Enjoy Visiting Glorious Glasgow City

When I’m looking for a city with an exciting atmosphere and great sense of humour, Glasgow City is my top destination!

The Duke of Wellington is a target of jokes!

Although there is evidence that present day Glasgow was once a prehistoric settlement, it wasn’t until the 6^th century that Saint Mungo (the patron saint) built a church where the Cathedral stands today. In 1115, Glasgow was a small farming village but by 1451, it was large enough to home a University. Between the Eighteenth and late-Nineteenth centuries, the industrial revolution of Scotland took place. This was a pivotal moment for Glasgow, as it brought in jobs, wealth and structural development for the city due to its proximity to the River Clyde.

Today, is the fourth largest city in the United Kingdom with a little over one million residents. It has plenty to offer the sportsman, the outdoor enthusiast, and anyone who likes to party. There is even camping at nearby Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Here are my top “must-sees”:

• Glasgow Cathedral – This medieval cathedral is the oldest building in Glasgow and is an excellent example of Scotland’s famous gothic architecture. It still hosts services.
• Theatre Royal Glasgow – Catch a production at this beautiful theatre that is the oldest continuously used in Scotland.
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – A fun and exciting place for anyone to visit. It has over 8,000 artefacts on display throughout 22 themed galleries.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery: Gothic architecture at its best!

Here’s a Pro-Tip: The Finnieston Crane is one of many historical landmarks along the Clyde River. You can experience a self-led tour by walking upriver from Glasgow Green to Govan and eventually making your way to the Riverside Museum.

• Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre – This showcases a quirky collaboration between a mechanic-sculptor, theatre director and light and sound designer. Sculptures made from scrap move in synch with music and lights.

“Oh, Dear Green Place”

• Glasgow Botanic Gardens – Glasgow can be translated as “Dear Green Place”. Located on the West End, these gardens offer a wide variety of flora.
• Glasgow Rangers and Celtic stadiums – The fans of each team are famous for the partisan support of their respective clubs.

Here’s another Pro-Tip: The Clydeside Distillery and The Scotch Whisky Experience are two of the best ways to sample the country’s most famous export.

Glasgow International Airport is a modern convenient facility close to the city. Travelling from the airport is best done via the Glasgow Airport Express. This is a bus that takes you from the airport to the city-centre in about 15 minutes. It departs every 10 minutes and includes free wifi. Once in the city, the best way to travel is the subway system. It is the third oldest metro in the world!

The culinary scene in Glasgow is an exciting mix of restaurants offering food from all over the world. One of my favourites is Alchemilla. Its Mediterranean-themed share-plate menu is always changing, depending on availability. For delicious Malaysian comfort food, head to “MasterChef” contestant’s restaurant, Julie’s Kopitiam. Since Alcohol is not served, enjoy a predinner drink in the surrounding area which is abundant with bars and pubs. For traditional Scottish fare, try Ox and Finch with its small plates and big gusto.

Anything you fancy done right!

Hotels in Glasgow embrace the city’s architectural charm. Hotel Du Vin is located in a converted Victorian terrace where each room is unique. The Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel is conveniently located on a beautiful Georgian Square right within the city. If you have time, take a trip to nearby Craufurdland Castle where my friends Simon and Adity offer lovely accommodation in a sprawling ancient structure.

Where did my Glasgow?”

The night life in Glasgow is fun and as old as the city itself. Sauchiehall Street is the nightlife centre of action. There is something for everybody, from new-age vegan bars, like Stereo, to 19^th century pubs. One notable spot is Sub Club. It opened in 1987 and is still going strong. Bananamoon is another fabulous bar. They open early for coffee by day and have an extensive beer list accompanied by extraordinary cocktails.

While I really enjoy Edinburgh, Glasgow where I go to party in Scotland. You’ll have a great time when you visit!

Love,

Isabella