Sitting on the River Clyde in Scotland’s western lowlands, Glasgow is a city that throbs with life and history and truly has an irresistible allure. Glasgow is Scotland’s biggest city and has reinvented itself from an industrial powerhouse into a cultural and creative hub, combining old-world charm with youthful energy.
A GLIMPSE INTO GLASGOW’S HISTORY
Glasgow’s story dates back more than a thousand years. It originated as a small village on the River Clyde and developed as a religious centre following the foundation of Glasgow Cathedral in the 6th century. Glasgow developed into a medieval ecclesiastical city, and latterly as an 18th century centre of the… The industrial decline saw Glasgow, for much of the last half of the 20th century, suffer economically and gaining a reputation as one of Europe’s most run down and dangerous cities.
Glasgow became known as the “Second City of the Empire” throughout much of the 19th century. Its population swelled, architecture bloomed and institutions such as the University of Glasgow (established in 1451) grew ever more powerful. Today many of the grand Victorian and Edwardian buildings in the city are monuments to that period of prosperity.
POPULATION AND DEMOGRAPHICS
Glasgow is the most populous city in Scotland and the fourth-most populous city in the United Kingdom, as well as being the 27th largest city by population in Europe. More than 1.8 million people live in the wider metro area. Its population is a lively blend of cultures, including strong communities descended from South Asian, African, Chinese and Eastern European peoples. You can see this diversity in the culture festivals, food and neighborhoods.
LANGUAGE AND CURRENCY
English is the most widely spoken language in Glasgow, although Scots and Scottish Gaelic are still heard in some areas, particularly when discussing cultural or historical matters. Because of the various communities derived from many different ethnic groups, one can hear languages other than English such as Urdu, Punjabi, Polish and Arabic.
Currency: As part of the UK, Glasgow’s currency is British Pound Sterling (£ GBP). Virtually every business accepts credit and debit cards, and contactless payment is prevalent in shops, restaurants and on public transportation.
ELECTRICITY AND POWER OUTLETS
For anyone coming from overseas, you’ll find that Glasgow (and all of the UK for that matter) operates on Type G power plugs where the standard voltage is 230V and frequency is 50Hz. Those coming from countries with different plug types or voltages will require a plug adapter, and potentially a voltage converter.
THE GLASGOW CLIMATE
Glasgow is known for its unpredictable weather, and locals often say that you can have all four seasons in one day. Climate Cfb (oceanic climate), ie.: mild summers, cool winters and relatively even precipitation spread throughout the year.
Summers are generally 18 to 20°C (64 to 68°F), with winter temperatures averaging between 0 and 5 °C (32 and 41 ℉). Snow is rare but it does occasionally occur during the colder months. If you’re heading for a visit, pack in layers and always bring along a waterproof jacket — just in case.
TRADITIONAL GLASGOW CUISINE
The city’s food scene is a reflection of both its roots and its outlook on the world. Traditional Scottish dishes are still cherished, and in Glasgow that translates as robust, tasty fare.
One of the most iconic local dishes is haggis, a savory pudding composed of sheep’s liver, lungs and heart mixed with oatmeal, suet and seasoned with onion and spices; it is traditionally accompanied by “neeps and tatties”: (cooked) turnips or swedeand potatoes lightly mashed separately. (Other dishes like scotch pie, black pudding and something called Cullen skink — smoked fish soup — are also Scottish staples, not to mention shortbread.)
But it’s not all meat and potatoes in Glasgow. Its foreign-born population has introduced a variety of international tastes. The city is celebrated for having among the best Indian food in the UK, and its “‘chicken tikka masala” often gets trotted out as a touchstone of local enthusiasm. You’ll also discover lively Italian, Chinese, Middle Eastern and vegan dining scenes.
GETTING AROUND: TRANSPORT IN GLASGOW
Getting around Glasgow is fairly straightforward and affordable, due to an extensive public transport network.
Subway: Affectionately known as “The Clockwork Orange” because of its distinctive orange color, Glasgow’s subway is the third oldest in the world. It’s a one way circuit and great for speedy journeys about the West End and city centre.
Buses: The entire city and surrounding areas are well-served by bus. Services are regular and cheap, but they might not have money for change if you don’t offer the exact fare.
Trains: Glasgow is connected to the rest of Scotland and the U.K. through its two main train stations, Glasgow Central and Queen Street. Trains are convenient for visiting destinations like Edinburgh, Stirling or the Highlands.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Traditional black cabs are plentiful, and such apps as Uber work in Glasgow, too.
Biking And Hiking: Glasgow has taken great strides at becoming friendlier to cyclists, thanks to the addition of bike lanes and public rental bikes. It’s also walkable from the city center, and most attractions are within an easy stroll.
SAFETY IN GLASGOW
Glasgow has moved on significantly since its reputation as down-at-heel decades ago. It’s now viewed as a safe city for both tourists and residents. Like any major metropolis, there is some petty crime, especially in crowded or nightlife-heavy areas, but violent crime is relatively rare.
The city is patrolled by a very visible police force; at the downtown and during all events they are easily approachable. Simple common sense measures such as don’t walk in poorly lit areas at night, and paying attention to your belongings are generally all you need do for a safe visit.
TOP ATTRACTIONS AND MUST-SEE SIGHTS
Glasgow is not short of things to see and do. No matter if you love history, art, music or nature, this city has everything.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Home to one of the UK`s most visitied museums, this museum exhibits an assortment of art, nature history, and culture in a beautiful red sandstone building.
Riverside Museum: This award-winning transportation- and travel-focused museum includes classic cars, trams and even a replica old Glasgow street.
Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis: One of the few medieval cathedrals to survive the Reformation largely unscathed, with a Gothic-style crypt. Slightly below it is the atmospheric to the Victorian garden cemetery with panoramic viws of the city.
George Square: The city’s premier square and the place to promenade around on sunny days, 3.
The West End: A hip district of the city where you can find University of Glasgow, the Botanic Gardens, cute coffee shops and indie boutiques and vintage shops.
Buchanan Street: A shopper’s heaven, Buchanan Street is Glasgow’s “Style Mile” with a combination of high-end chains and local shops.
Glasgow Science Centre: Perfect for families, this venue has interactive exhibits, an IMAX cinema and a planetarium on the waterfront of the River Clyde.
The SSE Hydro: This iconic venue is the place for amazing gigs and sports events, as part of the wider Scottish Event Campus.
OTHER NOTABLE ASPECTS
Sports: Football is big in Glasgow, with two major teams — Celtic and Rangers— supplying one of the most contested matches in world football. Rugby, basketball and athletics are also popular in the city.
Music and Nightlife: Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music,and had a legendary music scene. Establishments like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut and the Barrowland Ballroom have been stages for artists known all over the world.
Green Areas: Glasgow is one of the most lush green cities in the UK, despite its urban nature, and is home to more than 90 parks and open spaces. Pollok Country Park, Queen’s Park and Glasgow Green provide a much-needed breath of fresh air for both locals and tourists.
Education and Innovation: The city has three dominant universities and a booming tech and innovation sector, attracting students, researchers and entrepreneurs.
Glasgow is a resoundingly no-nonsense city and one that encourages you to see through to the inside of things. From its industrial history to its artistic present, from grand museums to cozy pubs, from historic buildings to modern music festivals—it’s a city of contrast and character. Whether you’re interested in history, food and drink, doing a bit of exploring or just want a piece of the Scottish tradition, Glasgow can provide all that with open arms.
