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 Thomson's terrace |
10-Jan Moray Place Strathbungo Glasgow G41 2AQ United Kingdom +44 141 204 4400 |
This has been judged by many as the finest of all Grecian terraces and consists of 10 two floor houses. The upper floor is smaller than the ground floor, a trademark of Alexander "Greek" Thomson's style and the windows are set back from the stonework to make the upper floor look as if it consists only of pillars. The chimney pots are decorated in the style of Egyptian lotus flowers. Thomson, the city's greatest architect of the Victorian era, joined forces with John MacIntyre, a local builder, and Alexander Stevenson, owner of the local Giffnock Quarry, to build this and similar houses in the area which was known at the time as Regent's Park. Thomson himself lived in number one from 1861, while his friend Alexander Stevenson lived at number five. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A towering achievement |
460 Sauchiehall Street Glasgow G2 3LG United Kingdom +44 141 332 6415 |
This striking yellow building, now housing Halls of Residence for the University of Strathclyde, was designed by Weddel and Inglis in 1937. It began life as the Beresford Hotel, which was to accommodate visitors to the Empire Exhibition. The architecture reflects the exhibition's art deco theme. The building's fins were originally scarlet and black and its twin towers were capped with flagpoles. Inglis designed and owned cinemas; the similarity between this and the cinema styles of the time is plain to see. Out of term time, Baird Hall returns to its roots and offers bed and breakfast accommodation to tourists at very reasonable rates. Contact the University of Strathclyde Residential Services for further information and bookings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rory |
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An island day trip |
Glasgow, Isle of Arran KA27 8HY United Kingdom +44 177 030 2202 http://www.nts.org.uk/ |
Built on the site of a Viking fortress, parts of Brodick castle date from the 13th century, but its real splendour was established in the 18th. Especially impressive are the Victorian walled garden and the rhododendron collection in the woodland garden. The charming surroundings are home to the usual visitor centre, gift shop and tearoom, as well as an adventure playground to entertain the kids. The parkland setting, overlooked by Goatfell mountain, has woodland paths to explore, with waterfalls, gorges and a wildlife pond. Arran is a beautiful island, well worth a visit in its own right. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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More than a hunting lodge |
Carlisle Road Glasgow ML3 7UE United Kingdom +44 169 842 6213 |
In the mid-18th century, the Dukes of Hamilton devised a grand design linking their palace via a huge, tree-lined avenue with a hunting lodge and summer house. Coal mining subsidence destroyed the palace and the landscape, but the lodge, called Chatelherault, was salvageable and eventually restored. It now stands as the impressive and well-equipped centrepiece of a country park which also features woodland, an Iron Age fort, the ruined remains of Cadzow Castle, ancient oaks and rare white cattle. There is a visitor centre, cafe and gift shop in the grounds. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Damian Shields |
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Grandeur on George Square |
80 George Square Glasgow G2 1DU United Kingdom +44 141 287 0399 |
A throwback to the Empire and Glasgow's prominence within it, the impressive City Chambers border the central George Square on the east side. Intrigued? The local council offer free guided tours around their grand HQ at 11.30am and 2.30pm on weekdays. This palatial and imposing building, built in the Italian Renaissance style and formally opened in 1888 by Queen Victoria, is definitely worth a visit - to admire the stunning marble interior if nothing else. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Michael Kane |
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 Photo: glasgow's finest |
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Classical concert venue |
Candleriggs Glasgow G1 1NP United Kingdom +44 141 287 5511 |
This Italian-style hall once housed the cheese, fruit and vegetable market, illustrated by the sculpted basket of fruit on the roof. It also became a venue for entertainment, with Charles Dickens reading from his own work on one occasion. Although City Hall is not open all year round, it is definitely a place worth visiting during events. It is one of the city's most impressive concert halls and hosts a number of cultural productions but it also provides space for other functions and meetings. The venue has an annexe, The Old Fruitmarket, which often caters for musical events of a less classical nature. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joaquin Vanschoren |
