Glasgow pocket guide.
In the not-so-distant past, Glasgow was primarily known as an industrial city. In fact, in many respects, Glasgow was an industrial heartland of the United Kingdom, and one of the most important port cities in Europe; particularly during the Second World War. Nowadays, Glasgow has earned a name for itself within Europe as a flourishing epicentre for nightlife and the arts.
Despite the generations of Scots transforming the city's image from that of an industrial heartland to a cultural focal point, the city retains its roots and proudly displays them for all to see.
An iconic symbol of Glasgow, the now disused Finnieston Crane (📷) still lingers over the banks of the River Clyde, juxtaposed by the ultra-modern architecture of the SSE Hydro arena in the near distance — with its fluorescent neon lights illuminating the skies in the evening.
🏛 Sights, Culture + Experiences.
Museum lovers will be spoilt for choice. Some of the finest museums in Europe can be found an easily commutable distance from one another. Glasgow's West End offers two renowned art museums: Kelvingrove Art Galleries (📷) and the neighbouring Hunterian Art Gallery.
From here you are 15 minutes away from the Riverside Museum (📷) on the banks of the River Clyde. The winner of the 2013 European Museum of the Year Award, this eye-catching building houses the Scottish Transport Museum, complete with life-sized replicas of antiquated carriages and a showcase of Glasgow’s historic streets — cobblestones and all.
The Glasgow Science Centre lies on the opposite side of the River - easily accessed by the Millennium Bridge and offers a wide selection of events and exhibitions.
🆓 The best things in life are free.
Glasgow is one of the most charismatic cities in Europe, not only in terms of its attractions and nightlife, but its local community as well. Glaswegians’ affable nature is well documented at this point, but encountering local people when exploring the city or in one of the many excellent venues, their presence will truly elevate your experience.
Glasgow boasts the largest Necropolis in Scotland, situated north-east of the city centre behind the elegant Glasgow Cathedral (📷). Though it may seem a morbid place to pass time, in fact, the Necropolis is a work of art and offers some very nice views of the city.
During the summer, Glaswegians soak up as much of the good weather as they possibly can before the biting chill of the winter returns. Glasgow Botanic Gardens (📷) is in full bloom during the summer months, giving locals and tourists alike a charming place to gather with friends and relax.
A stones throw away is the famous Kelvingrove Park. Taking a stroll through the paved streets that wind through the twists and turns of the River Kelvin — around which the park is centred — offers tranquillity in the heart of the city.
Ashton Lane.
Once the green pastures of the parks in the West End of the city have worked up an appetite, you might want to head to Ashton Lane for a well deserved treat. This lovely cobbled street - although small - houses some of the best that the city has to offer, some of the cities best beer gardens, and a charming independent cinema — The Grosvenor (📷) — that frequently has special screenings alongside recent releases.
Acclaimed restaurant Ubiquitous Chip is located on the corner of Ashton Lane, offering a great menu of modern cuisine with a Scottish twist. Named after the great Belgian songwriter, gastropub Brel is not to be missed. Once you have lapped up your mussels and fries, pop out to its wonderful, spacious beer garden for a couple of craft beers — weather permitting!
George Square.
No trip to Glasgow would be complete without a visit to George Square - the beating heart of the city centre. Glasgow City Chambers (📷) acts as the centrepiece to the square. The beautifully designed building is visually impressive as it looms over the pedestrian square, reminding you of Glasgow's architectural prowess. Just incase you’d forgot!
In the summer, George Square is full of locals taking the edge off after a hard day's work or taking the scenic option whilst waiting for their train to depart from nearby Queen Street station. In winter, the Square is perhaps even busier and more crucial to the community. During this time, George Square is a vibrant centre for festivities, with market stalls, fairground rides and a large skating rink that has proven to be a popular attraction.
When the sun goes down, Glasgow doesn’t slow down. Kick-start the night with a visit to the East End — a neighbourhood that has been prospering in recent years, with great new bars emerging year after year. If lucky enough, you might be able to catch a performance that interests you at the esteemed Barrowland Ballroom (📷).
This rustic venue dates back to before the Second World War, and was once primarily used for a spot of ballroom dancing. Nowadays its ramshackle decor, rickety tiles and an eye-grabbing neon sign out draw crowds day-after-day. Famed for its unique and wild atmosphere, the Barrowlands offers a special experience to both artists and concertgoers alike that keeps its reputation impeccable.
Located in the immediate vicinity to the Barrowlands, you will find two of the most recent and best loved places to drink in this part of Glasgow. Barras Art and Design (BAaD) opened in 2016 — making great use of what was previously a disused scrapyard. During summer, its backyard area is unbeatable for spending time. Decorated with colourful murals and fortified by shipping containers, you can often find hot food being served from the counter in the courtyard.
Nightlife in Glasgow offers a little bit of something for everyone, and you would be hard pressed to find somewhere in the city that you wont enjoy. For lovers of dance music, head to the well-known Sub Club on Jamaica Street. This venue has earned its reputation as one of the best places in Glasgow for after-hours dancing — with frequent special events occurring all year.
