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Top 20 Things to Do This Summer in Glasgow
- Check out some art at Kelvingrove Art Gallery
- Take a leisurely walk in Glasgow Botanic Garden
- Visit the historical People's Palace
- Enjoy some live music at the Mono Café Bar
- Attend the 3-night event of the Glasgow Summer Sessions
- Indulge in shopping at Buchanan Street
- Take some dipping at the Irvine Beach
- Revel in a concert at the OVO Hydro
- Visit and be amazed by the impressive Glasgow Cathedral
- Discover history at the Riverside Museum
- Have a drink or two on the rooftop of Ubiquitous Chip
- Relish some exotic cuisine in Chinatown
- Opt for water activities at Pinkston Watersports
- Take a tour of the University of Glasgow
- Enjoy the view from the Lighthouse
- Watch some Shakespeare play with Bard in the Botanics
- Discover masterpieces at the Glasgow School of Art
- Stroll along the River Clyde
- Take a ride on the Glasgow Subway
- Delight in a show at the Theatre Royal
Known for its stunning Victorian and art nouveau architecture, Glasgow’s eclectic mix of attractions has something for everyone – especially during the summer.
There’s a world of delight waiting for you in our friendly city, so we’ve rounded up some things to do in the summer in Glasgow just for you. Read on!
Check out some art at Kelvingrove Art Gallery
Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/kelvingrove-art-gallery-and-museum
Address: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 276 9599
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Friday and Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Kelvingrove Art Gallery is Glasgow’s very own treasure trove of fantastic art. Think about spending a lazy summer afternoon exploring over 8,000 objects on display across 22 state-of-the-art galleries. Lovely, right?
From Armour to Rembrandt, Egyptian coffins to Salvador Dali, Kelvingrove packs a punch. Plus, the ambiance is fabulous – the bare brickwork and sunlight filtering in through the large windows have a certain magic you’ve got to see to believe.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their organ recitals and the stunning views of the university from the rear of the building.
Take a leisurely walk in Glasgow Botanic Garden
Website: https://www.glasgowbotanicgardens.com/
Address: 730 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 276 1614
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4:15 PM
Glasgow Botanic Garden is packed with exotic plants, stunning glasshouses, and heaps of breathing room; it’s basically the perfect spot for soaking up that glorious summer sun.
The main attraction, Kibble Palace, is an impressive glasshouse, home to a bunch of tropical plants.
Then there’s the Main Range glasshouse, where you can find the national collection of tree ferns. On a hot summer day, you can chill there, have a picnic, or visit the tearoom nearby.
Pro tip:
Check out their summer events and guided tours. If it’s sunny, grab a bench next to the River Kelvin—pure bliss.
Visit the historical People’s Palace
Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/peoples-palace
Address: Green, Templeton St, Glasgow G40 1AT, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 276 0788
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Friday and Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
At the People’s Palace, you get to walk right into Glasgow’s past. This place paints a vivid picture of Glaswegians from 1750 to the present with everything from photographs and paintings to even historical artefacts.
And the cherry on top? The Winter Gardens (an enormous glasshouse right next to the palace) are filled with tropical and subtropical plants, and they’ve got this lovely café too!
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to climb atop the Doulton Fountain for a great photo opportunity. And yes, entry’s free!
Enjoy some live music at the Mono Café Bar
Website: http://www.monocafebar.com/
Address: 12, Kings Court, King St, Glasgow G1 5RB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 553 2400
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Mono Café Bar is a record shop, vegan café, bar, and live music venue all rolled into one. This place hosts regular live music events that showcase a wide range of local and international talents.
Their vegan menu is downright scrumptious and extensive. I kid you not; their vegan artichoke pizza and big bad wolf burger will have you smacking your lips, meat-eater or not.
Pro tip:
Remember to check out their event calendars; they’re always buzzing with something exciting.
Attend the 3-night event of the Glasgow Summer Sessions
Website: https://www.smmrsessions.com/locations/glasgow
Contact details: https://smmrsessionssupport.zendesk.com/hc/en-gb/requests/new?ticket_form_id=18434861650327
You ain’t seen Glasgow vibing until you’ve attended the 3-night Glasgow Summer Sessions. This festival is the place where you’re just as likely to stumble upon some top-rate local talents as you are to watch global icons on the stage.
Aside from the music, there’s also food and drinks, and there’s—wait for it—a silent disco too. And before you ask, no, it doesn’t get excessively crowded or overwhelmingly loud; it’s just right—the perfect dose of unforgettable summer fun.
Pro tip:
Snag your tickets early; they sell out like hotcakes. Oh, and bring some comfy shoes; you’ll do a bit of dancing.
