Glasgow's Hidden Gems
Every city has them; gems squirreled away for only the natives to enjoy and passed on to others in hushed tones so as to keep them that way. However, the folk of Glasgow don’t go for such secrecy, believing that everyone should enjoy everything, especially those who have travelled far and wide to do it - and why not? Glasgow is a city is choc-full of little delights, some hidden and some in plain view but all very worthwhile.
Sloans
62 Argyll Arcade, 180 Argyll Street, Glasgow G2 8BG
www.sloansglasgow.com
This three-storey bar and restaurant set just off Argyll Street is hidden in the heart of the city centre. Styled as ‘Glasgow's oldest bar and restaurant', Sloans is housed in a Grade A listed building dating back to the late 1700s where many of the original features, including the stunning ‘Grand Ballroom' still remain.
Aside from its bistro dining experience, Sloans hosts regular events such as the ‘Friday Ceildh', ‘Eat Film' and ‘Thank Folk it's Tuesday'. There is also an excellent weekend market where independent traders hock their wares with a wide range of items.
Glasgow Museums Resource Centre (GMRC)
200 Woodhead Road, Nitshill, Glasgow G53 7NN
www.glasgowmuseums.com
Art and culture is the staple feature of Glasgow's tourism industry. With 13 museums throughout the city, the centrepiece being the magnificent Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, there are thousands upon thousands of pieces on display. This, however, equates only to less than 2% of all Glasgow's collections. The GMRC houses over 1 million objects from a variety of backgrounds including objects soon to be displayed in the new transport museum, The Riverside Museum. Easily accessible from the city centre and open to the public, the GMRC is not well known but definitely worth visiting.
Waverley Excursions
36 Lancefield Quay, Glasgow G3 8HA
www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk
Although renowned as the world's last sea going paddle steamer, many visitors do not think to take a trip ‘doon the watter' on the ‘Waverley'.
Built in 1946, the Waverley has traditionally taken Glaswegians over the waters of the River Clyde on day trips or during the famed ‘Fair Fortnight' holidays of days gone by.
With destinations ranging from Dunoon, Rothesay and the Isle of Mull, this mammoth of the steam age will transport travellers in typical post war comfort and style. Passengers are invited to take a close look at the massive steam engines in the bowels of the boat or enjoy typical warm Glaswegian hospitality in one of the many bars or restaurants.
The Hidden Lane Café/Gallery
1103 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8ND
www.thehiddenlane.co.uk
This wonderful little eatery does exactly what is says on the tin. A down to earth little café ensconced between Finnieston and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. Wholesome fare is on offer lovingly made by Gill, the owner, and accompanied by regular poetry readings, art reviews and jazz sessions. Definitely worth looking for.
Glasgow Film Theatre (GFT)
12 Rose Street, Glasgow G3 6RB
www.gft.org.uk
Housed in a B listed post art deco building in the top end of the city centre, the GFT is an independent cinema showing a contemporary mix of cinema than the more mainstream multiplexes. A Glasgow institution, the building itself dates back to 1934, the GFT has become an important part of the cultural life of the city.
From Casablanca to Casino Royale, after a quick bite to eat in Café Cosmo, the GFT has a vast and varied programme to suit every moviegoer's palate.
Pot Still
154 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 2TH
www.thepotstill.co.uk
Glasgow's definitive last word on malt whisky. An award winning hostelry, The Pot Still derives its name from the earliest whisky stills. Stocking of over 300 malts, many unavailable anywhere else, The Pot Still offers whisky knowledge unparallel anywhere in Glasgow.
With an excellent food menu also available, The Pot Still is a must see for any visitor keen on gaining an insight, and of course, tasting Scotland's national tipple.
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