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This project was born from work, humility and experience in order to make people who visit Scotland feel part of its history and its legends.

If you would like an experience tailored to you, we offer personalized packages with a variety of options. You can choose the duration of the tour, focus on specific aspects of the city's history, and explore the locations that are of interest to you.

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**Glasgow** is currently one of the most visited cities in the United Kingdom and not many decades ago it was one of the most important cities of the Industrial Revolution, although today only remnants of that past remain.


Glasgow catedral.jpg

Glasgow

Guide tours and free tours in Glasgow

## Christmas in Glasgow
Glasgow, vibrant and cosmopolitan, is **the largest city in all of Scotland** and, as such, it enjoys Christmas celebrations filled with music, light, and special events to match the circumstances.

Christmas in Glasgow revolves around its **Winterfest**, which every year attracts to the elegant George Square and the rest of the city's urban core activities reflecting the season, special lights, and everything that is needed for the long winter nights to feel much warmer, more special, and welcoming. You cannot miss out on it for anything in the world!

The city also features plenty of cultural attractions, such as **urban art murals, museums, landmarks, nature environments, and monuments** that you can get to know very easily with a [free tour in English](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow). In that way, you will know how to get around in Glasgow during the rest of your stay!

## Main Christmas events in Glasgow

Even though Christmas events in Glasgow can be typically found in the centrally located George Square and its surroundings, **the central market has been cancelled for this year, 2025**. But fret not! Here, we will show you **three alternative locations** in which you will be able **to enjoy Christmas in Glasgow**.

**Glasgow Winter Wonderland** will set up two Christmas markets in its traditional locations in St. Enoch Square and Glasgow Green, from November 21, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Besides the usual stalls featuring handcrafts, food, and drinks, as well as **Santa's Cave**, you will also find an ice skating rink and, even better, a whole lot of attractions and several panoramic wheels from whence you will be able to watch the city lights! 
[Find out about all the events and attractions in the Glasgow Winter Wonderland here](https://www.glasgowswinterwonderland.com/).

At last, the **Glasgow Fort Christmas Market**, in the outskirts of the capital, will open its gates **from November 20 to December 31**, and it will feature activities such as a traditional market with gifts and handcrafts, food and drink stalls, attractions for kids and grown ups, and the special event **Kevin’s Christmas Adventure: Lost in The Fort!**, with games, raffles, music, and fun for the whole family.

## The best activities for your Christmas nights out

Although, at first sight, it could be thought that December nights are the least appropriate time in the world to enjoy and relish unique experiences, people in Glasgow have everything planned out for you to go to bed as late as you wish to, after having visited all of the night-time attractions that the city offers.

For starters, you cannot miss out on the **special lights in the City Chambers**, which will be open for you every day up until 10 PM. Afterwards, you may opt for a unique Christmas supper in any of the excellent restaurants and eateries in the city, which is renowned for its international and vegan cuisine. Try venues such as **Opium, Paesano, or the Glasvegan**. You will find Christmas menus offering you Scottish **delicacies all along the way**!

Another excellent idea for a **Christmas night out in Glasgow** is to call it a **night by taking shelter** in pubs as cosy and traditional as the **Waxy O'Connors or Clutha Bar**, where, if you get a bit lucky, you will be able to enjoy **live music** besides, of course, some fine **pints of beer** to warm you up.


## Cultural festivities and Christmas traditions

Should you be on the lookout for more cultural options to enjoy Christmas in Glasgow, I suggest that you **book your tickets for the Royal Concert Halls**, since they have **special Christmas shows for kids and also adults alike**. If you are looking for a similar activity, but much more on the romantic side, then you cannot miss out on the **candlelit concert** that will be held on **December 22 aboard the Glenlee**, an old, open boat anchored right next to the Riverside Museum.

As for the rest of it, one of the **most peculiar Christmas traditions** that can be found in Glasgow is the **carnival** held every year in the month of December by **Irn Bru**, the flagship Scottish refreshment, barring the much **more elegant whisky**. There will be attractions for children of all ages, including older ones, so do not miss out on it if you are going to visit the city!

## A winter shopping guide to Glasgow

If you are going to be in town during the month of December, you will not want to leave without doing some **Christmas shopping in Glasgow**. The truth is that you will be lucky, since a beautiful tradition in the city is the **manufacturing and selling of handcrafts in flea markets**, of which **Rags to Riches**, the best and most famous one, is set up **every month of December in Southside**. This flea market encompasses over one hundred local craftspeople and traders, and it focuses on the sustainability of its products and their manufacturing processes.

On the other hand, should you be looking after more general and typical wintertime shopping, **you need to go to Barras Market** in order to find **vintage stuff**, to Buchanan Street for clothes and complements, to Hector Russell for the best kilts in town, or to **Argyll Arcade** for the most delicate pieces of **traditional jewellery**.

Whatever your plans are for this Christmastime in Glasgow, do not forget your cap and gloves, and set some extra time aside to enjoy its Winterfest and, since you are in one of the most interesting cities in Scotland, take the chance to join a wonderful [free tour in English](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow/glasgow-free-tour) at Scotland City Tours.

**Merry Christmas, and enjoy your time in Glasgow!**


Una-representación-fotorealista-y-panorámica-de-la-Plaza-de-George-en-Glasgow-durante-la-Navidad.jpg

 A complete guide to Christmas Nights in Glasgow

We will introduce you to the history of this medieval city, which is more than 3000 years old. We will walk through its most picturesque streets, such as the Royal Mile, Chambers Street or Victoria Street. Learn about the alleys where people lived in the 17th century. We will tell you how they died during the Black Death and about the beaked doctors who tried to cure them. Exciting stories await you!


Royal_mile_blog.jpg

Edinburgh

Best Tours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Walking Tours

This show, based on the namesake novel by [Diana Gabaldon](https://www.amazon.es/s?k=saga+forastera+diana+gabaldon&i=digital-text&language=en_US&__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=3EYH7Z3JHOMY9&linkCode=ll2&linkId=cbec271ebb8ad61364f7081ee41b68ac&sprefix=saga++fo%2Cdigital-text%2C177&tag=carlospaz-21&ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_7), tells us about **the adventures of Claire Randall,** a married nurse during World War II, who suddenly finds herself in **1743** Scotland, where she runs into the Jacobite uprisings and a handsome warrior from the **Highlands, Jamie Fraser**. If you want to know more, I suggest that you watch it, especially for its spectacular views (not only of the wonderful landscapes in these lands).

And now you must be wondering: what does all of this have to do with [Stirling](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/things-to-see-and-do-in-stirling)? Quite a bit, both within and outside fiction. You see, the city of Stirling has been one of the locations for the filming of the series, as well as the main actor of a long siege during the **Jacobite uprisings of 1745**, during which the series is set. Let us begin with the events that went around in those bygone times with a brief history lesson.

The **Jacobite uprisings were a series of revolts, rebellions, and wars** that took place in the British Isles between 1688 and 1746, whose goal was to return the throne to king James II of England, from the universally known **House of Stuart**, hence the name **Jacobite** by which the instigators of these revolts are known.

The **Jacobites** were mostly Irishmen and Scotsmen from the **Highlands**, Catholics who did not resign to handing **Protestants** access to the throne and power. But **it was in Scotland** where the highest number of uprisings took place, the latest one happening in 1745 in favor of **Bonnie Prince Charlie**. The latter gathered an army, mostly comprising clans from the Highlands, with which he took over [Edinburgh](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/things-to-do-and-see-in-edinburgh) and attempted to conquer all of **Scotland**.

It is then that **they arrive in Stirling**, the gateway to the **Highlands**, and they attempt to seize the city castle, unsuccessfully, despite keeping it under a state of siege for nearly a month, between January and February, 1746. This defeat in Stirling was the beginning of the end for the **Jacobites**, which would culminate with the **Battle of Culloden**, one of the cruelest to be remembered, and the last one fought in British ground up until today.

But let us now go back to present day Stirling, the one that has been an **Outlander** location, and even appeared on **Game of Thrones**. Where can we find these filming locations? Well, most of them can be found within or next to the University of Stirling (in which **Sam Heughan**, the actor who brings Jamie Fraser alive, has been recently named as an Honorary Graduate), and they are as follows:

## Pathfoot Buidling
This building, erected in 1967, can be found in the new campus of the University of Stirling, close to the main entrance. It makes an appearance in season two of the series as “**Inverness College**”.

## Dumyat
At the end of the university campus, an abandoned country cottage can be found with a spectacular view on Dumyat hill. This picture perfect location was used as a village in season one.

In order to find the following locations, we need to travel around 12 kilometers (roughly 7 ½ miles) away from Stirling, where they are found:

## Doune Castle
In the series, it is shown as **Castle Leoch** in season one, as the home of **Colum MacKenzie** and his clan in the 1600s. This castle has also **appeared on Game of Thrones and Monthy Python and the Holy Grail**.

![doune-castle.jpeg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/doune_castle_42711a39d9.jpeg)

## Deanston Distillery
Very close to Doune Castle, on river Teith and the entrance to Loch Lomond, this distillery can be found, which was formerly a **cotton factory**, even though it shifted to producing **[whisky](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/how-is-whisky-made)** in 1965 (which was undoubtedly more profitable). In season two of the series, the distillery is presented as the wine cellar that Jamie’s cousin, Jared, runs in the port of Le Havre.


To finish off our brief walk through history and Stirling, you may find here this map by [Visit Scotland](https://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/attractions/tv-film/outlander/) in which all **Outlander** locations, both in Stirling as well as in other parts of **Scotland**, are marked, just in case you might wish to recreate any other of your favorite scenes.


outlander.jpg

Outlander filming locations

It has always been said that battles are told from the perspective of the winning side, and the [battles of Bannockburn](https://somosescocia.com/blog/batalla-de-bannockburn) and [Stirling Bridge](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/Battle-of-Stirling-Bridge) can be counted among those. But, in order to provide some background, we need to go back a few years. More precisely, to the year 1286, when **king Alexander III** died in a horse riding accident. The worst thing about this is not that the king of Scotland had died, but the fact that his son and heir had passed away about two years before that. The next one in the succession line to the throne was one of his granddaughters, Margaret, the Maid of Norway; however, during the journey from Norway to Scotland to take the crown as queen, she would also perish.

