Plan a Green Glasgow Getaway

A Glasgow Getaway

Did you know Glasgow is recognised as one of the world’s top five cities for its commitment to sustainable business tourism? And that Glasgow Will host of the world’s biggest climate change conference later this year (COP26)?  There is no better time to plan a visit to Glasgow for a green getaway this year, when restrictions are lifted.

If you are looking for a responsible short break then Glasgow is one place to look. With parks and gardens, environmental exhibitions, a dining scene with a conscience, environmentally friendly ways to explore the city’s vibrant culture, sustainable shopping and green awarded hotels.

Glasgow Pollok park highland cows

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Dear Green Place

Glasgow had over 90 parks and gardens to discover,  it is no wonder that Glasgow is affectionately known as the Dear Green Place.

The city’s oldest park, Glasgow Green is just east of the city centre, where you’ll find the spectacular Doulton Fountain, the largest terracotta fountain in the world.

Also in the east of the city is Glasgow Necropolis, Victorian garden cemetery is brimming with history, varying architectural styles and a view worth visiting for.

In the west end of Glasgow, the Botanic Gardens, known internationally for its impressive glasshouses and extensive tropical plant collections, whilst the scenic Kelvingrove Park sits close by.

Southside there is Pollok Country Park. With their famous Highland Cows as well as the beautiful Pollok House and miles of walks.

Glasgow science center

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Explore Green Glasgow

Exploring Glasgow by foot is the best way to discover the city.   Join a walking tour  learn more about the city as well as get your bearings.
the same time. Luckily, Glasgow has a great choice of walking tours to choose from.

Choose from tours around the city center or west end or one that takes in many of the city’s colourful murals, all ran by Walking Tours in Glasgow. There are also tours focusing on Glasgow’s fascinating music scene from Glasgow City Music Tours and a soon to be launched Mackintosh tour exploring the life, work and influence of Glasgow’s most renowned artist, architect and designer. This tour is a collaboration between Walking Tours in Glasgow and Mackintosh at the Willow.

Prefer touring on two wheels? Why not join a Glasgow Bike Tour to take in some the city’s historic sights? Or explore Glasgow yourself with one of the city’s Next Bikes, part of Glasgow’s public bike hire scheme. With 800 bikes for hire in 79 locations, including 63 e-bikes and 21 electric stations available 24/7.

Glasgow Science Centre is definitely worth a visit and a great addition to any ‘green’ itinerary with their current Powering the Future exhibition, looking at our energy consumption and exploring green energy options. Although covering a serious topic, this exhibition provides a fun hands on experience with an energy dance floor and Biowall, a living wall containing a range of different plant species. If you are unable to visit Glasgow right now, then check out their online interactive sessions exploring climate themes in their ‘Our World Our Impact’ programme, your virtual ticket to COP26.

Another exhibition worth checking out is Going Green – The Drive for Energy Efficiency located inside the Zaha Hadid designed Riverside Museum. The centrepiece of the exhibition is a Tesla Model S P85+, believed to be the first Tesla acquired by a public museum in Scotland.

People make Glasgow kelvingrove park

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Eco Eats

Glasgow’s eating and drinking scene really has  food and drink to suit all tastes, including many options for ‘eco-friendly’ eats in the city.

You can choose from the great selection of vegan and veggie restaurants offering plant-based menus, such as Mono.

Or visit Ubiquitous Chip in Glasgow’s West End, who mainly source local produce creating stunning Scottish dishes, with minimal waste. For award winning seafood head to Gamba who only serve sustainably caught fish and have been given three stars from the Sustainable Restaurant Association – the highest possible rating.

Eat with a conscious at Locavore Café, located in their Govanhill shop in Glasgow’s Southside. A social enterprise where all profits are reinvested into building a better local food system, Locavore is unique for being the only fully organic place to eat within Glasgow.

Glasgow necropolis

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Sustainable Shopping

Glasgow has a considerable second hand and preloved shopping scene, with numerous shops to choose from across the city. Glad Rags Thrift based south of the city saves pre-loved clothes going to landfill, while also providing volunteering and employment opportunities within the community. Starry Starry Night is a magical treasure trove of vintage clothing well worth a visit, or go to Emily Rose Vintage for beautifully, upcycled furniture, homeware, books and gifts.

For eco beauty and bath products visit Lovesome Emporium in De Courcy’s Arcade in the West of the city. Plus, if you are staying in self- catering accommodation, be sure to check our Roots, Shoots and Flowers or the Zerowaste Market for environmentally conscious food.

glasgow mural art

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Where to stay

Glasgow has numerous accommodation options, including big brands such as Radisson Blu, Glasgow Marriott and Jurys Inn, to more unique properties such as the Fraser Suites, offering deluxe apartments.
For a more historic stay you can’t go wrong with voco Glasgow Central Hotel built in 1883, and all having earned the prestigious Green Tourism Award from Visit Scotland.

For more information and inspiration for things to see and do in Glasgow, when it’s safe to visit, check out:peoplemakeglasgow.com

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