During the past few decades
Glasgow, the UK's fourth largest city, has re-invented itself from a rather
economically depressed post-war industrial centre to a modern metropolis
with a thriving art and culture scene, which has earned it accolades like
the "European City of Culture" title in 1990 and "City of Architecture" in
1999.
In days of yore
Glasgow depended on shipbuilding and engineering for its wealth; the city
fell into decline in the mid-20th century with poverty and unemployment
rife. Prosperity has returned, riding on the back of 21st century
technology, and it is the hub of Scottish film, theatre, writing, music and
design which has captured worldwide attention.
The city has more than 20
galleries and museums to
complement the architectural heritage of architects like Alexander Thomson,
renowned for his classical designs, and
Charles Rennie Mackintosh, master of art nouveau.
The youthful, progressive
atmosphere of the reborn Glasgow is encouraged by its large student
population, spawned by four universities and several colleges, and reflected
in the numerous lively restaurants, pubs and attractive shopping precincts.
Tourists find plenty to see
and do in this city on the River Clyde, and can also use it as a base to
explore the surrounding countryside that boasts some of Scotland's most
scenic mountains, glens, lochs and coastline.
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Q
A perfect day out
in Glasgow |
Devote the
morning to being inspired by a feast of art and culture. Begin with coffee
at the Willow Tea Room, a recreation of Charles Rennie Mackintosh`s elegant
art nouveau design. Then browse around the Lighthouse, the Centre for
Architecture and Design, featuring diverse international exhibitions. Have a
beer in the Horse Shoe Bar at 17 Drury Street, either because you’re
thirsty, or because it has the second longest pub bar in Britain. Nearby is
the cutting-edge Gallery of Modern Art with a collection of leading Scottish
artists and sculptors.
Relax over a
classy lunch around the corner at Rogano before an afternoon of serious
designer shopping around the Merchant City, the Italian Centre, and Cruise
(fabulously unique fashion), and along Buchanan Street. Alternatively head
down to the Clyde to the Science Centre where technology is interactively
brought to life. Back into the city centre for a couple of cocktails, before
it’s time to get back to your hotel to shower and dress up for dinner,
drinks, and a stylish night out on the town. More on visiting Glasgow with
Flybe's destinations
guide.
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