.15pm each day

10. Shop the West End

Glasgow’s West End is a world of its own. There is a dizzying amount of good food , drink and coffee (and both of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants ), photogenic cobbled lanes and smart, independent cinema, The Grosvenor . Plus, two of the city’s loveliest parks, a couple of its best museums , and the UK’s fourth-oldest university. There are also numerous independent shops worth exploring. Vintage-clothing fans are particularly spoilt for choice: hit The Glasgow Vintage Co., Duds. Vintage Clothing and Retro in quick succession before crossing Byres Road to browse hidden gem Starry Starry Night, where designer labels are guaranteed. Other highlights include Hoos for stylish houseware, window-dressing champion and florist Blooms, and quirky upcycled and vintage furniture shop Found.

11. Record Hunt

At the niche end of Glasgow’s best things to do is record hunting. In the centre of town, you’ll find Palais de Danse , where it’s easy to think you’re lost as you enter what looks like a DJ’s attic blaring its speakers and showcasing a mind-blowing array of records. A walk away is Rubadub – a slicker operation where technical equipment can be browsed alongside music titles. Monorail Music not only offers a great space to spend time with friends but also has a carefully maintained blog that’s worth reading before you go. Meanwhile, in the West End, discover treasures in Mixed Up down cobbled Otago Lane or, over in the Southside, rummage records and vintage knick-knacks at Otherside , then enjoy a coffee at record café Some Great Reward .

12. Get crafty at a pottery class

Ever since UK TV sensation The Great Pottery Throwdown , people have – quite literally – gone potty for the craft. In Glasgow, you can now sign up for beginners or taster workshops at the likes of Glasgow Ceramics Studio and Wild Gorse Pottery , but those who enjoy a drink or two, while they get creative, should check out The Craft Pottery’s BYOB events . With an artist’s guidance, you can wheel-throw or hand-build mugs, jugs, or mini pots, decorating them in whatever way your imagination inspires as you sip your tipple of choice.

13. Britannia Panopticon

Tucked away above an amusement arcade in a not-particularly-lovely part of town is the dictionary definition of a hidden gem: the Britannia Panopticon , the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Stan Laurel made his debut in 1906. In its heyday, it was home to freak shows, zoos, wax works and a very tough crowd, who made sure performers who didn’t make the grade were pelted with rivets from the shipyards, rancid turnips and horse manure. Although in a state of dilapidation, the Panopticon’s hallowed halls are still used for comedy, film, burlesque and drag nights to raise funds for its restoration. Or for the princely sum of £2, you can simply soak up the atmosphere, play the old pianola, browse exhibits and marvel at the acts on the bill, ranging from the World's Smallest Man to the World’s Tallest. As there’s no heating, wrapping up warm is a must, but you might get the shivers anyway – a mysterious dark figure is often sensed on the balcony, which is still littered with ticket stubs from shows gone by.

Address : 113-117 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HD Website : britanniapanopticon.org Opening times : Thursday - Saturday, 12-5pm

14. Library of Olfactive Material

The Library of Olfactive Material is a non-profit project created by Perfumer Clara Weale. Behind a modest storefront in St Andrew’s Square, it features a collection of 100 scents, including a rare materials section that ranges from Ambercore to Zenolide. Open by appointment, you can book a session to explore the library’s neatly displayed rows of mysterious aromas and pick up a few sample vials to inspire your senses. Or simply follow your nose to their perfume-making workshop and create a signature scent of your own.

Address: 28 St. Andrews Street, Glasgow, G1 5PD Website: a-library-of.com Opening times: Open by appointment Price : A Library of Olfactive Material two-hour private library session, £15, three-hour perfume-making workshop plus 30ml bottle of fragrance, £95

15. Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel Spa

A spa day at Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel in the city centre is the remedy for inclement weather. The thermal experience was renovated in 2023 and now involves saunas, bubbling pools and even a snow room. For heavenly relaxation, finish with a specialist hot-stone massage. Or try the more stimulating Detox Body Wrap, which employs sea salt and algae to improve skin tone and eliminate toxins; natural products by Hebridean skincare brand Ishga use hand-harvested seaweed to transform and rejuvenate. Afterwards, make a reservation at Iasg, where the signature salt cod scotch egg can’t be missed, along with Cumbrae oysters, Shetland mussels and other Scottish seafood delights.

Address : 11 Blythswood Square, Glasgow, G2 4AD Website : kimptonblythswoodsquare.com Opening times : Monday-Friday: 7am-10pm; Saturday-Sunday: 7am-9pm

16. Glasgow Film Theatre

It feels a little crass to always compare everything outside of London to something in London (not least because it’s usually done with an ounce of “it’s not quite as good”), but the Glasgow Film Theatre is somewhat akin to the Prince Charles Cinema. If you’ll allow us the comparison, the similarities line in the venues’ appreciation for arthouse media. In Scotland, you’ll find a rota of recent releases peppered with iconic classics and international specials. It’s also the host of the Glasgow Film Festival and runs regular screenings for people with additional needs, such as autism and dementia. The cinema is housed in a striking Art Deco building which is category B-listed and worth a stroll past even if you’re not popping in.

Address : 100 Stobcross Road, Glasgow, G3 8QQ Website : glasgowfilm.org Opening times : Monday - Friday and Sunday: 12-11pm; Saturday: 11am-11pm

17. The Mackintosh House

For a taste of inimitable design, the Mackintosh House holds the key to a look inside Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s home. Here you’ll find the recreation of his living quarters, which he shared with his wife, Margaret. The most striking thing about the space is its light, even on a grey Glasgow day. Rooms include a minimalist white bedroom, a large drawing room and the studio where Mackintosh would have worked on his various architectural and design projects. The museum limits visitors to twelve visitors at a time, too, so it never feels crowded.

Address : 82 Hillhead Street, Glasgow, G12 8QQ Website : gla.ac.uk Opening times : Tuesday-Sunday: 10am-5pm

18. WEST Brewery

Set back from Glasgow Green in an intricately patterned red brick building, WEST Brewery boasts one of the city’s most extensive beer gardens in the city. It is the perfect place to unwind after sightseeing elsewhere. The beer here is the only beer brewed following Germany’s strict Purity Law of 1516 (the oldest food and drinks law in the world and one that requires drinks to be made from water, barley and hops), and there’s a menu of sausage platters, currywurst and pretzel burgers. There’s a regular events schedule, too, so look out for tours and live music, with the biggest celebration being Oktoberfest come the autumn.

Address : 15 Binnie Place, Glasgow, G40 1AW Website : westbeer.com Opening times : Monday - Thursday and Sunday: 11am-11pm; Friday and Saturday: 11am -12am

How to spend 24 hours in Glasgow

If you’re in Glasgow for a day, one of the best places to concentrate your time is in its stylish West End, home to the magnificent Neo-Gothic  Glasgow University , a couple of stellar museums, one of its prettiest and best-known parks, and numerous independent businesses. Start with breakfast on Great Western Road at  Papercup , where artisan coffee and a signature veggie haggis and fried egg roll should go down a treat. Follow the hill westward to the  Botanic Gardens  to explore their abundant florae, eventually making your way into the Arboretum, where you can join the peaceful  Kelvin Walkway . Stroll along the river into  Kelvingrove Park  and meander up the hill to admire the university’s spires, before grabbing authentic Greek gyros for lunch from  MacTassos  down on Kelvinway. After, you can pop next door into the Victorian Gothic  Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , whose diverse collection has something to appeal to everyone. When you’re done, relax with a drink at trendy  Dukes Bar , finally topping it all off with a feast of ever-changing small plates up the road at  Eighty Eight  – one of Glasgow’s best restaurants .

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » Scotland » 25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland)

25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland)

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland , situated on the River Clyde. Well known for its beautiful, thriving shopping districts and the culture that it has to offer. It attracts a large number of tourists every year. It doesn’t matter whether you want to experience culture, food or shopping, you’ll find something to fit your interests within the boundaries of this up and coming city. The slogan, “People Make Glasgow”, really does fit the place, and you’ll be having friendly conversations with locals and travellers alike there before you know it.

Journey with us through the best things to do in Glasgow to learn just how vital the history of the city was to make it what it is today.

1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Situated within the heart of Glasgow’s famous West End you can find Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Standing for more than a century it was purpose built to be what it is today, with stunning architecture and a range of separate exhibit rooms. As a free attraction it really shouldn’t be missed, and it’s only a quick walk away from the Kelvingrove subway station, making it easy to get to. Inside you’ll find more than 22 themed galleries, and 8000 objects to capture your attention. Go from seeing Salvador Dali’s Christ of St. John of the Cross to seeing exhibits on dinosaurs and prehistoric mammals. Not to mention all of the beautifully displayed animals, and the skeleton of a stag who could make even the tallest of people feel short.

2. Shopping on Buchanan Street

Are you one of those travellers who absolutely has to go shopping no matter where in the world you travel to? If so, then Buchanan Street will feel just like home to you. It forms the central stretch of the city’s shopping district, linking you to an array of shops in each direction. It’s best known for the variety that it offers both tourists and locals alike, and most shoppers spend a lot of time inside of Buchanan Galleries. In there you can find everything from Hollister and Pandora, to Millie’s Cookies and The Whisky Shop. Given that Scottish weather isn’t exactly known for being the best, it would also be a great way for you to escape the rain.

3. Glasgow Tigers Speedway

Boasting a reputation as the only professional speedway team in the west of Scotland, these men certainly have something fantastic to offer. The season runs from the end of March through to the end of August, but it would be advisable to check the match schedule before your trip if you’re looking to attend one of their events. You’ll have a fun filled, well fuelled day watching them, sitting on the edge of your seats when it looks as if they might fall. Adults and children alike will enjoy watching the Glasgow Tigers Speedway events while they compete for their place on the British Speedway’s Premier League table.

4. Bread Meats Bread

Since the opening of Bread Meats Bread it has quickly become one of the finest eating establishments in the centre of Glasgow. One of the things that has earned it the reputation it deserves is that when you go, there’s no such thing as reservations there. Everyone is treated exactly the same, giving it the feel of a real family owned business, where each customer is kindly treated as a house guest. Don’t let the name deceive you either, they also serve vegetarian options! Pop in for an amazing burger, and give yourself the choice between something simple like a classic burger, or their signature Wolf of St Vincent Street burger. They also now serve poutine, Canada’s national dish, and since this there seems to have been a nice decrease in the number of Glaswegians suffering with terrible hangovers! So take yourself in for a lovely, family focused meal.

5. The Riverside Museum

If you would like to experience more of Glasgow’s past during your time in the city, you certainly shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit The Riverside Museum. You can follow the city’s subway system around to Partick Subway Station and it’s just a 7-minute walk away. The subway really is the easiest way to get around the city, and with its loop system you’re unlikely to get lost. Inside of The Riverside Museum you’ll find something for everyone, while diving into the rich history that Glasgow has to offer. Everything from locomotives and vintage cars to an actual Stormtrooper can be found on display there. So, take a step back in history and walk through the interactive “shops” you’ll be presented with, climb aboard the exhibits and have fun.

6. The West End

Considered by many to be the most beautiful part of Glasgow, you certainly shouldn’t miss the opportunity to see the West End while you’re adventuring around. It’s one of those places that leaves a mark on you while you’re travelling, having its own independent character that can’t easily be defined. With a beautiful mix of character and stunning architecture it houses some of the loveliest vintage shops, and alleyways full of small, intimate bars and restaurants. You can find everything from vegetarian Indian restaurants to small restaurants serving classic Thai food. It’s an area that you will be wanting to find yourself in again and again.

7. Glasgow Science Centre

Have you got children you want to keep entertained while travelling? If so, then this is the attraction for them. The Glasgow Science Centre is purpose built to both teach and entertain children, giving them an insight into the world of science and technology. Children under the age of 7 can use the Big Explorer area, where they can use water and operate a crane to keep a pretend cargo ship balanced. Or they can put on their own little puppet show under the sea, while having some fun with a musical shark and a giant walk on piano. If your children are very young, then they’ll probably have a lot of fun in the soft play area on the bottom floor. But adults and children alike will find the planetarium captivating, letting your imaginations run across the skies.

8. Kelvingrove Park

Do you prefer to have a peaceful day out while travelling? Kelvingrove Park could be just the place for you, situated along the side of the River Kelvin, and set in 85 acres it provides an urban haven for animals and people alike. There’s a possibility that you could come across animals as rare as kingfishers and otters, or as common as red foxes. You should expect to see red foxes quite frequently in the West End of the city after the sun sets, they’re a common sight and will leave you well alone! When the weather is nice the park is popular with all kinds of people, from dog walkers to the students of the nearby university. Have a leisurely stroll, or sit down for a picnic. Maybe you could even take your family for an animal hunt out in the park.

9. The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

There are plenty of performing art venues throughout the UK that can boast putting on some sort of performance already every day, but there aren’t many who can say that they facilitate more than 500 performances every year. The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is one of the few that ticks this box! When planning your trip, you should have a little look online and see if there’s something that suits your taste, with drama, musical theatre and pantomimes there certainly should be. You’ll get to sit in a comfortable, modern auditorium with eye catching architecture and friendly, student staff who are happy to answer any questions you have.

Related tour : Glasgow’s Music Mile Tour

10. Glasgow Cathedral

Most of the medieval cathedrals that exist throughout the United Kingdom are now ruins, so you should take advantage of seeing one of the last remaining great cathedrals while you’re in Glasgow. It has been used for worship for more than 800 years, and has one of the largest collections of post-war stained glass windows. You can see the brilliant arches, hand carved pews and memorial pieces that are dotted on every wall. If you have an interest in architecture, history or even photography, then the Glasgow Cathedral is the building that you want to see.

Included in : Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

11. The Necropolis

Sitting directly adjacent from the Glasgow Cathedral you’ll find one of the oddest attractions that you should see during your time in Glasgow. Modelled on the Pere-Lachaise in Paris, The Necropolis is now known as one of the most significant cemeteries in the whole of Europe. In the Summer months you can find an array of flowers, bees and butterflies adding colour to the 50,000 monuments that sit in the 37 acres of land. You’re safe to explore for free, and you’re safe knowing that Park Rangers patrol the cemetery on a daily basis. Chances are you’ll recognise an area or two, as The Necropolis has featured in a wide range of television programmes and films!

12. Tiffney’s Steakhouse

If you find yourself in the West End deciding where to eat, Tiffney’s Steakhouse should be somewhere near the top of your list. Providing food that is completely sourced from local suppliers you know that you’re getting the best of quality. Their Highland cattle are reared in a natural, grass fed environment, then their beef is usually dry aged for around 50 days. Sit inside and enjoy a beautiful meal, cooked exactly how you want it. Or turn up on a Sunday and have one of their famous set Sunday Roasts, a staple tradition across the UK.

13. The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens

Do you enjoy learning about the history of each new city that you visit? Now as weather dependent as this attraction is, it will give you the opportunity to view the way life was in Glasgow throughout the 18 th to the 20 th century. Inside of the main house you’ll find a collection of artefacts, photographs, prints and films from across the years. The Winter Gardens outside of the house are beautiful, which is what makes it such a weather dependent attraction, you can wonder amongst plants from far off lands, and see the beautifully restored Doulton fountain. If you start to get a little bit hungry among the grounds, then there’s a fairly priced café where you can rest and have a bite to eat.