 Photo: Pete & Brook |
 Photo: Matthew McKinnon |
 Photo: Rachel Steele |
 Photo: Don Leman |
 Photo: Frode Nygaard |
 Photo: Qi-Guang Chew |
 Photo: Pak-e Aufa |
 Photo: Richard Hobbis |
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Fourteenth century fortress |
Dean Road Glasgow, Ayrshire KA3 1XB United Kingdom +44 1563 52 2702 |
The earliest part of this fortress dates from 1350, when it was built by the Boyd family, who had been given the estate of Kilmarnock in 1316 by Robert the Bruce as a reward for their support during the War of Independence. The visitor centre lets everyone learn more about the 200 acre park and its wildlife in the discovery room and auditorium, while the rare breeds centre has exhibitions relating to some of the animals kept there. The park also boasts a children's play-ground, swan pond and deer park, children's corner and riding centre. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mackintosh splendour |
167 Renfrew Street Glasgow G3 6RQ United Kingdom +44 141 353 4500 http://www.gsa.ac.uk/ |
Any fans of Mackintosh will love this building, for it is easily the best example of his architecture in Glasgow. The art school was established in 1845 but has only been at the current site since 1899. Mackintosh was a former pupil and he designed this architectural masterpiece in 1896. The construction is marked by oppositions, wide windows and stern facades contrast in a dynamic style. Although everyone can gaze freely at the stunning exterior, guided tours offer the only access to the interior. Here you can admire yet more Mackintosh creations; plans, paintings and furniture are all on display. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sarah Gallagher |
 Photo: Simon Davis |
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 Photo: Kate Lynch |
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 Photo: Kate Holland |
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On the Alexander Greek Thomson trail |
336-356 Sauchiehall Street Glasgow G2 3HW United Kingdom +44 141 204 4400 |
This much-loved Alexander Thomson building stands on a corner site, an unusual treat, which he indulged by spreading his designs round the corner into Scott Street. It's quite a squat three-storey building and both Egyptian and Greek ideas are carefully considered in the overall plan. The tall ground floor has a Greek entrance; above it are narrow windows, topped with flower decoration. The second storey has a selection of stumpy columns with lots of detail; behind that there is what can only be described as a kind of wall of windows. The building was designed in 1865 for commercial use, which continues to be its purpose today. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Skinny but shapely |
144 Saint Vincent Street Glasgow G2 5LQ United Kingdom +44 141 221 7300 |
This unusual building is only 29 feet wide but its 10 storeys were cleverly designed by James Salmon in 1899 to maximise the amount of natural light. Its name came from the elaborate octagonal roof which had lots of intricate details. Architecturally, this is an important building as it's a very good example of the Glasgow style, the facade seems to be entirely made of glass with bits of stonework used as decoration. No two storeys are the same, as there are stone and iron balconies, rectangular and arched windows, and various forms of decoration including angles, lions, suns, plaques, crowns, faces and lanterns. The doorway is topped by a semi-cylindrical lantern in stained glass featuring a galleon. The Hatrack is now used for commercial purposes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gordon Barr |
 Photo: Scott Fitzpatrick |
 Photo: Cameron Adams |
 Photo: Oda Bhar |
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A Mackintosh home |
Upper Colquhoun Street Glasgow G84 9AJ United Kingdom +44 1436 67 3900 http://www.nts.org.uk/ |
Built for Walter Blackie at the beginning of the 20th century, this house is a wonderful showcase of Mackintosh architecture and furniture design. Margaret MacDonald, Mackintosh's wife, was responsible for the textile designs. Take time to wander through and appreciate the beautifully preserved rooms and perhaps stop for a quiet read in the library. An exhibition area explores the origins of the famous Glasgow Style and presents examples of the original fabrics and stained glass. The gardens are attractive on a sunny day and the tearooms provide welcome refreshment. Groups must book in advance and may only visit in the mornings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: iolanthe82 |
