Glasgow

Kelvingrove Museum in Glasgow is an ideal destination for those with limited time to explore the city, offering free admission to its imposing premises in a leafy Victorian park bearing the same name. With 22 galleries spanning diverse themes, the museum caters to a wide range of interests and is also particularly child-friendly. Visitors can immerse themselves in natural history, art, local history and explore a vast array of artifacts from around the globe, with highlights that include works by Salvador Dalí and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Inaugurated by Queen Victoria in 1888 and housing the Glasgow City Council since 1996, the City Chambers in George Square is one of the most iconic elements of Glasgow's cityscape. The building is open for the public to admire the marble ornaments, paintings and imposing rooms such as the banqueting hall.

Whether it's cycling or a relaxing picnic you are after, the city's only, 146-hectare country park is a scenic location for any outdoor programme. Beyond the treasures of nature — such as the popular Highland cattle — the park also houses the Pollok House and the Burrell Collection with their impressive art collections.

East of the city's prominent cathedral, the Glasgow Necropolis is where fifty thousand — including numerous prominent figures — found eternal rest over the course of the 19th century. Guided tours are available to explore the architecture and stories preserved in this 15-hectare Victorian cemetery.

Designed inside and out by the internationally acclaimed Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the House for an Art Lover is an arts centre in Southside's spectacular Bellahouston Park. The venue is also a popular choice for private celebrations, and houses a café that well lives up to its environment, making for a sublime location for afternoon tea.

When it comes to architecture in Glasgow, Charles Rennie Mackintosh is the name you'll hear time and again. Best known for his work in the Art Nouveau style, Mackintosh left an indelible mark on the city, with the 1898 Glasgow School of Art as the crown jewel. Nowadays, the school isn't just about educating the next generation of artists — it's also about appreciating its rich history.

The Burrell Collection, held by many to be one of the world's finest private art collections, was founded in 1983 and donated by industrialist Sir William Burrell to the City of Glasgow. It includes everything from Chinese porcelain to paintings by Renoir and Cézanne. Various happenings occur throughout the year.

With a mission to bring science to all kinds of audiences, Glasgow Science Centre on the south bank of the River Clyde houses numerous events, workshops and exhibitions. Surely they have IMAX, but it has some serious competitors on the entertainment front, such as the bodyworks show and the science theatre.

A cherished cultural gem, King's Theatre has been enchanting audiences since its opening in 1904. This historic venue hosts a diverse array of shows, including dance performances, musicals and comedy shows. The theatre also offers workshops as unique opportunities of insight into the world of performing arts.

When you think of theatre, you might not immediately think of mechanical sculptures — but that's exactly what you'll find at the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre. The theatre showcases intricate mechanised figures that "perform" thought-provoking shows on life's big questions. Perfect for both kids and adults, it's a collaborative wonder featuring the work of sculptor-mechanic Eduard Bersudsky, theatre director Tatyana Jakovskaya, and light and sound designer Sergey Jakovsky.

For motor sport fans, the Glasgow Tigers Speedway is a must with weekly competitions, excellent viewing points (including from the in-house bar) and even a children's "Growlers Club" where the young ones get to meet the Tiger's mascot.

The West End area contains some of the best cafes, bars and stores in town (check Woodlands Road for eateries). It is home to the stunning Botanic Gardens, the University campus and Kelvingrove Museum & Park. Make sure to include Byers Road, Great Western Road and Ashton Lane into your itinerary.

In the 1870s, four young fellows met to talk about their dream to have their own football club. Rangers Football Club was founded soon after and is, nowadays, the most successful Scottish football team and eternal rival of Celtic Football Club.

A visit to SV Glenlee is a glimpse into Glasgow's nautical history. This former cargo sailing ship has been lovingly restored and transformed into one of Glasgow's prime attractions. Climb aboard and roam from the captain's quarters to the engine room, soaking up the maritime atmosphere. Got little adventurers in tow? They'll be well entertained in the ship's dedicated play area. Audio guides are at your disposal for a more enriching visit. It's not just a ship; it's a glimpse into Glasgow's nautical history.

One of Glasgow's main arteries is a lively, pedestrian-friendly street with an abundance of shopping locales, eateries, street performers, and some prime examples of fine Scottish architecture. A shopping hotspot by day, it's also home to some very popular bars and remains busy until late.

If you are a football fan, then head over to this museum and learn more about the history of Scottish football. The museum is located at Hampden Park and includes a great football collection, 2,500 objects on display to be exact. This is a great pastime pick for the whole family.