Indulge in shopping at Buchanan Street
Buchanan Street, the ‘Style Mile’ of Glasgow, is a paradise for shoppers. Just strolling down here feels like the catwalk, punctuated with musical notes floating in from the street performers.
And if you’re into architecture, the street’s classic Victorian buildings turn shopping into sightseeing! But it’s not all about shopping either, since interspersed between stores, you’ll find a smattering of cafes and eateries.
Pro tip:
Go on and hit Princes Square for some luxury indulgence. Swing by the Buchanan Galleries if high-street brands are more your style.
Take some dipping at the Irvine Beach
Irvine Beach may not be in Glasgow City, but it’s just a short ride away, and let me tell you, it’s worth every minute of the journey. It’s not one of those overly crowded, touristy beaches either.
Instead, you get clean waters and sand perfect for a picnic, and if you’re in the mood for some fun in the sun, there’s plenty of room for beach games. Moreover, the picturesque harbour and the diversity of birdlife and seals make it a great day out!
Pro tip:
Local cafés are great for fish and chips. And don’t forget to explore Irvine Harbour and the Maritime Museum.
Revel in a concert at the OVO Hydro
Website: http://www.ovohydro.com/
Address: Exhibition Way, Stobcross Rd, Glasgow G3 8YW, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 248 3000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
Trust me, a summer evening at the OVO Hydro beats just about everything else. It’s got that electric vibe, you know? And with the biggest names in music lining up to play, it’s the hottest ticket in town!
You can catch your favourite band performing live or give a new artist a shot. Either way, you’re up for an unforgettable night of aural delight.
Pro tip:
Make sure you book your tickets beforehand (they sell out fast), and arrive early to soak up the atmosphere.
Visit and be amazed by the impressive Glasgow Cathedral
Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/glasgow-cathedral/
Address: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 552 6891
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4 PM
- Sunday – 1 PM to 4 PM
Glasgow Cathedral is like a masterpiece, with its emerald-green precincts, and it is an absolute visual delight! Start off by marvelling at the cathedral’s stunning exteriors, the imposing tower, and the intricate stained glass windows.
Then step inside and just take a moment to absorb the magnificence around you—the tall arches, the beautifully vaulted roof. There’s also the eerie but fascinating necropolis just outside, complete with Gothic tombs and monuments.
Pro tip:
Be on the lookout for volunteer-led tours full of interesting stories. Visit the crypt where Glasgow’s patron saint, St. Mungo, rests.
Discover history at the Riverside Museum
Website: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/riverside-museum
Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 287 2720
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
- Friday and Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Riverside Museum is a futuristic, Zaha Hadid-designed building on Glasgow’s waterfront.
Within its slick walls, the museum packs in over 3,000 objects from Glasgow’s rich past—think vintage cars, old-school locomotives, and a recreated street from the ’90s.
They’ve also thrown in some nifty interactive displays. You can even hop onto the old Glasgow Subway, board a pre-war tram, or swoon over retro Italian scooters.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the tall ship ‘Glenlee’ berthed outside the museum. Do visit the recreated 1900s Main Street.
Have a drink or two on the rooftop of Ubiquitous Chip
Website: https://www.ubiquitouschip.co.uk/
Address: 12 Ashton Ln, Hillhead, Glasgow G12 8SJ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 334 5007
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Ubiquitous Chip, nestled in the heart of Ashton Lane, is, to put it lightly, a wee bit special. It’s far from your typical concrete-and-glass rooftop bar; instead, think green foliage and quaint lights.
Whether it’s an afternoon chill-out session with friends or a romantic evening under the stars, the Ubiquitous Chip has got you covered. And with a range of delicious cocktails and Scottish beers on tap, the only problem is deciding what to try first!
Pro tip:
The Elderflower Collins is a standout cocktail. If you’re early, try getting a table by the railing for the best views.
Relish some exotic cuisine in Chinatown
Website: https://www.facebook.com/pg/chinatownglasgow
Address: 44 New City Rd, Glasgow G4 9JT, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 332 5867
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
If you think Chinese food is all about takeaway fried rice and sweet and sour chicken, we need to take a trip to Glasgow’s Chinatown. There are all sorts of authentic Chinese and Asian restaurants here, each with its own allure.
You’d be amazed at the sheer variety on offer. From dim sum to Peking duck, spicy hot pots to sushi, Chinatown is a culinary treasure trove.
Pro tip:
Check out SeeWoo Supermarket for an array of Asian culinary ingredients. Dragon-i serves up some mean Peking duck.
Opt for water activities at Pinkston Watersports
Website: http://www.pinkston.co.uk/
Address: 75 N Canal Bank St, Glasgow G4 9XP, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 332 5636
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Up next, we dive into Glasgow’s very own urban paddle sports centre, Pinkston Watersports. The centre boasts Scotland’s only artificial whitewater course, a placid water basin, and a clean water system.
