Glasgow Travel: 100 Questions Answered

2. Where can I see the Highland Cows (Coos) near the city? Pollok Country Park is the most reliable spot; they are usually near the Burrell Collection.

3. What is the most iconic photo spot in Glasgow? The Duke of Wellington statue (with the traffic cone on his head) outside the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA).

4. Is Glasgow Cathedral worth visiting? Absolutely. It is one of the few Scottish medieval churches to survive the Reformation intact.

5. What is the Glasgow Necropolis? It’s a Victorian cemetery located on a hill next to the Cathedral, offering the best panoramic views of the city.

6. Where can I see Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s work? The House for an Art Lover, the Mackintosh at the Willow tea rooms, and the Hunterian Art Gallery.

7. Is the Riverside Museum just for kids? No, the Transport Museum is fascinating for all ages, featuring vintage cars, locomotives, and a recreated 1900s street.

8. Can I visit the University of Glasgow? Yes, the cloisters (undercrofts) are open to the public and look like something out of Harry Potter.

9. What is the “Style Mile”? It refers to the square of Buchanan Street, Argyle Street, and Merchant City, which has the best shopping in the UK outside London.

10. Where is the best street art? Follow the City Centre Mural Trail; maps are available online or at tourist info centers.

11. Is the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre worth the ticket? Travelers call it a “hidden gem”—it’s a unique, eerie, and beautiful mechanical theater in Trongate.

12. What’s the “Piping Centre”? The National Piping Centre offers bagpipe lessons and has a museum dedicated to the instrument.

13. Where can I see the “Dick in a Jar”? It’s a famous (and slightly macabre) exhibit at the Hunterian Museum inside the University.

14. Are there any castles in Glasgow? While there isn’t a “Glasgow Castle,” Bothwell Castle and Newark Castle are a short train ride away.

15. Is the Science Centre worth it for adults? Yes, especially for the Planetarium and the Science Lates events (adult-only nights).

🍴 Food & Drink

16. What is a “Munchy Box”? A pizza box filled with kebab meat, chips, pakora, naan bread, and sauce. It’s a late-night local legend.

17. Where is the best place for Haggis? Ubiquitous Chip in the West End or The Butterfly and the Pig.

18. Is there a good vegan scene? Glasgow is often cited as one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the UK. Try Mono, Stereo, or The 78.

19. What is “Irn-Bru” and should I try it? It’s Scotland’s other national drink (a bright orange soda). Try it, but be warned: it’s very sweet.

20. Where can I find the best Fish and Chips? Old Salty’s in the West End or Blue Lagoon (if you’re feeling brave/drunk).

21. Where is the best place for a “Sunday Roast”? The Loveable Rogue or The Curler’s Rest.

22. Best afternoon tea? The Willow Tea Rooms (for the history) or The Corinthian (for the luxury).

23. Is the “Deep Fried Mars Bar” a real thing? Yes, but it’s more of a tourist novelty than a local staple. Most “chippies” will do it if you ask.

24. What are the best bars for live music? The Clutha, The Scotia (Glasgow’s oldest pub), and King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut.

25. Where should I go for a fancy dinner? The Gannet or Cail Bruich (Michelin starred).

26. What is a “Square Sausage”? Also known as Lorne sausage. It’s a flat, square patty often served in a “roll and sausage” for breakfast.

27. Best place for Indian food? Mother India or Mowgli. Glasgow is the “Curry Capital” of the UK.

28. Where can I get a good craft beer? Drygate Brewery or West Brewery (located in the stunning Templeton Building).

29. What is Ashton Lane? A picturesque cobbled lane in the West End full of bars, restaurants, and a cinema.

30. Do I need to tip in Glasgow? It’s not mandatory, but 10% is standard for good service in restaurants.

🥃 Whisky Questions

31. Which distillery is closest to the city? The Clydeside Distillery (near the Riverside Museum) or Auchentoshan (a short bus/train ride away).

32. Where is the best whisky bar in Glasgow? The Pot Still (over 800 whiskies) or The Bon Accord.

33. Can I do a day trip to a Highland distillery? Yes, Glengoyne is about 40 minutes north by bus and is considered one of the most beautiful distilleries.