![Lerwick Town Hall stained glass window depicting “Margaret, queen of Scotland and daughter of Norway”.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Lerwick_Town_Hall_stained_glass_window_depicting_Margaret_queen_of_Scotland_and_daughter_of_Norway_12a3a25bf9.jpg)
_Stained glass in the town hall of Lerwick (Shetland, Scotland). “Margaret, queen of Scotland and Maid of Norway”"_

After this misfortune, Scottish noblemen would fight for the throne, since Alexander III had no further heirs. In 1292, **John Balliol** would be elected to be the **new king of Scotland**, cherry-picked by Edward I of England. Since the noblemen did not seem able to reach an agreement, they sought the assistance of the English king to make a decision. That is how Balliol was chosen because he was the weakest of all candidates, one that Edward could rule over and treat as a vassal, and so Scotland fell under the domain of its archenemy. But John I of Scotland would turn out to be smarter than he seemed, and thus he signed an alliance with France, **The Auld Alliance**, in order to stand up to England. This would cost John Balliol the throne, since he would be ousted four years after his crowning by the very English.

![john balliol rey de Escocia.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/john_balliol_rey_de_Escocia_7cb1e76ef0.jpg)
_John Balliol, king of Scotland (source: Pinterest)_

The following years would be quite complicated, since Scotland was still smothered by the English yoke. In 1297, **William Wallace and Andrew Moray** would lead an army of 2 500 farmers and peasants into a battle against 10 000 English soldiers in the [Battle of Stirling Bridge](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/Battle-of-Stirling-Bridge). This battle would be won by the Scots. In this way, Wallace would embody the hope to retrieve his country’s independence, but he ran away to France after losing the **Battle of Falkirk in 1298** and, just a few years later, he would return to Scotland, where he was betrayed, delivered to the English, and tortured to death.

![Batalla del Puente de Stirling.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Batalla_del_Puente_de_Stirling_4368805716.jpg)
_<center>Battle of Stirling Bridge</center>_


**Robert the Bruce** picks up Wallace’s lead as **Guardian of Scotland**. In the year 1306 he was crowned as king, but he suffered several defeats owing to the brutality of the English, during which his army was severely decimated, and thus he was forced to flee as an outlaw. He sought refuge in a cave in Rathlin Island, in the north of Ireland. The legend says that, during his confinement, Bruce took notice of a very **persevering spider**, and he watched how it weaved its web over and over again, to no avail. It is said that this inspired him to keep on fighting against the English. Six times did the wind blow the spider’s cobweb away, six times it failed, the same number of battles that he had lost. But it did not give up and, on the seventh try, the spider succeeded in weaving a cobweb that not even the wind could tear down. If the spider had risen victorious on its seventh attempt, why could he not do the same?

In **1307, Robert the Bruce would return to Scotland** and, this time around, luck would be on his side. In that very same year, the **English king, Edward I, would die**. The heir to the throne, Edward II, was not interested in Scotland the same way his father was. Taking advantage of this, Bruce took the lead and, throughout the years to come, he would gradually begin to regain control of his country. **He started to win back castles, and he destroyed them** so that the English could never make any use of them again.

Seven years after returning from his exile, in **1314, Robert the Bruce had reconquered nearly all of Scotland.** Except for Stirling Castle, the most strategic of all, which was still in the hands of the English. Edward II of England had to teach those Scots a lesson; he departed to the north with 20 000 infantry soldiers and 3 000 knights, where he would be awaited by 7 000 brave soldiers along with their king, **Robert I of Scotland**, who led the way.

What happened during this battle would be the end of English dominion, since Robert the Bruce would win a [battle that lasted for two days](https://somosescocia.com/blog/batalla-de-bannockburn), July 23 and 24 of year 1314, thanks to a poor management of the battle strategy on the English side, and a wonderful layout and fighting as a single block on the Scottish side. 

![bannockburn.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/bannockburn_f0e4474916.jpg)
_Battle of Bannockburn, 1314, on the second day, the Earl of Gloucester charging against Edward Bruce’s schiltron. Author: Mark Churms._

Politically speaking, the **de facto independence of Scotland had been won**, and the **ruling of Robert I of Scotland** had been consolidated. On April 6, 1320, the **Declaration of Arbroath** was sent to Pope John XXII, in which Scotland demanded to be an independent and sovereign state, although independence would not be recognized until 1328.

![declaración de Arbroth.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/declaracion_de_Arbroth_a82d89acd2.jpg)
_Declaration of Arbroath._

**“As long as one hundred Scots remain alive, we will never, under any condition, be submitted to the English domain. For it is not for glory, nor riches, nor honor that we are fighting for, but for freedom itself, which no honest man would sacrifice but at the cost of his own life.”**

 The humble part about this feat is that the history of Scotland is marked by **the legend of a tiny spider**.

Bandera de Escocia.jpg

Wars of Scottish Independence

[**Stirling**](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/reasons-to-visit-stirling) is a small city of around 94 000 inhabitants, nestled in Scotland’s central region. In the beginning, it was little more than a burgh engulfing [**Castillo de Stirling**](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/fun-facts-stirling-castle), although, as time went by, it even came to be Scotland’s capital for a while.


### **From Edinburgh**


By road::

The fastest route from [**Edinburgh**](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/things-to-do-and-see-in-edinburgh) to Stirling is to follow the M9 for about 55 minutes, depending on the traffic. [Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Edinburgh/Stirling+FK8+2BY/@56.0029385,-4.1097932,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x4887b800a5982623:0x64f2147b7ce71727!2m2!1d-3.188267!2d55.953252!1m5!1m1!1s0x488862bfe1c7db3b:0x7b1bbad87a77927e!2m2!1d-3.9355603!2d56.1198154!3e0).

However, should you prefer to avoid having to drive while remembering all the time to stay in the left lane, we still have some more options left.

Train:
In order to reach **Stirling** from **Edinburgh** by train, one must head towards Waverley Station. From there, about 45 trains on average depart, bound for Stirling, on a working day, and the trip typically **takes about 50 minutes**, although it can take a bit longer on a weekend or during the holidays. 

Watch out! Because, even though it is usually a direct route, you may need to make a transfer at some point during your journey, so keep an eye open!

**Tickets from Edinburgh to Stirling cost around £12**, although they may end up being cheaper or more expensive depending on how far in advance you purchase them. If you buy them three months in advance, they will be cheaper than they would be if you booked them on the very same day of your trip, for instance. Prices may also shift depending on the time of the day that you wish to travel, which route, and which class you book.

| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Off-peak return | £12.60 |
| Billete de ida | £12.10 |

_Prices in this table are only for one way trips, unless it says otherwise. Prices for buyers in advance are subject to availability, and its cost may vary._


**The most affordable option**, if you purchase your tickets right before your journey, is the return ticket during off-peak hours (off-peak return). They are available all day long on Saturdays and Sundays, and from Monday to Friday as of 9:15 in the morning, except for trains departing from Edinburgh **between 16:30 and 18:00.**

This is the web to book your train ticket [TRAINLINE](https://www.thetrainline.com/es)

Bus:
at last, you also have the bus option, which is much more affordable (**approximately £4 - £11 per person**), even though it is also the slowest one. Here, we will find the following three options, all of which depart from Edinburgh Bus Station, **next to St. Andrews Square**.

![Estación de autobuses Edimburgo.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Estacion_de_autobuses_Edimburgo_4797c28ba8.jpg)

1 . [Bus number 909](https://bustimes.org/services/909-edinburgh-stirling-university-or-dunblane): This one is a bit more direct, and it only takes an hour and twenty minutes to get there, more or less, although it only departs once an hour.

![Glasgow Estación de autobuses.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_Estacion_de_autobuses_3c23e67154.jpg)

2 . [Megabus](https://uk.megabus.com/): This is a hugely famous bus company here in Scotland, which offers bus tickets at a very reasonable price to a wide array of cities within the island, so it is always advisable to have a look at it, even if you do not wish to travel to Stirling.

 

### **From Glasgow**

By road:
The most direct route from Glasgow to Stirling by road is the M80, which will take about 35 minutes depending on the traffic.

Train:
there are two train stations in Glasgow: Glasgow Central, and Queen Street station, the latter being the main one, as well as the one we will focus on, since the trip from Glasgow Central involves taking a train up to Queen Street, and making a transfer there, bound for Stirling.

**From Queen Street**, about 60 trains depart every day heading for Stirling, and the average duration of the trip is around half an hour, although trains can be slower if it is a weekend day, or holidays.

Once again, it usually is a direct route, but it is best to pay attention to the speakers, just in case you might need to make any unexpected changes.

Tickets from Glasgow to Stirling cost around £10.70, even though, just as it happens if you travel from Edinburgh, depending on how far in advance you buy them, the time of the day that you wish to travel, the route, and the class that you book, they may end up being more or less expensive. But the most affordable option is still to buy a return ticket during off peak hours (off-peak return).

| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Off-peak return | £10.80 |
| One way ticket | £10.70 |
_Prices in the table are only for one way trips, except when it says otherwise. Prices for buyers in advance are subject to availability, and its **cost may vary**._

![Glasgow Queen Street.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_Queen_Street_dd49f44703.jpg)

Bus: Should you prefer to take the bus, rather than the train, just as it happens when you travel from Edinburgh to Stirling, you have options such as **Megabus** and **bus 909** which, even though it runs through Edinburgh, it departs from **Buchanan Bus Station** in Glasgow, as well as all others which will be shown as follows. The remaining options available for you are:

![Estación de autobuses Glasgow.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Estacion_de_autobuses_Glasgow_f4cc74e166.jpg)
 
1 . [Bus X36](https://bustimes.org/services/x36-glasgow-stirling): This one, just like bus 83 from Edinburgh, is a line bus. The X makes reference to the fact that it is express, that is, it makes less stops and it (supposedly) takes a shorter time to arrive, even though the trip takes about an hour. They usually depart hourly, although the frequency is fairly higher during peak hour.