They offer open-water swimming, SUP (stand-up paddling), kayaking, and canoeing. Oh, and did I mention that they have warm showers available after your session?
Pro tip:
It’s best to book your adventures online first. Don’t miss their coaching sessions if you’re a newbie.
Take a tour of the University of Glasgow
Website: https://www.gla.ac.uk/
Address: Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 330 2000
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Don’t dismiss the University of Glasgow as just another uni visit. This ain’t your everyday campus; it’s straight out of a Harry Potter set—tall towers, sprawling quadrangles, and awe-inspiring medieval architecture!
The campus tour begins with the impressive main building and cloisters. But the university is not all about its Hogwarts-esque architecture since it also boasts the Hunterian Museum, an Art Gallery, and a Zoology Museum.
Pro tip:
Visit the Hunterian Museum for a peek into Roman Scotland. Check out the views from atop the university tower.
Enjoy the view from the Lighthouse
Website: http://www.thelighthouse.co.uk/
Address: 11 Mitchell Ln, Glasgow G1 3NU, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 276 5365
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:30 AM to 5 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 5 PM
Now, let’s scale some heights and get the best view of the city from the lighthouse. This isn’t an ordinary lighthouse, but Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh himself.
You should hop up to the viewing platform because the skyline view from up here is great. And with Mackintosh at the Lighthouse exhibition highlighting the architect’s work and design-related exhibitions, trust me, you won’t be out of things to do here.
Pro tip:
Do climb the spiral staircase; the view’s worth it. Don’t miss the various exhibitions throughout the building.
Watch some Shakespeare play with Bard in the Botanics
Website: http://bardinthebotanics.co.uk/
Address: 730A Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 334 9016
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 6 PM
You don’t need to be a literature buff to appreciate the Bard at the Botanics Festival. Just picture this: summer twilight, the rustling of leaves, and some good ol’ Shakespeare spicing up the evening.
But don’t just take my word for it. Go on and head to Bard in the Botanics to enjoy a Midsummer Night’s Dream under a summer evening sky – believe me, there’s something magical about watching the Bard’s masterpieces in the Botanics.
Pro tip:
Grab your tickets as early as possible. Remember to carry a picnic blanket.
Discover masterpieces at the Glasgow School of Art
Website: http://www.gsa.ac.uk/
Address: 167 Renfrew St, Glasgow G3 6RQ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 141 353 4500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 8 PM
- Thursday – 8 AM to 5 PM
- Saturday – 9 AM to 5 PM
As we move along the list, let’s head over to the Glasgow School of Art. Walking along the corridors of this historical school, you’ll be gobsmacked with the artistic brilliance all around; from contemporary installations to classic paintings, they’ve got it all.
But what’s cool is that these pieces are not tucked away in some high-brow gallery. They’re right there in student studios, workshops, and even in the hallway!
Pro tip:
Try to enrol in the informative guided tours, and remember to look out for the pop-up exhibitions that happen periodically.
Stroll along the River Clyde
Next on the list should be something tranquil, and a stroll along the River Clyde fits right in. Think of this walk as your unwinding passageway through the heart of Glasgow.
Past iconic bridges, historical buildings, modern structures, and dynamic public spaces. But more than that, it’s an insight into Glasgow’s story, moulded by the river over centuries.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the beautiful sunset over the Clyde. Visit the Riverside Museum along your walk.
Take a ride on the Glasgow Subway
Website: https://www.spt.co.uk/travel-with-spt/subway/
Contact details: https://www.spt.co.uk/contact-us/
Another fun way to explore Glasgow is by hopping on the Glasgow Subway. And no, it’s not a sandwich; we’re talking about the third-oldest underground rail system in the world!
The Subway is like a magical orange ring that takes you through top attractions all around the city. You can hop on and off at whichever stop you fancy and explore to your heart’s content!
Pro tip:
Check out the murals as you exit the Hillhead train station. Use a smart card for cheaper journeys.
Delight in a show at the Theatre Royal
Website: https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-glasgow/
Address: 282 Hope St, Glasgow G2 3QA, United Kingdom
Contact details: +44 844 871 7627
Let’s end this ride on a high note by taking you to Glasgow’s oldest theatre, the Theatre Royal. Now, don’t let the age of the place fool you; step inside, and you’re in for a treat.
One cannot help admiring the vintage charm that oozes out of its grand lobby, gilded balconies, and lush seating. Comedies, ballets, dramas, operas—whatever tickles your fancy, you’re likely to find it lighting up the stage at the Theatre Royal.
Pro tip:
Book in advance for the best seats. Enjoy a pre-theatre dinner in the theatre’s dining room.