14. The Glasgow School of Art

You can learn a lot about the history of Glasgow from this attraction, which features an hour long tour. You can learn about the famous Rennie Mackintosh and his life, from being a student to a master designer whose work is known around the world. Unfortunately, the building did suffer fire damage recently, so it has had to be restored. The thing that really fascinates a lot of travellers about Mackintosh’s work is his mind. He managed to work in a variety of different sectors, acting as a lead architect, a painter, an interior designer and an all-round brilliant artist. His name is known to the vast majority of people who call Glasgow home, and you can see why too.

Included in this tour : Glasgow’s Music Mile Tour

15. The OVO Hydro

If you like to watch performances while you’re travelling, then it would be more than worth having a look at what artists are playing at The OVO Hydro at the time that you’re travelling. They’ve housed many a famous name in their purpose built entertainment venue, and with many surrounding bars and restaurants you’ll be able to keep yourself busy both before and after. The venue itself is quite a sight, and has enough room for a large number of people watching the performance, but it quite often shows not just music, but comedy and a variety of other shows. You do need to be aware that it can get quite busy, but for most people this just adds to the atmosphere.

16. Hunterian Museum

Adding the perfect dash to the already beautiful museums that exist across Glasgow the Hunterian Museum really is the cherry on top that finishes it off. With a mixture of permanent and temporary exhibitions you can see everything from Ichthyosaurs to Comic Invention. There is also a Zoology Museum you can enter, and both are completely admission free. Occasionally there will be a special exhibition, they cost £5 to enter. Get the Hunterian Museum added to the list of places that you want to visit while you’re in Glasgow!

17. Pollok Country Park

As the only country park within the whole of Glasgow it has its own reputation. Add to this that it has won awards such as the Best Park in Britain, and the Best Park in Europe over the past decade and you’ll know that it’s worth seeing. With walking trails set among 360 acres of green land you will be met with the opportunity to see an array of animals, including Highland Cattle, up close. Children will absolutely love it, but they’ll also be entertained by the great areas built specifically for children to play in, and the natural mini waterfalls that they’ll have the opportunities to see depending on which trail you take.

Book online : Pollok House Entrance Ticket

18. Nippon Kitchen

Just as the Hunterian Museum is the cherry on top of the museums in Glasgow, Nippon Kitchen is a restaurant that stands up on its own right. Using specialist ingredients specifically imported straight from Japan, and fresh produce from only local suppliers you can imagine that their customers are always provided with the best of service. It provides a classic, minimalistic Japanese layout, set among beautiful wooden panels. Importing their sake from Japan they can give you a wide variety to choose from, and are happy to make recommendations for you if you’re not sure. Whether it’s tempura, ramen or sushi, you’ll find it here.

19. City Chambers

Situated in the famous George Square the City Chambers act as the home to Glasgow City Council. You can take a free guided tour through the building at either 10.30am, or 2.30pm on weekdays, but unfortunately they aren’t available at the weekend. From the outside of the building you wouldn’t even get the idea to expect the grand inner chambers that lie within the case of the outer architecture. With a ballroom that appears to have stepped out of another century, and 2 spires with decorated dome ceilings. The tour guides all provide an exceptional service, telling you just the right amount of information to teach you about what you’re seeing. Make sure you take a camera with you, you’ll get some beautiful shots in there.

20. Glasgow Film Theatre

For those of you who love to see the classics of world cinema, or contemporary art house films, Glasgow Film Theatre is the place for you. It houses several film festivals a year, and you’re bound to find something you might enjoy hidden within the building, be sure to look online for a full listing of all of their upcoming shows. They take pride in taking a personal approach with their audiences, providing them with a comfortable, friendly environment to watch the film in. You can also find everything from craft beer to cake nestled within the Café Cosmo area of their Theatre. So go, sit back and enjoy yourself.

21. Grosvenor Riverboat Casino

Are you one of those travellers that enjoys the occasional trip to a casino? If you are, then add the Grosvenor Riverboat Casino to your list immediately. Nestled on the banks of the River Clyde you have a beautiful view, especially as the sun is setting down the river. Along with a their a la Carte Louisiana style restaurant they have a late night bar, and a comprehensive gaming environment. This includes roulette tables, blackjack, poker tables and popular slot machines. With friendly staff, you can either sit down and enjoy a lovely meal, or take your chance in the hand of fate.

22. Willow Tea Rooms

While everyone has different tastes, one of the two Willow Tea Rooms venues will be worth seeing while you’re in Glasgow. Going back to the famous Rennie Mackintosh, he played a large part in their design back in 1903. In fact, he designed everything about them, from the architecture to the waitresses’ outfits. While one exists on Sauchiehall Street, the other sits in the famous shopping area of Buchanan Street. Try everything from homemade sandwiches to traditional scones with clotted cream and jam. Not to mention the variety of teas and coffees that will be available to you.

25 Best Things to Do in Glasgow (Scotland):

• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• Shopping on Buchanan Street
• Glasgow Tigers Speedway
• Bread Meats Bread
• The Riverside Museum
• The West End
• Glasgow Science Centre
• Kelvingrove Park
• The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
• Glasgow Cathedral
• The Necropolis
• Tiffney's Steakhouse
• The People's Palace and Winter Gardens
• The Glasgow School of Art
• The OVO Hydro
• Hunterian Museum
• Pollok Country Park
• Nippon Kitchen
• City Chambers
• Glasgow Film Theatre
• Grosvenor Riverboat Casino
• Willow Tea Rooms

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37 Unique Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland

Home » Blog » Europe » Scotland » 37 Unique Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland

If you’re traveling to Scotland, you don’t want to miss this list of things to do in Glasgow. Considered the gateway to many other incredible adventures in Scotland, it’s bound to be on your travel itinerary. In this guide, we’re sharing our top picks to help you plan your visit to Glasgow. 

​​I’m going to give it to you straight — Glasgow doesn’t have the same undeniable charm that Edinburgh oozes. 

And we didn’t fall in love at first sight, like we did with Edinburgh .

Glasgow is a little rougher around the edges. It’s not quite as “movie set beautiful”.

In fact, at first glance, it’s kind of gritty. But in a way that urges you to stay a little longer. Explore a little deeper.

And if you give it a chance, Glasgow will pull you in, and you’ll see this city for what it really is…

A city with a beating heart and soul. A city with a lively arts, music and nightlife scene, and some of Scotland’s best restaurants. A city where locals pack the streets, instead of tourists.

Glasgow might not be as perfectly manicured as its neighbor to the east. But it is just as worth exploring.

And with plenty of things to do in Glasgow (and lots of ahhh-mazing places to eat!), it is well worth a spot on your Scotland itinerary.

Glasgow Travel Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your trip to Glasgow, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

• Edinburgh vs. Glasgow

Best time to visit Glasgow

• How to get around Glasgow

Where to eat in Glasgow

Where to stay in glasgow.

• What to pack for Scotland

Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these  epic places to visit in Scotland .

Top things to do in Glasgow

If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Glasgow, here are our top  recommendations. 

• Sample Scottish cuisine on a food tour
• Spend the night glamping
• Wander through the Cloisters
• Take a walking tour that makes a difference
• Eat “family style” at this stunning plant-filled restaurant
• Walk Insta-worthy Ashton Lane

Keep reading for more detailed information on each of these things and more ideas of fun things to do in Scotland.

1. Sample classic Scottish dishes on a Food Tour

We’ve taken food tours all around the world for a handful of reasons:

• a) You can learn so much about a culture through its cuisine.
• b) You get to hang out with a local and pick their brain about food, restaurants and culture.
• c) You can try all the traditional foods in a low-pressure setting. So if you’re a little hesitant to order a whole meal of haggis, for instance, a food tour is perfect because you’ll get a small portion to try. 
• d) A food tour is probably the most efficient way to eat your way through a city and have the best of the best! (Aka it’s the perfect thing to do when you have a short amount of time to explore.)

So yeah, we’re huge fans. Obsessed might be a more accurate description.

We’ve gone on a lot of food tours (Glasgow was our 11th!), so we’d like to think we know what we’re talking about.

We’ve gotta say that this was one of the best food tours we’ve been on.

There are a lot of food tours in Glasgow to choose from (and most look great!), but this is the one we took .

For the price, we got a huge amount of food and several drinks to pair as well. (Whiskey, a gin cocktail, local beer.)

We were able to experience some unique restaurants and try some of the classic Scottish dishes we had a hard time finding elsewhere on our Scotland road trip (like cranachan). Plus, we had the absolute best haggis of our trip (by far!) on this tour.

Our guide was excellent, and in addition to explaining the foods, shared a lot about the city’s landmarks and history as we walked between the stops. 

It was a truly wonderful tour. If you love trying new foods on your travels, it is our top recommendation of things to do in Glasgow.

Our advice: We would recommend booking your food tour well in advance, as they do book up. We originally were planning to take a food tour in Edinburgh, but they were totally full during our visit. So if you have one in mind, avoid disappointment by booking your spots early.

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

2. Spend the night ‘glamping’ just outside the city

Spending the night in a glamping pod was one of our very favorite things we did in Glasgow. 

Hidden Horizons is situated just a 30-minute drive from the city center, but feels a world away. These newly-opened glamping pods are absolutely stunning, and it’s clear the amount of work and attention to detail that has gone into creating this magical place.

Each pod has a unique theme, and it comfortably-appointed with a small kitchenette, a coffee machine, a super comfortable bed, and most importantly, a private hot tub with a view! 

We were treated to a spectacular cotton candy sunset over Glasgow. Pure magic.

Our only regret is that we didn’t book two nights.

So after you make your reservation, here’s what you’re gonna do…

Go to the supermarket to grab a bottle of wine or bubbly and some snacks to enjoy so you don’t have to leave once you’re there. Be sure to arrive right at check-in so you can maximize your time in this unique place. As soon as your arrive, change into your swimsuit and get into that Jacuzzi in time for sunset. 

Now go make that reservation, already!

Our advice: Whether or not it’s in Glasgow, we highly recommend glamping, even if just for one night! We have a roundup of the best places to go glamping in Scotland so you can find one that fits your Scotland itinerary and budget.

3. Wander through the Cloisters

The Cloisters, also known as the Undercroft, are one of the most defining features in the University of Glasgow. 

These fluted, impressive archways may look familiar as they’ve made an appearance in many TV shows, most notably Outlander!

Are you heading to Inverness next?  There are several options for transportation between the two cities, and we have a detailed guide on  how to travel from Glasgow to Inverness  which outlines all of your options.

4. Take a walking tour that makes a difference

We’re big fans of taking free walking tours, as it is the perfect way to orient ourselves with a new city.

Plus, you’re shown around by a local who can let you in on tips and hidden gems only locals know about.

Now, there is a free walking tour company in Glasgow , but we actually have a different suggestion…

Invisible Cities is a really unique social enterprise that empowers locals who have experienced homelessness to become tour guides and show visitors around their home city. 

Glasgow is one of the cities that this UK-based organization offers tours, giving you the opportunity to support a local in a truly life-changing way.

5. Eat “family style” at this stunning plant-filled restaurant

While doing research for our trip to Glasgow, one place that kept coming up was Ubiquitous Chip .

I saw it recommended on other travel blogs. In restaurant guides. And after talking to more than one person who lived in Glasgow, this was a top recommendation.

So it was decided, then. We were going.

This place is quite the establishment. I don’t even know exactly how to describe it. But I’ll try…

There are different types of restaurants and bars all under one roof that each have their own vibe and menu. 

We dined at the restaurant for lunch and shared an embarrassingly large selection of family-style dishes between the two of us. #worthit

The glass ceiling and plant-covered walls gave the ambiance of dining in a greenhouse. A greenhouse that is beautifully decorated and serves tasty bites, mind you. 

Everything we ordered was fabulous, and we can understand why this place kept coming up as recommendations for Glasgow.

6. Walk Insta-worthy Ashton Lane

This narrow, cobbled street is what IG influencers dream of. And the rest of us too, because, well, it’s super pretty.

Colorful flat billow in the breeze overhead, and cozy pubs and trendy restaurants line the street. Pop into whatever strikes your fancy. 

We suggest Ubiquitous Chip (see above) for a family-style meal, a rooftop toast, or a dram of Scotch in their Wee Whisky Bar.

7. Toast drinks at a Rooftop Bar

To get some of the best views of Glasgow, head to any of these iconic and inviting rooftop bars for sweeping drink menus and unique bites.

• Ubiquitous Chip : Since 1971, this restaurant has paved the way for the Glasgow food and drink scene.
• Radisson RED Sky Bar : Enjoy unparalleled views at one of the 50 best rooftop bars in the world. 
• Macintosh at the Willow : This south facing terrace allows you to enjoy the rare sunny days in Glasgow.
• Windows at the Carlton George : Toast your favorite drink to the best panoramic view of Glasgow’s skyline. 
• The Corinthian Club : This stylish, 5-story Victorian venue is perfect for any special occasion or casual outing.

8. Wander Buchanan Street

Glasgow is recognized for being one of the best shopping destinations in the United Kingdom, just after London, so you can’t leave without browsing the variety of shops along Buchanan Street. 

Argyle and Sauchiehall Streets are two other notable shopping streets nearby that are worth exploring as well.

9. Explore the University of Glasgow campus

One of the best things to do in Glasgow’s West End is take a stroll through the University of Glasgow. It is said that the main building on campus was the inspiration for Hogwarts!

This is one of the oldest English-speaking universities in the world that was established in 1451. While you’re here, you cannot miss the cloisters, lion and unicorn staircase, and the free Hunterian Museum.  

10. See the iconic Glasgow Necropolis

Established in the early 1800s, this Victorian cemetery is situated just east of the Glasgow Cathedral. Over 50,000 names have been buried here over the last few centuries. Plus, there are over 3,500 statues and monuments in honor of many important names throughout history. 

The Glasgow Necropolis is so large it’s considered a “ city for the dead” . You could spend hours here walking around, taking in the unique and ornate statues and sculptures.

11. Step inside Glasgow Cathedral

The gothic architecture of the Glasgow Cathedral catches the eyes of many passing by. With the first stones laid starting in the 1100s, walking through it is an imaginative and awe-inspiring experience.

It’s stained-glass windows and detailed stone work make it stand out among many other churches across the rest of the United Kingdom and Europe. It also happens to be the only Medieval Church in Scotland, which is another defining angle of this cathedral. 

12. Spot street art on the “Mural Trail”

One of the newest and most unique things to do in Glasgow is strolling down the Mural Trail to enjoy artwork by local artists. The colorful and vibrant murals are a direct contrast to the desaturated tones of the city.

While in most cities you need to go “ hunting ” for street art, Glasgow’s paintings are all pretty close together and can be enjoyed on a self-guided tour using this helpful map . The 1.5-3 hour route takes you off the beaten path through alleys and under bridges to see the most hidden corners of the city. If you want to experience the art coming to life, guided walking tours do an incredible job of sharing stories and immersing you in the artwork. As you walk through pieces from world-renowned artists to Glaswegian locals, you’ll understand how and why the city’s art scene has developed dramatically over the last decade.

