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With the upcoming launch of Obvlo in Glasgow happening this week, we have been spending a lot of time in the city getting to know the best spots! Whether you are a Glasgow local yourself or just visiting through for the day, we thought we’d share with you some of our favourite bits from our visits that you would be able to go to yourselves! Sunny weather preferred, though the rainy west coast may have other ideas…
Enjoy our guide to the West End!
Would you even be visiting the West End if you didn’t take a trip to the iconic Kelvingrove Museum? Before even getting inside, we can assure you that you will be blown away by the outstanding architecture of the building itself, along with the surrounding grounds. On a sunny day it is the perfect picnic stop! Moving on inside, you will honestly find something for everyone. The museum celebrates and remembers Glasgow’ past and present, along with some worldwide cultures that are not to be missed!
Located in the heart of the West End, the Botanic Gardens could quite possibly be the finest gardens in Glasgow. The gardens are set between the River Kelvin and the West End, so you whilst you are very much still in the city, you can get the sense of escapism. On a rainy day, you can take a walk through the glasshouses, home of tropical and desert plants as well as water lilies, however you can take a walk through the rose gardens or by the riverside right the way down the River Kelvin to Kelvingrove Park on a sunny day!
If you’re feeling extra adventurous and looking to extend your walk along the River Kelvin, try heading the opposite way from the park and follow the canal down to Speirs Wharf! Speirs Wharf was once home to Glasgow’s industrial development housing Grain Mills, a sugar refinery and warehouse, however the ongoing regeneration has seen the development of flats and office spaces. You will also find Ocho, a cosy canal-side café, which on a sunny day you can enjoy a seat outside and admire the views. It really is a perfect hidden gem to relax away from the main city hustle and bustle!
Relatively new to the foodie scene in Glasgow, Morning Glory by Five March will give you one of the best brunches of your life. They use local coffee roasters, Deer Green, which just so happen to be ethically produced – we love to see it, and also stock You + I Kombucha. A personal favourite is a side of spuds with homemade aioli to go along with brunch. You won’t regret it!
We couldn’t do a guide without including one of our favourite wine bars in the city. Bar Brett was created by the team at Cail Bruich, Glasgow’s first Michelin star restaurant, so the choice of wines really is out of this world! On top of the drinks, you can get fresh BBQ grilled seafood if you’re feeling like an afternoon snack. We recommend trying the Mon Blanc, an orange Riesling!
Gloriosa’s in a vibrant Mediterranean influenced restaurant with food and wine supplied from small independent producers. Head chef, Rosie Healey has previously been known for her work at Alchemilla, before venturing to open Gloriosa’s back in 2019. The menu tends to change with whatever is in season, and available, however we assure you, you will not be disappointed! Fresh good food and natural wine – is there anything better?
A hidden gem off the Kelvin Walkway, Hatch is home to over 50 independent UK design makers, where each sales goes directly to the resident maker, commission free. After growing her own design range, Jessica Corra Creative, Jessica decided to develop Hatch with the aim of supporting fellow creatives. On top of retail, Hatch is also a space where creative workshops can take place. A truly support local initiative. We love it!
Everyone needs a good florist at hand. Barvas & James is an independent florist and plant specialist in the West End, with an adorable selection of gifts and homeware too! The outside is decorated with a wonderful display of flowers you can purchase, to gift to a friend or keep for yourself. The perfect treat!
Because if you’re visiting on a weekend, it would be rude not to leave with a bottle of something to take home… Valhallas Goat is an independent off-licence on Great Western Road which specialises in beer and wine, along with spirits too! As well as being able to order online to collect, you can also go in and get help from the staff – who have always been nothing but helpful in helping you choose your next wine. We recommend trying one of their organic sparkling reds!