There is lots to do and see in Glasgow, built on the banks of the River Clyde
There is lots to do and see in Glasgow, built on the banks of the River Clyde
Following the launch of the new Homecoming Scotland ‘Brilliant Moments’ TV campaign – which seeks to attract tourists to visit Scotland – we have compiled our top 5 attractions to visit in Glasgow.
Glasgow is a diverse city, offering a wide range of activities for all ages. Here's what we think are the ‘must-dos’ in Scotland’s largest city.
One of Scotland’s most popular free attractions, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum showcases over 8,000 objects in 22 galleries, and offers the perfect day out for families. Top attractions include the stunning Salvador Dali masterpiece ‘Christ of St John of the Cross’, Sir Roger the Asian elephant and a real Spitfire hanging from the ceiling! Make sure to pay a visit before 23rd February 2014, so you can catch the most comprehensive exhibition ever devoted to the much-loved Scottish artist, Jack Vettriano.
A recent addition to the banks of the River Clyde, the Riverside Museum has already become iconic – and was voted European Museum of the Year 2013. Home to a vast range of cars, bicycles, ship models, trams and locomotives, the museum also offers interactive displays and the hugely popular historic Glasgow street scene, which breathes life into the objects on display.
Glasgow Cathedral stands on the site where St Mungo, the first bishop in the ancient British kingdom of Strathclyde, was purportedly buried in AD 612. The Cathedral is steeped in history and features stunning stonework. Just behind the Cathedral sits the Necropolis, one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe. Described as a “unique representation of Victorian Glasgow”, it was built when Glasgow was the second city of the empire and certainly displays the wealth of that period. The cemetery contains the remains of almost every eminent Glaswegian of its day.
In the heart of Pollok Country Park, this award-winning building houses a unique collection of art in a beautiful woodland setting. The work on display ranges from the works of major artists including Rodin, Degas and Cézanne, to important examples of late medieval art, Chinese and Islamic art, Ancient Civilizations and much more. The Burrell regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, and runs an extensive programme of events and activities for both adults and families with children.
Housed in the stunning sandstone building of the university (which is reason enough to visit), this is a quirky museum, which contains the collection of renowned one-time student of the university, William Hunter (1718-83). Expect to see an eclectic range of items, from pickled organs in glass jars, to geological phenomena, dinosaur skeletons and a creepy case of deformed animals. The Mackintosh House is also in the university grounds, where you can admire the reassembled interiors from the artist’s home.
As if you needed any more reason to visit Glasgow, next year is Homecoming year, and the 2014 calendar will be chock full of events. If you’re planning to visit the city and are looking for a way to get around, you can hire a car from Arnold Clark Car & Van Rental, who have several branches in and around the Glasgow area.