13. Make your own silver ring to take home

A sterling silver ring is a perfect and special souvenir either for yourself or to bring home to a loved one. High-quality sterling silver will last a lifetime, so you can always be reminded by your trip just by slipping it on.

The best place to craft your own ring is with an experienced silversmith in north Glasgow. Luna is a raved, 5-star silversmith with the perfect touch to make you comfortable with learning the ropes of silversmithing, and putting your own touches to a thoughtful souvenir.

14. Get your caffeine fix at this stunning coffeehouse

Transport yourself to the heart of Istanbul at this warm and inviting coffee shop in the West End of Glasgow. Ottoman Coffeehouse offers a unique and dynamic space that separates it from any regular ol’ coffee chain. 

What makes a visit to this coffeehouse so worthy is that among the bustling streets of Glasgow, this spot serves as a home away from home, where you can relax over a stellar cup of coffee after a day of sightseeing.

They believe a cup of coffee is one of the most simple and important pleasures in life. From their espresso to their rotating single-origin beans from Africa, Arabia, and America, a cup of their perfectly brewed beans will transport you back to the grand coffeehouses of Eastern Europe.

15. Hike to the mysterious Devil’s Pulpit

The otherworldly Finnich Glen has a rather dark reputation due to legends throughout history and the coursing red water that flows through the vibrant green walls of the gorge. 

While originally the glen’s nickname, “ Devil’s Pulpit ”, referred to the mushroom-shaped rock the devil was said to stand on, today the whole glen reaps this sinister nickname.

Along this 0.5-mile trail you’ll traverse through legendary spots where it’s said that the devil himself held meetings for his followers, witches performed executions, and Druids held secret meetings.

Check out our guide to hiking Finnich Glen to Devil’s Pulpit for all the information you need to know before you go. 

16. Explore the People’s Palace

Walk along the historic Glasgow Green, the oldest park in the city, and pop into the People’s Palace. This palace serves as a museum that tells the story of Glaswegians social history from the 1700s to the late 20th century.

Through the collection of photographs, objects, prints, and films, you’ll travel back in time to see how the locals lived throughout history. 

17. Catch a lunchtime play at Òran Mór

Òran Mór’s lunchtime plays have become a midday phenomenon among Glaswegians for over 17 years. Each day, they premiere a different play that lasts no more than an hour. 

A Play, a Pie, and a Pint is the group that brings ideas and classics to the stage. They work with local and international talent, as well as emerging and established playwrights producing 33 new plays each year that run for 42 weeks.

Tickets average £12-15 and include a pint of beer, wine or other drink, and a meat (or veggie) pie. The intimate atmosphere and refreshing concepts bring locals and visitors here week after week to sold out shows.

18. Enjoy a dram of whisky 

Whether you’re a hardcore fan of Scotch or simply curious, Glasgow has a variety of places to enjoy a dram and learn a little bit along the way.

Get the lingo down: Dram is the words Scots use for a shot, or small tasting (usually referring to whisky)

Scotch Malt Whisky Society

This sleek setting is the perfect place to sample Scotch. In addition to having a huge variety of excellent whiskeys to sample, the staff has a wealth of knowledge on the topic and can guide you through a tasting or helping you figure out what your whisky preference is. 

Feeling hungry? We had haggis and whisky here as part of a food tour (see #1), and it was the best we had on our trip!

Tour a distillery

If you want to tour a distillery while in Glasgow, there are two great options:

Glengoyne Distillery

Located about an hour northwest of the city, this distillery has been in business since 1833 and has a focus on sustainability. They offer daily tasting and distillery tours.

Clydeside Distillery

Conveniently located on the west side of town, this historic distillery offers a couple different types of tours, including one where the whisky is paired with artisan chocolates.

Sound like an expert: Throughout Scotland, there are 5 regional styles of whisky — Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside. Touring a distillery near Glasgow will be the Lowland style.

19. Learn the funny story behind the Duke of Wellington statue

The Equestrian Duke of Wellington statue is one of the defining features of Glasgow. It was built in 1884 as a tribute to Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington. The allure of the statue shifted dramatically around the 1980s when the Duke was capped with a bright orange traffic cone.

While the date of the original cone-capping is still shrouded in mystery, the story of how the cone came to be could not be more clear. Decades ago, after a group of locals went out for a pint or few, they decided to end an already legendary night by placing a cone on top of the statue’s head.

When the Glasgow City Council and local police removed the cone initially, they never expected to spend 10,000 pounds yearly removing cones from the statue. Anytime they removed a cone, another magically reappeared.

On their quest to eliminate the prank put on a Category-A listed monument, they raised the statue 6-feet higher into the air, but the cones still persisted. 

After the “Keep the Cone ” movement, removal of the cone ceased and the bright orange street symbol still stands today, serving as a testament to the Glaswegian’s sense of humor.

20. Get some fresh air at Pollock Country Park

The woodlands and peaceful gardens of the Pollock Country Park is the perfect escape from the cobblestone streets and pints in downtown Glasgow. This massive park is on the south side of the city and makes a perfect stop to relax or have a picnic.

The park is home to the world-famous Burrell Art Collections, as well as other historic homes and estates on the property. You can explore bits of history or opt to take any of the walking and biking trails to immerse yourself in the park’s woodlands.

21. Take a day trip to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park

Once you’ve spent ample time exploring Glasgow, the next best thing to do is venture out to one of Scotland’s scenic National Parks. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is only a 40-minute drive from Glasgow and makes for an adventurous day trip.

The National Park stretches from the hills and glens of the Southern Highlands all the way to the western coast of Scotland. With such a diverse array of landscapes, there are plenty of scenic hiking and walking trails, quaint villages, and outdoor activities to explore the park in depth.

22. Laugh the night away at a comedy show

Comedy is one of the major pillars of Glaswegian culture, and Glasgow happens to be the birthplace of many renowned local comedians. The city has well-known names regularly going through it’s wide range of venues.

• Glee Club Glasgow : Their weekend comedy shows are favored among locals and are sure to fill your night with laughter.
• The Stand Comedy Club : The host of a new legendary comedy night with a wide array of new and seasoned comics.

23. Enjoy fish ‘n chips in an old ship

McMonagles Boat is a world-class dining experience aboard an old boat docked in the Fourth & Clyde canal. Whether you’re looking to casually dine inside or have a formal dinner in the upper deck, they cater to all different types of preferences when it comes to getting your fix of fish ‘n chips.

They also have a variety of other traditional Scottish dishes to try on deck like haddock, haggis, and the classic, “Big Scottish Breakfast”. 

24. Cheers with a pint of Scottish beer

Sure, you can toast with a pint of local brew at any old pub, but if you’re really into beer, you’ll want to enjoy it straight from the source.

There are a few craft breweries in Glasgow (with more popping up), but our top suggestion is Drygate Brewery.

Drygate Brewery

This gastropub has a variety of styles of beer and a kitchen that serves pub grub.

If you want to learn more about the brewing process, Drygate offers brewery tours and tutored tastings .

Tennents 

This is essentially Scotland’s Budweiser. And actually, Drygate (mentioned above) is part of the Tennents family (and is located just around the corner.)

And if you’re into light and crisp lagers, this might be more your style. You can tour the Tennents Brewery and learn about its history and how it’s made today.

25. Walk Kelvingrove Park & visit the free galleries

The West End of Glasgow is filled with many parks, but Kelvingrove Park nearly tops the list. This Victorian Park was built along the River Kelvin and was designed to complement the many buildings on site, most notably the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

The art gallery has over 22 different exhibits you can browse for free. Most impressively, the galleries have gone under £28-million worth of renovations to restore the original 1901 Victorian interior. 

Explore the pop-up exhibits or head to any permanent galleries to learn about everything from Ancient Egypt to Charles Rennie Mackintosh. 

26. Catch live music

The live music scene in Glasgow is renowned for its array of music venues catering to both small intimate shows and massive, booming arenas. Talent comes and goes, but you’re bound to find an incredible show at any of these classic venues during your trip. 

• Barrowlands : This is known for being a legendary rock venue, but the acoustics and spring dance floor has attracted musical talents from a wide variety of genres. 
• OVO Hydro : From rock, pop, to soul and dance, the Hydro hosts some of the biggest musical names in the industry as well as other unique live shows.
• King Tuts Wah Wah Hut : This music venue hosts exciting and renowned musical talent from all over the world like the Killers and Radiohead. 
• Blue Dog : Jazz lovers unite at this New York style piano bar equipt with classic and contemporary cocktails. 

27. Indulge in a doughnut (or three!) at Tantrum Doughnuts

With 2 locations around town, Tantrum is a beloved Glasgow establishment known for their scratch doughnuts that are made fresh daily and sold until they run out.

Choose from unique flavors like pistachio & hibiscus, salted honey, and lemon poppyseed old fashioned. They even have a decent selection of vegan doughnuts.

Come hungry and come early, because they do sell out!

Tantrum Doughnuts locations:

• West side location (near Kelvingrove Park)
• Downtown location

28. Slow down with a chai at a bohemian tea house on the river

Just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Glasgow, you can recover your zen at the Tchai-Ovna House of Tea . They’ve been serving over 80 different types of ethically sourced teas for over 20 years inside a warm and inviting atmosphere. 

Among the incredible varieties of tea, they also serve up an eclectic menu of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Pop in for any of their in-house events, or dine casually from Monday through Sunday, 11 am to 11 pm.

29. Head to The Barras Market on a weekend

This exciting and diverse market has been an anticipated weekend venture since the early years of the 20th century. The word “barras” comes from the Glaswegian word “barrow”, that refers to the handcarts that traders used to sell their goods from.

After entering the intriguing red archway, you’ll be enamored with the one-of-a-kind fashions and bargains dotting the marketplace. This is a space where designers, creators, and dreamers can showcase their unique pieces in one of the United Kingdom’s oldest markets.

Sustainable Fashion Row and Hippie Lane are two exciting areas to roam for your fashion fix. The market also has many mouth-watering food spots to indulge in as you shop around on Saturday or Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm.

30. Escape the city in the nearby village of Milngavie

If you’re looking to escape the city and get outdoors, Milngavie is a small village on the outskirts of Glasgow. It is home to the beginning of West Highland Way — Scotland’s most famous long-distance hiking route. 

It can make a nice place to get out of the hustle and bustle of Glasgow and stretch your legs amongst other hiking enthusiasts.

FYI: The West Highland Way trail is 96 miles and takes roughly 7 days, so if you’re just looking for a short hike, walk for as long as you’d like before turning around.

How to get to Milngavie: From the center of Glasgow, it’s just a 25-minute drive northwest of the city. You can also get there on public transport, by taking the ScotRail from Queen Street, which comes every 30 minutes during the day.

31. Tour Glasgow Central Station

Touring the train station may sound like a strange thing to do, but with more than 4,000 5-star reviews, this is one of the highest-rated tours in the city.

On this rave-worthy tour, one of the highlights is getting to see a preserved Victorian platform that isn’t open to the public. 

Learn more about the tour and book your spot here .

32. Enjoy a cocktail or dessert inside the stunning Corinthian

This building was originally a bank — a very fancy one, at that. It was then turned into a courtroom, at which time the lovely details were covered up so it looked like a more serious place.

But when this was later purchased and made into a restaurant-slash-entertainment venue (known today as The Corinthian ), the stunning architecture was once again revealed.

It truly is a sight to behold. 

You can enjoy the architecture in a variety of ways: 

• Come for an afternoon tea.
• Sit in the beautiful dining room with a dessert or snack. 
• On the weekend, come for their Sunday Roast (a UK staple), or sign up for a cocktail masterclass where you can learn the ins and outs of creating your favorite beverage. 
• There is even a new nightclub in the basement level featuring DJs on the weekends, for those travelers looking to get their groove on.

33. Afternoon tea at the Butterfly & the Pig

Afternoon tea in Scotland is a cultural staple, making it one of the most quintessential things to do in Glasgow. The Butterfly & the Pig is right near the heart of downtown, making it the perfect midday pick me up before exploring the rest of the city.

What separates this afternoon tea from others is that they believe that portion sizes should be hearty and filling. Their full afternoon tea menu includes canapes, sandwiches, scones, homemade cakes, and your choice of tea. 

For a boozy afternoon, you can add a bottle of prosecco to your fill or if you want to save room to sample more restaurants around the city, you can order their cream tea for two that includes tea and scones, with cream and jam.

Psst! If Scotland’s is on your itinerary, we have a round up of the best places to have afternoon tea in Edinburgh .

34. Compete on Pub Quiz night with locals

The quiz scene in Glasgow is competitive, exciting, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. Pub quiz nights run from Monday and Thursday and are a favored late-night activity among Glaswegians. 

Grab a pint of your favorite brew and head to any of these iconic pub quizzes to prove your knowledge on endless trivial topics:

• The Sparkle Horse : Hailed as Glasgow’s hardest quiz, this is an essential Monday night gathering that brings in competitive locals and thought-provoking questions.
• The Admiral : This is Glasgow’s longest-running pub quiz that draws in office workers, students, music snobs, and more to test their knowledge for an exciting Tuesday night.
• Curlers Rest : This pub quiz is hosted by a well-known face in Glasgow’s pub scene that runs quizzes in multiple locations, but this Tuesday night is one of the ‘ best in the west ’.

View a list of pub quiz nights here

35. Explore the Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Get away from the bustle of the city and walk among 9000+ different types of plants within the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. If you’re looking for free things to do in Glasgow, this is one of the best spots to explore the city on a budget. 

The main feature of the gardens are the massive temperate and tropical glasshouses. You can also explore an herb garden and plant bed that has local plants potted chronologically in the order they were introduced to Scotland.

Discover over 30 different interesting stops along the Heritage Trail, take the Tree Trail through the Gardens and Arboretum, or enjoy a hot cup of tea in the Gardens Tearoom. 

36. Climb to the top of the Lighthouse

Located in the former offices of the Glasgow Herald newspaper, The Lighthouse is known as the city’s center of design and architecture. 

This was the first publicly commissioned project by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Scotland’s most celebrated architect.

It is free to climb the spiral staircase (an iconic view in itself) to the top where you will be rewarded with panoramic views over Glasgow.

Important Note: Unfortunately, The Lighthouse is currently closed to the public. Check back prior to your trip to see if it has reopened. 

37. Experience football fame at Celtic Park Stadium

Hardcore football fans (or soccer fans, if you’re coming at us from the USA!), will want to carve out some time in their Glasgow itinerary to visit the iconic Celtic Park. 

This stadium is home to the Celtic Football Club, and is a destination in itself. 

Catch a match here or take a guided tour, which will grant visitors behind-the-scenes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, dugouts, and Celtic FC boardroom.

