8 things to do in Glasgow

With direct flights to Glasgow from Newquay in 2021 with easyjet, now is the time to start planning your Scottish city break. Discover our top experiences in this blog post!

Glasgow’s most visited gallery, the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) is home to both temporary and permanent works from artists working locally and across the world. Other galleries displaying modern masterpieces include The Modern Institute and Transmission Gallery. For more traditional artwork head to the iconic building of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum to see its impressive collection of European classics, including work by Rembrant, Renoir and Salvador Dali.

Situated in the West End of the City by the River Kelvin, discover woodland walks, riverside strolls and of course the famous Kibble Palace, the Botanic Garden’s Glasshouse. The Glasshouse is home to the national collection of tree ferns, as well as tropical palms and other beautiful plant life from the rainforest. After all the walking, why not enjoy a bite to eat in the Botanic Gardens Tea room?

In 2008, Glasgow’s City Council started the street art mural project to brighten up tired areas of the city centre and to showcase local artist’s talent. Since then, nearly 30 murals have been produced which have been designed into a trail for visitors to enjoy. Follow the trail map to discover the diverse range of street art on display.

Glasgow is one of the UK’s greenest cities so make sure you visit some of the city’s parkland and other outdoor space. Glasgow’s largest park, Pollock Country Park, is located South of the River Clyde and boasts over 146 acres of parkland and woodland. There are well-surfaced paths throughout the park, perfect for walking or cycling. Look out for the highland cows and the 18^th century Manor House, Pollock House. For panoramic views over the city, head to Cathkin Braes Country Park where you can walk over parkland and through ancient woodlands, or if you’re feeling adventurous try out the mountain bike trails.

Loch Lomond is one of Scotland’s most famous Lochs and can be found in just a 50-minute drive, or 1 hour 30-minute train ride from Glasgow. The inspiration for artists, poets, musicians and more, Loch Lomond is an iconic location with breath-taking views. To enjoy the surroundings, you can take a boat tour, or climb to the top of Conic Hill.

Charles Rennie Mackintosh was a 20^th century Glaswegian architect, known worldwide for his modern and creative designs. Many examples of his work can still be seen in Glasgow today, head to Mackintosh at the Willow to see The Willow Tea Rooms - originally build in 1903 for Miss Kate Cranston, the building was restored in 2018. Visitors can now enjoy the tea rooms as well as a visitor centre and exhibition about the life and work of both Mackintosh and Miss Cranston.

Located on Glasgow Green, Glasgow People’s Palace displays historic artefacts, paintings, photographs, film and more to tell the story of how Glaswegians have worked and lived from 1750 up until present day. The museum is free to visit and with its city centre location it is easy to get to.

Nick-named the ‘style mile’, Glasgow’s city centre is home to a square mile oozing with the largest retail centre in Britain outside of London. From high street and top designer stores to independent boutiques, there is something for every taste and budget. Head to Buchanan Street, the centre of the style mile to start your shopping spree.

Fly direct from Cornwall Airport Newquay to Glasgow with easyjet.