 Photo: Tracey Richards |
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A building by Alexander Greek Thomson |
61-63 Netherlee Road Glasgow G44 3YL United Kingdom +44 141 637 2129 http://www.nts.org.uk/ |
Built in 1857-8 for the paper tycoon James Couper, Holmwood House has been described as Alexander "Greek" Thomson's finest domestic design. Glasgow's other great architect (beside Charles Rennie Mackintosh) has become hugely popular in recent years. Holmwood is a typically picturesque adaptation of the classical Greek style, and visitors can observe the ongoing conservation work on recently discovered stencilled decoration. Groups must book in advance and an audio tour is available for French and German speakers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Philip Graham |
 Photo: Alan McLoughlin |
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History, nature and secrets |
Fairlie Ayrshire Glasgow KA29 0BE United Kingdom +44 147 556 8685 http://www.kelburncountrycentr... |
Kelburn Castle dates back to the 13th century and is the family home of the Earls of Glasgow. Tours of the castle are available every day in summer unless it is being used for a special function. It is surrounded by exotic gardens and many features of historic interest. A romantic Glen contains a network of pathways and footbridges leading past waterfalls and deep gorges. Back on the old home farm, there is a restaurant, gift shop and family museum, or if you're feeling energetic check out the riding and trekking centre and the assault course. Finally, don't miss the Secret Forest, which is... well that's a secret.Visitors can check the website for updated timings . Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pete Goodman |
 Photo: Miss G a.k.a. Glau |
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The grandest of them all |
54 Carlton Place Glasgow G5 9TW United Kingdom +44 141 204 4400 |
Designed in 1802 by Peter Nicolson, this Grade-A listed building is said to be the most ornate Georgian house in Britain. The facade is very two dimensional, with shallow detailing in the Greek style. Inside, there are details influenced by famous Edinburgh architect Robert Adam, with great Corinthian, columned staircases and domes. The ornate plasterwork is thought to be by Italian supremo Francesco Bernasconi. The whole area around Carlton Place is considered the most ambitious and least successful new town planning in the city. All the local streets had aristocratic names - Cumberland, Portland, Cavendish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Mackintosh design |
Parson Street Glasgow G4 0PX United Kingdom +44 141 271 8301 |
Few people realize that this arts/admin building is a Mackintosh design, nor do they realise how passionate are the feelings surrounding it. Built in 1895, its name comes from the execution of three covenanters—James Lawson, James Nisbet and Alexander Wood—on this spot in 1684. It's also located in the first street that the architect lived in. It doesn't immediately strike as Mackintosh, but cast your eyes upwards to the roof where signature details can be clearly seen. In the 20th century this building was almost swept away by the planners of the M8 motorway and nearly became a martyr itself, but protests ensured that the mammoth motorway was re-directed to preserve the school. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy McConn |
 Photo: caltonmonument |
 Photo: Michael Anderson |
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Former 12th century priory |
Abbey Close Glasgow PA1 1JG United Kingdom +44 141 889 7654 |
On the east side of White Cart Water, this Church of Scotland abbey was originally a priory and apparently holds the grave of Marjorie Bruce, daughter of Robert I. It was founded in 1163, created an abbey in 1219 but destroyed by the English in 1307. Rebuilt in the 15th century, it suffered partial collapse in 1533 and was restored between the 18th and 20th centuries. The 10th century Barochan Cross is here, taken from the original Celtic monastery dedicated to St Mirin (or Mirren - namesake of Paisley's football club). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kyle Caruthers |
 Photo: Kyle Caruthers |
 Photo: Brian McGuire |
 Photo: Samantha Nicol |
 Photo: F Ferguson |
 Photo: Eric Laurent |
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El Greco, Goya, Murillo, et alia |
Pollok Country Park 2060 Pollokshaws Road Glasgow G43 1AT United Kingdom +44 141 616 6410 http://www.nts.org.uk/ |
Set in the attractive Pollok Country Park, this 18th century Palladian mansion houses the Stirling Maxwell collection of paintings. Sixteenth and 17th century art by El Greco, Signorelli, Murillo, William Blake and Goya hang in the museum, whilst 18th and 19th century artefacts and furniture can also be viewed. Afterwards, you can wander around the beautifully tended gardens, enjoy a snack in the restaurant and browse in the gift shop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kenny Muir |
