The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is situated on the River Clyde and possesses a long history as a thriving commercial port city. Extremely proud of its working-class roots, Glasgow is best known for expert shipbuilding, raucous football, lively music, and brilliant museums. The streets are lined with stunning architecture comprised of famous buildings, stately Victorian homes, and medieval historic sites. All these compelling elements make Glasgow a surprising mix of upscale sophistication and rugged earthiness. If you’re traveling alone to Glasgow, keep reading for a fabulous list of the best things to do alone in Glasgow, Scotland.
1. Join a bike tour around Glasgow (from USD 75.2)
Experience the vibrant heart of Glasgow in a whole new way with this guided bike tour. Explore this historic city atop a bicycle and uncover its rich history as you follow the expert guide to some of its most iconic landmarks, including the renowned Glasgow University and the splendid Kelvingrove Museum.
With a duration of three hours, this tour promises an intimate and personalized experience. Glide along the scenic Kelvin River, soak in the picturesque waterfront, and marvel at the city’s architectural gems. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating tales of Glasgow’s role in the empire’s making.
Glasgow Highlights: Guided Bike Tour with Snacks
Duration: 3.0 hour
2. See art exhibits at Gallery of Modern Art
Welcome to GoMA, the premier destination for modern art enthusiasts in Scotland. Nestled in the heart of Glasgow, this iconic gallery serves as a haven for those in search of inspiration and intellectual exchange through the transformative power of contemporary art. GoMA’s mission is to kindle a passion for art, inviting visitors to engage with the captivating stories and human experiences that artworks convey.
Housed within a historic building that once symbolized trade and commerce, GoMA now thrives as a hub for creative dialogues and social engagement. Explore the four galleries, library, and gallery shop, and immerse yourself in the world-class art collection that transcends borders.
Gallery of Modern Art
Address: Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH
Website: Gallery of Modern Art
Opening hours: Mon - Thurs, Sat: 10am - 5pm; Fri & Sun: 11am - 5pm
Price: Free
3. Admire gothic architecture at Glasgow Cathedral
Wondering where to go in Glasgow? Visit one of Glasgow’s oldest buildings, which serves as an exquisite example of Gothic architecture. Glasgow Cathedral features amazing sights like a crypt housing the tomb of the city’s patron saint, lovely hand-carved pews, a ceiling adorned with vibrantly painted carved-stone bosses, and a huge collection of shimmering stained glass. To get an intimate look at Glasgow Cathedral, take a complimentary hour-long tour by a volunteer guide.
Glasgow Cathedral
Address: Cathedral Precinct, Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, UK
Website: Glasgow Cathedral
Opening hours: Varies
Price: Free
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4. Check out The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
If you’re taking a stroll in the popular West End neighborhood don’t miss the chance to visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This is an age-old structure showcasing some outstanding architecture as well as a wide-ranging collection of over 8,000 objects and a variety of alluring themed exhibits. A standout is the suspended Flying Heads installation that greets visitors as they enter the foyer. From dinosaurs to Dali, this is a must-see museum covering a mind-boggling amount of material but well worth the time.
The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Address: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, UK
Website: The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 5pm; Mon - Thurs: 10am - 5pm; Fri: 11am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm
Price: Free
5. See the filming locations of the Harry Potter movies at Glasgow University
If you’re a fan of Harry Potter then you must check out where the filming of the legendary wizard’s action took place at Glasgow University. The grand interior is one of the central filming locations of the Harry Potter movies and it’s easy to see why, as the stunning gothic-revival style easily matches the magical world of JK Rowlings’ creation. Considered by many to be the most beautifully striking of all the universities in Glasgow, the producers of Harry Potter clearly knew what they were doing when they chose Glasgow University as the backdrop of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Glasgow University
Address: University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
Website: Glasgow University
Tour hours: Sun - Tues: 11am & 2pm (seasonal)
Price: 13 USD
6. Stroll along Kelvingrove Park
One fun thing to do in Glasgow’s city centre is to visit Kelvingrove Park, one of the most delightful oases in the city. A wonderful area to enjoy a leisurely walk, this large Victorian park is located on 34.3 hectares (85 acres) of a beautifully manicured landscape. Don’t be surprised if you encounter various species like eye-catching red foxes, mischevious otters, and brightly colored birds. Make a point to walk the nearby area of Kelvin Way, a gorgeous tree-lined street and an ideal spot to snap endless photos.
