Invisible Cities helps people across the UK get a second chance at life by hiring guides affected by homelessness.
While walking tours are everywhere these days, one unique organisation is offering routes that actively give back to the community. Invisible Cities runs tours led by individuals who have experienced homelessness—a setup that supports a meaningful cause while giving visitors a fresh perspective on the city.
Operating as a UK-wide non-profit social enterprise (with a strong presence in Glasgow), Invisible Cities centres its mission on proving that everyone holds potential when given an opportunity. The organisation equips people affected by homelessness with skills to become top-tier tour guides, granting them complete creative freedom to build their own custom itineraries.
The People of Glasgow with Angie
This tour delves into the heart of what makes the city truly special: its residents. Starting at The People’s Palace in Glasgow Green, guide Angie shares rich stories of local communities past and present, offering an insightful look into the UK’s friendliest city. The tour was created by Angie herself, but now is also led by Neil, but you can choose your preference of the guide when booking. Plus, be warned that the tour contains strong Glaswegian accents!
Angie states: “Hi, I am Angie, and I am your new tour guide in Glasgow. I have trained for three months to improve my confidence and develop my tour. My favourite thing to do in Glasgow is to explore the coffee shops! There are so many lovely ones. My tour is about The People of Glasgow, as I think it is the most important thing about the city.
“I love pets and have 6 fish tanks and a cat called Boss. He is black and white and looks like he is wearing a tuxedo. He definitely keeps an eye on them and isn’t called Boss for nothing!
I look forward to meeting you soon in my city and starting to teach you how to speak Glaswegian- beware, I have a strong accent!”
Glasgow Riverside Tour
Led by various local guides, this route tracks Glasgow’s vibrant maritime heritage. The tour begins and ends at the SEC (Scottish Event Campus), combining striking waterfront scenery with engaging historical storytelling during a pleasant stroll.
Alternative Glasgow Tour
Designed to bring hidden histories to light, this tour offers a fresh look at the city’s development, starting at Glasgow Green. Highlights include learning about Glasgow’s evolution, visiting the site of its final public execution, and discovering the story behind its construction. A rotating group of guides, including Angie and Silvana, leads the tour.
To find out more about Invisible Cities and its guides, head to its website.