There are two tours to choose from (both with rave reviews!):

• Classic Stadium Tour
• Stadium Tour + 3-Course Meal in the Celtic Park Restaurant

What guests are saying:

“Booked this for my boyfriend’s birthday and have to admit I enjoyed it just as much as he did. Made to feel very welcome the minute you go through the door and greeted by so many smiling faces. The tour guide Martin was very informative and had so many stories to tell on every aspect of the tour. The meal afterwards in No7 was tremendous. Great choices for all and very well presented. Would highly recommend both the tour and the meal to anyone, whether a football fan or not.” -Amanda, United Kingdom (November, 2022)

Which is better: Edinburgh or Glasgow?

These are two of the very best cities to visit in Europe , and hopefully you can add both to your Scotland itinerary. But if you only have time for one, let’s go over what makes each unique…

These cities are located just over an hour apart from each other, but they couldn’t feel more different.

• Glasgow is bigger, but less touristy.
• Edinburgh is prettier, but doesn’t have the same level of famed nightlife.
• Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, but Edinburgh has more of a local feel.
• Edinburgh has more “must see” attractions, but exploring Glasgow feels like uncovering local secrets.

Edinburgh is kind of like the preppy popular kid at high school that everyone loves at first glance. And Glasgow is like the artsy kid that is kind of mysterious, and the more you get to know them, the more you like them.

Excuse my ridiculous analogy, but hopefully it illustrates that Edinburgh and Glasgow are both very worthy of spots on your Scotland itinerary, albeit for different reasons.

Most Scots I’ve talked to claim that between the two, Glasgow is their favorite. 

And I can see why. 

It feels less made for tourists, and more made for locals. And the people are friendly and welcoming.

Our food tour guide (a native Glaswegian) put it this way:

• Glaswegians are down-to-earth, friendly and fun. Folks from Edinburgh may call them unrefined.
• People from Edinburgh tend to be more reserved. Glaswegians may call them uptight.

If you’re visiting Scotland for the first time, you can’t miss Edinburgh. But if you are a big fan of less-touristy places, you might feel more at home in Glasgow.

Will you be traveling from Edinburgh? There are several options for transportation between the two cities, and we have a detailed guide on how to travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow which outlines all of your options.

Glasgow’s weather, although always changing, is the most pleasant from spring to fall.  

Each season offers an entirely different palette of different things to enjoy and see, so planning your trip largely depends on your interests.

You can sip on some of the world’s finest whiskey any time of year, but if you’re using Scotland’s largest city as a basecamp before heading into the highlands, you may want to lean towards the summer months. 

Psst! For an in-depth guide on the seasonal weather patterns and other factors, check out our complete guide on the best time to visit Scotland .

Getting around Glasgow

Glasgow, although the biggest city in Scotland, is easily navigated using any combination of their public transport options. Walking is an ideal way to get around if you’re staying in the city center, but if you need to go further distances, there are a variety of ways to get around. 

Glasgow’s subway system is the 3rd oldest in Europe (after Budapest and London). It is the easiest way to get around Glasgow’s city center and west end. 

There are 15 stops on Glasgow’s subway system, and it takes just 24 minutes to do a complete circuit. 

Adult tickets start at £1.55.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Scotland , we’d recommend waiting until after your time in Glasgow or making sure your accommodation offers parking and leaving your rental car there while exploring the city. It wouldn’t be very fun driving the city, and parking can be tricky to find (not to mention, expensive!).

First Bus Glasgow makes getting around Glasgow a breeze with over 80 different routes around the city. Not only that, but they offer daily tickets with unlimited rides, or weekly tickets that are ideal if you’re staying in the city for a bit longer. 

If you download the First Bus App , you can get the cheapest ticket prices and never miss the bus with their real-time maps and bus information. 

Learn more about the bus system and view ticket options here .

OVO Bikes are an ideal way to get around town quickly and efficiently. All you need to do is register with the app or online, scan the QR code on the bike, and you’ll be on your way! Learn more about how bike share works in Glasgow . 

How to get from the airport to the city center

• Train: The cheapest option to get to the city center is on the train. ScotRail has trains that depart every 15-minutes that take around 15-minutes to get to the heart of Glasgow.
• Bus : This is another great way to get to Glasgow. Thankfully, First Bus Glasgow now offers an Airport Express Route that will get you downtown in only 15-minutes. 
• Rideshare/taxi : Uber, Lyft, and taxis are all common ways to get to the city, but per usual they’re on the more expensive side for airport transfers.

Most of these are local recommendations from our Glasgow food tour guide (so you know she knows what she’s talking about!).

• Two Fat Ladies at the Buttery : creative, upscale menu featuring seafood and Scottish specialties
• Paesano Pizza : rave-worthy wood-fired pizza
• Gloriosa : Mediterranean eats
• Ubiquitous Chip : gorgeous, sprawling venue with shareable plates
• Ox and Finch : buzzy tapas style restaurant
• The Gannet : elevated dishes in an industrial chic setting

Since Glasgow is so compact, no matter where you stay you won’t be far from the action, but there are a handful of ideal places to base yourself for your trip. 

For first timers, downtown Glasgow near the Merchant City area is ideal since it’s close to all the popular shopping, history, and dining options. Families or those that want a laidback vibe, should head towards the East End or South Glasgow while boozy and foodie travelers will love the draw of the West end.

Glasgow Youth Hostel : This Victorian townhouse turned hostel overlooks Kelvingrove Park on the West End of Glasgow.

Native Glasgow : These condo-style hotel rooms were inspired by 1920s ocean liners. Enjoy the original 1906 features and location right next to George Square.

One Devonshire Gardens : Discover world-class service at this boutique hotel in the trendy West End of town.

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this  free Scotland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing check lists for everything from clothing and toiletries to electronics and extra gear you may consider packing if you plan to do some campervan travels.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Scotland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Round up of the unique things to do in Glasgow

Here’s a recap of all the unique things to do in Glasgow so you can see everything in one place.

• The Cloisters
• Invisible Cities walking tour
• Eat at Ubiquitous Chip
• Ashton Lane
• Rooftop bars
• Buchanan Street
• University of Glasgow campus
• Glasgow Necropolis
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Street art on the Mural Trail
• Ring-making experience
• Ottoman Coffeehouse
• Devil’s Pulpit
• People’s Palace
• Lunchtime play at Òran Mór
• Scotch Whisky
• Duke of Wellington statue
• Pollock Country Park
• Day trip to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
• Comedy show
• McMonagles Boat 
• Kelvingrove Park
• Tantrum Doughnuts
• Ovna House of Tea
• The Barras Market 
• Glasgow Central Station
• The Corinthian
• Afternoon tea
• Glasgow Botanic Gardens
• The Lighthouse
• Celtic Park Stadium

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Edinburgh to Glasgow: Transportation Guide
• Scotland Camping: Essential Tips + Best Campsites
• Glasgow to Inverness: Transportation Guide
• Fun Things to Do in Inverness, Scotland

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30 Fun Things to Do in Glasgow, Scotland (with Map)

Posted on Published: October 30, 2023  - Last updated: February 11, 2024

Categories Blog , City Guides , Europe , Scotland , Travel Guides , United Kingdom

There are so many fun things to do in Glasgow, Scotland. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting on multiple occasions now, and I never run out of amazing places to visit. There are so many world class attractions, fun activities, and insightful walking tours around this historic city.

I have a really awesome Glasgow one day itinerary if you’re looking to spend a day (or a day and a half) in this Scottish city. However, this Glasgow travel guide showcases all of the most fun things to do in Glasgow, whether you’re staying for a night or several nights. I was able to check out most of the places on this list after spending 3 days in Glasgow (although you could definitely stay in the city longer!).

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

In this Glasgow travel guide, I’ll be showing all of the best things to do in Glasgow. Furthermore, this is a sustainable way to visit Glasgow. This means that everything on this list takes our social and environmental impact into consideration. This includes:

• A fantastic hotel to choose when in Glasgow
• Public transportation options within Glasgow and getting to the city
• Walking tours in Glasgow with a positive social impact
• The best parks and green spaces
• Top places to visit overall, and what to do in Glasgow’s City Center and West End
• The best vegan restaurants in Glasgow
• And here’s where you can find amazing coffee shops in Glasgow

Quick Guide to Glasgow

Here are some of the best tours, activities, attractions and lodging in Glasgow. If you’re planning your trip at the last minute and you’re looking for must do activities, look no further!

Best Tours and Activities in Glasgow

• Glasgow City Walking Tour
• Afternoon Tea or Gin Tour in a Vintage Bus
• Clydeside Distillery Tour and Tasting
• Tennent’s Brewery Tour and Free Pint
• Outlander 1 Day Tour From Glasgow
• Best Day Trip Tours From Glasgow

Best Hotels and Accommodation in Glasgow

Grasshoppers Hotel

• Maldron Hotel
• The Z Hotel

Table of Contents

Getting Around Glasgow

In Glasgow, it’s really easy to get around using public transportation. First and foremost, Glasgow is an extremely walkable city and it’s possible to reach many places on your own two feet.

Glasgow has a subway system that serves the city centre, west end, and southside of the city. It operates in one big loop and the subway is very easy to figure out. For wherever the subway doesn’t go, you can take the bus. First Bus Glasgow has over 80 routes throughout the city.

Lastly, if you’re looking for transportation and a tour combined, consider booking a ticket aboard the  Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus . You can enjoy unlimited hop on hop off privileges for a day or two aboard the open top, double decker bus. The full loop lasts 80 minutes and it visits most popular sights and attractions all over the city.

Getting to Glasgow City Centre From the Airport

If you find yourself arriving at the Glasgow airport, it’s easy to get right into the city. Take the Glasgow Airport Express service 500 bus right outside the terminal into town. Walk outside of the airport, turn left, and walk to the end to stance 1. You might see the bus waiting for you. If not, the bus arrives every 12 minutes during the day, and once every 15 minutes in the evening.

There is a booth where you can pay for your fare before boarding the bus. The bus fare might seem a little bit expensive (£10), but it’s quick, easy, and likely to be cheaper than a taxi. Get off the bus at one of five stops in the city centre and you’ll be right in the middle of it all.

Getting to Glasgow By Train

Reaching Glasgow by train isn’t only an eco-friendly choice, but it’s also an enjoyable experience, too. Taking an overnight sleeper train is a memorable experience in itself! When you’re traveling between Scotland and England, a journey aboard the Caledonian Sleeper is something that you need to do at least once in your lifetime.

The Caledonian Sleeper is an overnight rail service that connects London to Scotland. You can take the overnight sleeper train from London to Glasgow, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Fort William, and Inverness.

The journey from London to Glasgow typically only takes about five hours, but they stretch it out to a full eight hours so you’re able to get enough sleep on the way. You can board the train from London’s Euston Station at 10:30pm (the train departs at 11:40pm) and you’ll arrive in Glasgow at around 7:00am.

If you’d rather take the train from London or elsewhere in England by day, it’s a very scenic and relaxing way to get to Glasgow. I took an Avanti West Coast train from Glasgow back to London on one occasion. I suggest booking your train tickets here through Rail Europe.

Continuing Beyond Glasgow

Looking to get outside of Glasgow on a road trip of Scotland? I highly suggest comparing car rental prices and booking your car hire with Discover Cars. You’ll find the best rates, Discover Cars offers full insurance packages, and they have fantastic customer service. I always choose Discover Cars when I travel. Find the best car rental rates in Glasgow here.

Best Things to Do in Glasgow: A Map

Do you want to see everything I’ve mentioned in this article displayed on a map? This will help you navigate around the city. Here are the best things to do in Glasgow on an interactive map.

How to use this map: Click on each icon to learn more about each location. To reference this map at a later date, click the star next to the map’s title. It will save the map to your Google Maps account. Then, open Google Maps and go to “Your places” in the menu to see this map.

Fun Things to Do in Glasgow: Walking Tours

Walking tours are always a good choice, even if it’s a place you’ve visited before. I recommend choosing a walking tour that’s led by a local guide who can provide unique insights to the city you’re visiting. They often offer a local’s perspective and will help you better understand the history and culture.

Not only that, but they can answer any questions that you might have. Here are a couple of awesome walking tours that I experienced in Glasgow.

Street Art Walking Tour

If you love art, local culture, alternative travel or anything remotely offbeat, I highly recommend taking a Street Art Walking Tour . Our incredible tour guide took our small group on a stroll beneath bridges, down alleyways, and along the river’s edge to view some of the best street art in Glasgow.

There are so many stories behind these works of art by local and international artists. Plus, there are so many little details that you might otherwise miss if you aren’t touring around with a local. For instance, in the Wind Power mural by Rogue One, someone added googly eyes to one of the windmills (you can only see it when looking up close).

We also stopped several times to admire works of art that you wouldn’t notice unless you were searching for them. There was a faded unicorn on one sidewalk (the unicorn is Scotland’s national animal because the unicorn beats the lion, which is England’s animal). We saw another tiny work of art on the ground at another point, and then another work of stencil art high up on a building.

While it is entirely possible to check out all of this street art on your own, you won’t gain nearly as many insights to the stories behind the art as you will with your guide. You’ll learn so many stories about local history and culture, and how they are connected to the murals around town.

I suggest using this street art walking tour as a jumping off point to explore even more murals in Glasgow. I’ve got a blog post all about the Glasgow Mural Trail and how to find this amazing street art with a self-guided tour.

Alternative Glasgow Walking Tour

Embarking on an alternative walking tour with Invisible Cities is one of the best things to do in Glasgow. Invisible Cities is an award-winning social enterprise. They train people who have experienced homelessness in Glasgow to become tour guides of the city. The guides create their own tours, so you’ll often learn interesting details and facts that aren’t on any other walking tours.

We met our tour guide, Sonny, at Glasgow Green and began walking along Saltmarket and then the Trongate. Sonny told us many stories about the old public hangings and happenings in this historic market.

For instance, there were supposed body snatchers in this area who dug up graves to sell the corpses as cadavers for medical studies. But, they were actually killing homeless people and got caught when the bodies seemed too fresh.

As we continued on our tour up to Buchanan Street, we learned that much of Glasgow was built on the backs of the slave trade . For example, Buchanan Street is named for Andrew Buchanan, a man who profited from the slave trade and owned plantations in Virginia. The mansions of many slave traders are all over Merchant City.

After visiting George Square and the Duke of Wellington state with its iconic cones, we ended the tour at the Homeless Jesus sculpture at St. George’s Tron, Church of Scotland. The sculpture was created by Timothy Schmalz, an artist from the Toronto area, and there are about 100 of these artworks worldwide. The sculpture illustrates a homeless man sleeping on a bench under a blanket. You wouldn’t realize from afar, but if you examine his feet closely, you’ll see crucifixion wounds.

This tour by Sonny at Invisible Cities provided a general walking tour of Glasgow that’s perfect for first time visitors. It also delves into some alternative places to visit, historical details about the dark side of Glasgow, and other facts that you won’t get on any other tour. You’ll currently find Invisible Cities in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Manchester and York.

Best Things to Do in Glasgow: Explore Parks and Green Spaces

When you think about Glasgow, images of a slightly gritty, working class city might spring to mind. While Glasgow is full of amazing historic architecture, Glasgow also has many beautiful parks and green spaces. This is a great opportunity to go for a stroll on tree-lined pathways, see pretty plants and flowers, and even catch glimpses of adorable Highland Cows.

