Being a local I am always interested in discovering new places to visit, attractions, restaurants, and more. While visiting Glasgow on a day trip from Edinburgh recently, I came across a few things I couldn't wait to share with you including the Govan Stanes (stones).
Rooftops of Glasgow ©MDHarding
Things To See And Do In Glasgow That You Might Not Have Heard Of
Getting To Glasgow
Reaching Glasgow couldn't be easier with direct flights from around the world, trains connecting throughout the UK and there are buses too. I traveled with Scottish Citylink Buses from Edinburgh to Glasgow. The journey is comfortable, one hour long, and at only £10 open return for an adult, why not. If you are traveling throughout Scotland, have you heard about the Scottish Citylink Explorer Pass? Connecting over 200 towns and cities across Scotland, the Explorer Pass is flexible and of great value.
Citylinkair between Edinburgh and Glasgow Airport ©MDHarding
Accommodation
There is a wide range of accommodations throughout Glasgow to suit all budgets, from chain hotels to independent guest houses. Have you heard of Cathedral House? The 19th century, Scottish Baronial-style building has been beautifully converted into a unique hotel. With most rooms having views of either Glasgow Cathedral or the Necropolis. Local to the area? Pop into the bar for a drink /delicious meal or sit in the landscaped beer garden.
Cathedral House Hotel, Glasgow ©MDHarding
The Govan Ferry
Did you know you can take a small boat from the Riverside Museum to Govan Water Row? Operating until the 20th of October the Govan Ferry is a free service connecting across the Clyde. Don't miss the boat.
Clyde Link Ferry ©MDHarding
The Govan Stones Project
Visit the spectacular Govan Stones - Viking-Age carvings discovered in industrial Glasgow in the superb A-listed Govan Old Parish Church building. Said to stand on the oldest known Christian settlement on the River Clyde and is described as the most influential Presbyterian Church ever built. Centre of the ancient Kingdom of Strathclyde, today Govan is said to have an impressive collection of medieval sculptures and the gravestones of the ancient kings between 900 - 1100 AD. See the largest and outstanding collections of ancient monuments outside Iona and St Andrews including the Govan Sarcophagus, thirty-one carved stones, five hogback tombstones, and much more at the Old Parish Church. There are guided tours available on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 1pm to 4pm until the 14th of September. Not to be missed!
Hogback Tombstone, Govan Stones, Glasgow ©MDHarding
Fairfield Heritage - The Story of Glasgow's Greatest Shipyard
Glasgow is renowned for its shipbuilding heritage dating back to possibly as early as the 15th century. Some of the world's most prestigious luxury liners, steamships, and navy vessels are being built on the Clyde, such as RMS Lucania, HMS Hood, RMS Queen Mary, and HMS Daring. Fairfield Shipbuilding & Engineering Offices still pay testament to its greatness. Voted one of Glasgow's most admired buildings, this iconic, A-listed edifice has been restored in a £5.8 million project to provide a heritage centre and prestigious office accommodation. Well worth a visit!
Fairfield Heritage Entrance, Govan, Glasgow ©MDHarding
Seaforce - Powerboat Ride In Central Glasgow
After visiting Old Govan, why not put a spring in your step with a journey like no other along the River Clyde with Seaforce? This thrilling and exciting 20-minute trip takes you past some of Clyde's well-known landmarks such as The Tall Ship, the BBC Scotland building, Glasgow Science Centre, and Govan Shipyards. Departing from The Riverside Museum, this family-friendly boat trip is great value and affordably priced at only £10 for adults and £5 for under 16s. Highly recommend!
Seaforce Powerboat On The River Clyde ©MDHarding
I hope you have enjoyed reading and are inspired to visit some or all of these interesting and fun activities in Glasgow. As always, I love reading and following up on any comments/questions you may have. Are you visiting Scotland for the first time or perhaps a return visit and have already visited the castles, tried Whisky, and possibly Haggis too? Looking for something a little bit different? You can reach me via Email, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Until next time, happy travels:) x