34. Is whisky cheaper in Glasgow? Not necessarily, but the selection is better. Supermarkets often have the best prices for standard bottles.

35. How do I order whisky? Ask for a “dram.” Don’t ask for ice unless you want a look of mild disappointment from the bartender (though they will give it to you!).

🚇 Transport & Logistics

36. What is the “Clockwork Orange”? The Glasgow Subway. It’s a single circle line that goes around the West End and City Centre.

37. How do I get from Glasgow Airport to the City Centre? The 500 Airport Express bus is the easiest and most frequent (every 12–15 minutes).

38. Is Glasgow walkable? The City Centre and West End are very walkable, but they are about a 30–40 minute walk apart.

39. Can I use Uber in Glasgow? Yes, Uber is widely available. Local taxi apps like GlasGO Cabs are also popular.

40. How do I get to Edinburgh from Glasgow? Take the train from Glasgow Queen Street (High Level). It takes about 50 minutes and runs every 15 minutes.

41. Do I need to book trains in advance? For the Glasgow-Edinburgh commute, no. For long-distance (London/Inverness), yes, to save money.

42. Is there a hop-on hop-off bus? Yes, the City Sightseeing bus covers all the major museums and parks.

43. What is the “Nextbike” scheme? It’s the city’s public bike-sharing system. Great for cycling along the Clyde.

44. Is the subway open late? No. It closes around 11:30 PM on weekdays and—famously—at 6:00 PM on Sundays.

45. Can I use contactless on the bus? Yes, almost all First and McGill’s buses take contactless “Tap and Pay.”

🌦️ Weather & Timing

46. When is the best time to visit? May, June, and September usually offer the best balance of daylight and slightly better weather.

47. Does it really rain that much? Yes. “Four seasons in one day” is a local motto. Bring a waterproof jacket, not an umbrella (the wind will break it).

48. How much daylight is there in winter? In December, the sun sets around 3:45 PM.

49. Is Glasgow busy during the Edinburgh Fringe (August)? Yes, many people stay in Glasgow and commute to Edinburgh because it’s cheaper.

50. What should I pack? Layers. Even in summer, a chilly breeze can pick up quickly.

🛡️ Safety & Local Advice

51. Is Glasgow safe for tourists? Generally, yes. It has a rough reputation from the past, but the city center and tourist areas are very safe.

52. Are there any areas to avoid? Tourists rarely end up there, but some outer schemes (estates) can be rough. Stick to the City Centre, West End, and Southside.

53. What is “The Glasgow Smile”? A grim piece of historical gang lore. Don’t worry; it’s not something a tourist will ever encounter.

54. Is the tap water safe to drink? It’s more than safe; Scots are extremely proud of their tap water. It’s excellent.

55. What does “People Make Glasgow” mean? It’s the city’s official slogan, reflecting the local reputation for friendliness and humor.

56. Will I understand the accent? The “Glasgow Patter” can be fast. If you’re struggling, just ask them to slow down; locals are usually happy to help.

57. Is it okay to talk about “Old Firm” (Celtic/Rangers) football? It’s best to avoid it in pubs unless you know the vibe. It can be a polarizing topic.

58. What is a “Ned”? A local term for a “Non-Educated Delinquent”—basically a chav or a hooligan. Usually harmless but loud.

59. Can I wear a football shirt? In some city-center bars, “colors” (football shirts) are banned to prevent trouble.

60. Are there many pickpockets? Not more than any other major city. Just use common sense in crowded areas like Buchanan Street.

🌳 Parks & Outdoors

61. What is the best park in the city? Kelvingrove Park for the vibes, Pollok Park for the size and the cows.

62. Can I walk to Loch Lomond from Glasgow? No, but the West Highland Way starts in Milngavie (a short train ride from the city).

63. Where can I see the “Pinkston Watersports”? It’s an artificial whitewater course just north of the city center.

64. Is the Botanic Gardens glasshouse free? Yes, the Kibble Palace is a stunning iron-framed conservatory and is free to enter.

