The Magnificent and Mysterious History of Glasgow

Discover some of the top attractions in the ancient city of Glasgow such as the spectacular City Chambers, the stunning medieval Cathedral and even some lesser-known sites such as world’s oldest, surviving music hall, the Britannia Panopticon.

Marvel at the grandeur of the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture and sculpture that can still be found on so many streets.
Follow in the footsteps of the merchants, traders and pioneers who transformed the city’s fortunes and reputation and the workers who enabled that transformation.

Hear about some memorable moments from Glasgow’s history, including a few scandals and darker secrets.

Probably the most spectacular building in Glasgow, the headquarters of Glasgow City Council. There is some astonishing sculpture on this building which goes a long way to explaining how Glaswegians saw themselves in the 19th century.

10 minutes

Glasgow’s monument to the citizens who fell in the First Word War. Rich in symbolism, this monument marks a turning point in Glasgow’s history

The centrepiece of George Square. One of Scotland’s greatest writers and a man who is many ways is responsible, for creating the modern idea of Scotland.

The first ever monument to Scotland’s national poet. An early example of crowdfunding. Thousands of people paid as little as 5 pence towards the cost of this sculpture. 30.000 people turned up to the unveiling

The Merchants of Glasgow, were largely responsible for the success and prosperity of modern Glasgow. This house, in the centre of the city, gives an indication of their importance and how they saw themselves

Originally a spectacular private mansion house, this building has had many different uses before becoming a gallery

One of the most-well known statues in Glasgow. The Duke was a decorated military leader and even prime Minister. His statue is famous today, because of the traffic cone, placed on the Duke’s head

One of the most popular pizza joints in Glasgow. Once upon a time they had a very special job opportunity

An 18th century, Georgian townhouse in the heart of modern Glasgow. The original family that lived here had an interesting story

The Trades House represented the traders of Glasgow, the carpenters, the tanners , the dyers and so on, and looked after members who had become too old to work.

An important street in medieval Glasgow, where the candle makers lived and worked, set apart from the old town to reduce the risk of fire. Later the site of markets and warehouses. Now an an important part of Glasgow’s cultural district

Formerly a bank, a courthouse, and a county building, now one of the most high-profile clubs and wedding venues.

Along with the original Merchants House and the Trades House, the Hutchenson’s Hospital once described one of the three graces of Glasgow. Together, they looked after many of the citizens of Glasgow, for many years

The Old Fruitmarket was once a bustling part of commercial Glasgow. The building still stands but has been converted to retail use. it is still possible to walk through it and imagine how it would have been years ago.

Trongate 103 is an arts centre in the heart of Glasgow, home to amongst other attractions, the Sharmanka Kinetic Gallery.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• There is walking time between attractions, around 40-45 minutes
• The tour will last approximately 2 hours and 45minutes
• Even when we’re walking between the main attractions, there’s plenty to see and talk about.

• The Magnificent and Mysterious History of Glasgow
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• Historical Information
• Storytelling
• Local knowledge

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Let’s meet in front of the City Chambers on George Square

Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/London.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 17 valid reviews on VIATOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.