MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Glasgow

Things to Do in Glasgow

Glasgow Scotland, UK Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Glasgow and its surrounding areas have opportunities for various outdoor pursuits, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes.

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Within Glasgow

Easy walking routes in Pollok Country Park, Kelvingrove Park, and Glasgow Green. Well-maintained paths suitable for all fitness levels.

Near Glasgow

A short drive takes you to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, having different hiking options from easy strolls to challenging hillwalks, like Conic Hill, which has rewarding views of the loch.

Adventure Sports

Indoor climbing walls are available. For outdoor adventure sports like canyoning or white water rafting, travel further afield into the Highlands, usually a day trip or longer organized excursion.

Water Sports & Cycling

  • River Clyde: Seasonal boat trips and cruises on the River Clyde offer a relaxed way to see the city from the water.
  • Loch Lomond: As a day trip, Loch Lomond has opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, and boat tours.
  • Urban Cycling: Glasgow features an expanding network of urban cycle paths, including scenic routes along the Clyde.
  • Mountain Biking: Cathkin Braes Country Park has dedicated mountain bike trails. Extensive trails are also in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Pollok Country Park: Home to iconic Highland cattle and various bird species.
  • Botanic Gardens: Habitats for urban wildlife.
  • Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park: Spot red squirrels and deer.
  • Consider Wildlife Tours on GetYourGuide.

Parks & Gardens for Relaxation

  • Pollok Country Park: Largest park with woodlands and walking trails.
  • Kelvingrove Park: Victorian park with beautiful landscaping and bandstand.
  • Glasgow Green: Oldest park, hosts many events and festivals.
  • Botanic Gardens: Features Kibble Palace and diverse plant collections.

Scenic Viewpoints & Day Trips

  • Necropolis: Panoramic views of the city skyline, notably at sundown.
  • Queen's Park: Excellent city views from its flagpole.
  • River Clyde: Seasonal cruises for an unique perspective.
  • Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park: Stunning lochs and mountains for nature escapes.

Adventure Sports Warning

Outdoor adventure sports like canyoning or white water rafting are not available within Glasgow city limits. These usually require travel further afield into the Highlands, usually a day trip or longer organized excursion.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture through workshops, performances, and community engagement.

Workshops & Classes

  • Glasgow School of Art: If open for tours or workshops (post-fire restoration), it gives insight into the city's artistic heritage.
  • Local Community & Independent Studios: Short workshops in art, craft, or dance, a hands-on cultural experience.
  • Traditional Music Sessions: Attend ceilidhs or informal pub sessions to experience Scottish music and dance.
  • Language Learning Opportunities: Formal language courses are generally not a prominent tourist offering for short stays.

Cultural Performances & Events

Celtic Connections

A major folk, roots, and world music festival (January), drawing international and local artists to Glasgow.

Ceilidhs

Regular ceilidhs take place at different venues, with a lively and participatory evening of Scottish folk music and dancing.

Traditional Pub Sessions

Look for these in pubs, where musicians gather for informal playing. Check local listings for genuine experiences.

Community-Based Initiatives

Formal community-based tourism initiatives are less structured. Instead, engage with local communities by stopping at independent markets, shopping in local stores, and socializing with residents in pubs and cafes.

Cultural Festivals & Events

Glasgow hosts numerous cultural festivals throughout the year: Glasgow International Comedy Festival (March), Glasgow Film Festival (Feb/Mar), TRNSMT Festival (summer music), West End Festival (June). Check local listings for dates.

Farm Visits & Food Producers

Farm visits and direct engagement having dishes producers are not typically found within Glasgow city. Day trips to surrounding regions can offer opportunities for farm visits, cheese tastings, or visits to local producers.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation amidst your Glasgow explorations.

Spa & Wellness Recommendations

  • Spa and Wellness Centers: Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort has a luxury option just outside Glasgow.
  • Yoga and Meditation: Urban yoga studios are common throughout Glasgow, with drop-in classes. Retreats typically exist in rural Scotland for immersive experiences.
  • Traditional Healing Practices: Traditional healing practices are not a prominent tourist offering in Glasgow.
  • Hot Springs & Natural Therapy: No natural hot springs directly in Glasgow. For such experiences, venture into other parts of Scotland.

Entertainment & Nightlife Hubs

Live Music Venues

King Tut's Wah Wah Hut: A legendary small venue known for showing emerging bands and an intimate concert experience.

