Glasgow: Tourism, shopping and much more!
Regarded as Scotland’s most populous city (and the 4th most populous one in the UK), Glasgow is located on the banks of the River Clyde, West Central Scotland. The meaning behind its name, which is Brittonic in origin, can be translated as “grey-green, grey-blue” (glas) and “hollow” (cou). Although this green-hollow could refer to the ravine east of Glasgow Cathedral, “the deer green place” remains the general, affectionate way of referring to the city.
Glasgow has an oceanic climate and also enjoys the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. This makes its winter weather cool and overcast, while the summer months are quite varied between cool and wet to warm and sunny.
The city is also chock a block with tourist attractions, both man-made and natural, including the striking University of Glasgow with its Gothic architecture, small museums and guided tours. For those who want to get outdoors, Glasgow offers a wealth of options, not the least of which is Kelvingrove Park. Here, the entire family can lose themselves for a whole day, especially thanks to the various playgrounds for kids.
But if your idea of a good time involves shopping bags, let us steer you in a different direction…
Glasgow: Map for shopping
Buchanan Galleries shopping centre is smack bang in the middle of Glasgow city centre. Look for it at the junction of Sauchiehall Street and Buchanan Streets, and you could be well on your way to splurge at one of its numerous stores like Biggars Music, Crew Clothing, or John Lewis & Partners.
Still in the city centre, we turn our attention to St Enoch Centre, located conveniently adjacent to St Enoch Square. Drop by at some of the centre’s most popular shops (like Jnr Station and Yankee Candle), or treat yourself to one of the several cafes and restaurants at the food court (Scotland’s largest) at well-loved spots like McDonalds and Di Maggios.
For retail therapy with some old-time charm (and a touch of dazzle), head on over to Argyll Arcade. This chic, Parisian-style arcade houses more than 30 jewellers and diamond merchants under its immense glass roof. Will you find your dream watch (or necklace, or ring…) at Barclays Diamonds, Chisholm Hunter, Gucci Jewellery & Watches, or one of the others?
Speaking of glass roofs, Princes Square also has one, but this shopping spot’s collection of retailers also include designer boutiques, cafes and restaurants, and even a Scottish Craft Centre. Argento, Timothy Oulton, and Reiss are just some of the well-known shops here awaiting your presence.
And finally, if you’re more into marketplaces than gigantic malls, try The Barras Market. Situated in Glasgow’s East End, this weekend market specialises in both indoor- and outdoor stalls (and even a Christmas market) selling rare and vintage fashion, home accessories, and distinctive handmade novelties. For the hungry and the thirsty, there’s an enticing selection of food stalls specialising in homemade snacks, sweets and drinks.
To make sure you never miss another weekly offer or special sale again, sign up for Tiendeo alerts in your city to keep you in the loop regarding the freshest online catalogues, store discounts, and more.