Visitor experiences
Visitor experiences
Glasgow offers lots of exciting experiences for visitors. Here are some top attractions to add to your itinerary.
Architectural heritage
Glasgow Cathedral originates from the 13th century and is the finest surviving gothic building in Scotland. Nearby, Glasgow Necropolis is a spectacular Victorian cemetery with monuments by world famous architects. Visit the Historic Environment Scotland website for details on the Cathedral's opening hours.
For a grand Edwardian country house, head to the southside to visit Pollok House, set in the tranquil surrounds of Pollok Country Park. The house has lavish family rooms packed full of period furniture. Visit the National Trust for Scotland's website to find out more.
One of the city’s most iconic buildings, the University of Glasgow is definitely worth a visit. Feel the history surround you as you stand beneath the Cloisters. The University’s main building is also rumoured to have been the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Hogwarts! Visit the University of Glasgow's website to discover more.
Charles Rennie Mackintosh fans will find Mackintosh at the Willow, Mackintosh Queen’s Cross and House for an Art Lover well worth visiting to view the incredible style of Glasgow’s most famous son. Head to our Mackintosh article to find out more about each stunning venue.
You can also discover the rich architecture of Alexander 'Greek' Thomson at Holmwood House and admire the impressively detailed interior designs. Holmwood is currently only open on Saturdays and Sundays for pre-booked tours. Visit the National Trust for Scotland’s website for more details.
The Glasgow story
Whisky lovers will relish a visit to The Clydeside Distillery, located on the banks of the River Clyde. Enjoy a tour and tasting and find out more about Glasgow's history and its bonds with the whisky industry. While a visit to Tennent's Wellpark Brewery presents a fascinating look into the history and success of Scotland's oldest brewery. Find out more about tour times at clydeside.com and tennentstours.com.
To discover more of Glasgow's maritime heritage and stories from the shipbuilding era in Govan and the River Clyde, visit the Fairfield Heritage Centre within the prestigious former headquarters of Glasgow's greatest shipyard. Book at free tour at Fairfield Heritage Centre's website.
Sports fans
Football fans will undoubtedly want to take a look behind the scenes of Scotland's national stadium at The Hampden Experience. Take a stadium tour and stop in at the Scottish Football Museum to see their fascinating collection of memorabilia. Visit the Scottish Football Museum's website for details.
Visitors can also enjoy tours of the world famous Celtic Park and Ibrox Stadium, taking in the history and passion at each of these iconic sporting venues. Visit celticfc.com or rangers.co.uk for more information.
Family friendly
Prepare to be wowed with a visit to the Glasgow Science Centre. The futuristic looking building is home to an engaging Science Mall featuring hundreds of interactive exhibits and a planetarium where you can gaze at over 9,000 twinkling stars. Visit the Glasgow Science Centre website to book tickets.
A fun way to travel around the city is on board the city’s open-topped tourist bus. Visit City Sightseeing Glasgow's website to find out more.
Hidden gems
For unique and quirky, there is the Britannia Panopticon – the oldest surviving music hall in the world. Visits must be booked in advance so head to the Britannia Panopticon website to find out more.
Close by, you'll also find Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre where you can see sculptures come to life in a mesmerising live performance. Visit the Sharmanka website for opening hours and prices.
Article last updated: September 2021