 Photo: Logan H. Forsberg |
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 Photo: John Clark |
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 Photo: Phyllis Buchanan |
 Photo: sherpa girl |
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 Photo: A J Campbell |
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 Photo: David Cation |
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 Photo: Gordon McNelis |
 Photo: Alistair Watson |
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The oldest house in Glasgow |
3 Castle Street Glasgow G4 0RH United Kingdom +44 141 552 8819 |
Situated adjacent to Glasgow Cathedral is Provand's Lordship, the oldest surviving medieval house in Glasgow. Built in 1471 as the manse for the St Nicholas Hospital, the house is believed to have been used by Mary, Queen of Scots in 1566 during a visit to Glasgow to see Lord Darnley. Its name derives from the 19th century, when it was occupied by the Lord of Provand. These days, it operates as a museum and houses a collection of medieval furniture and artefacts spread over three floors. At the rear is a tranquil medieval herb garden which is accessible to wheelchair users. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jean Smith |
 Photo: Thomas Cook |
 Photo: Anna Kenklies |
 Photo: Ben |
 Photo: Jennifer Park |
 Photo: Ettore Timi |
 Photo: Mike Beltzner |
 Photo: drycats |
 Photo: Trond Kjetil Bremnes |
 Photo: John Rankin |
 Photo: Jim Hutton |
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Thomson's masterpiece |
265 Vincent Street Glasgow G2 7LA United Kingdom +44 141 248 8493 |
This church, built for the United Presbyterians in the late 1850s, is regarded as Alexander "Greek" Thomson's masterpiece. Thomson's style was influenced by Assyrian, Egyptian and Indian architecture, as can clearly be seen here. It takes the form of a temple-like edifice and an unconnected tower, the effect of which has been sadly diminished by neighbouring office blocks. The interior is as impressive as ever though, strikingly high and light. The church is now owned by Glasgow City Council and Free Church of Scotland services are held here. It is open to the public by appointment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Cadman |
 Photo: Andy Tamata |
 Photo: Julie McWilliams |
 Photo: Davie Dunn |
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A carpet on the Green |
62 Templeton Street Glasgow G40 1BA United Kingdom +44 141 204 4400 |
During the Victorian era, the city council refused planning permission repeatedly for this carpet factory because they didn't want to bring the tone of the neighbourhood down with such an unprestigious development. Eventually, the owner of the site gave in and hired William Leiper to design a building that would not be considered an eyesore and this extravagant piece of architecture is what he came up with. Some say that the frontage was to appear like a carpet laid out on Glasgow Green, others adhere to the story that when the building was commissioned in 1889, the owner wanted a replica of the Doge's Palace in Venice. Taking in the colourful tiles and decorative glasswork, either theory would fit. One thing is sure, there's nothing else like it in the city, or indeed Scotland, for its imagination and confidence. The building was extended in the 1930s when they added some glassy, art deco features typical of the time. It was then converted into the Templeton Business Centre in 1984. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate (MaryKathleen A |
 Photo: David Armstrong |
 Photo: uncene |
 Photo: Alan Campbell |
 Photo: Mark Glover |
 Photo: Gavin Ross |
 Photo: Robert Orr |
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 Photo: Claire Bain |
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Wealth and beauty |
42 Miller Street Glasgow G1 1DT United Kingdom +44 141 204 4400 |
Built in 1775 by John Craig, this would have been one of many similar houses lining this narrow street in the Merchant City. However, it was the first and the last too—being by far the best surviving example of a tobacco merchant's dwelling in Glasgow. This is due to sympathetic treatment, which has come in the form of its most recent tenants, the Scottish Preservation Trust and several firms of architects. It's of simple, plain design, but decorated here and there with lovely urns. Three storeys high, it has basement windows that seem to rise out of the concrete pavement by means of rot-iron arms, added when the building was refurbished. Review © 2007, Wcities |