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Glasgow

Experiential journeys will make you a storyteller
About Glasgow

Vibrant, modern, edgy, artistic and beautiful are just some of the words that can be used to describe the largest city in Scotland - Glasgow. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, the city is one of the most important centres for culture and trade in the Western Lowlands. The city is also an important access point for the rest of the country, and the perfect place from which you can explore the rest of the places like the Highlands and the capital city of Edinburgh.

The city is also brimming with some of the most significant historical attractions in the UK, including the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral, Necropolis, The Botanical Gardens, and The Lighthouse. You can explore the myriad facets of the culture of Glasgow in the many museums that can be found in the city as well. Places like Finestone and Merchant City are also ideal for shopping.

When you are exploring the city, make sure you don’t mind out on some of the essential experiences like walking or cycling tours, visiting the many whiskey distilleries for a taste of the finest whiskey in the world and eating at amazing restaurants that serve delectable Scottish food and also some of the best curries in this part of the world. Glasgow is also known for its vibrant music scene, so make sure you catch a concert while you’re at it.

If you’re wondering when to visit, then the best time would be between March and August when the weather is pleasant and cool, and there is enough daylight. The altitude of Glasgow as well as the mountains and the rivers make it a cold place with little daylight through most part of the year.

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Glasgow FAQ's

Which are the best places to visit in Glasgow?

1. Glasgow Cathedral: The Glasgow Cathedral is one of the most significant structures in the city, dating back to the 12th century. It is one of the most striking features of the Glasgow skyline, dominating the horizon with its sharp and tall spired and mid-century architecture. It is also home to the tomb of St Mungo, who is known as the founder of the Bishopric.

Location:
Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Friday (10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.), Saturday and Sunday (1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: 
The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is located in one of the most famous streets in Glasgow, namely Sauchiehall Street. The Museum is home to one of the finest collections of British and European art, including paintings by Van Gogh, Salvador Dali and Alexander Reid. There are also fascinating specimens of weaponry, pottery and other artefacts from various centuries.

Location:
Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) 

3. Necropolis: 
One of the most fascinating places to visit in Glasgow is Necropolis, located adjacent to the Glasgow Cathedral. This Victorian Gothic Garden dates back to the 12th century and is home to over 50,000 natives who have been buried here over the centuries. The graveyard and garden are also home to some ancient and famous sculptures that can give you wonderful insight into the art and culture of Glasgow.

Location:
Castle St, Glasgow G4 0UZ, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (7:00 am. - 4:30 p.m.)

4. The University of Glasgow: 
One of the most famous landmarks in Glasgow is Glasgow University, which is the second oldest seat of education in all of Scotland. The University is not only home to some of the most gifted students in the world, but also boasts of illustrious alumni.

You can also check out several famous and significant works of art in the museum and art gallery inside the university premises. The structure itself is a beautiful specimen of 15th-century architecture that is very uniquely Scottish.

Location:
Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom

5. Glasgow Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace: 
The Kibble Palace is one of the most famous and largest glasshouses in all of Britain and houses many rare and unique orchid species. The property was built in 1873 and has tropical plants that were brought over from all over the world over the centuries. There is a lovely tea room as well as a sprawling patio in the gardens where you can take in the surrounding natural beauty of the place. 

Location: Botanic Gardens, Glasgow G12 0UE, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (12 noon - 4:00 p.m.) 

6. The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel: 
It is safe to say that the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel in Glasgow has the finest display and collection of transport-related memorabilia in the world. Transport was a massive part of British and Scottish culture, where they used naval means to travel the world and connect with various cultures. Mementoes and souvenirs from those travels, including parts of the vessels, other industrial relics from the past and other exciting things can be found here in the museum. 

Location: 100 Pointhouse Road, Partick, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Thursday and Saturday (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) 

7. Glasgow Science Centre: 
The Glasgow Science Centre is a highly coveted seat of learning in Glasgow and also a wonderful place to explore the many scientific discoveries that have come from Britain and Scotland. The museum also has a planetarium and organises several interactive workshops, exhibitions and displays on a regular basis that is fun for people of all ages to explore.

Location:
50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow G51 1EA, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)

8. The Lighthouse: 
Another place that you absolutely must visit when you are in Glasgow includes the Lighthouse, which is the centre of design and architecture in the city. The LIghthouse was opened to the public in 1999 and is a fascinating place to explore because of its unique design, the winding staircase and the incredible view of the city from the top of the structure.

The Lighthouse was designed by Charles Ronnie Mackintosh. You can also grab a bite to eat at the in-house cafe and restaurant located at the base of the structure.

Location:
11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Saturday (10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.), Sundays (12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m.)

