Glasgow - A City for the People
Was Glasgow on our agenda? No.
How did we end up there? It was a base from which to fly to Lerwick in the Shetland Islands, which was on our agenda (and highly recommend putting on yours).
Glasgow is an amazing city which is both ancient and modern. It has transformed itself from a focus on shipbuilding and industry to a very welcoming, attractive and easily navigated city with amazing people and a thriving music scene.
The weather in Scotland can be rather variable, but when we were there, the weather was uncharacteristically warm, and the people were out and about, creating a welcoming and positive atmosphere.
The Architecture 
Classic Glasgow architecture in the city centre
The first thing that we noticed was how magnificent the buildings are and how tastefully they have been maintained. A blend of Gothic, Georgian and Victorian architecture blends with modern touches without jarring or looking out of place.
Hardly a modern high rise to be seen in the centre of the city. There is so much to do in the city that if you're spending just a few days there, we recommend that you base yourself as close to the centre as you can. It's a very walkable city and on a good day, there are loads of wonderful parks. Of course, there are lots of indoor attractions as well!
As we meandered among them, reminders of history bob up everywhere.
Of particular interest to us was the magnificent Glasgow Cathedral with its Gothic architecture, antiquity and splendour.
The University of Glasgow is another magnificent set of old, fascinating buildings, spread over acres of tree lined land with a river running close by.
The City of Music
Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, with multiple and varied music scenes spread across the city.
The Scottish Opera and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra are based in Glasgow. Glasgow was also an important part of the British Indie Pop scene in the 1990s so you'll find lots of live bands in pubs, clubs and outdoor locations.
The venues are diverse, eclectic and there is something for everyone, every night of the week.
 Glasgow Idlewild Music Festival Poster |  King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow |
The Friendly City
Glasgow has a population of over a million people. The city centre around George Square is designed as a people focused meeting place or just a place to relax and take it all in.
The locals are very friendly and helpful and also very proud of their city. You'll also experience the legendary Glasgow sense of humour. It's self-deprecating with a whole lot of attitude - hardly surprising that Billy Connolly is one of the city's favourite sons!
The general ambience is one of calm, which immediately made us feel safe and welcome.
Another indication of the friendly generosity of Glasgow is its amazing (FREE) Transport Museum. The displays are diverse and brilliant, with interactive storytellers for school kids.
There is an opportunity to make a donation at the end - a small ask for an absolute treat.
Sightseeing in Glasgow
We chose to do self-guided walking tours around the city and the West End but there is also the well-loved Hop on, Hop Off bus option, which means your sight-seeing won't be dampened by inclement weather.
Day trips from Glasgow include Loch Ness, Loch Lomond and Sterling Castle, among others.
Glasgow became part of our trip by default, and we are so.... grateful it did.
There are cities across the UK that have reinvented themselves and definitely deserve a second chance.
Glasgow is at the top of the list!
