Scotland has a lot to offer with great cities, outdoors, culture and history but if you only have one weekend to spend in Scotland, Why make it the birthplace of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, John Logie baird Billy Connolly,Gerard Butler, James McAvoy, Liz Lochhead, Lorraine Kelly, Alasdair Gray and groundskeeper Willie? Having grown up, studied and worked in Glasgow I know the city inside out. Here's a rundown of the must see places and hidden gems that should make for an unforgettable weekend in the City.
Where to stay?
The city centre is the place to head. With a wealth of hotels at reasonable rates directly in the City centre there really is no reason to stay outside the hub. Being such a small city, getting around Glasgow is easy. You can walk everywhere around the centre or into the West End in about twenty minutes, jump in a cab or use the ridiculously small but handy subway. Perfect for wandering back to your hotel bleary eyed at 4am!
Shopping Streets
Buchanan Street is the main street which connects the shopping district, linking Sauchihall street and Argyll Street. On Buchanan you will find the Buchanan galleries shopping mall at the top of a gentle hill which is lined with rows upon rows of shops with many retailers replicated, there are two Topshops, New Looks, River Islands and three H&Ms within walking distance of one another to ensure that if one does not stock your ideal outfit, its partner store will. As well as being plentiful for popular High Street retailers the main shopping streets have hidden gems with unique boutiques and shops selling traditional Scottish food, kilts and gifts.In addition Glasgow are expanding, opening a Forever 21, Banana republic and others. Princes Square is for those with a healthier bank balance than mine, housing Vivienne Westwood and Ted Baker amongst others. The mall also offers a fine selection of bars and restaurants which are reasonably priced and particularly the places on the very top floor, such as November, have a great atmosphere. If you are still not shopped out then head to the West end where you will find a plethora of vintage shops, boutiques and charity shops just of Byres rd.
Art and Culture spots
For a culture spot, just off Buchanan street tucked down Mitchell lane, fans of Charles Rennie Mackintosh will find The Lighthouse which describes itself as 'Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, is a multipurpose visitor centre in the heart of Glasgow city centre.' It was Mackintosh's first public commission and you can explore the exhibitions on offer. The Lighthouse also offers a stunning 360 view of the city and is well worth the long and dizzying climb to the top.If you wish to continue your Mackintosh experience then a personal favourite spot of mine is The Willow Tea Rooms which were designed by the artist in 1904, they serve traditional food and drink and have a lovely gift shop attached for souvenirs.
If you can only squeeze in one Museum, head for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Situated just below the University of Glasgow you can take in two medieval masterpieces as they fight for the landscape and immerse yourself in the majestic Hogwarts-like qualities of both. Whats great about The Kelvingrove is the sheer size of the building, there's so many wonderful exhibits on display from natural history to detailed depictions of Glasgow's past and art from many movements and periods. There is something quite enchanting about climbing the solid medieval steps, pushing open the heavy set doors and entering a magical world where Sir Roger the elephant (Kelvingrove's oldest and most beloved exhibit) takes centre stage below their real life spitfire.
Oh and as with all museums in Glasgow, admission is free.
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| Gothic Kelvingrove |
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| Inside the Kelvingrove |
Nights Out
Check out gigsinscotland for gigs in amazing and intimate venues such as The Barrowlands, The O2 Academy and King Tuts Wah Wah Hut (where Oasis were discovered!) For a posh night out head to the Corinthian, a stunning building situated in the Merchant city. It is has a restaurant, various bars, a casino and a nightclub. For indie or student types, quirky haunts like The Butterfly and the Pig are for you with shabby chic furnishings, eclectic furniture and a 'wacky' menu. the Buff club which is upstairs is a rugged little club and although the carpet on the stairway has a very distinctive (horrendous) wet dog smell- you always have a great night here, the drink is cheap, atmosphere good and egos and posers are left at the door. Another wee haunt thats good for a casual drink is Nice n Sleazy's on Sauchihall st perfect for a chilled out affair.
For Kids
The Science Centre is good for the really young kids and the IMAX cinema here will be a hit with everyone. You can buy tickets to both and its much cheaper than going to the regular cinema AND the experience is much more exciting. On (rare) sunny days Rouken Glen park has scenic walks and massive funfairs with bouncy castles and music during the summer months which children love if the screaming is anything to judge by.
Still not convinced?
Visit Pollock House, The Burrell Collection and the Highland cattle at Pollock Park
Take a stroll in the whimsical Botanic Gardens in the west end.
Visit The Òran Mór, a converted and stunning chapel which has a bar, restaurant and club. This venue also hosts 'A Play, a Pie and a Pint.' which does what it says on the tin.
If your feeling brave visit the authentic Glaswegian Barras for Sunday morning stall trawling.
You can read more about Mackintosh nd his work here
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| Glasgow University |