![Buchanan Station Glasgow.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Buchanan_Station_Glasgow_34dcfaf5b0.jpg)

2 . [Buses M8/M9/M11](https://www.citylink.co.uk/timetables/Winter19/glasgow-stirling%20summary.pdf): These buses are more direct, and they take about 45 minutes to take us to Stirling, even though they are somewhat more expensive, costing about £6 - £9, and they usually depart once an hour as well.

![Como llegar a Stirling-Glasgow.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Como_llegar_a_Stirling_Glasgow_72026d9421.jpg)

3 . [National express](https://www.nationalexpress.com/es): This would be the most expensive option, as far as buses go, from £8 per person for a one way trip, but they also take 45 minutes to complete their journey. What is the catch? Most of the time, there are only 1 or 2 a day.

![National Express Glasgow.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/National_Express_Glasgow_765d3d5d2d.jpg)

**These are the most affordable or direct options that we have been able to find, although there are surely many others. Should you find any other good, nice, and inexpensive way to get to Stirling, do not hesitate to share it with us, safe journey!**

Como llegar a Stirling.jpg

How to get to Stirling

## 1\. For its history and industrial past

The **River Clyde** has been the raison d'être of this city since ancient times, as it was the gateway to the Atlantic Ocean. The area is believed to have been settled since the Bronze Age, thanks to the natural space it offered for fishing and hunting.

Although **[Glasgow](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/things-to-do-and-see-in-glasgow)** was founded in the 6th century, it was not named a Royal Burgh until 1611. Its commercial port was of little importance until the 18th century, and the arrival of trade with the Americas in sugar, tobacco, cotton, linen and other important commodities of the time.

The Scottish Enlightenment produced great minds, but it was none other than **James Watt** whose improvement of the steam engine sparked the **Industrial Revolution**. It was the basis of the locomotive and, therefore, of the railway and the consequent development of communications that led to a spiral of progress in which we still seem to be involved today.

![Glasgow city.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_city_feab1f20d7.jpg)
_The River Clyde. Photography: Adam Marikar_

## 2\. For its museums

Glasgow offers a wide range of culture, with **more than 20 museums** and galleries of all kinds; **you won't get bored in 2 days**. From the classic museum to a motoring museum on the banks of the River Clyde, to one of the most important modern art galleries in Scotland.

Between all its museums there are more than 1.5 million objects on display, some by artists as important as Van Gogh, Monet or Degas. On second thoughts, you might need more than 2 days to see them all.

![Glasgow Museums.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_Museums_47296d0bd8.jpg)
_Kelvingrove Museum_



## 3\. Because it's a UNESCO City of Music

From festivals to small concerts, **Glasgow** has an impressive music culture. You'll find concerts every day of the year: bagpipes, jazz, funk, electronica and a whole host of other musical styles - it's a city that makes a lot of noise.

The **SSE HYDRO** is one of the largest concert venues in the world, and has hosted performances from **Paul McCartney, Backstreet Boys, Bruno Mars, Arctic Monkeys, Prince, Ed Sheeran, to Elton John and Madonna**.

![Glasgow HyDRo.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_Hy_D_Ro_314dc1da30.jpg)
_<center>The SSE Hydro</center>_


**Glasgow** is also the birthplace of bands such as Travis and Franz Ferdinand. Before you visit Glasgow, I recommend you check this website to see if there are any concerts or festivals that you like.

|Tours| 
|---|
|Book now [Glasgow Free Walking Tour](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow/glasgow-free-tour)|


## 4\. For its green spaces

With **more than 90 parks**, Glaswegians can boast about their green spaces, where you can play golf, or attend concerts and festivals.

**One of the largest is Glasgow Green**, a 55-hectare park relatively close to the historic centre. Also quite large is the 34-hectare Kelvingrove, next to which you can find the museum of the same name and the University of Glasgow. And another one I would like to highlight is the Botanic Garden, which is a bit more secluded, but if you visit the city outside the winter months it is a recommended visit.

![Glasgow Green.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_Green_99392d6a3d.jpg)
_Glasgow Green_


## 5\. For its shops

With just **over 1,500 shops spread across the city,** **Glasgow** is a shopper's paradise, second only to London in this respect. You'll find the most exclusive brands as well as those that are not quite as exclusive.

The main street for clothes shopping is Buchanan Street and it is a favourite shopping street not only for locals, but also for people from the surrounding towns and even Edinburghers. I hope you don't get lost in the fitting rooms and have time to visit the city.

![Buchanan Street Glasgow.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Buchanan_Street_Glasgow_565b5750d2.jpg)
_Buchanan Street_

## 6\. For the football

Although England invented football, **the first professional football player was Scottish and born in Glasgow**, by the name of Fergus Suter. Netflix recently released a miniseries telling his story: "The English game".

Glasgow has a great football culture with its two big football clubs and bitter rivals: **Celtic, a Catholic team**, and **Rangers, a Protestant team**. If you get the chance to visit the city on match day, I recommend you try to get a ticket to see it at the stadium, the fans are a pure spectacle, especially at Celtic's grounds.

![Glasgow Futbol.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow_Futbol_630f1b931f.jpg)
_<center>Football logos. Celtic and Rangers FC</center>_



**Football, museums, parks, shops, history... I think these are more than enough reasons to give this great city a chance. The city with the friendliest people in the UK, but a horrible Scottish accent.**

Glasglow PPL.jpg

6 reasons to visit Glasgow

![Glasgow lloviend.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow\_lloviend\_7903cd3cb3.jpg)

_<center>A beautiful spring day</center>_

I should also add that Glasgow is a windy city, so bringing an umbrella is not the best way to protect yourself against the rain; I always recommend bringing [**waterproof clothing**](https://www.amazon.es/s/ref=as_li_ss_tl?k=ropa+waterproof&__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=VSGZ1ZPPQ5OF&sprefix=ropa+water,apparel,205&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_10&linkCode=ll2&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=73374aa15fd34e5c34d97d1bf3b2b620&language=es_ES)!

## What's the weather like in Glasgow?

The **temperature** here is actually one of the "warmest" in all of **Scotland**, classified as an **oceanic climate**, due to the currents that travel over from the **Gulf of Mexico**. For this reason, **the average temperature in winter is 5ºC**; although that doesn’t mean the thermometers won’t dip below 0ºC some days! In summer the average temperature is around 20ºC, but it can occasionally reach 27ºC.

Also, most days are cloudy in this city, so a sunny day is indeed a gift. If this happens, don’t waste it! Do all the outdoor activities or tours you can, since it will surely rain the following day.

The coldest months are December and January, with very humid days and few hours of daylight. I don't want to discourage anyone from [​​visiting **Glasgow**](https://somosescocia.com/blog/que-ver-en-glasgow), but I have to tell the truth even if it hurts! However, the beautiful thing about visiting in December is getting to see the Christmas market in **George Square** (although it didn’t happen in 2020 due to **COVID-19**).

The warmest months are July and August, although the days can still vary a lot in temperature. One day it could be 25ºC with incredible sun and the next it will be 15ºC, cloudy and raining... seriously, always bring your waterproof clothing!

![Glasgow tiempo.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow\_tiempo\_531cecd8c9.jpg)

_<center>Glasgow, Renfrew Street</center>_

|Tours|
|---|
|Book our [Glasgow Free Walking Tour](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow/glasgow-free-tour)|

## Seasonal weather in Glasgow

### Winter

Depending on the month, temperatures can range from **-14ºC to 17ºC**. It’s not always that dramatic of course, so you should always check the weather forecast before visiting **Glasgow**.

### Spring

During this season, if you visit around April you can expect anything **between -4ºC to 24ºC**. These are the historical minimum and maximum temperatures seen in April, but the usual average is around 9ºC.

In May it rises to an average of 11ºC, and in June to an average of 14ºC.

### Summer

Don't let the season fool you, you will see cold and rainy weather on many days during these months. Even in July, the hottest month, **the average temperature is only around 16ºC**. **For me, who's been in the UK** for 11 years, this is a day for wearing shorts and a T-shirt; depending on which country you come from, this could feel pretty cold!

![Glasgow city.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow\_city\_1cf8474824.jpg)

_<center>Clyde river</center>_

### Autumn

This is one of my favourite seasons of the year, with those coppery and ochre colours that flood the parks and streets of **Glasgow**, as the leaves fall from the trees.

Here, humorously, we start saying **"Winter is coming"** from August onwards since the temperatures begin to drop again in September. October and November continue to get colder, with average temperatures ranging from 6ºC to 9ºC.

In December 1995, the country’s historical lowest temperature was registered at -19.9ºC; the historical highest was registered in June 2018 at 31.9ºC. However, as I say, these are very extreme temperatures and it is not usual for this to happen!

![Glasgow kelvingrove.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glasgow\_kelvingrove\_dbcfa3c465.jpg)

_<center>Kelvingrove museum</center>_

So, I think after all of that, you are now ready to [visit **Glasgow**](https://scotlandcitytours.com/blog/things-to-do-and-see-in-glasgow), whether in the cold winter or the less cold summer, with your waterproof clothing and comfortable, waterproof walking shoes.

Glasgow city.jpg

Weather in Glasgow

## History

The **origin** of this spirit is lost in antiquity. It is known that the Celtic people of Ireland brought distilling to **Ireland** in the 5th century. The first distillers, wherever they were based, made spirits that were too strong to drink, so honey was added to sweeten them, as well as spices and other ingredients, making the first whiskies more like liqueurs.

The origin of **the word whisky** itself is also unclear. In the 17th century it was called strong water (English), usquebaugh or uisge beatha (Gaelic) or aqua vitae (Latin), the latter being popular with whisky lovers as it means **'water of life'**. Whatever the origin, the word whisky did not gain official recognition until 1755 with its entry in the dictionary.

For centuries, whisky was a local drink. In the **Highlands** it was made in small stills and in the **Lowlands** large quantities were produced, mainly for export to England. Although the English would spoil it by re-distilling it with a vegetable product to make Gin – they will do anything to avoid accepting that **Scotch whisky** is good.

