Situated 45 miles west of Edinburgh, Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city.  Although now more prosperous than a couple of decades ago, evidence of the city’s former wealth and importance during the height of the British Empire are clearly visible.    

Glasgow’s growth was originally attributed to its trading activities with the former British colonies.  As trading declined, and links with the Empire weakened, heavy industry took its place.  At its peak, Glasgow was the greatest centre for shipbuilding and steel production in the world, and, as a Victorian city, was only second in importance to London.  As a result Glasgow has a fine legacy of majestic and imposing civic architecture, the city centre especially being a grid of Victorian buildings. 

Over the past decade or so the city has undergone an economic re-awakening, as well as becoming a centre of creativity, style and artistic energy.  Museums and galleries compete for the attention of locals and visitors alike.  The budget traveller will be pleased to learn that admission to many of these museums and galleries is free.

Glasgow’s gay quarter can be found in the eastern sector of the city centre.  Here the visitor will discover not only the many bars, cafes and clubs which one would expect in a city of this size, but will also experience the friendliness for which the local inhabitants are renowned.