Kelvingrove Park
Address: 6 Professors’ Square, Glasgow G3 6BY, UK
Website: Kelvingrove Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Visit Winter Gardens and People’s Palace
To uncover the scope of Glasgow’s history, culture, and people, spend the day at the wonderful Winter Gardens and People’s Palace. Tracing Glasgow’s origins beginning in the mid-1800s to the present, Winter Gardens and People’s Palace is a genuine gem. Boasting a fine collection of historical artifacts, beautiful artwork, fascinating photographs, and more, this is a top-notch place to discover Glasgow’s richness. The spectacular greenhouse displaying a multitude of greenery only enhances the visit.
Winter Gardens and People’s Palace
Address: Glasgow Green, Templeton St, Glasgow G40 1AT, UK
Website: Winter Gardens and People’s Palace
Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 5pm; Mon - Thurs: 10am - 5pm; Fri: 11am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm
Price: Free
8. Enjoy exciting shopping at Buchanan Street
One of the main shopping venues in Glasgow, Buchanan Street is the go-to destination if you love to shop. Offering a wide-ranging variety of wares, Buchanan Street is popular with tourist and locals. Many looking for the latest in fashion and gadgetry head to Buchanan Galleries, a dazzling mall filled with over 90 fashion, electrical, and gift outlets plus several tasty restaurants. With Glasgow’s somewhat unpredictable weather, Buchanan Street can be a great way to spend a rainy day.
Buchanan Street
Address: Junction between the Merchants City and GlasgowÍs Victorian commercial heart
Website: Buchanan Street
Opening hours: Varies
Price: Free
9. Catch a race at Glasgow Tigers Speedway
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Want a supreme adrenaline rush? Then head to Glasgow’s premier racing venue, Glasgow Tigers Speedway. You’ll be on the edge of your seat the entire time as you witness the Tigers compete against nine other top teams from across the United Kingdom. There’s definitely an excitement in the air when the race is on. The Tigers ride 500cc bikes with no brakes, on one of the fastest tracks around. Don’t miss this high-octane action!
Glasgow Tigers Speedway
Address: The Peugeot Ashfield Stadium, 404 Hawthorn St, Glasgow G22 6RU, UK
Website: Glasgow Tigers Speedway
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 22 USD
10. Have fun at Glasgow Science Center
Another place to visit alone in Glasgow is the Glasgow Science Center, dedicated to educating everyone about the concepts of science and technology through fun and compelling interactive exhibits and displays. A few highlights of the Glasgow Science Center are the captivating state-of-the-art planetarium and impressive IMAX theater. And, of course, don’t miss the opportunity to play the huge walk-on piano! Glasgow Science Center is the only museum in Glasgow where you must pay an entrance fee, but it is worth the price of admission.
Glasgow Science Center
Address: 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow G51 1EA, UK
Website: Glasgow Science Center
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily in summer) / Wed - Fri: 10am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm (winter) (closed Mon & Tues in winter)
Price: 15 USD
11. Watch a show at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Founded in 1845, The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland boasts a rich history: Charles Dickens gave the establishment’s inaugural address here. Hosting over 500 performances yearly, The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is one of the most illustrious schools for the performing arts in the world, and it represents just about every aspect of artistic endeavor. From thought-provoking plays to dazzling dance productions to delightful pantomime shows, you can find it all at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Address: 100 Renfrew St, Glasgow G2 3DB, UK
Website: The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Opening hours: Varies
Price: Varies
12. Attend Glasgow Jazz Festival (from USD 24.0)
Descend the stairs to The Blue Arrow and savor a freshly prepared cocktail while listening to some of the best melodic sounds from the Glasgow Jazz Festival. Housed in a hip compact space with mood lighting and a speakeasy feel, this lively basement establishment affords patrons the opportunity to hear the coolest jazz tunes from eclectic soundscapes of ECM to influential American popular songs and jazz classics from the early 20th century.
Live Jazz in association with the Glasgow Jazz Festival
Glasgow's solo fun time
If you’re going on a solo trip to Scotland, there’s no need to feel glum. In fact, it would be impossible with everything from enticing museums to high-speed racing action to amazing architecture to bolster your experience. Alone time in Glasgow doesn’t mean lonely time. It’s only an opportunity to uncover many impeccable Scottish treasures.
If you’re seeking accommodation options for your vacation, consider exploring these castle hotels in Glasgow.
Frequently asked questions about best things to do alone in Glasgow, Scotland
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