Glasgow/Paisley - Sept 2021
Paisley
This city strikes me as something of a mini-Edinburgh in its central area. It’s more of a local area for shopping and going-out but is quite the beauty to walk around in, especially during summer when the center can be live with musicians. Rumor is they do a great Halloween and Christmas market, which I have yet to explore! This is a short car or train ride outside of Glasgow if you are spending a few days there. You’ll find quite a few typical everyday stores along with cute cafes, restaurants, and bars.
How long should you stay? I would suggest Paisley as a nice place to spend a few hours if you are staying in Glasgow for a short bit; wouldn’t be the place for your final destination or multi-day stay.
Tay’s Top Things to See (for free):
• Carpark in the sky – Really nice view of the city from here at night, great place to bring some snacks and look out at all the lights. This local spot can attract some teens sneaking cheap beers, but its all part of the experience.
• Town center – Nice area to walk around, especially in spring/summertime
• Paisley Cathedral – Once again another impressive structure in Scotland. Walk around and view the gargoyles… there is one that was replaced with the creature from Alien.
Tay’s Top Things to See (for some change):
• Last Post – Although there is often a cringe when you mention Weathspoons in the UK… it’s a standard pub/eatery in an impressive old post office.
• Blend Café – Lovely café for a quick dessert and coffee.
Glasgow
Lovely city with beautiful nature and wildlife just outside of the urban area. Perfect place to visit if you want all these things encompassed in one. Spend some time in the central city area both during the day/night and explore the local parks. People are quite friendly!
How long should you stay? Ideal stay would be 2 days if you want to experience the city but more if you want to incorporate some of the nature that’s within 1.5 hours of central.
Tay’s Top Things to See (for free):
• Queen’s Park – excellent view of the city and rolling hills in the distance
• Kelvingrove Galleries – museum where the building is as cool as the stuff in it
• Buchanan Galleries – shopping street with really cool architecture that is great to check out during the day and night
• Pollok Park - highland coos and Pollok House
Tay’s Top Things to See (for some change):
• Afternoon Tea - Full afternoon tea at a local café. This usually costs around 15-20 pounds and is well worth the experience and three tiers of food.
• Local Pints - Enjoy a pint at a local pub, Sauchiehall or Bath Street are good for this. Might even strike up a conversation with some friendly Scots!
Tay's Top Day Trips
• Loup of Fintry
• Inverary Castle
• Mugdock Castle
• Falls of Falloch