What are the best things to do in Glasgow?

1. Go on a day trip to the Scottish Highlands: One of the most memorable things you can do in Glasgow is to book a tour of the world-famous Scottish Highlands, which will take you to places like Glen Coe and Loch Ness. You can drive through rolling green fields and explore some of the most beautiful historical valleys that exist here to this day. You can also visit ancient cathedrals, churches, castles and much more. 

Location:
Kintyre House St Andrews Cres Glasgow Airport, Paisley PA3 2TQ, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Sunday (7:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.)

2. Take a Whiskey Tour: 
Scotland makes some of the best whiskey in the world and the headquarters of some of the most famous brands of whiskey can also be found right here in the city. Even if you are not much of a whiskey enthusiast, the process of distilling the golden amber liquid and packaging them while getting a little taste of the most premium whiskey should definitely be on your bucket list when you are visiting Glasgow.

The detailed tour takes you to the storage facility and even curates other premium items like chocolate and tobacco that elevate the flavour for maximum impact.

Location:
Glengoyne Distillery, Dumgoyne, Killearn, Glasgow G63 9LB, UK

3. Visit the Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis: 
If you want an insight into the beautiful history and culture of Glasgow, there is no better place than the Glasgow Cathedral and the adjacent Necropolis Graveyard and Garden to do so.

The property dates back to the 12th century and is one of the best specimens of British and Scottish architecture that has survived in the region. The garden is also very peaceful and the headstones of the people buried there also give you a rare insight into the lives of the past natives. 
Location: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Friday (10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.), Saturday and Sunday (1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

4. Catch the view from The Lighthouse: 
If you are on the hunt for the most gorgeous view of the city of Glasgow, you can head right to The Lighthouse, which is one of the more recent additions to Glasgow's inventory of tourist places. The Lighthouse was built by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and is defined by its sharp architectural design, the romantic winding staircase that leads to the top and the quaint cafe that is situated on the ground floor of the building.

Location:
11 Mitchell Lane, Glasgow G1 3NU, United Kingdom
Timings: Monday to Saturday (10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.), Sundays (12:00 noon - 5:00 p.m.) 

5. Go on a food tour: 
One thing that tourists in Glasgow are always surprised by is the sheer range of great food that is available. You can check out many wonderful restaurants like Mono - where there is a thriving indie music scene and some exceptional vegan food or even head to places like Glaschu and The Botany that serve classic Scottish dishes with a modern twist.

Surprisingly, Glasgow is also known as the “Curry Capital of the UK”, which means you will find some of the best Chicken Tikka Masala in that part of the world only in Glasgow.

Location:
Glasgow 
Timings: Approximately Monday to Sunday (11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.) 

6. Go shopping! : 
Glasgow is a shopping hotspot where you can find almost anything that you are looking for, including high fashion, streetwear, thrifted clothes, recycled clothes, independent stores and large chains from where you can get some great bargains. Buchanan Gallery, Princes Square and St Enoch Centre are considered the high street for fashion and shopping in the city.

However, if you are looking for some steal deals and are open to exploring the local designers and independent traders in the city, then you can head to places like the Scottish Design Exchange or The Hidden Lane where you can get some unique buys.

Location:
Glasgow 
Timings: Monday to Sunday (11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.) 

What is the best time to visit Glasgow?

The months between March and August are considered the best time to visit Glasgow. This is the time of the year when the temperature is cool and perfect, the Scottish Highlands are in full bloom and there is enough sunlight during the daytime for you to explore the city in all its glory.

How many days are enough to visit Glasgow?

You need to spend at least 2 days in the city to explore all the wonderful sights and experiences that Glasgow has to offer. However, if you are planning to explore places like the Scottish Highlands and other parts of the United Kingdom, then it is recommended that you stay for at least a week.

Why is Glasgow so special?

Apart from being one of the most historically significant places in the UK and also a place of great natural beauty, one of the most special features of Glasgow is its culture. It is a seat of art, culture and music and has been for a very long time. A lot of world-famous artists hail from Glasgow - musicians, painters and architects alike. Even today, you can find some of the best specimens of artwork, including painting exhibitions, concerts, etc. taking place in the city.

Which has better nightlife: Glasgow or Edinburgh?

If you are fond of great music and cultural performances, along with high-quality nightclubs and performance arenas, then Glasgow is the place for you. Edinburgh is more famous for specific clubs and discos that become hotspots after midnight.

What are the best things to buy from Glasgow?

Some of the best things you can take back home with you from Glasgow include: 

- Knitwear and other woollen items 

- Auchentoshan whiskey 

- Football shirts, memorabilia, etc. 

