10 Unusual Things to do in Glasgow, U.K.

If you are looking for something a little different to do, Glasgow has some unusual attractions you should check out. Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music and arts scene and friendly locals. While many tourists flock to the city to see its famous landmarks and museums, there are also a number of more unusual things to do that can make your visit to Glasgow truly unique.

GLASGOW NECROPOLIS

One of the most unusual things to do in Glasgow is to visit the Necropolis. This Victorian cemetery, located on a hill behind Glasgow Cathedral, is home to over 50,000 graves and monuments, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the citNecropolisy’s past. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Necropolis to learn about the history of the cemetery, and to see some of the most interesting and ornate graves, including those of famous Glaswegians such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh.  For those interested in the macabre, Glasgow is home to the Glasgow Necropolis Museum, which tells the story of the city’s past through the history of its graveyards and funerary customs. The museum is located in a former mortuary and features exhibits on topics such as mourning, burial practices, and the history of graveyards.

ST VALENTINE’S BONES

St Valentine’s bones are an important relic in Glasgow, Scotland. The remains are believed to belong to a martyr named Saint Valentine. The bones were kept in the church of the Black Friars in Glasgow until the 16th century Reformation. After that, they were moved to the Glasgow Cathedral. The bones have been a source of religious devotion for centuries. Catholics believe Saint Valentine to be the patron saint of love. In the 19th century, the remains were rediscovered and given a new home in the Blessed Saint John Duns Scotus Church. The bones are now housed in a shrine within the church, where they are still venerated by many Catholics. The church organizes an annual Mass to celebrate the feast of Saint Valentine, attracting many worshippers from near and far. The bones are also a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors who want to see a piece of Glasgow’s rich history. Whether visiting for religious or historical reasons, the St Valentine’s bones are a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Glasgow and the Catholic Church.

STREET ART

Another unusual activity in Glasgow is to take a walking tour of the city’s murals and street art. Glasgow has a vibrant street art scene with over 90 murals and graffiti pieces throughout the city. Visitors can take a guided tour. On this tour you can learn about the history and meaning behind the art. Some of the most famous pieces, such as the mural of Sir Billy Connolly can be found in the South Side.

PS WAVERLEY

A day spent on the water is always a good day in my opinion.  Take a trip on the PS Waverley.  It leaves from several points in Glasgow.  One of the points is just near the Glasgow Science Centre.  If you are driving, there is parking at the Science Centre Car Park.  You should allow 10 minutes to walk from the car park to the gangway.  The Paddle Steamer company is planning to sail from May to mid-October. You can do day, afternoon or evening cruises to over 50 ports and piers.  Some of the stops include Glasgow, the Clyde Coast, Oban, Liverpool, the Bristol Channel, The Isle of Wight and London.

MAGGIE WALL’S SKULL

Maggie Wall’s skull is a macabre landmark located at the Saracen Head in Scotland. The skull is believed to belong to a witch named Maggie Wall. She was burned at the stake in the 1660s. The skull is mounted on a stone pillar and is said to have magical properties. People visiting the site often leave offerings, such as coins and flowers, as a sign of respect. The Saracen Head is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. They come to learn about Scotland’s dark history of witchcraft. The skull is also a popular spot for Halloween celebrations and ghost tours. Despite its creepy reputation, the Maggie Wall’s skull is also a symbol of the discrimination and persecution that took place in Scotland’s past. The site serves as a reminder of the importance of rejecting superstition and promoting tolerance. In recent years, the local community has worked to preserve the site. They have also worked to maintain the pillar and skull. The Saracen Head is now a protected historical monument, and visitors are asked to respect its significance. Whether visiting for historical or superstitious reasons, the Maggie Wall’s skull is a unique and unforgettable part of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.

RIVERSIDE MUSEUM

For a taste of Glasgow’s industrial heritage, visitors can take a tour of the Riverside Museum. This museum, located in the city’s West End, tells the story of Glasgow’s shipbuilding and engineering past, and features exhibits on the city’s industrial heritage, including a replica of a Clyde steamer and a collection of vintage cars.  It is basically a transport museum with over 3,000 objects on display.  You can find anything from skateboards, bikes, locomotives, prams, cars and even a Stormtrooper. It is located on the banks of the River Clyde.  There is parking available.  The architecture of the museum is pretty amazing too – well worth a visit!

THE GLASGOW POLICE MUSEUM

The Glasgow Police Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of law enforcement in Scotland. The museum is located in Glasgow and showcases the rich history of the Glasgow Police Force. The Force has gone from its early days as a small local force to its transformation into a modern and professional police service. The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the challenges faced by police officers in the past and how the force has evolved to meet changing needs. The museum features a range of exhibits, including uniforms, equipment, photographs and artefacts. Visitors can explore the history of policing in Glasgow and learn about the important role that the police have played in maintaining law and order. The museum also has a section dedicated to the history of women in policing, showcasing the role of women in the police force and the challenges they have faced throughout history. The Glasgow Police Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of law enforcement and the evolution of policing in Scotland. Whether visiting alone or with family and friends, the museum offers a fun and educational experience for all ages.

UNUSUAL BARS & PUBS

Glasgow is also home to a number of unique bars and pubs. One of the most unusual is the Horseshoe Bar, which is located in a former blacksmith’s workshop and features a horseshoe-shaped bar. Another unique drinking spot is the Bon Accord, which is located in an old subterranean railway station and features a Victorian-style bar and a collection of vintage railway memorabilia.

GLASGOW SCHOOL OF ART

For a truly unusual experience, visitors can head to the Glasgow School of Art, which is home to one of the most famous art schools in the world. The school is famous for its architecture and design, and visitors can take a guided tour to see the school’s famous art nouveau building, which was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. You can also take one of their short courses that they have on offer.  Some of the courses that are available are: Jewellery Making, Sculpting Clay, Shibori & Batik, Collage & Mixed Media and Abstraction. More than a third of GSA’s students are from overseas. Many students remain in Glasgow after graduation because of the unique network of creative people. They are joined by artists, designers, architects, writers and musicians from around the world who are drawn here by the quality of life and the clear sense of creative opportunity.

GLASGOW’S TUNNELS

Finally, for a truly unique experience, visitors can take a ghost tour of Glasgow’s famous underground tunnels. Glasgow’s famous underground ghost tours offer a unique and spooky experience for tourists and locals alike. The tours take place in the city’s dark and labyrinthine underground vaults, which have a rich history of ghost sightings and supernatural occurrences. The tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides. They share stories of ghostly encounters and historical events that have taken place in the vaults. Participants are taken on a journey through the twisting tunnels and caverns. You will learn about the history of the city and the eerie legends that have been passed down through the generations. The underground vaults have been used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including as a storage area, a refuge during air raids, and even as a theatre. The tours offer a fascinating glimpse into Glasgow’s rich cultural heritage and a spine-tingling experience for anyone interested in the paranormal. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost hunter, or just looking for a unique and thrilling adventure, Glasgow’s underground ghost tours are a must-see for anyone visiting the city. With its creepy atmosphere and fascinating history, the tours are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who participate.