Between the 18th and 19th century, **whisky** was "legalised", i.e. an attempt was made to have fiscal control over the distilleries, which led to the birth of underground distilleries. In the end, the state legalised the use of small stills, thus ushering in the modern **Scotch** **whisky** industry.

In addition, in the 19th century, the popularity of whisky grew due to the invention of **Coffey stills**, or **continuous distillation**, which made whisky smoother and less intense. But the biggest uptick in its popularity was experienced thanks to phylloxera, an aphid that destroyed grape harvests in France, which reduced wine and cognac production and left people with no choice but to drink whisky.

And in the 20th century, oak casks that had previously held **Sherry** or **Bourbon** began to be used to mature the distillate, giving these spirits aroma, colour, flavour and character, but also thanks to the use of only water, barley and yeast, this **Liquid Gold** came to life.

Although **Scotch whisky** is the most popular whisky in the world (wherever I go and whenever I travel, I always find a piece of **Scotland** in the bars of the world), it cannot be said to be the best. For several decades now, different countries around the world have been specialising in the **distillation** of this drink, but it is the Japanese who take the lead in the **[World Whisky Awards](https://www.worldwhiskiesawards.com/)**. Japanese whiskies have been sweeping the board in recent years, although Canada, New Zealand, the United States and even India are achieving great quality in their distillates. In 2019, whiskies from these cold lands did not win in any category, but let's hope they receive more in the coming years, as I wouldn't trade Scotch whisky for that of any other country.

## Whisky Regions

Whisky distilling **regions**: **Islay**, **Lowlands**, **Highlands** and **Campbeltown**. These are the generic ones, as within the Highlands we have **Speyside** and Islands. The regions just help us to label the whisky, as nowadays a typical **smoky whisky** from the Islay region can also be made in the Highlands, for example.

![Regiones del whisky.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Regiones_del_whisky_2a3b4981cc.jpg)

## Types of whisky

Within the regions, there are also different types of whisky. I will summarise very briefly what they are:

### Single Malt

This is **single malt whisky**. “Malt” refers to the process of the germination of the grain: malting. "Single" refers to the origin of the whisky, a single distillery. The grain used for this whisky is barley, no other grain can be used. This whisky can be blended with another malt, either of the same or a different age, but they must be from the same distillery. It is the **most popular whisky** in Scotland. My favourites are the smoky ones.

### Single Grain

This would be whisky from **a single grain**. This can be barley, rye, corn or wheat, or unmalted grain. It is not very well known and is usually used to make blended whisky. I have never tried it, although I have a bottle of this type, a Clan Denny 21-year-old, which I hope to open soon.

![Clan Denny 21.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Clan_Denny_21_be727538a2.jpg)

### Blends

This is **blended whisky**. It is obtained by blending different whiskies, it must have at least one Single Grain and one Single Malt, but it can have many more. It is usually a very popular whisky. They are the most typical, as whiskies such as **[Ballantines](https://amzn.to/3ycUbZG)** or **[Johnnie Walker](https://amzn.to/3gIQ4Jd)** are of this type.

#### Blended Grain

This is one of the **rarest whiskies on the market**. To produce this type of whisky, you have to combine two or more Single Grains. I can say from my personal experience that the most famous Blended Grain whisky. [Compass Box Hedonism](https://amzn.to/3WoGLnN), does not disappoint, and is very good value for money.

#### Blended Malt

Another **rare** whisky. These whiskies are produced by blending two or more Single Malts from different distilleries. The most popular is **[Monkey Shoulder](https://amzn.to/3ycUbZG)**, but there are also lesser-known whiskies such as Glencoe MacDonald's 8-year-old with Cask Strength 58%. You can find them, as well as all other Blended Grains, at a good price.

![Glencoe MacDonald - 8 year old Whisky.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Glencoe_Mac_Donald_8_year_old_Whisky_fc16b59c64.jpg)

I would like to clarify one thing: **BOURBON IS NOT WHISKY**. What a pleasure it is to get that off my chest. Distillation was brought to the United States in the 18th century by Scottish and Irish settlers. Although the **origin of Bourbon** is not well documented, it is known that it began to be distilled in the same century that distillation arrived.

Experts have always included this drink in different types of whiskies, because the process to distil this spirit is the same as any other whisky, but (of course there is a but) the grain used has to be at least 51% corn, sometimes up to 70% or 80%, the rest being made up of different cereals. **Bourbon** also has no minimum ageing period, so products that have been matured as short as three months can be sold as Bourbon (any Bourbon aged less than 4 years has to be indicated on the label). In addition, this beverage has to be produced in the **United States**.

This is only a general overview of this drink, as there can be many variants of it. The most famous ones are **[Jim Beam](https://amzn.to/34W4yCy)**, **[Wild Turkey](https://amzn.to/3gL7JA0)** or **[Jack Daniels](https://amzn.to/3LrPiya)**.

If you want to immerse yourself more in the wonderful **world of whisky**, I recommend the book “**[Illustrated Atlas of Whisky](https://www.amazon.es/gp/product/846771607X?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=52610289cfc25c9d163a7749d9c2a590&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**”, by Michael Jackson (not the singer). It costs about 15€ and contains a lot of information to help you understand this drink and its origins.

Now comes the best part; it's time to decide what to order in the pub! And with more than 3,000 varieties, whisky is probably the most complicated drink to choose. Anywhere you go you can ask for "a dram of whisky, please", to which the bartender will reply "Which one, pal? So here are a few recommendations to make your choice easier:

## Lowlands

**[Glenkinchie 12](https://amzn.to/34W4yCy)**. Sweet and smooth, the whisky of Edinburgh.

**[Auchentoshan Heartwood](https://www.amazon.es/Auchentoshan-Whisky-Three-Wood-700/dp/B001LLUPIY?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=PSAM256Z5419&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Lx0eozZtS5R2Y4ykIhpwt0FAODszH5uI0CsfjpOZhdxvwDDg4wZAzJvqJ8PmNNtRN2njyQUhTHaa_lbjeCbawCdsQ3VX-M7knd4FfgvPzFCZDa9YBKq4v5VctT4llylgBwyumwLpgxJ47hySJhjWmSdI35LmLYV9wqf1FG08hYUSJLyS4dYT9sYZZBS57d-IH7Gl0aUjk9VpVdDUy7PLVcalG-_IhtTyH4LT80B27iQsL4qNVlbqWgooOgSu8i0UmHNqiv0q5NhrRzikG172lcco9R2yJL7nQ8CyyjGy2UA.0V6NlJGwogyRCc6QdrSl8MK6Kx0g4gMFQA_n4-T0_UE&dib_tag=se&keywords=Auchentoshan+Heartwood+whisky&qid=1714676433&sprefix=auchentoshan+heartwood+whisky%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=3afbbcd028c478c078a76f95c5a7e15c&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. Matured in bourbon and sherry casks.

## Highlands

**[Glengoyne 12](https://www.amazon.es/GLENGOYNE-24152-Glengoyne-12-A%C3%B1os/dp/B00IXL9MGG?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=2A95RVKRKAPXP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.k0rQ_I9tUvkI4-VJcv1dXo4txcS5FlV49NbtvySow5YFUjFVwiouWyaUkV4jtCIJB8F44KVlwbzqAlsRgAobGmNeHY3JO8yi8XZPJ7hD_hy9mEnkzvmN78_mBGTxM1aBdTkPI3fWMvLiIEwD_T4RPL4LOf1xQi3Q7ar_a-udDTT87ZUK68Xgj2ChV6vts5lF6Mk0QtqBUt8kC5MGXXTC8hhY7a2_GcT3F3PGSqGdQi_hNxspF2UZaABM112YO3v6Eb0DdF6H8x_8M9MhP9Ok-kXtajPC5wl87CVoG5vPb_s.JutCa_bFzhUkiLUXzswpFXaHM5rScVifDdRAiwQOw34&dib_tag=se&keywords=Glengoyne+12&qid=1714676525&s=grocery&sprefix=glengoyne+12%2Cgrocery%2C129&sr=1-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=698916cf2eeccdfb48f3e273f1f80cd1&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. Whisky that is very good value for money.

**[Ardmore](https://www.amazon.es/Ardmore-Legacy-70-L/dp/B00OGMTNT2?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=39GGVYXTXOS93&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.dBaX_Ik3tBqbsA-JC2gUbtKRrg2DSdVc8Jl1dmsFiBxUXTwa9UPTxlY7RJjULj18P3roiZoUY3g2aXF8iT9BmFcDBgZ93wKYVoSG3qvpHYy8OXPL4YBuF4P5PLJEBXtQ1h2OIPwhxJCYqTII-MrHtw.vlkXo8hLoC2JSu5N5aU5lkI5tk5GARFyQrtb5cPsRrY&dib_tag=se&keywords=Ardmore&qid=1714676551&s=grocery&sprefix=ardmore%2Cgrocery%2C87&sr=1-2&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=772f0fd25fcf8f8550286c3838b60e2a&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. From the region of Aberdeenshire comes this whisky, and it does not disappoint.

**[Highland Park 12](https://www.amazon.es/Highland-Park-Whisky-escoc%C3%A9s-paquete/dp/B01BP5O0JU?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=1GI4MOUJII5CE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.K2osXIy5pEni53CFzbsKk58BcK5fw3QcfvLZO-mVBUnMNfnrp0ireh2vHH0LBs7JS2DggiaEwl44Qrt9d5jEUsTpdpsrQ7KMs1SufhEkagzXgOSJG3kZfK7go4mDJ0BVA6S4Tuk9Ht4kEHbCTF_MSd7vF6hddLAbnJzOJKZ_EBQjsP5LR2C_O5-zPEiJwE0yWhITd_1QVsTvbBOQoTN2yltBj_JIJuD4bKnPfeXPOZhGMQm2Ob0lEwHI8-2owr7Oo0v5biEW5DXtQyOtSSsirIHD1QS7LIe7HBboxvFpfTs.Y01qxH-wOZofuzODgBEqGmuU8IzsOd0X1ColSTkdbno&dib_tag=se&keywords=Highland+Park+12&qid=1714676595&s=grocery&sprefix=highland+park+12%2Cgrocery%2C88&sr=1-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=e18014ccb397d262032d990d79fa6f51&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. From the remote Orkney Islands, a favourite of the Scottish people.