What was once an active church, Saint Luke's and the Winged Ox is another addition to the thriving neighbourhood. The Winged Ox is trendy bar with contemporary interior, whilst the former church hall is now a live music venue hosting talented artists from across the globe.
Another shining testament of the resourcefulness of Glaswegians is Finnieston’s new warehouse-come-venue SWG3. Tucked away off the beaten path, SWG3 offers club nights catering to all tastes from electronic music to stand-up. Recently, the venue has made use of its 2,000 capacity outdoor yard, bringing open-air concerts and events to Glasgow during the summer.
Upon elaborate crockery, refined dishes are displayed with a delicate and loving touch from esteemed head chef Lorna McNee. An inventive menu makes great use of local organic ingredients in complex, wholly unique recipes.
With a head-strong confidence, the team behind Cail Bruich transcend traditions by incorporating a French flair in highlighting the artistry of cooking. Meticulous detail is given to the food here, and intrigue is aroused by the infusions of heather, fancy fungi and other relatively obscure seasonings.
Recognised by the Michelin Guide, who, just this year, awarded the restaurant a star. Stylish and simply elegant cooking.
(📸 via: Instagram).
When Costanzo moved to Glasgow in the 1970s, he brought with him a desire to share the essence of Italian 'familigia' cooking to his newfound community.
Initially, a Buchanan Street basement served as this escape to the island of Capri, but as retail shouldered in, Costanzo re-located to a discreet location inside of a Victorian townhouse at Charing Cross.
Mouthwatering recipes have been honed to perfection over the years to offer the finest flavours of Italy's pasta, cheese and bread.
Combined with rich, creamy sauces and expertly cooked Italian meats, classic menu items like spaghetti bolognese, carbonara, and pizza earn their reputation from restaurants like this.
(📸 via: Instagram).
Temptuous small plates re-invent time-tested traditional favourites with a modern twist at the Ox and Finch, an eatery that goes beyond conventions. Tonnes of flavoursome spices make an appearance in sensible, tapas-inspired portions that display a perfect balance of subtlety and sophistication.
Always evolving, these creative dishes are in constant rotation, each iteration as delicious as the last. This dedication has put it firmly on Glasgow’s culinary map; a must-visit for first-time visitors and a delight to re-discover.
Focus is given to hand-picked prime meats and Scotland’s star-studded seafood, freshly harvested from the coast.
(📸 via: Instagram).
Healthy portions of delicious Indian cuisine and consistent quality have kept this West End institution firmly in the hearts of Glaswegians for decades.
An expansive menu brings flavours from across the Indian Subcontinent to your plate. Traditional classics such as korma and chilli garlic chicken lead the way, best accompanied by the best pakora the city has to offer.
Dine-in at the atmospheric original venue in Finnieston or get delivery to your door from Mother India's Kelvingrove café.
(📸 via: Instagram)
Out in Scotland's astounding wilderness, there are many a 'bothy' to be found. Scattered across the landscape, these tiny cottages are a welcome sight to hillwalkers and explorers who rest here.
Often isolated, bothies can feel like a world unto themselves. Tucked out-of-sight just off Byres Road, an ivy-clad stone wall marks the entrance to Glasgow's own Bothy — a calm and cosy hideaway from the bustling West End that captures the warmth of its namesake.
Heartwarming Scottish food, oak interiors, and a wide selection of locally-sourced whiskies are served with a classy ambiance from the crack and smoulder of an open fireplace.
(📸 via: Instagram)
Designated by a slim doorway on Sauchiehall Street, ascend the stairs to an intimate dining room. In here, joyous Thai cuisine can be enjoyed by candlelight, in the company of attentive staff.
Beloved for their stimulating aromas and rich textures, the dishes here are cooked with finesse, and boast an authenticity to their native roots in Thailand. Reverence is held for these recipes, and you can be assured that quality is not skipped in favour of quantity; even with generous servings.
Thai delicacies like ‘pad kra pao’ entice, with a harmonious balance of zest and spice across a finely tuned menu. Over the years, firm favourites have remained and paved the way for new examples of authentic cuisine to be introduced to Glasgow’s city centre.
(📸 via: Instagram).
Rounding off.
For a city of its size, Glasgow does not feel imposing or hectic in any way. Whilst wandering through the leafy suburbs of Glasgow's West End, you will feel a sense of tranquillity and freedom that few places can rival. Although the main drag of Byres Road is always a bustling hub for students, locals and tourists alike, there is a laid-back and friendly sensibility that is rarely equalled anywhere else.
The industrial and economic heartland of Glasgow city centre is more vibrant and electrifying than it has ever been. New stylish bars and restaurants are opening every day here, as a clear showcase that the Glasgow spirit is alive and well in a post-industrial age, embracing its artistic excellence that has always been there.
The motto is "People make Glasgow", and if the charms of its rustic beauty fail to captivate you at first, you can count on the people of Glasgow to make sure you feel welcome in their city, and that should surely help to change your mind.
