Loch and Key 🔑: Unlock 24 Hours in Glasgow!

Discover Glasgow in 24 Hours

☀️Why Glasgow? 

Voted the friendliest city in the world, Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city. Famous for its history and heritage, the city is a spectacular mix of Victorian architecture, cutting-edge art, and an entertainment scene that will never disappoint.

With museums, cathedrals, and monuments such as the Duke of Wellington crowned by Glaswegians themselves, this city has so much on offer. But with only 24 hours in this vibrant city and so much to choose from, what would you do?

☀️ Begin our adventure

Any Glaswegian adventure should begin at the magnificent Glasgow Cathedral. A medieval architectural beauty originally built around the 12th century situated on the east of the city centre and is dedicated to Glasgow’s Patron Saint – St Mungo. This tremendous building has also survived the Scottish Reformation, vandalism, and fires over the centuries. With continuous restoration, the cathedral still stands pride of place waiting eagerly to welcome you in.

Just behind the cathedral is Glasgow’s Necropolis. It has a history dating back to the 1800s and is a place of rest for Glasgow’s wealthiest and most famous citizens. The headstones and tombs are enormous artistic sculptures in this outdoor gallery of historical art. Ascending, you're moved by the builders' legacy; atop, the city's view captivates as a highlight

☀️ Lunch beckons

The Ardnamurchan Restaurant on Hope Street is a Scottish restaurant with delicacies from the Highlands. Choosing the market menu allows for first-class food at reasonable prices – two courses for under £20. The recommended first dish has to be the Bara Scallops sitting on a bed of crispy bacon and caramelised onions which complements the dish perfectly. The main course – a wild venison stew. Melt in the mouth meat cooked with mushrooms in red wine with a side of potatoes and root vegetables allowing for a true taste of Scotland. For the full Scottish experience, enjoy a tangy, orange-colored local soft drink – Irn Bru.

☀️ Post Lunch jaunt

Scotland - the home of whisky. Barrel-aged malts and blends are created all across this fine country and there is a distillery on the banks of Glasgow’s River Clyde. The Clyde Side Distillery is the first in over 100 years to produce whisky in Glasgow. Many tours cater to varied budgets, with our recommendation being the whisky and chocolate tour at £35. After witnessing the distillery in action, you are presented with five malt whisky tasters each paired with their own chocolate. Sitting on the historic ship building docks, you can’t help but be immersed in a historical yet modern Glasgow.

If whiskey is not your thing then another ultimate Glasgow experience is to embark on the Mural Trail. The Mural Trail is a walking tour you can complete at your own leisure. Download the map from the projects website and you can spend the afternoon navigating around the huge outdoor art pieces across the city. Each piece tells its own incredible story while giving you emotional and comical tales of the city.

☀️ Ideas for Souvenirs

Like all major tourist destinations there is an abundance of souvenirs to choose from. With Scottish themed hats, the Scottish biscuit - shortbread, and thousands of Loch Ness Monster-themed gifts, it can be a difficult choice. Glasgow's true gem is tartan, offering various sizes and varieties for specific Scottish clans. Gift shop staff will help you find the tartan tied to any identified Scottish ancestry. 

☀️ Plans for the evening

Glasgow is the beating heart of Scotland’s nightlife. From intimate music venues like King Tuts and theatres such as The Kings, this city has something for everyone. But, if stumbling across the next Rod Stewart or taking in a Broadway musical is not your thing, there are many landmarks which are perfect for the quieter traveler as night falls, such as George Square. For a little more fun, the Glasgow Gothic Walking Tour can entertain you with a guide around the more spookier sides of the city.  

☀️ Off the Beaten Path

It is in Glasgow West End where you will find a true hidden gem. Ashton Lane, a local secret, is a small cobbled street in easy reach from the city centre via the subway. This off the beaten track destination makes you feel like you are in a movie. With stunning architecture, restaurants, bars, and even a quirky cinema, it is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening under the thousands of stars that light up the lane.

☀️ What accommodations are available?

The Blythswood Square Hotel is by far one of the best choices for a luxury Glaswegian experience. A five star hotel which boasts a famous spa and access to private gardens is the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring. A night of luxury at this hotel begins around £200.

On the opposite end of the budget is the Moxy Hotel, High Street. A stylish cosy hotel right on the door step to the hustle and bustle of Glasgow. Prices are around £70 per night and even here you will feel like a celebrity.

☀️ Glasgow calling

 It’s safe to say that a visit to Glasgow will not leave you disappointed. A city with so much on offer you are sure to be mesmerised. From traditions, culture, and a modern day approach, Glasgow is a city that captures the true essence of Scotland and one that offers you the warmest of welcomes. You are sure to feel part of the clan by the time you leave – “Slanj a va”.

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✈️ Ah, planning a trip to Glasgow? Make yer way tae Glasgow Airport (GLA). Trust in Kiwi for the no-nonsense, budget-friendly travel scoops and pure dead brilliant offers. Start wi' Kiwi for savvy advice, fuelling yer wanderlust without costing an arm and a leg.

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