An intriguing mix of modern sophistication, Glasgow has an atmosphere that’s unlike most other British cities. It is the largest city in Scotland, and its area and population are much larger than the capital, Edinburgh. Glasgow is a city of football and music, art and architecture, museums and shopping, with some elements unique to the town.
A Brief History of Glasgow
Attracted by the River Clyde, Glasgow has been a settlement since ancient times. Roman outposts are known in the area, but Glasgow is said to have been founded as a religious centre by St. Mungo in the 6th century. The settlement grew throughout the centuries, its advantageous location being a big attraction, and the first bridge over the Clyde was recorded in 1285.
By the early 18th century, Glasgow was a major trading port, and it became a tour de force of manufacturing and heavy industry in the Industrial Revolution, particularly in shipbuilding. Although some legacy industries continue to thrive today, Glasgow’s economy has many facets. The service and financial sectors lead the way, along with many cultural enterprises having their Scottish headquarters in the city.
The city’s well-known story is intertwined with Scotland’s history before, during and after the 1707 Act of Union (the creation of the United Kingdom). Many visitors come to immerse themselves in the growth of Glasgow through its excellent museums, which are among its top attractions.
The Architectural Sights of Glasgow
Glasgow is quite a varied collection of different architectural styles, but it is dominated by 19th-century Victorian buildings (like the tenement housing blocks), Mackintosh “Glasgow Style” buildings and striking modern constructions.
Notable Attractions
• Tenement House Museum:
https://goo.gl/maps/qeAfJHQ7QjFoRVoZ6
Early 20th-century life is captured in a preserved tenement home with original fixtures and fittings.
• The Lighthouse:
https://goo.gl/maps/V6Q84s8jYfWaeBiR7
Designed by Charles Rennie McIntosh, it is now home to Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture. Must-sees are the spiral staircase and the view from the tower.
• Mackintosh at the Willow:
https://g.page/MackintoshattheWillow?share
Not to be confused with the Willow Tea Rooms, here is the original creation of the great Art Nouveau architect, fully restored.
• Clyde Auditorium:
https://g.page/sec-armadillo?share
Also known as the SEC Armadillo because of its iconic shape, this is Glasgow’s premier performing arts venue.
Fascinating Museums in Glasgow
Other places of interest are Glasgow Cathedral, Holmwood House, Glasgow City Chambers and a number of buildings that now house museums. Famous museums include:
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.8685891,-4.2927926,17z
The impressive Spanish Baroque red sandstone building from 1901 is the symbol of the city. The museum and art gallery has 22 different rooms to explore.
• The Riverside Museum:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.865106,-4.3083949,17z
A purpose-built 21st-century museum designed by Zaha Hadid, it houses fabulous technology and transport collections.
• Gallery of Modern Art:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.860172,-4.2547365,17z
GoMA‘s four galleries are housed in a beautiful neoclassical townhouse shared by the city library.
• The People’s Palace:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.8513336,-4.2390998,17z
The museum and glasshouse provide a wonderful insight into the life of Glasgow since 1759.
Where to Experience the Nightlife of Glasgow
Glasgow’s nightlife is very cosmopolitan. There’s a heritage of successful popular music, with many top bands having their start in the city. There’s also the legendary Celtic welcome. For a night out, visitors can frequent Michelin-starred restaurants, live music or one of Glasgow’s many clubs.
There are theatres, craft breweries and restaurants representing cuisines from all around the world. A few worth a mention are:
• King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.862632,-4.2671937,17z
This live music club is legendary for the chances it gives to up-and-coming bands (most notably, Oasis were signed up after a gig here) and its own brewed beer, King Tut’s Lager.
• The Horse Shoe Bar:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.8608734,-4.2585039,17z
It has been open since 1846 and is home to the longest bar in the UK (104 ft/31.7m). Pop in for the signature “pie and a pint”.
