Glasgow summers are not as bad as people outside of Scotland think, compared to the rest of the UK. The city comes alive during the summer months, with plenty of spots to explore, as well as walks with spectacular views right on our doorstep. So, let’s have a look at the very best things to do in and around Glasgow this summer.
1. Have a picnic at some of the best spots around the city
Glasgow is abundant in green spaces, with its parks offering a serene spot for a wee picnic with your loved ones. From Glasgow Botanic Gardens to Rosshall Park, check out our guide to the best picnic spots around the city.
2. Go to a pottery tapas painting party
The Craft Pottery is bringing its artsy allure to Glasgow city centre with a pottery painting tapas party with live music. Crafties will gather at Revolucion De Cuba between 3pm and 5pm on Sunday, August 4, where attendees can choose from a range of mugs, plates and bowls to paint. You can find out more about the event here.
3. Delight yourself in the soft classical melodies of Candlelight Concerts
Candlelight Concerts have taken over Glasgow with their unique tributes to well-known artists, such as ABBA, Coldplay, Beyonce and more, all while surrounded by the gentle flickers of candles. Taking place in stunning settings like the Merchants House and The Tall Ship of Glenlee, music lovers are taken on a melodic journey, with a string quartet performing tributes like you’ve never head them before. You can book your tickets on Fever.
4. Take your kids to a free all-you-can-eat buffet
An all-you-can-eat buffet where kids eat free?! That’s right, making summer dining even more enjoyable, children under five can eat free all summer long at COSMO Silverburn with any paying adult. The all-day offer is valid between July 3 and August 14, helping families make the most of the holidays.
5. Splash at this HEATED outdoor pool just outside Glasgow
Gourock Outdoor Pool takes the swimming experience to new heights, offering a heated swim with picturesque surroundings of the Clyde Estuary. With children able to travel for just £1 on ScotRail, the pool is open until September 30 this year, and you can find out more here.
6. Check out these hidden gem beaches near Glasgow
The summer wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the beach: did you know there is an actual sandy riverside beach in Glasgow?! To find out more, check our guide to the best hidden gem beaches in and around Glasgow.
7. Attend a carnival-themed rooftop boozy brunch
A Carnival-themed boozy brunch is coming to the rooftop bar VEGA on Saturday, August 24. The Brunch Project will be welcoming brunch lovers from 12pm, where guests will get a cocktail, half a bottle of prosecco and a main meal.
8. Make the most out of al fresco dining at these outdoor terraces
Drinking fresh cold beers outside is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and it’s even better when there is food involved. So, have a wee catch-up with your pals over a meal and a drink at these outdoor terraces around Glasgow.
9. Ramp up the sass at this comedy drag show with a two-course meal
Credit: Arta Glasgow
Ready for a night of comedy and drag? Arta is welcoming the best comedy drag acts to its picturesque venue on August 2 (and October 26, if you miss the August date), inviting guests for a night filled with the biggest diva, resident Drag Queen Diva Barbra LaBush. Comedy lovers will receive a two-course meal with their ticket and a glass of fizz, as well as entry to the afterparty with the 80s, 90s and 00s hits at the nightclub. You can get your tickets on Fever.
10. Go to this wellbeing festival
Credit: Southside Wellbeing Fest
Looking after ourselves is of utmost importance, especially during the summer when things get just that wee bit busier. The Southside Wellbeing Festival is taking place between September 6 and 8 across venues in Glasgow’s Southside, inviting guests to take a moment for themselves. Festival-goers can enjoy events like yoga, including singing yoga, writing workshops, ceramic painting, community meals, different mental health and spirituality workshops and more. There’s even a ukelele workshop, guys! What’s not to love! You can check all the events and book your tickets here.