**[Old Pulteney 12](https://www.amazon.es/Ardmore-Legacy-70-L/dp/B00OGMTNT2?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=39GGVYXTXOS93&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.dBaX_Ik3tBqbsA-JC2gUbtKRrg2DSdVc8Jl1dmsFiBxUXTwa9UPTxlY7RJjULj18P3roiZoUY3g2aXF8iT9BmFcDBgZ93wKYVoSG3qvpHYy8OXPL4YBuF4P5PLJEBXtQ1h2OIPwhxJCYqTII-MrHtw.vlkXo8hLoC2JSu5N5aU5lkI5tk5GARFyQrtb5cPsRrY&dib_tag=se&keywords=Ardmore&qid=1714676551&s=grocery&sprefix=ardmore%2Cgrocery%2C87&sr=1-2&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=772f0fd25fcf8f8550286c3838b60e2a&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. Possibly one of the finest whiskies in the Highlands.

**[BenRomach 10](https://www.amazon.es/Highland-Park-Whisky-escoc%C3%A9s-paquete/dp/B01BP5O0JU?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=1GI4MOUJII5CE&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.K2osXIy5pEni53CFzbsKk58BcK5fw3QcfvLZO-mVBUnMNfnrp0ireh2vHH0LBs7JS2DggiaEwl44Qrt9d5jEUsTpdpsrQ7KMs1SufhEkagzXgOSJG3kZfK7go4mDJ0BVA6S4Tuk9Ht4kEHbCTF_MSd7vF6hddLAbnJzOJKZ_EBQjsP5LR2C_O5-zPEiJwE0yWhITd_1QVsTvbBOQoTN2yltBj_JIJuD4bKnPfeXPOZhGMQm2Ob0lEwHI8-2owr7Oo0v5biEW5DXtQyOtSSsirIHD1QS7LIe7HBboxvFpfTs.Y01qxH-wOZofuzODgBEqGmuU8IzsOd0X1ColSTkdbno&dib_tag=se&keywords=Highland+Park+12&qid=1714676595&s=grocery&sprefix=highland+park+12%2Cgrocery%2C88&sr=1-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=e18014ccb397d262032d990d79fa6f51&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. One of the best whiskies of recent years at an affordable price.

## Campbeltown

**Springbank 10**. A quality whisky, and somewhat rare to find.

## Islay

**[Laphroaig 10](https://www.amazon.es/Laphroaig-Whisky-Islay-Single-Malt/dp/B001GLG7C2?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=30T7DCCTIHRYB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Z6viJphi2Doat9X4mUu-S2WA-IZWgvSGNh6omv2ui4fDhzN0gzQKq1MSJ2Mx0K-BITb_o4q8hJMeb9HmRe8hA5NycGcMrW27Bhnz6RTQKypMOWitvq2pPlOeKpYruS9fW3pMsgxTPkhavGbXDyATwo3KXkyHV2koIcjmY9IzoDfGQINyrGCZmJT9ziF-Yp0_OuPIh0UeofdQJgusvGZqxsHQvn1-lMj_-7FJM8R5uNCv4z5qfYBZuCTG79B9WeE7qxZGi1e4O8V4TNoW_qVs0HYUNfYYHl9MTU12jXiYaEI.sgDCqHOOoCug84e3Y0qmzCqQFlq4UuHlbjfJgHv25iM&dib_tag=se&keywords=Laphroaig+10&qid=1714676687&s=grocery&sprefix=laphroaig+10%2Cgrocery%2C101&sr=1-4&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=054810932e507eab24e27a5bfd51706b&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. Once described as "a hospital on fire". Smoky whisky. If you like it, you'll fall in love with it. For the brave.

**[Kilchoman](https://www.amazon.es/Laphroaig-Whisky-Islay-Single-Malt/dp/B001GLG7C2?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=30T7DCCTIHRYB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Z6viJphi2Doat9X4mUu-S2WA-IZWgvSGNh6omv2ui4fDhzN0gzQKq1MSJ2Mx0K-BITb_o4q8hJMeb9HmRe8hA5NycGcMrW27Bhnz6RTQKypMOWitvq2pPlOeKpYruS9fW3pMsgxTPkhavGbXDyATwo3KXkyHV2koIcjmY9IzoDfGQINyrGCZmJT9ziF-Yp0_OuPIh0UeofdQJgusvGZqxsHQvn1-lMj_-7FJM8R5uNCv4z5qfYBZuCTG79B9WeE7qxZGi1e4O8V4TNoW_qVs0HYUNfYYHl9MTU12jXiYaEI.sgDCqHOOoCug84e3Y0qmzCqQFlq4UuHlbjfJgHv25iM&dib_tag=se&keywords=Laphroaig+10&qid=1714676687&s=grocery&sprefix=laphroaig+10%2Cgrocery%2C101&sr=1-4&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=054810932e507eab24e27a5bfd51706b&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. I always have a bottle at home. Islay's only independent distillery.

**[Caol Ila 12](https://www.amazon.es/Whisky-Kilchoman-Machir-Bay-70/dp/B07HTPVZKK?__mk_es_ES=%C3%85M%C3%85%C5%BD%C3%95%C3%91&crid=EXX5ZNKV66CY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.IR6YhqpTOlwnS4J4Mfr0zEiQuWgbMqbIxcEBydxGN1LR70Wdsh6J6Xd7YeduMSHNaYMzvlMnyHN8qoftnW6M_HwSo9SJ5PFomuN-1od2PCg.AHFTS6BGpGC3TKYkfztyyY0OYF5uUecCWCdTrCMrf_Q&dib_tag=se&keywords=Kilchoman&qid=1714676708&s=grocery&sprefix=kilchoman%2Cgrocery%2C92&sr=1-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=carlospaz-21&linkId=6f1f07fa28553c72339cc411cff5ac38&language=es_ES&ref_=as_li_ss_tl)**. This was the beginning of my relationship with smoky whiskies and has been my favourite ever since.

## Blended

**Great King Street Artist's Edition**. One of my favourites, a quality gift for someone who likes whisky. Easy to drink, and with a scandalously cheap price. For UK residents, here is a link where you can find whisky at a good price.

**To buy** If you have check-in luggage, I recommend **[Royal Mile Whiskies](https://www.royalmilewhiskies.com/)** (379 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PW, opposite St. Giles Church, [maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Royal+Mile+Whiskies/@55.9497157,-3.193923,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x4887c79aad37fbcb:0x25b6f3ddbcfc4f8e!8m2!3d55.9497157!4d-3.1917343)). Best prices in Edinburgh. If you can't take it with you, the Duty free at the airport also offers a wide range of whiskies.

![Royal Mile Whisky.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Royal_Mile_Whisky_05656ec782.jpg)

Another shop I recommend is **[Cadenhead's Whisky Shop](https://www.cadenhead.scot/)** (172 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DF [maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Cadenhead's+Whisky+Shop/@55.9511587,-3.1825471,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x4887c7887b21b6c9:0xc231ba8da2628e06!8m2!3d55.9511587!4d-3.1803584)), "**Scotland's oldest independent bottler**" is over a century old and experienced in selling "the water of life". They buy casks from distilleries which they bottle themselves, so you will find unique whiskies at a very reasonable price.

![Cadenheads.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Cadenheads_123a8af381.jpg)

I think that with this small article (and I say small because **the world of whisky** is much more extensive) you are now ready to survive in the pubs of **Edinburgh, Stirling** or any other city in Scotland. Cheers! or as they would say in **Scotland** "Slainte mhath" (slan-ye-var).


the ** HAGGIS ** is a typical Scottish dish? This preparation is served on BURNS day to the sound of bagpipes. Made with liver, heart and lungs of sheep, fat, oat flakes and mutton or beef,

whisky.jpeg

Whisky, Liquid Gold

**Glasgow Necropolis** is one of the main landmarks in the city’s history, and **a visit that no traveler should miss out on**.
**Celebrities**, **Victorian architecture**, **history-packed mausoleums**, and **breathtaking views upon Saint Mungo’s Cathedral and the Merchant City**…all of this and even more awaits you in this iconic Glasgow location!

**Glasgow Necropolis** is a sprawling Victorian cemetery located on a hill east of the city center, beside **St. Mungo’s Gothic cathedral**. It hosts a whopping **three thousand and five hundred mausoleums**, with **approximately fifty thousand people buried** therein even though, of course, not all of them have their own gravestone. It is one of the **finest historical landmarks in Glasgow**, and a **must-visit to understand the past of this cosmopolitan city**, built from the ground up by middle and well-off classes devoted to overseas trade and shipyards.

![Necrópolis Glasgow 7.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Necropolis_Glasgow_7_44ae72522d.jpg)

## Glasgow Necropolis background

**After the Enlightenment**, and especially during the early 1800s, there was a growing urge, both for the sake of hygiene and because of urban planning, to shift the location of downtown burial grounds and their surrounding churchyards towards the outskirts of cities.

The city of Glasgow would be one of the **first in the entire United Kingdom to take action** about this. Thus, following the due legislative overhaul (burials had pertained exclusively to the Church hitherto), the **new Glasgow cemetery opened its doors in April 1883**, beside a Jewish graveyard which had been inaugurated on the hillside a few months earlier.

The history of Glasgow Necropolis, which was soon referred to as the **“City of the Dead”**, would straddle throughout all the 1800s and well into the 1900s, sheltering the bodies of **dozens of thousands of citizens**, dotting the hill with **elegant sculptures and funerary monuments** which can still be visited to this day.

In 1996, the **Chamber of Commerce gifted the Necropolis to the city of Glasgow** for the enjoyment of all its citizens and visitors.

![Necrópolis Glasgow 6.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Necropolis_Glasgow_6_687c012097.jpg)

## Architecture and remarkable sculptures

By and large, **Glasgow architecture stands out for its Victorian buildings dating from the 1800s**, a century of financial buoyancy, and its Necropolis is no exception. Some of the best designers and architects of that era contributed to creating its **elegant mausoleums** and the bridge leading to the entrance, known as the **“Bridge of Sighs”** (therefore inspired by its namesake in Venice) since it was used by funeral processions to enter the Necropolis.

