Glasgow is an ancient city with a history that can be traced back to prehistoric times. However, it is Saint Mungo who is credited with founding the city after establishing a church in the area in the 6th century. During the Middle Ages, Glasgow was a small trading town and held weekly markets that attracted craftsmen and traders from all over Scotland. However, it was the Industrial Revolution that really put Glasgow on the map.
During this time, many industries flourished in Glasgow, including sugar processing, linen making, cotton spinning, tobacco trading and glass manufacturing. But it was ship building that made the city famous - an industry that survives to this day. With direct access to the Atlantic via the Clyde, Glasgow was also perfectly positioned to become a trade hub for the American colonies.
In recent years, the city has seen a number of large scale urban renewal and regeneration programmes, including the Clyde Waterfront regeneration project, making it one of Europe’s most vibrant, dynamic and stylish cities.
With such a rich and extensive history, it is no surprise that Glasgow is home to a huge variety of world-class visitor attractions. From Glasgow Cathedral, the jewel in Glasgow's architectural crown, to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum there is something for everyone. Glasgow's top attractions include:
With so much to offer, the best way to see Glasgow is by taking an open-topped city bus tour. These offer an insight into Glasgow's colourful past while taking in all the major attractions and historic sites. They are generally hop-on and hop-off, so you can stop whenever you want to explore the city further on foot.
Take a city bus tour
The culinary scene in Glasgow is famous for its variety, quality and innovation. From fine dining restaurants to street food trucks, and with plenty of options in between, there is enough to keep even the most discerning foodie happy. Explore Glasgow offer a comprehensive guide to eating out in the city.
Visit Explore Glasgow
From comedy to cabaret and live gigs to musicals, there is a nearly endless selection of night time entertainment options in Glasgow. Whether you are partial to a cocktail or two, or prefer a more sophisticated night at the opera, there is something to suit all tastes.
Glasgow offers an extensive choice of drinking establishments. Whether you fancy a traditional pub serving classic ales or a boutique bar offering trendy cocktails, there is something to keep everyone happy. TimeOut have produced a guide to the best pubs in Glasgow to get you started.
Visit TimeOut
Glasgow has a lively music scene with something exciting going on every night of the week. Nightclubs range in size from large warehouse venues to small basement rooms and play an equally wide range of music. What’s on Glasgow provides a comprehensive list of music events taking place in the city.
Visit What’s on Glasgow
Home to world famous institutions such as the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet and the National Theatre of Scotland, Glasgow offers plenty in the way of more high-brow entertainment too. What's on stage is the go-to guide for show listings in the city.
Visit What's On Stage
Glasgow means 'dear green place' in Gaelic and has over 90 parks and gardens in which to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Highlights include Glasgow Green, the city's oldest park, and Victoria Park with its bright floral displays. People Make Glasgow have a guide to green spaces in the city.
Visit People Make Glasgow