Explore Glasgow: Scotland’s Coolest City
What is undoubtedly Scotland’s coolest city, Glasgow sits on the banks of the River Clyde and has evolved from one of the great industrial epicentres of the early 20th century to a thriving cultural hub. Scots are known for their hospitality, and there’s a generosity of spirit here, meaning there are nearly endless free things to do in Glasgow, emphasising creativity in all its forms.
It might be less polished than the capital, Edinburgh, over to the east, but it has more grit and gumption – characteristics that have helped earn it a treasured place in the hearts of many. It’s packed to the rafters with warm locals, interesting art galleries, incredible architecture – both old and new – and some of the most beautiful restaurants in the whole of Scotland.
Our perfect day of free things to do in Glasgow starts with a wander down the banks of the Clyde to the sculptural Riverside Museum before heading back into the West End for an organ recital and a peek into one of the finest examples of Victorian glass houses, in the Botanic Gardens. Once you’re here, you may as well head to Crabshakk around the corner for scallops in sage and anchovy butter – you’ve saved money all day, after all, and it’s one of the best restaurants in Glasgow.
1. Riverside Museum
Previously opposite the Kelvingrove Museum, what was once the Glasgow Museum of Transport found a new home beside the Clyde in 2011 after a four-year, award-winning build spearheaded by architect Dame Zaha Hadid. This sweeping sculptural building is clad in glinting silver sheeting. It houses 3000 items that reflect the depth and breadth of the city’s impact across industries like shipbuilding, transport and engineering. It’s a fascinating collection of historic vehicles and modern-day milestones, as well as being home to a reconstructed Victorian street; complete with carriages, shops, and even a pub that you can sit inside. If you’re not transported out, there’s also the Glasgow Tall Ship just outside.
Address: 100 Pointhouse Road, Glasgow, G3 8RS
Opening times: Monday – Thursday, Saturday: 10am-5pm; Friday and Sunday: 11am-5pm