As for the **most remarkable monuments in Glasgow Necropolis**, the **statue of Protestant reformer John Knox**, dating back to 1825, is worth mentioning (it thus precedes the graveyard itself), as well as the **memorial to William Miller**, a renowned Scottish poet who penned the nursery rhyme “Wee Willie Winkie”.

The **Celtic cross-shaped gravestone devised by Charles Rennie Mackintosh** for Andrew McCall is also worth mentioning (it is rather difficult to find, but definitely worth the effort). You will find it at the foot of the southern hillside in the cemetery!

![Necrópolis Glasgow 9.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Necropolis_Glasgow_9_ba6debda42.jpg)

## Celebrities buried in the Necropolis

As underlined before, some of the **most relevant historical characters in Glasgow** are buried beneath its Necropolis. Such is the case of:

- **Charles Tennant**, a Scottish entrepreneur who became conspicuous for commercializing powdered bleach, founding a veritable empire in the local chemical industry. His **funeral sculpture**, in a nonchalant, unusual pose upon his gravestone, is amongst the most unique in the graveyard.
- **William McGavin**, an unfortunate entrepreneur and controversial preacher who still boasts a humongous monument to honor him in the Necropolis.
- **Hugh Tennent**, who in 1885, launched the production of the universally famous Scottish beer Tennent’s at Wellpark Brewery, with his gravestone facing its headquarters from the southern hillside of the Necropolis.


![Necrópolis Glasgow 1.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Necropolis_Glasgow_1_130c23ae4c.jpg)


## Cultural importance of Glasgow Necropolis

The Necropolis is one more **testament to the enormous cultural importance that the city of Glasgow attained throughout the 1800s and the early 1900s**. As stressed at the beginning of this article, this graveyard, inspired by the avant-garde Pére Lachaise cemetery in Paris, was **the first of its kind in Scotland, and a pioneer in the United Kingdom**. It serves as further proof of the power and relevance held by the bourgeois and the trading elite of a city which was regarded as the second most important hub in the British Empire!

It is also important to underscore that this Necropolis was one of the few at the time which made the effort to **keep a register of the deceased buried within its grounds**, not only including their names and date of death, but also the cause of their passing and their profession. A real gem for historical archiving!

Besides, the Necropolis is a **fine showcase of Scotland’s heritage** both culturally and also architecturally, since some of the best sculptors, architects, and designers at that time partook in its construction and evolution, featuring **Alexander “Greek” Thomson**, **J. T. Rochead**, and the aforementioned **Charles Rennie Mackintosh**.

![Necrópolis Glasgow 3.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Necropolis_Glasgow_3_a67647c850.jpg)

## Visits and guided tours

It is possible and highly advisable to visit Glasgow Necropolis, both on your own or with a **guided tour hosted by the Friends of Glasgow Necropolis association**. You can check further information on their official website and make your bookings there (try to do so as early as possible, since the vacancies fly!). Should you prefer to stroll through the graveyard on your own, but you still want to know all about it, the association also has **printed guides** at your disposal to make the most of your visit.

If you are also interested in getting to know the **history, architecture, and unique street and urban art** in the rest of this fascinating city, join one of our Glasgow free tours for further enjoyment!

## Conclusion

To conclude, **under no circumstances should you miss out on a visit to the Necropolis if you are in town**, since it is one of the **most famous and visited landmarks in Glasgow** and, besides that, you could also explore the neighboring St. Mungo’s cathedral and the rest of the Merchant City.

We hope that you find this guide to Glasgow and its Necropolis useful, and you come visit it very soon!


Necrópolis Glasgow 7.jpg

Glasgow Necropolis: A Journey Through History and Art

Charles Rennie Mackintosh is one of the forefront figures in the history of Scottish architecture and design. Not only his work proved fundamental to the development of the renowned Glasgow Style, but it also influenced European artistic movements as important as Symbolism and Modernism, leading British Art Nouveau alongside his wife, Margaret MacDonald.

![Charles Rennie Mackintosh 1.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Charles_Rennie_Mackintosh_1_37d07a3bc1.jpg)

## Biografía temprana

Son of Margaret MacIntosh (maiden name Rennie) and William MacIntosh, a local police superintendent, Charles Rennie Mackintosh **was born in Glasgow on June 7, 1868**, within an extensive family. His early education took place in public schools and institutions in the city. At some point during his youth, without knowing exactly why, **the spelling of his surname changed from MacIntosh to Mackintosh**.

**In 1884**, Charles **started working as an architect’s apprentice, and thus began his higher education at the Glasgow School of Art**, where he always stood out among his peers. Only six years later, he was already an associate of one the best architecture bureaus in the city, the same one where he had carried out his design and delineation internship.

His inspiration would always be rooted in Glasgow itself, as the city where he spent most of his life, and where he would become infused with Modernist and industrial ideas, as well as a new Asian style called Japonisme, since Japan held a close relation with the Clyde dockyards at the time. **Mackintosh loved the simplicity, pragmatism and use of natural materials** that such style boasted, being so **similar to Modernism** regarding its purity of lines and rejection of the pompous and the intricate.

![Charles Rennie Mackintosh 3.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Charles_Rennie_Mackintosh_3_4514bdf8a3.jpg)

## Glasgow Style

**As a combination of Japonisme, Modernism, Art Nouveau, and the influence that his vibrant hometown always exerted on him**, Charles Rennie Mackintosh gave birth to a new, original form of architecture and design: **the Glasgow Style**. Marked by its strong, **right angles and a liking for floral motifs**, Mackintosh would stand by it throughout his entire career.

But **no genius works alone**, and Charles was fortunate enough to closely surround himself with other brilliant personalities from contemporary arts and architecture. **Such is the case of Herbert MacNair, a peer from the Glasgow School of Art** and his subsequent internships, and an **inseparable friend of Mackintosh’s**. Both were fatefully introduced by the art school **dean to the sisters Margaret and Frances Macdonald**, whose artistic styles were strikingly similar to theirs, therefore, not only **they got married**, but they also collaborated throughout their whole lives by means of a **well-known group called The Four**. 

![Charles Rennie Mackintosh 6 rosa.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Charles_Rennie_Mackintosh_6_rosa_0edd8af83d.jpg)

## Main works by Mackintosh

Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s designs were highly popular in Scotland and, to a certain extent, also abroad in the early 1900s, at the height of his career.

Some of his main architectural works include:
- **the new Glasgow School of Art (1897-1909)**, which cemented his reputation internationally, and which sadly caught fire several times.
- **The Willow Tearooms (1903)**, an elegant tearoom that Mackintosh designed for the reputable entrepreneur Catherine Cranston. 
- The offices for the Glasgow Herald (1895), known nowadays as **The Lighthouse**.
- and **Hill House (1902-1904)**, which he erected for Scottish publisher Walter Blackie.

In almost all of his projects, **the creative mastermind in charge of the wondrous decoration would be his wife, Margaret MacDonald,** as both gave birth to designs as well-liked as the so-called “Mackintosh Rose”.  
    
    
![Charles Rennie Mackintosh 4 Hill House.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Charles_Rennie_Mackintosh_4_Hill_House_6cf326ed46.jpg)

## Personal life of Charles Rennie Mackintosh

As mentioned before, Charles Rennie Mackintosh **married a brilliant artist called Margaret Macdonald in 1900**. **The Mackintosh couple** would be one of the greatest, **most successful art tandems of their generation**, as both influenced each other’s styles, and their projects became their legacy and offspring. Charles himself would claim that his wife’s work always comprised three quarters of his architectural projects, and that he only had a dash of talent, but Margaret was a genius.

Even though the works of Margaret MacDonald were at that time, alongside her sister Frances’, as famous as her husband’s, nowadays she has somewhat fallen into worldwide anonymity, and only Art Nouveau and Scottish painting connoisseurs know and appreciate paintings as wonderful as **The May Queen or White Rose and Red Rose**.

![Margaret MacDonald.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Margaret_Mac_Donald_ea8c6b0ba1.jpg)

## Legacy and recognition

The legacy of Mackintosh and his colleagues exerted a far-reaching influence on Europe’s contemporary, Modernist architecture, and it poses one of the most relevant examples of Scottish architecture and design in history. His fame would grow ever larger after his passing in 1928, and **it experienced a remarkable revival in the 1990**s.  

Indeed, between November 1996 and February 1997, the **New York Metropolitan Museum of Art devoted a monographic exhibition to him**, accompanied by a series of symposiums and conferences convened by Scottish scholars such as Pamela Robertson. 

**Mackintosh’s face has also appeared on Scottish £100 notes**, and it has also been **immortalized in a dazzling piece of urban art in Glasgow by graffiti artist Rogue One**. If you wish to discover this painting and more incredible urban art, as well as some jaw-dropping Mackintosh buildings in the city, join one of our [Glasgow free tours!](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow/glasgow-free-tour)

If you are also going to visit Edinburgh, you should know that a branch of **The Willow Tearooms inspired by Mackintosh's architecture and design has recently opened its doors**. Stop by to have something and then take a walk with our free tours through the capital of Scotland!
    
![Charles Rennie Mackintosh 2.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Charles_Rennie_Mackintosh_2_87a292d691.jpg)

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* Who was Charles Rennie Mackintosh and why is he important?

Mackintosh was one of the most remarkable architects and designers in Scottish history, and one of the leaders of British Art Nouveau.

* Which are some of Mackintosh’s most famous works?

His most renowned works include the Glasgow School of Art, The Willow Tearooms, The Lighthouse and Hill House.

* How did Mackintosh’s style influence modern design?

Mackintosh designs influenced artistic trends such as Modernism and Symbolism, infusing modern architecture with his elegant, straight lines.

* Did Mackintosh take part in any notable collaborations throughout his career?

During his career, Mackintosh always collaborated with his wife, Margaret MacDonald, and frequently, with his sister-in-law Frances and her husband, Herbert MacNair, in a group known as The Four. 

* Where can I see Mackintosh’s works in the present?