65. Where can I go for a hike near Glasgow? Conic Hill or Ben Lomond (requires a car or bus to Balmaha/Rowardennan).

🛍️ Shopping & Neighborhoods

66. What is the “Merchant City”? The historic professional district, now full of high-end bars, boutiques, and loft apartments.

67. What is “The Barras”? A world-famous weekend market in the East End. It’s gritty, authentic, and great for people-watching.

68. Is the West End “posh”? Parts of it (like Hyndland) are, but it’s mostly a student and bohemian area.

69. What is the “Southside” like? It’s the “new” cool area. Shawlands was recently voted one of the coolest neighborhoods in the UK.

70. Where are the best charity shops? Byres Road in the West End or Dumbarton Road in Partick.

🎵 Entertainment & Nightlife

71. What is the “Barrowland Ballroom”? An iconic music venue with a neon sign. It’s widely considered one of the best venues in the world by bands.

72. Where is the best place for a “Ceilidh”? Sloans in the city center has a famous Friday night Ceilidh.

73. What is “The Hydro”? The OVO Hydro is the city’s massive arena for global touring acts.

74. Are there any good jazz clubs? The Blue Arrow or Swing.

75. What is “Sub Club”? One of the longest-running underground electronic music clubs in the world.

🚂 Day Trips

76. Can I visit Stirling Castle from Glasgow? Yes, it’s only 30 minutes by train.

77. Is a day trip to the Isle of Arran possible? Yes! Take the train to Ardrossan, then the ferry to Brodick. It’s “Scotland in Miniature.”

78. How do I get to Loch Lomond? Take the train to Balloch (50 minutes). From there, you can take a boat cruise.

79. Can I visit Glencoe from Glasgow? It’s a 2-hour drive. Possible as a long day trip, but better with an organized tour like Rabbie’s.

80. Is the “Kelvinhall” a museum? It’s a multi-purpose venue containing a sports center and some museum archives.

🏨 Accommodation

81. Where is the best area to stay? City Centre for convenience; West End for a more “local” and pretty feel.

82. Are hostels safe in Glasgow? Yes, Glasgow Youth Hostel (West End) and Tartan Lodge are popular and well-rated.

83. What is the most famous hotel? The Grand Central Hotel, right inside the Central Station.

💬 Language & Slang

84. What does “How?” mean? In Glasgow, “How?” often means “Why?”.

85. What is a “Wee” something? Small. Everything in Scotland is “wee,” even if it’s actually quite large.

86. What does “Baltic” mean? It’s freezing cold outside.

87. What is a “Piece”? A sandwich.

88. What does “Steaming” mean? Very drunk.

89. What is “The Chancer”? Someone who is trying their luck or being cheeky.

90. What does “Govan” mean? It’s a neighborhood, but also associated with the city’s shipbuilding history.

➕ Miscellaneous

91. Is there a “City Pass”? The Glasgow 7-Day Tourist Ticket offers discounts, but many of the best things (museums) are already free.

92. Are shops open on Sundays? Yes, usually from 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM until 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.

93. Can I see the Northern Lights from Glasgow? Rarely. You usually need to go further north or to a “Dark Sky Park” like Galloway.

94. What is “The Tenement House”? A National Trust property that shows exactly how a middle-class Glaswegian lived in the early 1900s.

95. Where is the “Hidden Lane”? It’s in Finnieston, tucked behind Argyle Street. It’s full of artists’ studios and a cute tea room.

96. Why are there two main train stations? Central Station goes South (to England and the coast); Queen Street goes North and East (to Edinburgh and the Highlands).

97. Is the “Duke of Wellington” cone ever removed? The council tries, but someone always puts it back within hours. It is now a permanent unofficial symbol.

98. Can I pay with English banknotes? Yes. Scottish banks issue their own notes, but English notes are accepted everywhere (and vice versa, though some English shops are confused by Scottish notes).

99. What is “Glasgow Green”? The city’s oldest park, home to the People’s Palace and the Doulton Fountain.

100. Should I visit Glasgow or Edinburgh? The classic travelers answer: “Go to Edinburgh for the views, come to Glasgow for the people (and the food/nightlife).”

🏛️ Sightseeing & Culture