Glasgow, Scotland

Rail Guide to Glasgow

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Currency	Pound sterling
Local language	English
Country	Scotland

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Introduction

The UK’s fourth largest city, Glasgow has undergone a remarkable renaissance from an economically depressed post-war industrial centre to a modern, thriving art and cultural metropolis with a host of lively restaurant, pubs and cafes, some very stylish shopping precincts and over twenty museums and galleries. Underpinning this artistic revival is the work of Scotland’s most celebrated architect (and Glasgow’s favourite son) Charles Rennie Mackintosh whose designs can be seen all over the city, most famously in the shape of the Glasgow School of Art. Arguably encouraged by its large student contingent (the city has four universities and numerous colleges) there is a youthful and progressive atmosphere and it is without a doubt one of Britain’s friendliest cities as well as a 24-hour party venue with a nightlife second to none in Britain. Built on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow - meaning ‘dear green place’ - is known for its relaxing parks, its also an excellent base from where to explore the surrounding Scottish countryside with its breathtaking glens, lochs and rugged coastlines.

Things to do

At the heart of the city George Square is a good point from which to start. To the Southwest on Royal Exchange Square is the Gallery of Modern Art, housed in an 18th century mansion it displays works by international artists such as Warhol and Hockney as well as local Scottish artists. As with many of Glasgow’s attractions the admission is free. The square itself is lined with boutiques and cafes and leads on to one of Glasgow’s shopping precinct namely Buchanan Street. The city is a shopper’s paradise and more retail therapy can be found in the St Enoch Centre, on Princes Square and in Merchant City.

Without a doubt however Glasgow’s top cultural attraction is the world famous Burrell Art Collection, an unbelievable display of over 8,000 works of art donated to the city by the philanthropist Sir William Burrell in 1944. Set in Pollock Country Park, south of the River Clyde, it is crammed full of priceless antiquities from around the world.

Still south of the river on Glasgow Green is the 19th century People’s Palace, which contains a fascinating collection, depicting the life of the city. Close by, the Barras, is Glasgow’s oldest market, a far cry from the expensive designer stores over in Merchant City but all the more charming for it.

Finally, generally speaking the city’s bohemian West End (where the university can be found) contains not only many fine restaurants and pubs on its main thoroughfare called Byres Road, but also many smaller shops on its cobbled mews and lanes with an overall lively atmosphere.

Local transport

The city centre is best explored on foot however you will need to use public transport to visit some of the major attractions, which are further out. The transport network comprises buses, urban trains and the underground (affectionately referred to as Clockwork Orange) which has two circular routes that are easily navigated and often the best way to travel between the city centre and the West End. Finally, the bus service is comprehensive and you can buy your rickets on board by stating your destination but make sure you have plenty of change. As with most major cities there are several saver ticket options available if you intend to make repeated use of the public transport system.