Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, although it is not the capital city. It developed on shipbuilding, as it is situated on the west coast on the River Clyde, and suffered great unemployment during the recession of the 1970s.

 

Visitors to the city should head for the 12th century Cathedral and the nearby St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art. The city’s oldest house, Provand’s Lordship, is also close by and dates back to 1471. It now houses an interesting museum. A walking tour of the city gives a great insight into the many interesting buildings in Glasgow city centre.

 

The city owes a great deal of its architectural features to one famous designer in the 19^th century, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. His work can be admired at the School of Art, the House for an Art Lover and the famous Willow Tearooms. His home was reconstructed as part of the Hunterian Art Gallery which also has an excellent collection of Whistler artworks. Further museums include the Museum of Transport and the Gallery of Modern Art.

 

More modern architecture is in evidence at the futuristic buildings of the Science Centre and the Revolving Glasgow Tower which can turn into the wind. Pollok House and Country Park make an enjoyable visit where the bequests of shipping magnate, Sir William Burrell include Impressionist paintings and works by Goya, and William Blake.

 

Glasgow is well known for its excellent shopping, second only to London. It is focused around Sauchiehall Street, Buchanan Street and Argyll Street along with the Braehead shopping centre which is further out of town.

 

Some of the typical cultural delights of Scotland include the bagpipes which may well be played on the city streets, and the broad Scottish dialect spoken by Glaswegians which is quite hard for others to understand! The Scottish weather is notoriously damp and overcast, so it is wise to dress appropriately.