Some buildings designed by Mackintosh can currently be visited in Glasgow and its surroundings, such as The Lighthouse, The Willow Tearooms, Hill House or the posthumous House for an Art Lover. 



Charles Rennie Mackintosh 1.jpg

Charles Rennie Mackintosh: The architect who revolutionised Art Nouveau

Glasgow Cathedral, also **known as St. Mungo’s Cathedral**, is one of the most unique and important monuments in Scotland. Not only is it the oldest building in the entire city, but it is also **the most ancient cathedral in mainland Scotland**, and the only one, alongside St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, in the Orkneys, **whose ceilings are originally Medieval**.
All of this makes Glasgow Cathedral **the most representative Gothic building** in Scotland, as well as one the most beautiful and interesting landmarks to visit in the entire country!

![Catedral de Glasgow 4.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Catedral_de_Glasgow_4_613729cf0b.jpg)

## History of Glasgow Cathedral

The history of Glasgow Cathedral dates back to **the first centuries of Christianity in Scotland**, when St. Mungo (also called St. Kentigern), patron and founder of the city, **carried the first sacred relics in the 500s**, building a hermitage and a church where he would be buried upon his passing, in the early 600s.

This early, modest foundation would **become an important pilgrimage site throughout the Middle Ages** and would give rise, in the 1100s, to the construction of Glasgow’s imposing cathedral right above St. Mungo’s burial place. Even though this **first cathedral was consecrated in 1136**, it had to be **rebuilt and consecrated once again in 1197**, after it was ravaged by a harrowing fire.

Glasgow Cathedral grew steadily throughout the following centuries under the oversight of different bishops, who also had to manage the restorations that the building occasionally required. One of them, William Turnbull, would also be the founder of the renowned Glasgow University in 1451, as its first lectures took place in the cathedral’s chapter house. 

**With the advent of the Protestant Reformation in the 1500s, Glasgow Cathedral was stripped of all its Catholic symbology**, as well as its sculptures, altars, and adjoining buildings. Luckily enough, **the main venue was adapted and remained operational for the new faith**, this being the reason why it has reached present day in an admirable state of preservation, since **the new Protestant ministers protected it against vandalism during the earlier years of the Reformation**, and also from falling into disrepair as time went by.

![Catedral de Glasgow 1.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Catedral_de_Glasgow_1_84014ed209.jpg)

## Monumental architecture

As we mentioned before, the **Gothic architecture of Glasgow Cathedral** is among the most beautiful and complex in all landmarks of this kind in Scotland.

Most of the building dates from the 1100s and 1200s, displaying some remarkable Gothic features such as rows of pointed arches, slender tracery windows and three domed corridors surrounding the presbyterium and the choir. The 1400s would witness further additions as stunning as the stone-carved pulpit and the imposing Blackadder corridor (named after the bishop who commissioned it), and, during the 1500s, the installation of delicate Flemish stained glass in the rose window.

**Speaking of stained glass**, it is also worth mentioning that some of its unique pieces were placed in the cathedral windows as late as the 1950s, including some notable examples such as **The Creation** or **The Evangelists**, by Francis Spear, or another one by Sadie McLellan depicting **Christ**.

![Catedral de Glasgow 2.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Catedral_de_Glasgow_2_03680a3bd2.jpg)

## Religious and cultural relevance of St. Mungo’s Cathedral

The first genuine remnant of the construction of Glasgow Cathedral in **this site lies within the crypt of the Lower Church**, where St. Mungo’s grave, patron of the city and noteworthy missionary during the expansion of Christianity in 500s Scotland, can be found. It is a holy place for Christians which has drawn pilgrims since the Middle Ages, and it can still be visited today alongside the rest of the building.

Therefore, St. Mungo’s cathedral not only encompasses several centuries of city history and Scottish Gothic architecture, but also a feeling of belonging to the Christian community whose spiritual services, Catholic at first, and then Protestant, have been administered since its foundation.

![Catedral de Glasgow 6.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Catedral_de_Glasgow_6_34f1d15a7b.jpg)

## Visiting Glasgow Cathedral

**How to get there:**

- If you are spending a few days in Glasgow, you may visit its cathedral easily, since it can be reached in just a 15-minute stroll from the city center. 
- Should you be in Edinburgh, you just need to board one of the countless trains departing from Waverley Station, joining both cities in just under an hour.

You can even take this chance to get to know the rest of elegant, history-rich Glasgow with one of our [free tours] (https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow/glasgow-free-tour)! 

**Schedule:**
Glasgow Cathedral is **open from 09:30 to 17:30** (on Sundays it opens at 13:00) from April to September, **and from 10:00 to 16:00** (starting at 13:00 on Sundays) between October and March. You might find that the monument **is closed from 12:00 to 13:00 due to staff breaks**.

**Price:**

Admission to the Cathedral **is completely free of charge**, although donations are welcome. Audio-guides are available for just £2.

Find further information here, at [the official website](https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/glasgow-cathedral/overview/)

## Fun facts about St. Mungo’s Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral is home to many secrets and fun facts which are worth mentioning.

1. Even though it is a Christian place of worship, violence was rampant in the Middle Ages and there were different moral standards; owing to this, **the head of Somerled**, Lord of the Isles, half Norse and half Gaelic, who perished in the Battle of Renfrew (1164) attempting to invade Scotland, **was kept for a long time within the cathedral as an offering to St. Mungo**, to whom the citizens ascribed their victory. 
2. The Wars of Scottish Independence also brought about some curious facts, such as **Edward I of England visiting the Cathedral in 1301 to pay his respects to St. Mungo**, or also **Robert the Bruce in 1306, seeking the protection of the Bishop of Glasgow**, his friend Robert Wishart, after he murdered John Comyn, who contested his claim to the throne of Scotland.
3. Leaving trivia aside, Glasgow Cathedral might also strike visitors as familiar due to its plentiful appearances in cinema, since it was used as a filming location for movies such as **The Batman** (2022) or **Outlaw King** (2018), as well as series as popular as **Outlander**.

![Catedral de Glasgow 3.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Catedral_de_Glasgow_3_c40b33f9c1.jpg)

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

- **Is Glasgow Cathedral an actual cathedral?**
_Even though it has not served as the seat of a bishop since 1690, it is still referred to as a cathedral due to its historical and architectural importance._

- **What makes Glasgow Cathedral unique compared to other Scottish cathedrals?**
_It is the only Medieval cathedral in mainland Scotland to survive Scottish Reformation almost unscathed, which makes it a living testament of the country’s history._

- **Which are its most remarkable architectural features?**
_The cathedral is renowned for its spire, an addition from the 1800s, as well as its stained glass and the fact that it has been a coveted filming location for several Hollywood films._

- **When is the best time to visit Glasgow Cathedral?**
_The Cathedral is open to the public all year round, with specific opening times from April to September, and October to March._

- **Is there an admission fee?**
_Admission to the cathedral is free of charge, which makes it accessible to all visitors._


Catedral de Glasgow 4.jpg

Glasgow Cathedral: Everything you should know, and then a bit more

Valentine’s Day is marked **every February 14**, an originally **Catholic festivity** that commemorates the good deeds performed by this saint in 3rd-century Rome, thus replacing pagan Lupercalia. Even though many of the legends and traditions surrounding Saint Valentine, as well as his relation with romantic love, were created much later, it’s still a thoroughly charming date for couples wishing to indulge in a romantic getaway.  
**Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh is ideal to celebrate this date!**

## Why Edinburgh for Valentine’s?

To celebrate **Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh is one of the most romantic ideas** you can surprise your partner with for a variety of reasons: the Old Town’s ancient and mysterious vibe, the picture-perfect wintry light in the city, the abounding restaurants and charming pubs in the centre and **the ideal cultural activities for couples**, among many other things.
**Few romantic plans in Edinburgh** beat a wintry walk through the Royal Mile, Grassmarket Square or the Water of Leith, finishing with a pint in a warm, cosy pub and a **candlelit dinner** in a New Town restaurant.

## Romantic accommodation in Edinburgh

Edinburgh features plenty of **ideal romantic lodges for a Valentine’s getaway**. Some of the best ones include the following:

### The Witchery by the Castle  -> [Book now](https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-witchery-by-the-castle.en.html?aid=1433459&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA)

If money is not a problem, this gothic and luxurious hotel placed in the Royal Mile, right beside the castle, is your best chance. There are only nine suites, so book in advance!

[![The-Witchery-by-the-Castle-habitacion.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/The_Witchery_by_the_Castle_habitacion_e66d3371e4.jpg)](https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-witchery-by-the-castle.en.html?aid=1433459&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA)


### The Balmoral Hotel -> [Book Here](https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-balmoral-edinburgh.en.html?aid=1433459&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA)

An all-time classic of romantic lodging in Edinburgh, you can’t go wrong with this!

[![Balmoral.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Balmoral_e48844fdea.jpg)](https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/the-balmoral-edinburgh.en.html?aid=1433459&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA)

### Prestonfield House  -> [See more](https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/prestonfield-house.en.html?aid=1433459&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA)

Placed beside Arthur’s Seat, this 1600s hotel has the most amazingly romantic and dazzling atmosphere in this selection. Peacocks, dreamy views, and candlelit dinners, what else could you wish for?

[![Prestonfield-House.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Prestonfield_House_da94e16d46.jpg)](https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/prestonfield-house.en.html?aid=1433459&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&room1=A%2CA)


## Foodie experiences for lovers

Although you can enjoy the best romantic supper in Edinburgh in any of the previously mentioned lodges and their corresponding restaurants, here are a few alternative options to **surprise your partner for Valentine’s** with a **brilliant foodie experience**:

- **The Kitchin**: this excellent, **Michelin-star restaurant** only uses exclusive local products and features several menu choices depending on your budget. It is considered as **one of the five best restaurants across the United Kingdom**!

![the-kitchin.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/the_kitchin_d1f9596e58.jpg)

- **Fishers in the City**: this is **one of the most famous seafood restaurants in Edinburgh**, and for good reason. You can pick between their venues in the New Town, Leith or even The Shore, their avantgarde cuisine eatery. It’s a safe choice!