See Highland Cows at Pollok Country Park

Pollok Country Park is a massive greenspace on the south side of Glasgow, perfect for walking and cycling. There are many trails through forests and you’ll feel like you’ve transported yourself far outside of the city. In actuality, it’s only a short bus ride to get to Pollok Park. A trip to Pollok Country Park is one of the most fun things to do in Glasgow.

There are many beautiful gardens with flowers and vegetables, and we even stumbled upon some adorable hobbit houses on our walk. As you continue walking through the park, you’ll eventually reach Pollok House , a grand country estate owned by the Maxwell family for six centuries.

Fun fact: Pollok Country Park was a filming location for Outlander ! While there are pretty gardens and a stunning historic home on the Pollok Country Park property, we visited primarily to see the “fold” of Highland Cows (or “Heilan Coos” as the Scots say it). When it comes to Highland Cows, a large group is called a fold rather than a herd.

We walked all over this park in search of the cows and they were quite a distance from our starting point. Our search to find the hairy coos allowed us to discover the magic of Pollok Country Park and it was such a delight to explore. Eventually, we made our way to a point on Google Maps simply marked “cows” and found a few of them grazing by a fence. They’re so adorable!

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Glasgow Botanic Gardens is a wonderful, free thing to do in Glasgow and home to the finest gardens in the city. Wander around the property to view plants and flowers. When I visited in the fall, the flowers were mostly done for the year, but it was lovely to see the fall colours on the trees.

To see gorgeous greenery all year long, step into the historic Kibble Palace. It’s a brilliant Curvilinular Glasshouse designed by John Kibble. It’s home to a national collection of tree ferns. There are trees and plants from around the world inside the Kibble Palace, and it’s well worth a visit.

Kelvingrove Park

Kelvingrove Park is a greenspace along the River Kelvin in Glasgow’s west end. It was designed in 1852, and there are many interesting features to discover as you wander around the park. The largest structure is the Stewart Memorial Fountain, and there are numerous other monuments and statues sprinkled throughout the park.

Kelvingrove Park is also home to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. It has 22 galleries with a vast array of exhibits, featuring everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance art. It’s one of the most popular Glasgow attractions and one of the best places to visit in Glasgow for museum lovers.

Glasgow Green

Glasgow Green is the oldest park in Glasgow (and the oldest public park in Britain!), and it’s located just east of the Saltmarket. Some notable structures in Glasgow Green include the McLennan Arch, Nelson Monument, the Templeton Factory, and the St. Andrew’s Suspension Bridge.

The People’s Palace and the Winter Gardens usually top the list of any Glasgow itinerary, but the People’s Palace building is closed for renovations at this time. There isn’t any set timeline as to when it will reopen.

Must Do Glasgow: The Best Places to Visit

While there are so many fun things to do in Glasgow, there are many attractions and activities that are completely unique to this Scottish city. I highly suggest that you incorporate the following spots into your Glasgow itinerary because it’s likely you won’t find anything quite like them anywhere else in the world.

The Lighthouse

Please note that the Lighthouse is currently closed, but will hopefully reopen soon. You might not have heard of  The Lighthouse , but it’s one of the best places to visit in Glasgow. It’s Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, a visitor centre, and an exhibition centre that’s free to check out.

One of the main reasons to visit the Lighthouse is for the city scenery views. There are two perspectives within the building: one is up on the 6th floor where you can observe impressive city views from behind glass. However, the best cityscape scenery is from the Mackintosh Centre on level three.

Walk up a circular staircase, originally part of a water tower designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. At the top, there’s an outdoor viewing platform for the best scenery of Glasgow. The staircase itself is quite impressive when you’re looking down on it from the top. 

For those with accessibility requirements, I highly recommend that you take the elevator up to the sixth floor to see Glasgow from the indoor viewing platform. If you don’t have any trouble hiking up several flights of stairs, definitely take the spiral staircase within the Mackintosh Centre to the narrow platform at the top.

Glasgow Necropolis

It might seem strange to some to include a cemetery on this itinerary, but it really belongs on any list of Glasgow points of interest. The Glasgow Necropolis is a must visit for any fans of intriguing architecture as you’ll discover styles spanning across the centuries. It’s one of the most unusual things to do in Glasgow, but I highly recommend wandering around the Glasgow Necropolis.

While there are about 3500 monuments, approximately 50,000 people were buried at the Glasgow Necropolis. Only a small percentage of people are named on the stones, and not every grave has its own stone. 

The Necropolis is up on a hill overlooking the Glasgow Cathedral and the city, so you can admire some great views from up there. Take some time to wander around and examine some of the interesting carvings and graves. There are some brilliant statues dedicated to some fascinating individuals. If you’d like to delve deeper, I suggest booking a  walking tour with a local  for more insight and history.

Glasgow Cathedral

The  Glasgow Cathedral  is the oldest cathedral on mainland Scotland and the oldest building in Glasgow, dating to the 12th century. The Glasgow Cathedral is an incredible example of Scottish Gothic architecture. It’s also one of the few Scottish medieval churches to have survived the Scottish Reformation not unroofed. The tomb of the patron saint of Glasgow, Saint Mungo, is in the lower crypt.

Interestingly enough, the University of Glasgow started with classes held within the cathedral in 1451. While the building is owned by the Crown, it is maintained by  Historic Scotland  as a popular tourist destination. It also continues to be a place of active worship.

Path Along the River Clyde

The River Clyde is a destination in itself, so you can go for a stroll here while discovering the murals. On a bright and sunny day, you’re likely to see many people out for a morning stroll or bike ride, whether they’re on their way to work or enjoying the views.

There’s a path that extends along the River Clyde, winding beneath the roads at times. You’ll spot several bridges for pedestrians or trains. While the scenery might seem on the gritty side from time to time, it’s real and vibrant in its own way. There’s also a ton of street art on the River Clyde, so you’ll be able to see some awesome public art on your walk.

Things to Do in Glasgow City Centre

Glasgow City Centre is the main commercial centre of the city, located north of the River Clyde. While many European cities have meandering streets that are difficult to navigate, Glasgow’s streets were constructed in a grid pattern. This makes it really easy to find your way around town. Here are the best things to do in Glasgow City Centre that you don’t want to miss.

Go Shopping on Buchanan Street

Buchanan Street is one of the main shopping streets, and it is a pedestrian only street closed off to traffic. You’ll notice some magnificent Victorian and Edwardian architecture with department stores and boutique shopping experiences.

If you go for a stroll down Buchanan Street, you’re likely to encounter musicians or street performers in this lively environment. If you love shopping, visiting Buchanan Street is one of the most fun things to do in Glasgow.

Sample Local Beer (at the Pub or Brewery)

If you love beer, you’re in luck. There are lots of local brews made in Glasgow and the surrounding area. I sampled the St Mungo Lager by Glasgow’s West Brewing Company at a local pub, and it was perfectly refreshing.

Consider popping into the Tennent Caledonian Breweries to sample one of Scotland’s favorite beers (and tour around one of Scotland’s oldest businesses!). Want to combine your  love for beer with a walking tour ? This tour of the city allows you to discover the history of Glasgow along with some of its best brews.

Britannia Panopticon Music Hall

The Britannia Panopticon Music Hall is the world’s oldest surviving music hall, and it’s right here in Glasgow. I had never heard of the Panopticon before my most recent trip to Glasgow. Our tour guide, Caron, showed us this historic place as an extra added stop on our street art walking tour.

It features a recently restored 1920s stage where Stan Laurel (of Laurel and Hardy fame) made his debut. Nowadays, you can visit the Panopticon for classic films, variety nights, comedy nights, drag nights, and so much more. For an alternative side of the city (as well as historic side), visiting the Panopticon is one of the most fun things to do in Glasgow.

George Square

Wander through  George Square , the main civic square of Glasgow and one of six squares in the city. It’s named after King George III and has important buildings surrounding it, including the City Chambers and the Merchants House.

There are also several iconic statues, including those of Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. There’s a statue of Robert Peel who established the London Metropolitan Police Force, and he’s the reason the police in the UK are called “bobbies”. You’ll also witness the city’s cenotaph to commemorate Glaswegians killed in World War I.

Purrple Cat Cafe

Purrple Cat Cafe is Glasgow’s first cat cafe and they are home to 30 rescued kitties. If you’re looking for one of the most fun things to do in Glasgow, make sure to pay a visit to the cats. They have lots of hot and cold beverages, cakes and desserts, and loads of vegan options.

Glasgow Attractions in the West End

Behind downtown Glasgow, the west end is a neighbourhood that you need to check out. It’s a bit trendy, quirky, and there are lots of fun things to do in Glasgow’s west end. You’ll want to explore all three of its separate areas: Finnieston, Kelvinbridge and Partick. On top of the following places to visit, the west end has loads of amazing restaurants and bars, and it’s certainly one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the UK.

University of Glasgow and the Cloisters

I love discovering historic universities on my travels. For instance, I’ve included a trip to the National University of Ireland Galway in my  1 day Galway itinerary . If you’re looking for what to see in Glasgow specifically at the university, head to the famous  Cloisters .

The archways and columns of the Cloisters are the most iconic sight at the University of Glasgow. You might recognize this area from  Outlander  or  Cloud Atlas,  and walking around the University of Glasgow made me feel as though I was attending Hogwarts. 

If you’re looking to take photos around the Cloisters, I suggest visiting later in the day or on the weekend when the students aren’t around as much. While you’re at the university, consider checking out the Hunterian Museum. There are over one million items, ranging from art to meteorites to mummies. Plus, it’s free to visit.

Ashton Lane

In the west end, you’ll find the cobblestone street called  Ashton Lane , lined with pubs and restaurants. It’s near Byers Road where you’ll find even more pubs and restaurants. There’s even a small cinema on Ashton Lane.

A pub that I really enjoyed on Ashton Lane was called Brel. Towards the end of the road, dine at the renowned Glaswegian restaurant, Ubiquitous Chip. No matter where you end up along the street, you’re guaranteed to have a great time mingling and sampling some drinks. It’s even a great spot to go pub hopping!

The Hidden Lane

In Finnieston, The Hidden Lane is one of Glasgow’s best kept secrets. It’s a community of artists, designers, and musicians with over 100 studio spaces and a tearoom. You can pop into some of the galleries and shops or walk around these brightly painted houses.

Don’t miss stopping by Bubblegum Kitschville , an arts and curiosity shop where I was able to find art and jewelry with cats on them that I adore. There’s a pottery shop next door (Spin Pottery), a yoga studio, the Hidden Lane Tearoom, and so much more.

Glasgow Art Galleries and Museums

Glasgow is home to many world-class museums and art galleries. Best of all? Most galleries and museums in Glasgow are free to visit. Even if you only have a short amount of time, you may as well take a wander inside a museum to check out a few exhibits. These also make for great rainy day activities. After all, you’re in Scotland, so it’s bound to rain at some point.

Gallery of Modern Art (and the Duke of Wellington Statue)

The  Gallery of Modern Art  (GoMA) is the main contemporary art museum in Glasgow. You’ll find works here by local and international artists, and it’s free to visit. Why not pop into the gallery for an hour or so to discover some intriguing art? 

Even if you don’t step inside GoMA (I highly recommend that you do, even for a little while), you should at least see the building itself. It’s an impressive neoclassical building with a famous statue out front. It’s a statue of the Duke of Wellington riding a horse. Why is it so famous?

Locals continue to play a prank on the Duke of Wellington statue by  placing a traffic cone  on his head. When authorities remove the traffic cone, they only find that it becomes replaced with a new cone almost immediately. The image of the traffic cone on the statue became quite iconic. When I visited, there was a cone on the Duke of Wellington’s head and the horse’s head.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Glasgow, and I highly recommend checking it out when you visit. It’s right within Kelvingrove Park. There are 22 galleries with a vast array of exhibits, featuring everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance art.

This attraction is a must for museum lovers, and even for those who love incredible architecture. There are several rooms within the Kelvingrove Museum and they are all spectacularly designed. Kelvingrove Gallery is 100% free to visit, like many museums and galleries in Glasgow.

Hunterian Museum

After visiting the Kelvingrove Gallery, you should take a short walk to the University of Glasgow. Not only can you live your Harry Potter dreams and wander through the Cloisters, but you can also check out the Hunterian Museum . The entrance to the museum is within the Cloisters. Walk up a flight of stairs and you’ll reach the Hunterian Museum. It’s free to visit, so you should pop in after checking out the Cloisters.

In the museum, there are over one million artifacts, ranging from art to meteorites to mummies. There are both permanent displays and limited exhibitions. This is Scotland’s oldest public museum. I really enjoyed the ancient Roman artefacts recovered from the Antonine Wall in Scotland, as well as the collection of gems and fossils.

Want to see more photos of Scotland?

Browse and purchase any of our photos as downloadables, prints, large canvas prints, housewares and so much more. Makes great gifts!

Vegan Restaurants in Glasgow

Did you know that Glasgow is the vegan capital of the United Kingdom? It’s been named as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in Europe.

After visiting Glasgow several times now, I haven’t come close to dining at all of the vegan restaurants in Glasgow , never mind all of the vegetarian and vegan-friendly ones. Here are the top establishments for vegan cuisine in Glasgow, including both 100% plant-based restaurants and vegan-friendly ones.

Soul Food Kitchen

Soul Food Kitchen is a 100% vegan restaurant in Glasgow’s west end, and it’s rated as the best vegan restaurant in Glasgow on the Happy Cow app. They serve healthy, plant-based eats like vegan burgers, bowls, mac and greens, avocado toast, and so much more.

I suggest trying the Green Beast Burger (their signature green patty topped with cashew cheese) and the broccoli with garlic and chili. Both were delicious!

The Glasvegan

The Glasvegan  has the best vegan fast food in Glasgow. They serve breakfast in the morning (try their Scottish breakfast!) and other yummy meals throughout the day.

You’ll want to try one of their hot dogs, chick’n burgers, mac ‘n cheese, or nachos. They have a huge variety of menu items splashed across one of the walls, making it difficult to choose just one meal.

Suissi Vegan Kitchen

Suissi Vegan Kitchen offers vegan Asian cuisine in Glasgow’s West End. I heard so many excellent things about Suissi Vegan Kitchen, so I was really excited at the opportunity to finally dine there. This restaurant did not disappoint and in fact, it was difficult to choose what to eat from the menu.

There are all sorts of yummy dishes like noodle soups, gyoza, mushroom dishes, curries, pad Thai, and more. I settled on the Satay Tofu to start and the Cantonese Crispy Noodles as my main dish. I would love to return to Suissi Vegan Kitchen someday to sample even more meals from the menu. It was just so good.

Mono dates all the way back to 2002, serving up delicious vegan food and drinks. It’s a mainstay in Glasgow’s vegan scene, and shares the same owner as Stereo (makes sense…Mono and Stereo!). Similar to Stereo, Mono also hosts live music gigs and performances, in addition to its restaurant.

