Overview
Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and the third largest in the United Kingdom. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, the city is one of Britain’s main economic centers outside of London. Once an industrial powerhouse, Glasgow has in recent years reinvented itself as a bustling hub of culture, tourism and culture in the country. In 2008, the city was named a UNESCO City of Music after it held an average of 130 music events per week. Glasgow will be hosting part of the London 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Commonwealth Games. The city’s interesting architecture, buzzing nightlife and vibrant arts and culture scene make it a popular weekend getaway for Irish and British visitors.
Exploring the City
Although Glasgow is a huge city, its central area is compact and can easily be explored on foot. The city center is very pedestrian-friendly, even the major shopping thoroughfares are easily maneuvered without a vehicle. Visitors who want to see both sides of Glasgow can explore two distinct areas. The City Center is where you can find upscale shopping centers and Glasgow’s entertainment district. On the other hand, the West End is the bohemian area where unique shops, bars, and restaurants are located. There’s usually no fear of getting lost in Glasgow, seeing a tourist holding a map is cue enough for locals to ask if you need some help getting somewhere. Book your Glasgow Hotels with Reservations.com.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Glasgow is a hip metropolitan city that is as alive at night as it is by day. Being a center for culture in this part of Britain, the city has been famous for its music scene. On any given night, you can expect live entertainment in many bars and lounges that abound in the city. Nice ‘n’ Sleazy is a popular night spot that offers nightly gigs and a bar that plays alternative, rock and punk music until 3AM. The Arches is also a hopping night spot that runs Pressure, one of Britain’s best techno nights. You can also head to The Tunnel, one of the city’s premier dance clubs. There are also a number of theaters where you can watch world-class productions by some local and well-known artists.
Shopping
The city is known to offer one of the best shopping experiences in Britain, second only to London. Glasgow’s main shopping district is called “Golden Z”, a place where you can find just about all major British brands along with known names like Zara, Dorothy Perkins and House of Fraser. Merchant City offers more exclusive shopping venues with premium brands like Ralph Lauren and Bose. If you want to get away from the main thoroughfare, head to Bath and Hope Streets where you can find quaint independent stores selling antiques, art and unique clothing.
Best Museums
Glasgow has a rich history that is now being shown in the museums and galleries scattered around the city. The Burrell Collection houses a stunning collection of over 9,000 artworks given to the city by Sir William Burrell. Admission to the museum is free. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum features interesting exhibits that include fine art and historical artifacts. The Museum of Transport, now known as the Riverside Museum, showcases vehicles that tell the story of transportation by sea and by land.
