When in Glasgow
Often the butt of jokes from the likes of comedian Billy Connolly, Glasgow has transformed itself in recent years.
Gone are the traditional concepts of urban sprawl and decaying industry, to be replaced by a modern, energetic city which is filled with interesting things to do and a positive vibe. Glasgow is now an impressive modern city which can be described as the heartbeat of Scotland.
The Clyde river runs through the heart of Glasgow and was one of the main reasons this place became such an important city, with ships bringing opportunities and work to the region. A trip along the Clyde can be cheap for travellers and is well worth the experience, offering the chance to see some of the old parts of Glasgow. It is also a good opportunity to see how the city has developed and moved on, from its roots in the docks area to the modern city centre that now flourishes around the river.
Set against a backdrop of some stunning Victorian architecture, the city also has a number of more modern buildings which blend in and sometimes stand out in impressive style as Glasgow moves with the times.
Art galleries in Glasgow can be found in abundance, with art forming an important part of the culture of this city and its people. Most galleries offer free entry, meaning that travellers looking for something to do can enjoy a cheap day discovering the cultural routes of the city.
For travellers who enjoy their art, a visit to the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is a must, being as it is the second most visited gallery outside London. Housed in a large and somewhat imposing building in the centre of the city, the gallery is a fine example of the Victorian grandeur which can be found strewn across Glasgow.
Those interested in discovering the modern side of Glasgow can surely do no better than the Science Mall at the Science Centre. Housed in an inspiring titanium crescent overlooking the Clyde, the three floors of hands-on exhibits really do highlight just how modern this city is. Offering enough entertainment to fill at least a day, the museum can be a relatively cheap attraction for travellers.
Away from the centre of the city can be found the ancient Glasgow Cathedral. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries on the site where St Kentigern, or Mungo, the first bishop of the ancient British kingdom of Strathclyde, is thought to be buried, the cathedral is an impressive structure. The adjoining Glasgow Necropolis is also a strong reminder of the long history and distinguished heritage of this city.
Glasgow has also seen a number of cafes spring up throughout the city in recent times and the Italian Centre has, unsurprisingly, become a magnet for the cafe culture, giving tourists tired from a shopping spree the opportunity to take some time out and relax.
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