![fisher-in-the-city.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/fisher_in_the_city_228b0a7151.jpg)

- **Origano Café & Pizzeria**: should you prefer a less costly experience with a humble and intimate charm, there’s no going wrong with this pizzeria in Leith. Candlelit pizza and wine, the best romantic supper!

![Origano-cafe-and-pizza.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Origano_cafe_and_pizza_402718e888.jpg)

- ** Hot Toddy's**: Hot Toddy’s cascading plants and enchanting lights provide **the perfect setting for a romantic evening** creating a dreamy midnight garden atmosphere. Located in **Edinburgh’s romantic Old Town**, it’s the perfect space for an intimate **candlelit dinner**.

![Hot Toddys v2.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/Hot_Toddys_v2_d9d724ab99.jpg)

## Romantic walks through Edinburgh

One of the** best romantic plans to do in Edinburgh** for Valentine’s is to **stroll some of its historic streets and avenues, or also its parks and green areas.**

If you are a history and architecture buff, nothing beats a lengthy walk through the best of the Old Town, Medieval Edinburgh’s beating heart: take your partner on a trip across its streets, discover its closes, take a break in its cute cafés, buy some gifts in its shops, or visit the castle. **Watching the sun set upon the old town** from the window of a quaint, traditional pub is an ideal way to wrap up your day.

![edimburgo-4.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/edimburgo_4_4410dccf10.jpg)

The same applies to the elegant **New Town**, where you can **stroll Princes St. and its jaw-dropping gardens**, or walk down to adorable **Dean Village**, a village frozen in time in the midst of the city, from which you can enter the lovely waterway of Water of Leith. A dusk at the monumental **Calton Hill is the perfect finishing touch to your Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh**!

![calton-hill-san-valentin-scotland.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/calton_hill_san_valentin_scotland_51343f2dcc.jpg)

If it’s your first time in the city, there’s nothing better than joining a [free tour to explore both areas and master all of their secrets](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-edinburgh/edinburgh-free-tour). 

## Cultural activities for couples

As for couple experiences in Edinburgh, one of the best cultural choices is to **visit some museums or art galleries**. Most of them have **free admission**, and there’s plenty of them catering for all tastes. Don’t leave them as a last-ditch option for a rainy day, you will love perusing them!

**You mustn’t miss a visit to the National Museum of Scotland**, which deserves a whole day on its own just to wander its premises, packed with natural and historical trivia. If your partner is an art buff, you have got to take them to emblematic landmarks such as the National Gallery or the Portrait Museum.

Finally, it is paramount to book your tickets to some of the **Candlelights Concerts** taking place at **St. Giles’ or St. Mary’s cathedrals**. I can’t think of anything more romantic to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh! **On February 14, two of these concerts will be held: **Moonlight Sonata, featuring classical music at St. Giles’, and a Tribute to Queen for rockers at St. Mary’s. **

![candlelight-edinburgh-concert.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/candlelight_edinburgh_concert_b1a6362234.jpg)

## Romantic getaways near Edinburgh

If you have a couple of extra days, you may wish to complete your Edinburgh Valentine’s with a memorable getaway around its surroundings. We suggest you choose a nearby place in order to fully enjoy your experience without transport being a problem.

You can pick destinations as incredible as **Stirling**, teeming with history and charm throughout its **beautiful castle and old town**. Or [Glasgow](https://scotlandcitytours.com/tours-glasgow), featuring **refined museum** and **elegant architecture**. **Dunfermline**, with its mind-blowing abbey and church, and **the romantic Pittencrieff Park**. Or also **South Queensferry**, a lovely seafaring town **with a view on the Forth Bridge**. 

You can reach any of these places on your own, by train or, should you pick Stirling or Glasgow, also with our [walking tours](https://scotlandcitytours.com/)! 

## Tips to prepare your perfect Valentine’s in Edinburgh


My first tip to plan a proper Valentine’s in Edinburgh is to **book** your flight, accommodation, restaurants, tours, and activities **as early as possible**. Even though February is off-season, this city, with its lovely wintry atmosphere, is perfect for a romantic trip and you will find a laidback feeling, but it is not off the beaten path.
So, wait no longer, **pick a beautiful lodging, a couple of nice restaurants, and some tours, walks and concerts, and give your partner the surprise of their lifetime with a magical Valentine’s in Edinburgh! **



calton-hill-san-valentin-scotland.jpg

Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh: a guide to an unforgettable romantic celebration

# Introduction to the Christmas markets of Europe
The European Christmas market, as a modern phenomenon, is a long and historical tradition, with its origin being found during **The Middle Ages** in The Holy Roman Empire (more specifically in what is today’s Austria and Germany). 
During the 13th and 14th centuries, **the Holy Roman Emperor** would give his permission to various cities, such as Vienna and Munich, to hold **special markets at the start of winter** with the aim of stocking up on products for the rest of the season. Bit by bit, these markets became more sophisticated, more complicated, and it was **the market of Dresden in 1434** that would become the first market that we could consider as a **mirror of the Christmas markets** that we see dotted around Europe today. 

Nowadays, these markets are usually held **from the end of November until the end of December** and are the perfect places to wrap up warm on a cold winter’s day, whilst losing oneself amongst the various stalls that sell all sorts. **Whether that be eating something sweet or drinking a nice mulled wine or warm cide**r. Perhaps you’re there to do a bit of shopping where there are no shortage of artisanal products and Christmas themed presents. You might be there for the fun and games, so why not have a go on the attractions, or perhaps you’re there for the biggest attraction of them all; the man in the big red suit himself, Santa.

![mercado de Navidad de Manchester.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/mercado_de_Navidad_de_Manchester_adcea3018d.jpg)

## Selection of the best Christmas Markets throughout Europe.

Each and every year, **there are thousands of these Christmas markets** being held the world over. However, if you want to know which are the best in Europe, here is a list of those that you simply cannot afford to miss, with particular attention being paid to those in the UK. 

Some of the best Christmas markets in the UK are found in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester and York. However, it must be said that amongst these, without a shadow of a doubt, the Edinburgh Christmas market is the most charming and one of the most extensive and visited that there is. For this reason, the Edinburgh Christmas market is widely recognized as one of the best and usually takes top spot in the annual lists of best Christmas markets, not just in the UK, but throughout Europe as well. As if that wasn’t enough, the Scottish capital also comes to life with Christmas spirit and endless entertainment with many magical events, one such being the special illumination spectacular of Edinburgh Castle.

Throughout the continent, there is still plenty to see such as the amazing markets of Budapest, Cologne, Salzburg, Essen and, of course, those of Viena and Munich which as previously mentioned, are bound in history and tradition. It would be remiss of us to not mention those of the capitals of the Baltic countries, such as that of Riga, which even though generally smaller in size, their iconic snowy urban landscapes more than make up for it.
![mercado de Navidad de Budapest.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/mercado_de_Navidad_de_Budapest_be1b7054f3.jpg)

## Christmas Markets 2023: New Attractions and Events
The European Christmas markets of 2023 are full of new and exciting attractions that you don’t want to miss, such as the **Christmas carol concert in Salzburg**, the **Christmas tree with** more than **2000 LED lights that will light up Vienna**, or the impressive **Christmas parade in Manchester** that will take place on the 3rd of December.

**The Scottish Christmas markets** aren’t exempt from the list of places with captivating and original activities, such as the **Santa race and the dog show “Santa Paws”** that will take place on the 9th of December in Edinburgh. These aren’t the only attractions in Edinburgh where you can also take in a spectacular view of the city from the ferris-wheel, ride the daring Starflyer with its flying seats, have a go on the ice-rink, try some traditional food and drink and of course, the previously mentioned **light show spectacular of Edinburgh Castle.**
![mercado de Navidad de Colonia.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/mercado_de_Navidad_de_Colonia_fd1569b33c.jpg)
This winter, to top off your visit to Edinburgh and this enchanting Christmas market, why not take part in a wonderfully special Christmas walking tour of Edinburgh, a city which dresses itself up to the nines during this magical time of year.

## Guide to taking advantage of the Christmas Market on your trip to Edinburgh.
Visiting Christmas markets throughout Europe in December is an ideal activity for a short city break, whether it be just a couple of days, or a cheeky 5-day weekend. In such a short space of time, it’s not unreasonable to think you could discover a number of exciting different cites such as Viena, Budapest, York, Glasgow or Edinburgh. 
If the latter is what tickles your fancy, and a visit to the Christmas markets of the UK is on the cards, a enticing proposal could be as follows: Why not spend three days in Edinburgh getting to know everything that the city has to offer through its walking tours, and then just a short train ride away you have Glasgow, where you could spend a fourth, and perhaps fifth, day becoming acquainted with its own market, its monuments and its elegant architecture.


## Economical Options: Low-cost European Christmas Markets
For the traveller in search of a more budget friendly Christmas market, a great option could be the markets of the Baltic countries, amongst which stand out the **Christmas market of Riga,** or those of Eastern Europe such as **Budapest or Gdansk**. 
With this being said, any other European destination could become a relatively economic option if the right choices are made.
If your goal is to visit the Christmas markets in places like Germany, Austria, England or Scotland, don’t deprive yourself of the opportunity, plan well and opt for cheaper accommodation options, such as hostels. Or else stay for fewer days but take full advantage of them by organising yourself well.
![mercado de Navidad de Viena.jpg](https://somosescocia.lon1.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/strapi/mercado_de_Navidad_de_Viena_c4f3f7616b.jpg)

## Conclusion: Preparations for an Unforgettable Christmas Experience.

The best piece of advice that I could give you for an unforgettable Christmas experience, is to let yourself be guided by the destination that excites you the most and then adapt your trip and your budget to that destination. **Christmas is there to make dreams come true!**

In terms of everything else, try to book your flights and accommodation as soon as possible, or if you’re a little late to the party, have a good look at the last-minute deals on offer from the airlines and have at it. 
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, make sure you book early whatever special Christmas events you want to go to, and **take advantage of the city’s walking tours** to really get to know the city you’re visiting. After all, you chose that city for a reason!

Last, but certainly not least, enjoy to the fullest your trip to **the best European Christmas markets of 2023!**
