We stayed at the Holiday Inn, Theatreland, perfectly located in the heart of Glasgow and right next to the National Theatre, if you are looking to see a concert or play and reasonably priced.
Given our short time frame, our trip was to be more about exploring the city, taking in its architecture and culture in a bite sized chomp!
Glasgow is set along the river Clyde, so naturally our first port of call (after checking in) was a walk along the water (if a place has a waterway I have to see it, or I don’t feel I have even been there!) The Clyde is an industrial river, lined by cranes and cargo areas, but in the centre is it still an impressive sight. The bridges are old worldy and solid, beautifully constructed.
We wandered along the bank until we reached Glasgow Green, a large park situated along the waterway. Though winter had taken the leaves from the trees, the park was still a beautiful and peaceful place in which to escape the busy city centre. In the heart of the park stands the Peoples Palace, a museum of Glasgow culture. Whether you have time to while away inside or not, the building itself is worth setting eyes on.
Lunchtime arrived and we felt there was only one suitable option – a pub. And there are many to choose from. We settled on the Drum and Monkey on Saint Vincents Street in central Glasgow. Set in a converted bank, the Drum and Monkey has a lovely relaxed vibe. The food was delicious and the servings good value. But for me it was all about the surrounds. The high, intricately decorated ceiling was wonderful to sit under. My husband particularly enjoyed the beer themed tables.
After lunch we strolled the centre taking in the beautiful buildings of central Glasgow – we could see why famed writer Daniel Defoe once proclaimed Glasgow the ‘beautifullest city in the world (outside of London)’.
Dinner found us at Jamie’s Italian, for it’s central location, on George Square and though the food was not as I had hoped the restaurant staff were lovely and the lighting made for a comfortable evening. The night’s fun however came from our second pub stop at a nearby Wetherspoons. Again, high ceilings and detailed decorations made it feel grand and special.
Day two brought a walk through Kelvingrove Park to the Kelvingrove Gallery and Museum. What a highlight! Entrance is free, a £5 donation is suggested, and you will want to pay it to keep the place going. Set in a large 1800s style building, the museum is 4 floors of eclectic displays ranging from taxidermy animals, to 1800s art by the ‘Glasgow Boys’, to Egyptian artefacts. We lost the morning there and it was utterly worth it.
After lunch we tried the Gallery of Modern Art on Royal Exchange Square. Again, free entry, and a passable display. Though for me the highlight was the cone hat on the horse and rider statue out the front!
Which sadly brought our mini break to an end. Though brief, it was a relaxed and enjoyable 2 days in a city full of life and culture.