Glasgow isn't as bad as it's former reputation

I've only spent 3 days here in 1998 and a day in 1994, so I can't claim to be an expert. Actually, 2 of the last 3 days I only used Glasgow as a base for exploration of the Trossachs - which it serves quite well for. It took me all day to complete a walking tour of the historic region of Glasgow. Much of the walk is near and around the River Clyde. The tour itself includes a few cathedrals/churches, the Mercat Cross, a large green, several informative/commemorative statues and plaques, a really old house, shopping ditricts and the People's Musuem, housing a social history of Glasgow. That was very interesting. The Burrell Collection, a very large and impressive art collection and gallery, is worth a visit as well.

Quick Tips:

Take the day trip to Culzean Castle and Country Park - very big highlight of the western lowland area. Start early one morning (if you don't plan on spending time in the Trossachs)and head out to Loch Lomond - Scotland's largest and 2nd most famous Loch. A good place to see Loch Lomond from is the town of Balloch.

Best Way To Get Around:

I took trains and walked and had no problems.

There are several 'chain' pubs right around the Central Station, by chain I mean the Firkin's, and pubs owned by Scottish and Newcastle or Bass - same food everywhere, same solid quality food. Regular pub food, it's inexpensive and there really is a good variety - fish and chips, traditonal breakfasts, cheeseburgers, baps, grilled items and good ales, ciders and bitters. Great environment to eat in - really a must. Try the local ales, they're very good and you'll never have another chance to taste them. Many pubs do allow children and all pubs that serve food find it quite acceptable to just go in and eat and chat - there really isn't an obligation to drink - soft drinks and juices are available!

Exhibitions show the history of the city and it's working class citizens. Much of the displays focus on the Victorian era and industrial revolution. Bits and pieces of the region's political history are presented. Since it is right on the Green, enjoy this park as well.

The Burrell Collection is entirely a private collection left to Glasgow by a wealthy shipowner who colected art everywhere he went. The collection includes funriture, pictures, art objects, tapestries, reconsructed rooms from Sir Burrell's castle, and stained glass, among many other items. This collection really is famous throughout Europe and is well publicized at Tourist Information centers.

This is/was the the home of the powerful Kennedy clan. It's located along a cliff and the castle grounds, the country park, are vast. Culzean is best known because of it's famous architect - Adams. It's an impressive neoclassical castle with breathtaking rooms, art and furniture. There is even a room dedicated to President Eisenhower - which he apparently stayed in a couple of times. This room includes a collection of Eisenhower's momentos/memorabilia. The Country park has a visitor's centre which is educational and informative. The park comntains beauitful formal gardens, along with wild gardens, walled gardens and a woods, don't forget the beaches!