- Celtic jewellery


What are the best things to do in Glasgow at night?

1. Go on a walking tour of the city: Glasgow is a beautiful place to explore on foot at night. The waterside boulevards are lit up with fairy lights and the night markets are also bustling after hours.

2. Visit the University of Glasgow: 
The University of Glasgow is open 24 hours a day. If you are visiting or staying on the premises, then you can explore the campus at night, or even visit the on-site museum.

3. Explore the Isle of Skye: 
A 2-day tour of the Isle of Skye can be an eye-opening experience. You can sign up for a night tour of this magical place as well.

4. Watch a musical concert: 
Glasgow is known for its thriving music scene, which you can explore at night at a concert. Concerts are held regularly in the city, so you can buy a ticket for anyone and maybe end up discovering your next favourite artist!

5. Walk through Ashton Lane: 
One of the prettiest places in the city after dark is Ashton Lane where you can walk under a canopy made of thousands of faith lights. The entire street is lined with bars, restaurants, cinemas and much more. 

Which are the best historical sites to visit in Glasgow?

1. Necropolis: One of the oldest graveyards in the area is the Necropolis, located alongside the Glasgow Cathedral. You can learn a lot about the history of the city and its inhabitants through the centuries by walking through the many headstones present here. 

2. People’s Palace and Winter Gardens: This beautiful historical museum is the perfect place to learn all there is to know about Glasgow. You can observe many old photographs, artefacts from the daily life of people, social narratives and much more. 

3. City Chambers: The City Chambers were built by William Young - a celebrated Scottish architect - between the years 1882 and 1888. It is one of the most brilliant examples of Scottish opulence and craftsmanship.

4. Glasgow Cathedral: Another very important historical stop that you must make when you are in Glasgow is the famous Glasgow Cathedral that has dominated the city’s skyline since the 12th century and remains one of the most important structures to this day.

5. Provand’s Lordship: One of the oldest surviving houses in Glasgow is Provand’s Lordship - a property that has survived since 1471. You can walk around the beautiful house, the ancient furniture, the carefully manicured lawns, the paintings and other historical furnishings that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to the past. 

Which are the best museums to visit in Glasgow?

1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: This is one of the most famous museums in the city, home to paintings by masters such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Salvador Dali and Van Gogh.

2. The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel: 
This free-access museum is one of the world’s leading authorities on the history of inter-continental travel since the dawn of time. There are memorabilia, parts of ships, and other wonderful artefacts here for you to explore.

3. Glasgow Science Centre: The Science Centre is not only the best place to learn about the many wonderful scientific discoveries that came out of this city but also to learn about modern inventions, watch the stars in the planetarium and participate in various interactive exhibitions.

4. Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery: Located on the premises of the historical University of Glasgow, the Hunterian Museum is a wonderful place to learn all about the industrial, architectural, artistic and cultural past of Glasgow.

Glasgow Reviews

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Priyanka Thakur
Reviewed: 02 Apr 2024
5.0/5
Guide hozze was exceptionally knowledgeable and kind hearted. I really like all the journey and experience Thank you
Priyanka Thakur
Priyanka Thakur
Priyanka Thakur
Priyanka Thakur
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Akshainie Kaniyar
Reviewed: 31 Jul 2020
5.0/5
In these days we every bit of London as soon as possible we could. Never thought we could go through many places in some days! It was nicely planned and smoothly executed.
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Devi Marar
Reviewed: 07 Feb 2020
5.0/5
Had a great trip to the United Kingdom, the Thrillophilia team was helpful and the trip went out of their way they want it and also they make sure that we had a good trip. The balance in a schedule of each trip we had on this for 10-days was perfect, The place we discovered like London, Dublin, Belf... Read More
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Deeptanshu Achari
Reviewed: 24 Jan 2020
5.0/5
Planning a trip with Thrillophilia was always turns out to be the best one... This is the second time I travel with them for an international trip last time I travel to Singapore and this time I choose with London & Scotland trip... Talking about the short trips within the country I always book from... Read More
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Baalaaditya Khanna
Reviewed: 24 Jan 2020
5.0/5
5-stars for Thrillophilia I can't wait till the end of my trips, My friends and I were happy with this trip, we had a smooth picked-up from the airport I was WOW by the place the moment I land at the beautiful country, London was always my dream place and now I got this chances because this company ... Read More
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Shreya Bhat
Reviewed: 15 Dec 2019
5.0/5
We're glad that we booked this trip with Thrillophilia we were stress-free the entire trip as the package we chose for our family vacation was a good one. Firstly the destination was wow being in British country and the place has lots of amazing attractions and the people there were interacting with... Read More

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