On the menu, you’ll find sandwiches, pizza, schnitzel, burgers, mac n’ cheese, hummus, soups, salads, and more. There are also gluten-free options, and they’ll be sure to assist you if you have any other food allergies.

Coffee Shops in Glasgow

Are you a coffee drinker like I am? How about tea? There are so many cozy cafes in Glasgow that you’ll simply adore. I’m going to share a few of my favourites here. If you’d like to see more Glasgow coffee shops, take a look at my blog post about the best coffee shops in Glasgow.

Ushi’s Coffee Corner

Ushi’s Coffee Corner is a queer-run coffee shop featuring hot and cold coffee beverages and a full vegan dining menu. There’s local art splashed across the walls and this location often runs vegan popup events for other small businesses. Order your coffee with oat milk or vanilla pea milk.

For coffee, they offer drip/filter coffee, pour over coffee, cold brew (14 hour steep) and espresso beverages. Try the beetroot latte, matcha latte, a mocha, or Ushi’s spicy vanilla hot chocolate. There are also several kinds of tea, including Earl Grey, Indian Chai, Passionfruit & Rose and others. I ordered an iced Americano with oat milk and it was fantastic.

Offshore Coffee

Offshore Coffee is one of the best coffee shops in Glasgow, and it’s been a part of the West End coffee culture for over a decade. It’s right near Kelvingrove Park and the University of Glasgow. They have a range of espresso beverages, vegan baked goods and lunch offerings.

I adored the relaxed atmosphere in this cozy cafe. There are many tables, plush chairs and couches where you can enjoy your coffee while working, savouring great conversation or reading a book. It’s one of those places where you’re encouraged to spend time while sipping your favourite drinks. Offshore Coffee is one of the best coffee shops for freelancers and those who love working on their laptops in cafes.

Papercup Coffee Company

Papercup Coffee Co is located on the Great Western Road (the A82) just west of the River Kelvin before you reach the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. It’s one of the best cafes in Glasgow where you’ll find great coffee, plain and simple. It’s a small coffee shop, and well worth a visit.

I sipped a delicious Americano and I love that there’s a colourful mural splashed across the wall. The coffee was rich and flavorful, and the service was excellent. I noticed that they had some vegan treats, as well as plant-based milks. Pop by Papercup when you’re walking towards the University of Glasgow or Ashton Lane.

Where to Stay in Glasgow

Now that I’ve visited Glasgow on a few occasions, I have three fantastic hotel suggestions for you. All three hotels are conveniently located within Glasgow’s city centre. It’s the prime location to base yourself for sightseeing and spending one day in Glasgow.

The prime location of Grasshoppers Hotel makes it one of the top hotels in Glasgow, if not the best place to stay in Glasgow. It’s right beside the Glasgow Central Station, and many of its rooms even overlook its beautiful glazed roof. 

Hotel guests can enjoy modern amenities, like complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, a Samsung flatscreen TV, and a Sky Box with premium channels and additional sports stations. There’s also a separate desk if you need to work, perfect for the business traveler. A buffet breakfast is included in the room rate.

OUR FULL REVIEW | BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

I recommend staying at the  Maldron Hotel  in downtown Glasgow. The location is perfect as it’s easy to walk all over town, and it’s also a quick walk to the subway and train station. It’s also great for the business traveler as there’s complimentary Wi-Fi, and plenty of space to work from your room or the lobby.

The rooms are spacious, clean, and modern. The hotel staff is friendly and helpful. There are many vegan options at their breakfast buffet. I was delighted to see vegan sausages, hash browns, fresh fruit, toast and jam, and a variety of beverages.

BOOK YOUR STAY  |  READ MORE REVIEWS

The Z Hotel Glasgow

The Z Hotel has one of the best locations in Glasgow, directly across from George Square and next to the Queen Street Station. Housed in an old printworks building, Z Glasgow combines historic charm with updated modern rooms.

While my room was on the smaller side, it’s one of the better priced hotels in the city for being so centrally located. I didn’t spend much time in the room anyway, and it had everything that I needed: complimentary Wi-Fi, a flatscreen TV, and a comfortable bed.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

More Accommodations in Glasgow

Looking to compare more properties in Glasgow? Here are hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals, all in one place displayed on a handy map. Enter your travel dates for more accurate information. Click on each property to learn more and book your stay.

More Places to Visit in Glasgow

Looking for even more top things to do in Glasgow? Here are even more popular things to see in Glasgow and beyond:

• Riverside Museum
• Glasgow Science Centre
• The Mackintosh House

More Blog Posts About Scotland

We’ve spent months exploring Scotland on multiple trips: a two week road trip around Scotland, a hiking holiday to the Highlands, multiple city breaks, and we even got married in Edinburgh! Justin and I have so many amazing experiences to share with you. I’ll continue to add articles to the blog to help you plan your future adventures in Scotland.

• The Best Things to Do in Stirling, Scotland
• 35 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Fun Things to Do in Oban for an Amazing Day Trip (or Longer!)
• The Best Gifts for People Who Love Scotland
• Movies About Scotland You Need to Watch

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Explore 21 Best Things To Do in Glasgow in 2024

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Get going at Glasgow!

Glasgow is a stunning city that offers a beautiful blend of nightclubs, Victorian architecture and contemporary Glasgow tourist attractions. Explore the "tourist paradise" called Glasgow, one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, with us! To help you make the most of the city, we have listed the 21 best things to do in Glasgow. From the best museums to tourist attractions and other good places to visit, we have listed it all; let's get started!

21 Best Things to do in Glasgow

From museums to music venues, tourist attractions to street art trails, we have curated a list that covers the best things to do in Glasgow! Keep your notes ready; you won't want to miss out on planning an itinerary for your visit! 

1. Pollok Country Park

Pollok Park is one of Glasgow's many lovely green parks. Ten minutes from Glasgow Central, experience the picturesque countryside. See the best Spanish paintings in the country and take a walk around the peaceful grounds with Highland cows and horses. You can view the collections of antique furniture, silverware, pottery, and fine art inside Pollok House. For everyone who loves to take a walk or run, a visit to Pollok Country Park is one of the best things to do in Glasgow!

2. Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Continuing with the parks, next up on our list of best things to do in Glasgow is a visit to the Botanic Gardens, one of the most beautiful Glasgow tourist attractions, brimming with history, plants, and exquisite architecture. The gardens were first built in 1841 as part of the University of Glasgow and were later bought by the city. The most notable structure, the quirky domed glasshouse Kibble Palace, was built in 1873, followed by the Main Range teak glasshouse. The gardens have been exquisitely conserved and are filled with unusual plant species ranging from shrubs to tropical rainforests.

3. Kelvingrove Park

This is the final park on the list, we swear! Another well-known one in the city is for a tranquil day out. Kelvingrove Park, located along the Kelvin River, could be ideal for you. There's a chance you'll see species as uncommon as kingfishers and otters or as omnipresent as red foxes. The park is popular with dog walkers and local university students when the weather is beautiful. Take a stroll or picnic in Kelvingrove Park; both activities are certainly some of the best things to do in Glasgow!

4. Glasgow Cathedral

If history, architecture, or photography is your cup of tea, then one of the most fascinating things to see in Glasgow is to visit the Glasgow Cathedral! Everywhere you look, there is art, be it the dazzling arches, intricately carved pews, and memorial sculptures that are seen on every wall. Most ancient cathedrals in the United Kingdom are already in ruins, so take advantage of viewing one of the last major cathedrals while in Glasgow. It has been a place of worship for over 800 years and features one of the most valuable assets of post-war stained glass windows.

5. City Chambers

Step into the city chambers' ballroom, and you'll feel like you're in an episode of Bridgeton! You will not even get the idea of the magnificent interior chambers that sit within city chambers by the outside architecture of this Glasgow attraction. The tour instructors are all excellent, providing just the proper amount of knowledge to explain what you see and thus making it to our list of best things to do in Glasgow! 

6. Glasgow Film Theatre

Glasgow Film Theatre is the place to go whether you enjoy watching classics of international cinema or contemporary art house films. It hosts multiple film festivals each year, and you'll likely discover something you'll appreciate within the building. The Glasgow Film Theatre takes pride in providing a nice, friendly setting for its audiences to see the film. Stop by the Café Cosmo at the Theatre, where you can discover anything from artisan beer to cake.

7. Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

Looking for a trip? Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre, a quirky Glasgow attraction, is a psychedelic theatre where hundreds of carved figures and pieces of old junk perform remarkable choreography to eerie music and choreographed light, depicting the funny albeit tragic stories of the human soul as it strives against the never-ending cycles of life and death. 

8. Buchanan Street

Buchanan Street is the core thread of the city's shopping district, connecting you to many stores in each direction. This Glasgow attraction is most recognised for the diversity it provides to both visitors and residents, and most customers spend a significant amount of time inside Buchanan Galleries. You can find everything from Hollister and Pandora to Millie's Cookies and The Whisky Shop at Buchanan Street. 

9. The People's Palace and Winter Gardens 

Do you like learning about the history of the cities you visit? The People's Palace is one of the best things to see in Glasgow to learn about Glasgow from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The main house contains a collection of artefacts, photographs, prints, and films from various eras. The Winter Gardens outside the home are lovely, which is why it is such a weather-dependent Glasgow tourist attraction; you may wander through exotic plants and see the magnificent Doulton fountain. Our Glasgow city guide will surely help you explore more tourist attractions like these!

10. The West End 

Many consider Glasgow's West End the most beautiful part of the city, so don't miss out on seeing it when you're out and about. It's one of those places that leaves an impression on you while you're travelling, with its distinct personality that is difficult to pin down. It has some of the cutest vintage shops and alleyways full of small, intimate bars and restaurants, and it has a lovely blend of character and wonderful architecture. You may find everything from vegetarian Indian restaurants to small Thai restaurants. Being one of the best places to live in Glasgow , it will give you a memorable experience!

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11. Riverside Museum 

To learn more about Glasgow's history, you should visit The Riverside Museum, undeniably one of the best things to do in Glasgow. At the Riverside Museum, you'll find something for everyone while delving into Glasgow's rich past. There's everything from locomotives and old cars to an actual Stormtrooper on display. So, go back in time and wander around the interactive "shops" you'll be presented with, jump aboard the exhibits, and have a good time.

12. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum are located in the heart of Glasgow's famous West End. It has been standing for almost a century and was purpose-designed to be what it is today, with spectacular architecture and a variety of unique exhibit halls. It's a free attraction that shouldn't be missed, which makes it one of the best things to do in Glasgow, and it's only a short walk from the Kelvingrove metro station, making it accessible. Inside, you'll find over 22 themed galleries and over 8000 artefacts to pique your interest. Visit displays about dinosaurs and prehistoric mammals after visiting Salvador Dali's Christ of St. John of the Cross.

13. The Scottish Football Museum

The Scottish Football Museum, which has one of the world's most outstanding collections of football-related things, is a must-see for football fans. It houses a large collection of artefacts, including the Scottish Cup, the world's oldest surviving association football trophy. Visit the Scottish Football Hall of Fame and practise your victory dance in the 52,000-seat National Stadium.

14. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art 

Faith is tangled with everything from education to work to athletics in Glasgow, whether Protestant, Catholic, Muslim, or Hindu. So it's only fitting that the city is home to one of the world's only public museums exclusively on religion. Consider a cross-faith encounter that will help you develop bridges of understanding and respect between different religious groups or persons with no faith. Being one of the best museums in Glasgow, It is home to some stunning religious art and artefacts worldwide. There's also a tiny, peaceful zen garden if you want to practise your meditation, which makes this item on our list one of the most peaceful things to do in Glasgow.

15. Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery

Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery is a public museum in Scotland. It is a magnificent temple to the glories of art, science, and history. There's a lot to see here, but you must see a permanent gallery dedicated to the Antonine Wall, one of the world's finest collections of James McNeill Whistler's works. You will also find iconic artworks such as Rembrandt's Entombment, objects associated with revolutionary scientific discoveries and advancements, and various zoological, paleontological, and geological specimens, among many others. A visit to the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery is one of the most unmissable things to do in Glasgow!

Mono is a place for independent music, arts, drinking, and dining. Being one of the best restaurants in Glasgow , it's a vegan café-bar, record store, performance venue, and gallery all rolled into one. Mono's food improves yearly, so whether you're a diehard vegan or a meat eater looking for a change, you'll find something to enjoy. The quality of performers is filtered and booked at Mono, frequently stuff you won't find at other venues, be it cult and indie bands and singer-songwriters or experimental noise artists - puts the club at the very heart of the Glasgow music scene.

17. House of an Art Lover

Charles Rennie Mackintosh was a popular seminal Scottish architect, artist, and designer who left a legacy that the audience can witness across several locations. House of an Art Lover is one such place in Glasgow that will mesmerise you for sure! This stunning country retreat was built according to Mackintosh's drawings, which were drafted for a competition in the 1900s. The elegant interiors make ingenious use of natural light and space and reflect gorgeous fine art. 

18. City Centre Mural Trail

Exploring street art is one of the most unusual things to do in Glasgow. This trail will feast your eyes with some exquisite urban artworks that have brought the city centres and walls to life. You can come across some standout creations by acclaimed street artists like Art Pistol, Ejek and many more! The Mural Trail also features popular Glasgow street art examples like Four Seasons on Ingram Street and rail arches on Clyde Street.

19. Finnieston Crane and The Clyde

Marking one of the greatest industrial cities in the world, Glasgow is home to the city's most iconic shipbuilding cranes that have turned into popular Glasgow attractions. The giant Grey Finnieston crane is one of the four remaining cranes on the Clyde. It is no longer in a working condition but it has been wisely recontextualised in new proximity to shiny headquarters. This emotive 174-foot-tall symbol is a proud engineering heritage and is among the most popular landmarks on the Clyde.

20. Barrowland Ballroom

If you are looking for a comfortable evening where you just enjoy the vibe and groove, Barrowland Ballroom is where you would want to be! Being one of the most iconic spots, it is known to be one of the most extravagant music venues in the world. Barrowland Ballroom offers a blend of retro and contemporary vibes. Embraced for being a vintage family-owned Glasgow institution, it still retains its independence, integrity, and retro feels that has produced several generations of live music fans for more than 4 decades.

21. Ashton Lane

Are you into the aesthetics of the place? Ashton Place will definitely make it to the list of best things to do in Glasgow! Located in the West End of Glasgow, Ashton Lane is a cobbled backstreet ideal for walks on a cosy night. This instagrammable spot is extremely popular for its bars, restaurants, etc. The fairy lights in the evenings add a rustic charm, making it a perfect picture spot. 

May it be museums or street art, the city has a lot to offer! So there you have it, a list for you to explore the wondrous city of Glasgow! We tried to add a bit of everything to ensure you don't miss out on the glory of Glasgow. Plan your list well in advance, along with keeping the cost of living in mind! Scram and unwind in Glasgow!

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20 Free things to do in Glasgow [2024]

Whether you’re searching for free things to do in Glasgow for families , couples, groups or solo travellers, we think you’ll be very pleasantly surprised by this list. This stately city by the River Clyde is packed with history and culture, and offers some lovely outdoor spaces to discover too. 