• Sub Club:
https://www.google.com/maps/@55.8578841,-4.2594317,17z
Located in Central Glasgow, this is the world’s longest-running underground dance club and home to the UK’s largest “bodysonic” dance floor. Top DJs play tunes until sunrise.
Glasgow’s food scene is absolutely contemporary, but traditional cuisine still has a stronghold. Some traditional must-try dishes include haggis, Cullen Skink (a hearty fish soup), shortbread, porridge, salmon and deep-fried Mars bars.
New Update For All Travellers To The UK
There is an imminent change to the UK border and immigration control process that will affect all foreign visitors. The programme is expected to be in full force by the end of 2024.
The New UK ETA for Glasgow
When the UK ETA programme is launched, the UK’s borders will be fully digitalized, and all foreign visitors, including non-visa nationals and those with any other specified immigration status, will require authorisation to enter. Non-visa nationals include visitors from European countries, Australia, New Zealand and Canada. The new UK ETA programme will cover visitors coming for business, tourism, studies and medical treatment. Covering visits for up to six months, an ETA will be required regardless of the age of the traveller.
Who is Eligible for an ETA?
The UK Government has issued a list of 92 countries on its ETA eligibility list. Any holder of a British passport is exempt from ETA requirements, and it has also clarified the position for British nationals who are not residents of the UK. The following will not require an ETA to visit.
• British Overseas Territories citizens
• British Overseas Nationals
• British Overseas citizens
• British protected persons
• British subjects without the right of abode in the United Kingdom
One last important point for eligibility is that Irish passport holders are also exempt from needing a UK ETA.
What Documents Are Needed to Apply For An ETA
Applicants need a valid biometric passport, a debit or credit card, and a valid email address. The ETA application process requires the following:
• Personal details: full name, date of birth, gender
• Contact information: residence address, contact number and email address
• Passport information: country of issue, dates of issue and expiry, number and details of any other citizenships or dual nationalities held by the applicant
• Work information: employer details, including name, address and contact details
• Security information: immigration history, criminal activity, drug or terrorist connections and health issues
• Payment information: a valid debit or credit card to complete the application payment
It is advisable to apply for a UK ETA for Glasgow several days in advance of your travel date. If you are not granted an ETA, you may be advised to apply for a visa. The information provided by you to apply for an ETA is covered by the terms and conditions and the privacy policy. Application data will be checked against various UK and international security and immigration databases used by UK Border Force and Home Office. The data will also be shared with travel companies and carriers via existing Advance Passenger Information (API) systems, as they will continue to be responsible for checking that travellers have valid documentation to enter the UK.
For How Long is an ETA Valid?
A UK ETA for Glasgow will be valid for six months from the issue date unless the traveller’s national passport expires before the end of the 180 days. During the valid period, a visitor can move freely around all parts of the UK. If an ETA is due to expire during your stay in the UK, you will need a new ETA to continue your visit. Any visitor who wishes a long-term stay or is visiting the country for work will still require a visa. An ETA application can be refused by UK border officials if they believe the visitor is a threat to security or is inadmissible under UK law.
What UK ETA for Glasgow Documentation Does the Traveller Receive?
No paperwork is issued because the ETA is an e-document and is linked to the visitor’s passport. The ETA is automatically verified when the passport is scanned at the port of entry.
What Are The Benefits of The ETA
The new ETA will simplify the UK visa application process. Paper forms will no longer be required, and visitors will not have to present themselves or any paperwork at a British embassy or consulate. An online application for a UK ETA for Glasgow can be completed in just a few minutes and is processed in between 48 and 72 hours.
Check the UK ETA FAQ for more details.
Visit Glasgow
This former European Capital of Culture boasts world-class museums, a huge civic art collection, shopping, top sporting venues and a renowned music scene. The town’s vibrant personality attracts visitors every year. To ensure sufficient time for application approval, visitors should apply for a UK ETA for Glasgow before they book travel arrangements.