Unique Gifts and Things To Do in Glasgow
Though not the country’s capital, Glasgow is certainly the largest and most populous city in Scotland, with a permanent residency just shy of 600,000 in the city alone. Like every great success story, Glasgow has long outgrown its ‘rough’ reputation to become a city which prides itself on its culture, Celtic charm, and the friendliness of its people…so whether you are planning a weekend break for two, a family day out, or a great group getaway, Glasgow is ready to greet you!The best way to acquaint yourself with any new city is a by taking part in a guided tour, and Glasgow has plenty of these to offer. For an overview of the entire city, you might like to journey on the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour – with 21 stops around the city centre, your 1 or 2 day ticket allows plenty of time for further exploration. Or perhaps you’d like something a little more specialised? The City Centre Mural Trail allows you to uncover a city-wide exhibition of colourful street art by local Glaswegian artists. Or ‘foodies’ might like to take part in a tasting tour of Glasgow’s innumerable vegan eateries, traditional public houses and quirky bars and coffee houses…so whether you are into wine tasting, love street art, or are looking for the thrill of a ghost tour, you can bet that Glasgow has a friendly guide just waiting to share their passions with you!
History and art buffs will have a field day in Glasgow - with evidence of the eminent architect and designer, Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s masterpieces scattered throughout Glasgow city centre, the heritage sites are almost limitless. Visitors to Glasgow should definitely schedule in a student guided tour of Mackintosh’s most prominent landmark - the Glasgow School of Art - or take a moment to relax in the world famous Willow Tea Rooms, situated on Buchanan Street, Glasgow’s fondly named ‘style mile’. Once filled up on Scotland’s favourite national dishes, or a locally sourced home-made afternoon tea, you’ll be energized and ready for a spot of shopping…Buchanan Street is renowned for its flagship high street fashion stores, and is the UK’s busiest shopping district, second only to London’s Oxford Street - so make sure you have some pocket money to spend!
If artisanal eateries and shopping trips are not your bag, then head on down to the Clyde Waterfront. This riverside area features a wonderful selection of leisure and entertainment attractions suitable for the whole family. The Glasgow Science Centre hosts a multi-level hands-on science mall where adults and children alike can discover the wonders of the human body, get to grips with the evolution of technology or gaze at the stars in the state of the art planetarium. Or perhaps you are more interested in the city’s ship-building heritage? Board the Tall Ship – a monument to Glasgow’s industry and seafaring history - for a chance to see explore Victorian maritime history and put your questions to the crew.
Despite being Scotland’s most densely populated city, Glasgow has a surprising number of green open spaces. Take some time to explore the magnificently sculpted gardens of Glasgow Green and The People’s Palace and Winter Garden, or visit Kelvingrove Park – Glasgow’s oldest and best loved public park, and home to the picturesque Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Lovers of the great outdoors might even consider hiring a luxury supercar and escaping the city centre for a day trip to nearby Loch Lomand, or take to the skies in a light aircraft for a flying lesson over this fabulous city!
Whatever activity, day out, or local experience gift you are looking for, this vibrantly cultured city is waiting to welcome you…so visit Glasgow today!