This list will show you that seeing Glasgow on a budget really is possible. Included here are 20 top places to see in Glasgow for free, so you don’t have to spend a penny to have a good time. As well as really getting under the skin of this appealing Scottish city. 

So if you’re seeking things to do in Glasgow for free, look no further! From fine parks to world-class art galleries or museums and the city’s most historic buildings, here are 20 of the best free places to visit in Glasgow.

Free guided tour of Glasgow City Chambers

Best for Glaswegian grandeur

• Where: George Square, Glasgow G2 1DU
• When: 10.30 am to 2.30 pm Monday to Friday

If you time it right, one of the many top places to visit in Glasgow for free is the City Chambers . This handsome building is Category A listed, and stands on the eastern edge of George Square. The structure was completed in 1888, and has been the city council headquarters for over a century. 

Tours take place at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm on weekdays. You can take a tour for free, and get tickets from the reception desk half an hour before the start time. Places cannot be pre-booked, so expect spots to be dished out on a first come, first served basis.

Visit to Glasgow Cathedral

Best for a contemplative moment

• Where: Castle Street, Glasgow G4 0QZ
• When: 9.30 am to 5 pm daily

Another of the historic free attractions in Glasgow is the city’s impressive cathedral . As a working church, this is both Scotland’s oldest structure and the earliest to be built in the entire city. Part of the Church of Scotland, it was completed in 1484. 

The cathedral can be found within walking distance of Glasgow’s centre. If you want to visit, you can attend a Sunday service at 11 am, or pop in for a peaceful moment throughout the day. While donations are not necessary, they are very much welcomed by Historic Environment Scotland. 

St Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art

Best for a religious epiphany

• Where: Castle Street, Glasgow G4 0RH
• When: 10 am to 5 pm daily, except opens 11 am Friday and Sunday

The St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art  has been called the world’s only public museum devoted only to religion. Named for the patron saint of Glasgow, it’s housed in a Scottish baronial style structure. 

The museum is packed with artworks and artefacts reflecting the place of religion within individual lives, families, communities and society as a whole. Outside, you can enjoy Britain’s very first Zen garden too. There’s no need to book; simply drop in if the whim takes you when in the area. It’s worth combining with a visit to the Cathedral or the Necropolis (see below).

Necropolis (Heritage Trail)

Best for exploring on foot

• Where: Start and end at St Mungo Museum
• When: Anytime

If you feel like stretching your legs and are wondering what to do in Glasgow for free, why not take one of the city’s many walking trails? There’s over 25 of these, and we heartily recommend the Necropolis heritage trail . 

Completing the route takes around an hour and 45 minutes, and you set out from St Mungo’s. Glasgow Necropolis is a cemetery, and was formerly known as Fir Park. Among more than 50,000 people buried here are monuments by notable local architects. The garden cemetery is considered a fine example of Victorian Glasgow.

Police Museum

Best for law and order

• Where: First Floor, 30 Bell St, Glasgow G1 1LG
• When: 10 am to 4.30 pm daily, except opens midday on Sunday

This is a wee gem of a place! We’re not surprised to hear that The Glasgow Police Museum won a recent TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award. Located in a residential block of flats, you’ll need to buzz at the doorway to be let into the building. It’s a small, quirky museum and the real highlight is the guides that bring the place to life. It is run by retired police officers who kindly volunteer and provide a detailed history of life and times of the first police force in Britain, between the dawn of the 19th century and 1975.

Again you can drop in here when the mood takes you, as entry is free and no advance booking is required. As well as the history of the City of Glasgow Police, you can discover policing across the globe at the International Police Exhibition.

Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)

Best for contemporary artworks

• Where: 111 Queen St, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AH

The Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow is the city’s main venue for showcasing contemporary art. Both local and international artists have their work featured here, via permanent and temporary exhibitions. In fact, the renowned artist, Banksy, chose it as the venue for his “Cut & Run” exhibition this summer 2023.

GoMA is free to enter, apart from special paid events and expositions. Again you can just call in without any prior booking required. 

The People’s Palace

Best for local history

• Where: Glasgow Green, Templeton Street, Glasgow G40 1AT

The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens can be found in Glasgow Green in the east end of the city. This museum also has a glasshouse on site, and has been open since early 1898. It’s called the People’s Palace as its displays are devoted to how local people have lived in the city since 1750. 

Glasgow Green is positioned on the north bank of the Clyde, on the eastern side of the city. This pretty park and garden occupies 55 hectares, and is the oldest park in Glasgow by a country mile. 

Self-guided visit of the Mural Trail

Best for street art

• Where: Across the city

The city centre mural trail in Glasgow embraces the city’s street art scene via around 30 wall murals. Number one on the trail is at Strathclyde University, with others dotted around the town. 

Subjects range from famous faces like local lad Billy Connolly, St Mungo or St Enoch to ‘Study of a Woman in Black’ 1, 2 and 3, ‘The Musician’, ‘Wind Power’, ‘The Swimmer’, ‘Are Ye Dancin?’ and many more. 

Riverside Museum

Best for an ultra modern museum

• Where: 100 Pointhouse Road, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS

If you think of museums as dusty depositories, take a look at Glasgow’s Riverside Museum and you might just change your mind. This one was purpose-built, and is situated where the Clyde and Kelvin rivers meet. 

Technology and transport are key themes here, showcasing human advancement. Browsing the 3,000 or so objects clarifies the city’s importance when it comes to heavy industry such as train manufacture, shipbuilding and other forms of innovative engineering. 

The Tall Ship

Best for maritime history

• Where: 1150 Pointhouse Rd, Stobcross Rd, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS
• When: 10 am to 5 pm Wednesday to Monday, 11 am to 5 pm Tuesday, closed Friday

Another of the most awesome free things to see in Glasgow is the Tall Ship , and this can also be found in the Govan district by the two rivers, right next to the Riverside musuem. The Victorian sailing ship, named Glenlee, has been completely restored and can be fully explored by visitors. 

Glenlee was built in Glasgow, and during her time served with the Spanish Navy. In 1993 the Clyde Maritime Trust saved the ship from being scrapped, and now you can learn all about the vessel’s colourful life while admiring the attractive Victorian design.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Best for museum enthusiasts

• Where: Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8AG

The name of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is synonymous with Glasgow. After undergoing a three year refurbishment programme, the museum and gallery opened once more in 2006. 

Kelvingrove offers it all: beautiful architecture, family friendly features and absorbing exhibits. It’s among the top free things to do in Glasgow with kids, not least on a rainy day! If you have any time afterwards, you can also explore the surrounding Kelvingrove Park.

Visit Scotland’s Oldest Museum – The Hunterian Museum

Best for Scotland’s oldest museum

• Where: University of Glasgow, 82 Hillhead Street, Glasgow G12 8QQ
• When: 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday

Wander over to the university and you can find even more things to do with a small budget in Glasgow. In fact admission to The Hunterian is free. Not only that, but you also get access to a complex of museums rather than only one.

The Hunterian includes anatomy and zoology museums, an art gallery, Mackintosh House and more. The latter is home to the only Charles Rennie Mackintosh interior that survives today, which you can discover in the artist and architect’s city of birth. Although there’s an admission fee to the actual Mackintosh house.

Hunterian Art Gallery

Best for meaningful art

Just along Hillhead Street from the main Hunterian Museum is the art gallery of the same name. As well as displaying a range of classic and contemporary art, the Hunterian Art Gallery aims to share the meaning of art with more members of the public. 

Visit the Hunterian Art Gallery and you can see a diverse selection of works, including many by under-represented groups. Here you can also find a sculpture garden, a vast print collection and an ever-changing programme of modern art exhibitions. 

Hunterian Zoology Museum

Best for natural history

• When: 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday

An eclectic mix of dinosaur fossils, old coins and Viking and Roman artefacts awaits at the Hunterian Zoology Museum . The collection is housed in the striking Graham Kerr building, and is a must for any big fans of fauna. 

At the Hunterian Zoology Museum you can see lots of familiar creatures, demonstrating the incredible diversity of the natural world. More unusual species can also be seen, including tiny marine animals, sponges that resemble glass objects and gut dwelling worms. It’s guaranteed to keep the kids interested!

Harry Potter Vibes at Glasgow University

• Where: Glasgow, G12 8QQ

If you’ve come to Scotland for its many centuries of history, then a Glasgow must see for you is going to be the local college. Glasgow University is steeped in history, and is the fourth oldest  to be found within any English-speaking country. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter filming set.

The respected institution is also a world top 100 university, and also one of the four ancient Scottish universities along with Aberdeen, St Andrews and Edinburgh. The Hunterian museum (mentioned above) and The Cloisters (see below) can also be found at Glasgow University.

Insta-shots at The Cloisters

Best for soaring arches

Also referred to as The Undercroft, The Cloisters are also situated within the Gilbert Scott Building at Glasgow University. One of the really cool things to do in Glasgow is to capture on camera the soaring arches here for posterity. 

The Cloisters connect the East and West quadrangles at the university, and also lead to the equally breathtaking Bute Hall. These incredibly photogenic arches and their handsome supporting columns have even featured on famous TV shows such as Outlander . 

The Botanics

Best for global flora

• Where: 730 Great Western Road, Glasgow G12 0UE
• When: 7 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday

If you love plant life, then one of the best things to do in Glasgow for free has to be paying Glasgow Botanic Gardens a visit. As well as more than 9,000 plant species, the site has both tropical and temperate glasshouses. 

You can enter both the gardens and the glasshouses for free. The site also has added appeal as much of it is positioned on the banks of the River Kelvin. You can also find a lovely tea room here, so it’s easy to make a whole morning or afternoon of it. 

Enjoy nature in Glasgow’s many Parks

Best for green space

• Glasgow Green – Greendyke St, Saltmarket, Glasgow G1 5DB
• Kelvingrove Park – Park Terrace, Glasgow G3 6BY
• Pollok Country Park – 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT
• When: Varies

Free and cheap things to do in Glasgow on a dry day include making the most of the city’s lovely outdoor spaces. The city’s best parks include Glasgow Green, Kelvingrove and Pollok Country Park. 

Glasgow Green by the Clyde is the oldest in the city and where you’ll find the People’s Palace. Kelvingrove is a west end park by the River Kelvin, and home to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. 

Pollok Country Park occupies over 145 hectares, and in 2008 was named Europe’s best park. The vast gardens and woodlands at this country park make the perfect escape from the city.  

Wander around the Barras

Best for bargain buys

• Where: 244 Gallowgate, Glasgow G1 5DX
• When: 10 am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday

Whether you’ve picked up any Glaswegian during your travels or not, the name of The Barras is more self-explanatory than it may seem. The term literally translates as ‘barrow’, in the barrow boys and girls of any busy market.  

The Barras market in the East End of town is a great Glasgow attraction if you’re there on a weekend. Expect iconic archways, global food options and plenty of bargains to be had. It’s ideal for sampling a slice of local life too. 

The Burrell Collection

Best for decorative artefacts

• Where: Pollok Country Park, 2060 Pollokshaws Road, Bellahouston, Glasgow G43 1AT

Along with the likes of Kelvingrove and the Gallery of Modern Art, the Burrell Collection is one of the most famous places to visit in Glasgow. Don’t miss it if you’re heading to Pollok Country Park, as it’s located there on the southwestern fringes of the city. 

The Burrell Collection is named for the well-heeled family who owned this artistic treasure trove. It comprises a combination of types, including ceramics and glass, woven tapestries and other decorative pieces. A major refurbishment completed in 2022 breathed even more life into this beautiful assortment of objets d’art.

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Perfect Glasgow Itinerary - Best Things to Do in Glasgow

Perfect glasgow itinerary – a weekend in glasgow.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland , meaning that Glasgow , the largest city is often mistakenly overlooked by tourists. Arguably the cultural capital of Scotland, Glasgow is brimming with fun and possibility.

As a cultural epicenter, bursting with personality and adventure the City of Glasgow isn’t a place to be skipped on your travels. Once a center of the industrial revolution Glasgow has matured into an eclectic hub of creativity. The backdrop of the city is a mix of Victorian grandeur and modern architecture with a vibrant vibe like no other place can offer.

‘People Make Glasgow’ is the city’s slogan and there have never been truer words spoken. The people of Glasgow are renowned for making sure that they welcome every visitor to their home with open arms, fantastic humor, the provide all of the hospitality that you could possibly ask for. Whether you need recommendations, directions or just some good old fashioned conversation – The Glaswegians have got you covered!

Whether you’re interested in jaw-dropping architecture, world-class attractions, trendy markets, fine dining, or eclectic nightlife, Glasgow has something for everyone. In fact, It would be close to impossible for this city to disappoint you.

We are here to make sure that you experience the best of this city that’s brimming with charm and history. Make the most of your weekend in Glasgow with this handy Glasgow itinerary!

Best Things to Do in Glasgow

Kelvin grove art gallery & museum.

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery Museum is an impressive sandstone building that stands proudly in the West End of the city. Built at the beginning of the 1900s, it boasts impressive architecture that is a firm favorite with tourists and locals alike. This free attraction is home to 22 galleries with over 8000 objects, there’s definitely something for everyone.

If you are interested in the work of world-famous designer and architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh then his display in the museum is not to be missed. You can pop in for a quick visit or easily spend the entire day getting lost and taking in the history.

Hunterian Museum

The Hunterian holds one of the most impressive art collections in Scotland. It’s the largest holder of the works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and houses pieces by other famous artists including the Scottish colorists, the Glasgow Boys, Rubens, and Rembrandt.

The Riverside Museum

On that banks of the River Clyde, you will find the eye-catching Riverside Museum designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this masterpiece was commissioned as a tribute to the city’s shipbuilding past. This award-winning, interactive travel museum is home to impressive cars, motorbikes, and even skateboards.

Explore the old streets of Glasgow and get a feel for the city’s history. You can even try your hand at firefighting with their interactive fire engine. If you visit the Riverside museum you will find a selection of futuristic buildings such as the Glasgow Science Centre, SEC Armadillo, and SSE Hydro next door.

By timing this visit well you may be able to catch the River Clyde in the sunset with the impressive ‘squinty bridge and Finnieston crane in the background. You can take it all in from the Radisson Reds Sky Bar if you fancy a little rest.

Finnieston Crane

The Finniestone crane is not a museum but a famous relic demonstrating Glasgow’s glorious history. Standing tall at 175 ft, the crane was used for loading cargo onto ships to be exported around the world. You can catch a glimpse of it while at the Riverside Museum and it was definitely worth a mention.

Situated in the middle of Glasgow’s vibrant Royal Exchange Square Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) is both handy to get to and free to enter. The gallery is home to ever-changing exhibitions and works by local and international artists as well as addressing contemporary social issues.

It’s not all modern! The Gallery of Modern Art is housed in a neoclassical building built in 1977 as the townhouse of one of Glasgow’s tobacco lords, William Cunninghame.

Glasgow Architecture

Glasgow offers an eclectic mix of modern and historic architecture side by side providing character and dramatic photo opportunities. The Kelvingrove Museum, the GOMA, and the Riverside Museum are outstanding examples of this. Let’s take a look at the other architectural spots of interest!