Theater & Performance Spaces

King's Theatre, Theatre Royal, Citizens Theatre, and Tron Theatre: These venues host a range of performances, from touring West End shows to local productions.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Sub Club: Renowned as an underground electronic music club with an international reputation. The Arches: Parts of this historic venue have reopened for functions, continuing its legacy as a cultural space.

Shopping & Indulge

Buchanan Street

Glasgow's main shopping thoroughfare, with high-end retailers, department stores like The residence of Fraser, and designer brands.

Princes Square

An upscale shopping center off Buchanan Street, housing boutique boutiques and cafes.

Merchant City Boutiques

Has independent boutiques and unique fashion stores.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Glasgow comes alive after dark, with places for every taste from intimate gigs to bustling clubs.

Live Music & Performance Spaces

  • King Tut's Wah Wah Hut: Legendary small venue known for showing emerging bands and an intimate concert experience.
  • SWG3: A multi-arts venue hosting music, club nights, and diverse events.
  • The Hydro (OVO Hydro) & SEC Armadillo: Major concert and event arenas attracting international artists.
  • Performance halls: King's Theatre, Theatre Royal, Citizens Theatre, Tron Theatre host West End shows, opera, ballet, and local productions.

Nightclubs & Bar Districts

Sub Club

Renowned as an underground electronic music club with a global reputation.

The Arches

Parts of this historic venue have reopened for events, continuing its legacy as a cultural space.

City Centre Clubs

Various clubs around Sauchiehall Road and Merchant City have different music styles and atmospheres for dancing.

Ashton Lane Charm

  • Picturesque setting
  • Independent bars
  • Restaurants for dining
  • Fairy lights ambiance

Merchant City Nightlife

  • Stylish bars
  • Gastropubs
  • Historic quarter
  • Upscale ambiance

Finnieston's Trendy Scene

  • Trendy bars
  • Gastropubs
  • Excellent food scene
  • Event proximity

Late-Night Information

Clubs typically open until 03:00-04:00 on weekends. Late-night takeaways are prevalent in city center areas, providing food options after pubs and clubs close.

Shopping & Markets

Glasgow has a diverse shopping experience, from traditional markets to luxury boutiques.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Barrowland Market (Barras Market): A historic weekend market with an eclectic mix of goods, bric-a-brac, antiques, and street food. A genuine local experience.
  • Local Craft WORKSHOPS: Look for independent boutiques in the West End and Merchant City that sell local artisan crafts. The Glasgow School of Art shop also has special styles.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Scotch whisky, Scottish shortbread, tartan accessories, Irn-Bru, local craft items, and Mackintosh-inspired designs.
  • Shipping & Customs Information: Check your home country's customs regulations for limits on alcohol, tobacco, and other goods. Many shops have international shipping for larger purchases.

Luxury & Ethical Shopping

Buchanan Street

Glasgow's main shopping thoroughfare, with high-end retailers, department stores like House of Fraser, and designer brands.

Princes Square

An upscale shopping center off Buchanan Street, housing boutique shops and cafes.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Look for local artisan shops, Fair Trade certified items, and businesses that promote sustainable practices. Supporting these businesses contributes directly to the local economy and responsible production.

Buchanan Street

  • High-end retailers.
  • Big stores (House of Fraser).
  • Designer brands.

Princes Square

  • Upscale shopping center.
  • Boutique boutiques and cafes.
  • Luxury leisure.

Merchant City

  • Independent boutiques.
  • Unique fashion stores.
  • Art galleries nearby.

Additional Shopping Advice

Barrowland Market Experience
  • Explore an eclectic mix of goods, bric-a-brac, and antiques.
  • Enjoy street food from various vendors.
  • Experience a genuine local market atmosphere.
Souvenir Shopping Tips
  • Consider Scotch whisky or local craft beer.
  • Scottish shortbread and Irn-Bru are popular choices.
  • Look for Mackintosh-inspired designs or tartan accessories.

Shopping Smart in Glasgow

From bustling markets to high-end boutiques, Glasgow offers a rewarding shopping experience. Remember to check customs regulations for international purchases and look for local, ethically-produced goods to help the community.

Activity Planning Summary

Considerations

  • Plan outdoor activities in the area of weather conditions.
  • Check dates of the festival and book cultural events in advance.
  • Balance active pursuits with relaxation opportunities.
  • Allocate time for shopping, from markets to boutiques.

Maximizing Your Visit

  • Many attractions are free, reducing costs.
  • Get involved with local communities for authentic experiences.
  • Consider pre-theatre dining for evening shows.
  • Utilize mass transit for efficient sightseeing.