Top Free Things To Do In Glasgow [+ Fun Facts] Last Updated: October 5, 2024
If you’re in Glasgow and looking for free things to do, I have some top recommendations!
1. Gallery Of Modern Art (GoMA):
Right in the heart of the city, GoMA is a must-visit. Housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, it showcases incredible works by both local and international artists. There’s always something new to check out, from paintings and sculptures to video installations.
They also regularly switch up their exhibitions, featuring contemporary artists and even past Turner Prize winners. It’s open from Monday to Thursday, Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. And yes, it’s completely free, making it perfect for a fun and budget-friendly day out!
2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum:
This one’s a crowd favourite. Kelvingrove is a massive museum with 22 galleries and over 8,000 fascinating objects. Whether you’re into art, history, or natural science, there’s something for everyone.
The building itself is gorgeous, and you can easily spend hours exploring. Best part? No ticket is needed—just walk in! It’s open from Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Fridays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3. Riverside Museum:
This cool museum is all about transport and technology. It has over 3,000 objects on display, from skateboards and prams to old trains and even a Stormtrooper! Inside, you can see all kinds of vehicles, like cars, bikes, and buses.
One of the best parts is the recreated street scene where you can walk along a cobbled street with shops and houses that look just like they did in the past. There are also fun interactive displays and hands-on activities, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages. You can learn a lot about Glasgow’s history and how transport has changed over the years. The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Also read: Exploring The Drive Through Scottish Highlands
4. Glasgow Botanical Garden And The Kibble Palace:
Located in the West End, the Glasgow Botanical Garden is a lovely place to relax. Inside the garden, you’ll find the Kibble Palace, a stunning glasshouse that you have to see! The garden is home to many different plants, including a special collection of tree ferns and a beautiful rose garden.
You can also walk along the River Kelvin, which connects to Kelvingrove Park. The Kibble Palace is a beautiful building made of iron and glass that was originally used for exhibitions. Now, it’s filled with amazing plants. The garden is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., so you can enjoy a nice day out in nature anytime!
5. Glasgow Cathedral:
This stunning medieval cathedral has been a place of worship for over 800 years. Its impressive architecture and rich history make it a must-see. One of the highlights here is the incredible collection of stained glass windows, known as one of the best in Britain.
Don’t forget to check out the ceiling in the Blackadder Aisle, built around 1500, which adds to the cathedral’s charm. The cathedral is open throughout the year, starting at 9:30 a.m. (1 p.m. on Sundays). You can also catch recitals and special family events here, so there’s often something interesting going on. Just keep in mind that closing times can vary with the seasons.
6. Glasgow Necropolis:
Right next to the cathedral, you’ll find the Glasgow Necropolis, a fascinating Victorian garden cemetery. This beautiful cemetery features amazing architecture, sculptures, and the stories of those who have been laid to rest here.
It’s modeled after the famous Père-Lachaise Cemetery in Paris and is estimated to have around 50,000 burials. As you wander through the Necropolis, you’ll see a statue of John Knox overlooking the area from its highest point. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and enjoy some unique views of the city.
Now that we have covered a bunch of places to visit for free in Glasgow, let’s find out some interesting facts about the place.
Interesting facts about Glasgow:
Student City: Glasgow is a hub for students, with top universities like the University of Glasgow, one of the oldest in the English-speaking world, founded in 1451.
Vibrant Music Scene: Known for producing famous bands like Simple Minds and Franz Ferdinand, live music is a big part of the city’s culture.
Green Spaces: “Glasgow” means “dear green place” in Gaelic. The reason is simple. It boasts over 90 parks and gardens, with popular spots like Kelvingrove Park and Glasgow Green.
Architectural Beauty: The city features stunning Victorian-era buildings and modern designs like the Riverside Museum.
Friendly People: Glaswegians are known for their warm hospitality and great sense of humor.
A perfect city to study, explore, and enjoy! If you have any queries or wish to have a personalized itinerary, reach out to me at theveggietravels@gmail.com. I will be happy to help!
Also read: Top Things To Do In Edinburgh [Free+ Paid]