Glasgow University

Glasgow University looks like a scene straight out of a Harry Potter film with many assuming that JK Rowling took inspiration from the university while imagining the magical school of Hogwarts.

Designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott who is also responsible for the St Pancras in London this magical building is sure to impress you with its bell towers and turrets. This gothic building has been the playground of several world-changing academics throughout history and it is the fourth-oldest English speaking university in the world.

The Lighthouse

Take in the views of the entire city of Glasgow by climbing the spiral staircase to the top floor of the lighthouse. This building was originally the headquarters of the Glasgow Herald newspaper and was designed by the Art Nouveau architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, who we have already mentioned.

The building was actually his first commission and now contains an exhibition of his work. It’s completely free! This little gem is located on Mitchell Lane which is also home to a few trendy bars such as Tabac, pop in if you have time.

The Glasgow Necropolis

To the east of the city, you will find the dramatic Glasgow Necropolis, a large Victorian garden cemetery. Situated beside Glasgow Cathedral the Necropolis offers stunning and dramatic scenes.

Don’t let the fact that it is a graveyard put you off. The grandeur of the headstones and tombs within the Necropolis offers a peaceful tranquillity that can provide a perfect place for a stroll and reflection with views across the city.

Travel in Circles on the Clockwork Orange

Glasgow has its own underground railway system which only goes around in circles through a small area of the city. Nicknamed the ‘world’s worst subway’ it’s actually the 3rd oldest in the world. You can hop on to get to and from the city center and west end with ease.

Glasgow Parks

If the sun is shining and you fancy some greenery Glasgow has some great parks to wander around. We have picked two for now:

Kelvingrove Park

Kelvingrove Park is a classic Victorian park in the city’s west end. It’s home to Kelvingrove museum and a large bandstand which is often used for locals gigs and events. It’s certainly worth a walkthrough if you’re visiting the museum or shopping, eating, and drinking in the vibrant west end.

Pollok Country Park

Take a train a few stops into the south of the city and find yourself in this idyllic Country Park full of woodlands and gardens. If you want to see a Highland cow during your stay in the city then head there for a guaranteed view of the famous ‘coos’. You can walk along the river, explore the grounds of the pollock house, visit the gardens and wander around the park’s museum, the Burrell Collection.

Fancy A Tour in Glasgow?

Hop on hop off.

Take in the sights of the city via the hop on hop off bus tour . You can buy a one or two day ticket and choose to take it all in, or get off the bus and explore when it takes your fancy.

This open-top bus allows you to visit many of the locations we have already mentioned as well as the Barras, Merchant City, Glasgow Cathedral, and George Square.  Book your tickets here >>

Glasgow Central Tour

Head underground to explore Glasgow’s history on this iconic tourist favorite. You will get to wander around Glasgow’s subterranean passageways beneath the city center streets while hearing a selection of fantastic stories of Glaswegian history. 

Charles Rennie Mackintosh 

After qualifying from the Glasgow School of art he quickly became a man who changed the art world forever. As one of the world’s most celebrated 20th-century architects, his legacy lives on throughout the city where he is still known as Glasgow’s ‘father of style’.

If you are keen to take in as much of his work as possible on your visit then we recommend booking onto one of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society’s in-depth city tours. If you are happy with just a little of the Mackintosh experience then we recommend a trip to the Willow Tea rooms instead.

Where to Stay in Glasgow

Glasgow is small enough that you can visit its unique neighborhoods during your stay experience and some of the best-hidden gems for eating out and shopping. This makes it easier to decide where to book your hotel. Whether you venture south to Shawlands, east to Denniston, or further West into Hydnland each area is brimming with architecture, personality, and its own unique charm.

For the best hotels in Glasgow, read our guide with our top recommendations on where to stay in Glasgow .

Restaurants, Bars and Nightlife in Glasgow

Whether you fancy the theatre, a comedy club, dinner & drinks, traditional pubs or clubbing into the ‘wee hours’ the City of Glasgow certainly comes alive at night. Assuming you arrive on a Friday evening, here’s a list of central locations to eat and drink that will offer you a glimpse of what the rest of your weekend has in store.

Restaurants

Allston bar & grill.

This gem of a restaurant can be found inside Glasgow central station, in fact, it’s underneath with the stairs being found at the main entrance. Specializing in locally sourced Scottish beef with a spectacular gin bar to boot it’s great fueling point to stop off at on the way to your accommodation.

Grand Central Hotel

The iconic Grand Central hotel forms part of the station itself, originating all the way back to 1883 the hotel has retained many of its original features including the grand staircase and the magnificent Champagne Bar with its domed ceiling and marble floor.

Whether or not you are guests at the hotel you are welcome to pop in for a drink or reserve a table in their locally sourced fine dining restaurant. If people-watching is your thing you can grab a table at the window and watch the coming and going inside of the station. If you are lucky you might catch a marriage proposal under the stations ‘big clock’.

Sloan’s Bar and Ceilidh

Glasgow’s oldest bar comes complete with a ballroom where they offer a Friday Night Ceilidh, a traditional social event with Scottish folk music, singing, and traditional dancing. A truly Scottish way to kick off the weekend.

As we mentioned, Glaswegians are funny. If you want to immerse yourself in as much of their humor as possible then check out the comedy listings at the following places during your stay;

The Stand, Glad Cafe, YesBar, Glee Club, The Rotunda, and the Wild Cabaret.

The West End

We have touched on the West End, home to Kelvin Grove Park and museum and known for its trendy shopping. The West End is also one of the best areas to spend an evening eating and drinking. We recommending visiting Byres Road, Finnieston, and Ashton Lane in particular.

Merchant City

This lovely cosmopolitan heart of the city has a range of exceptional bars and restaurants for you to visit. Home to the famous Rogano Restaurant. Built during the 1930s the interior was designed to match the Queen Mary ship as it was being built on the Clyde, the restaurant is the oldest in Glasgow and retains many of its original Art Deco features. If you fancy something more modern, Merchant City square offers a plethora of bars and restaurants under one spacious roof covered in fairy lights.

The Glasgow music scene is world-renowned, if clubbing is your scene be sure to check out what’s on in the following locations during the time of your stay; SWG3, SUB CLUB, The Poetry Club, The Buff Club, and Lah Cheetah. If you just fancy a good dance to the latest hits you won’t be short of options, like the Garage or the Cathouse.

Glasgow Shopping

Glasgow Shopping is known to be the UK’s Best! Ok, second best. Only beaten by London’s West End. . . which let’s be honest would be impossible to overtake. Whether you love high street, vintage or designer, Glasgow can help you find some real gems for your wardrobe. 

The Style Mile

Known as ‘The Style Mile’ Glasgow Buchanan Street is a street that runs straight through the city from one shopping center to another with an extra one thrown in the middle and some department stores. If you venture around the corner to the merchant city you will find a whole host of hidden designer stores and independent boutiques.

If rummaging rails rummaging for individual pieces is more your style then head to Glasgow’s West End where you will find a whole host of bohemian, vintage, and independent stores. We also recommended checking out any charity shops you happen across as on this side of the city you could strike gold.

The Barras Market

The famous market is an entire experience all of its own. If you want to emerge yourself in the uniqueness of Glasgow then get down there. Situated in the East End of the city this notably shabby and run-down area offers a piece of ‘pure Glasgow’.

Open every Saturday and Sunday, 1000s of market traders flood the area selling pretty much everything you could want, need or imagine, and lots of other things that would never cross your mind!

If all of the hustle and bustle gets too much then you will find two of Glasgow trendiest hangouts. St Lukes & BAAD next door, both ideal places to eat and drink and take in the very unique interiors. St Lukes is a converted church and BAAD is a large glass atrium boasting a huge beer garden and courtyard.

Whatever area you choose to splash your cash in you can be sure that there’s a vast array of pubs, bars, cafes, and restaurants to choose from when you need a break.

Day Trips From Glasgow

Glasgow is situated in the central belt. It’s location makes Perthshire in the north east alongside the eastern Highlands, Loch Lomond, Fort William, the West Coast and the western Highlands all accessible within a 2 hour drive.

These all make excellent day or half-day trips if travellers are willing to hire a car for the day.

Stirling is a 40 minute drive from Glasgow and makes the perfect half-day, or even quarter-day trip. There are plenty of things to do in Stirling like visiting Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument and David Stirling Memorial.

There is also a fun organized day trip that includes Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond, and a Whisky Tour. You can read more details about the tour here >>

Dundee is a big city in itself and often described as the most underrated city in Scotland. The 1.5 hour drive takes you into Perthshire’s countryside with it’s rolling hills and fields.

Travelers will pass several quaint villages before reaching Dundee. Things to do in Dundee include Broughty Castle, The V&A Museum and Dundee Law which offers a fantastic vantage point to view the Tay Rail Bridge.

Dunkeld and Birnam is where Shakespear’s MacBeth play was set. It takes 1.5 hours to drive to Dunkeld from Glasgow and visitors can enjoy exploring the heart of Perthshire, an area which in itself is considered the heart of Scotland itself.

Travelers things to do in Dunkeld must walk the Hermitage and can also explore Loch Ordie and Birnam hill. The town itself is beautiful.

We know we’ve covered a lot of things to see do and experience in Glasgow and you might be pushed to get it all in within one weekend! You could pin your favorites on a map to plan out your weekend. Whatever you choose to do we promise your trip will be one you’ll remember.

Perfect Glasgow Itinerary – Best Things to Do in Glasgow was written by Graham Grieve, a Scottish based travel blogger. Graham’s blog focuses purely on hyper-local travel in Scotland. With over 25 years of experience traveling Scotland’s cities, towns, and villages Graham is the authority on Scottish travel. Please visit his website My Voyage Scotland, his Facebook, and his Instagram for helpful Scotland travel tips.

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How can I see the northern lights in the UK tonight?

Scientist explains how, when and where to see the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in the UK on Saturday evening

The northern lights might be visible in parts of the UK again on Saturday after the rare phenomenon was spotted across the country overnight.

An “extreme” geomagnetic storm caused the lights, also known as aurora borealis, to be more visible on Friday evening – delighting millions of people across the northern hemisphere.

And for those who missed out, a second chance could arise.

Chris Snell, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said there were sightings “from top to tail across the country”.

Looking ahead to Saturday night, he said: “It is hard to fully predict what will happen in the Earth’s atmosphere, but there will still be enhanced solar activity tonight, so the lights could be visible again in northern parts of the UK, including Scotland, Northern Ireland and the far north of England.”

He advised those hoping to see the lights on Saturday to head to an area with low light pollution and to use a good camera.

“The best chance you have of seeing the lights is if you are away from street lights and areas with lots of light pollution, as any type of light does have a big effect,” he said.

“Also, at this time of year, we are fighting the shorter length of nights, so it is unlikely that they will be visible until around 10.30pm or 11 o’clock when it gets really dark.”

Sightings in southern parts of the UK would be less likely on Saturday, although Snell said the lights might be visible through a strong camera lens.

Aurora displays occur when charged particles collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere around the magnetic poles.

In the northern hemisphere, most of this activity takes place within a band known as the aurora oval, covering latitudes between 60 and 75 degrees.

When activity is strong, this expands to cover a greater area, which explains why displays can be occasionally seen as far south as the UK.

• Northern lights
• Meteorology
• Northern Ireland

Most viewed

Where can you see the Northern Lights in the UK tonight?

• Northern Lights
• Saturday 11 May 2024 at 8:12pm

The Northern Lights were visible for much of the UK on Friday night and could be visible again on Saturday, as ITV News' Alex Iszatt reports.

By ITV News Producer Hannah Ward-Glenton

The Northern Lights dazzled huge swaths of the UK on Friday night thanks to an “extreme” geomagnetic storm, with further solar storms expected on Saturday.

The Aurora Borealis was best visible in Whitley Bay on the north east coast, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Wokingham in Berkshire.

It was also spotted in Suffolk, Kent, Hampshire and Liverpool, and was even visible in parts of London.

So can you spot them tonight if you missed out on Friday?

When and where can you see the Northern Lights tonight?

ITV News meteorologist and weather presenter Chris Page said it is "likely" the Northern Lights will be visible this evening.

"Tonight the solar storms are likely to continue and are likely to be visible again. However, the storm is reducing in intensity and it's thought the display won't be as potent as last night.

"Likely to see it best between 10.30pm-2am where light pollution levels are reduced."

The Met Office also said it was likely to be less strong on Saturday night, but most of the north of England and almost all of Scotland would be able to see the lights between 10pm and 2am.

It added that weaker sightings were possible further south.

Craig Snell, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “It is hard to fully predict what will happen in the Earth’s atmosphere, but there will still be enhanced solar activity tonight, so the lights could be visible again in northern parts of the UK, including Scotland, Northern Ireland and the far north of England."

Sightings in southern parts of the UK are less likely on Saturday, although Mr Snell said the lights might be visible through a strong camera lens.

While short nights limit the visibility window, there’s a "good chance" of sightings on Saturday night, especially across Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England and Wales, a Met Office spokesperson told ITV News.

"There could be some visibility further south, especially with long-exposure cameras."

Visibility of the Aurora Borealis will continue into Sunday night, but cloud across the UK, particularly in the West, is likely to obscure the view.

Areas in the East have the best chance at spotting the colourful skies again on Sunday, the Met Office said.

Top viewing tips

Chris Page provided his tips for spotting the Aurora Borealis:

Look to the northern horizon: The aurora is drawn towards the polar regions of the Earth. As a result you might not be able to see it directly overhead, but as it happens so high in sky look towards the northern horizon where it's likely to be dancing.

You can see it with the naked eye but cameras tend to capture it better. This is because cameras can adapt to different wave lengths better than our eyes. Give yourself time to adjust, at least 10 minutes.

Find dark, open spaces: Seek out locations away from city lights and other sources of light pollution. Open fields, parks, or remote areas with unobstructed views of the northern horizon are ideal for aurora watching.

Be patient and persistent: Seeing the aurora requires patience and persistence, as it can be unpredictable and may not appear every night, even during periods of high activity. Stay flexible with your plans and be prepared to wait for hours if necessary.

Use long exposures for photography: If you're interested in photographing the aurora, use a camera with manual settings and a tripod to capture long exposures. Experiment with different exposure times and ISO settings to achieve the best results.

Stay up late: Auroras are often most active in the late evening to early morning hours, so plan to stay up late or wake up early for the best chance of seeing a spectacular display.

How often do we see the Northern Lights?

It's rare that the Northern Lights are this visible in the UK.

Friday night's display has been classified as a G5 Extreme Solar Storm by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

This last happened in October 2003.

What's the science behind the Northern Lights?

Charged particles from the sun, primarily electrons and protons, collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, typically oxygen and nitrogen.

These collisions emit light at various wavelengths, creating vibrant displays of colour in the sky, often appearing as curtains, arcs, or bands of light.

The colours are determined by the type of gas particles involved and the altitude at which the collisions occur.

Greens appear due to interactions with oxygen, red is from oxygen in the upper atmosphere while blues and purples are due to the interaction of nitrogen.

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