Getting through the darkest months of the year can be a true challenge for most, particularly those affected by SAD (seasonal affective disorder). However, what if we told you those days can become so much brighter with all the wonderful things to do in Glasgow this winter?
1. Witness this unique Kaleidoscopic light show
An immersive light show in Glasgow has landed on December 23, inviting guests to experience the Merchants House of Glasgow like you never before. The event is lighting up the darker nights with a soundtrack of Vivaldi’s moving violin concerto, showing off the stunning building with Kaleidoscopic colours and formations. Enlightenment Glasgow is on everyday until January 31, so there is plenty of time to visit this winter. You can book your tickets here.
2. Check out this one-of-a-kind rooftop bar
Atop the House of Gods hotel sits the Sacred Garden rooftop, offering an aesthetically pleasing outing with friends and family. The spot is also possibly the most decorated spot in Glasgow this Christmas, with thousands of baubles hanging from the ceiling. On top of stunning decor, guests can enjoy small plates, flatbreads, bar bites, desserts and, of course, plenty of cocktails and champagne. You can book your table here.
3. Bag some munros in a true Scottish fashion
Living on the West Coast of Scotland has its advantages, with the Highlands being way more accessible than to those in Edinburgh. As a result, bagging munros has become a weekend tradition for many, with plenty of walks to choose from near Glasgow. You can check out our list of the best hikes near Glasgow here, with some being a mere 30 minutes away.
4. Marvel at a magical Candlelight concert
Candlelight concerts have taken over the most iconic venues and historic buildings around Glasgow, bringing classical music like you never heard it before, surrounded by a sea of candles. Visitors can expect to hear tributes to some of their favourite artists like Adele, Taylor Swift and Coldplay, themed movie soundtracks, as well as classical masterpieces from Vivaldi and others. There are plenty of concerts to choose from this winter, and you can book your tickets here.
5. Embark on a wee Outlander filming locations tour around Glasgow
Many of us have gotten enchanted by the magical world of the ‘Outlander’ TV series based on Diana Gabaldon’s novels, especially after its last season dropped. So, it’s only fitting a wee ‘Outlander’ tour around Glasgow of the filming locations is on the things to do this winter list. You can find the seven locations here.
6. Have a wee day out at the spa
Having a pamper day at the spa is good for the soul, and forgetting what day or time it is the perfect way to pass the dark days. You can find our list of the best beauty salons and spas in Glasgow here.
7. Indulge in a six-course Murder Express-themed cocktail experience
What if we told you Glasgow has a cocktail bar “like no other” right in the heart of the West End: Somewhere By Nico is still fairly new in town, boasting a six-course cocktail experience. While there is still time to try the ‘Alice in Wonderland’-themed menu ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ until January 7, 2025, a Murder Express-themed experience is launching on January 8, 2025. The murder mystery is staying until February 2, 2025, bringing another unique immersive experience.
8. Make new friends at this ice breaker event
Making friends as an adult can be a challenge on its own. What if we told you there is an event where you can meet new people, dine and participate in wee icebreaker games. So, why not just go on your own and have the best time at Imperfect Strangers: Meet, Dine, Connect during January and February? You can book your tickets on Fever.
9. Explore the city’s best brunch spots
Brunch is probably the best thing since sliced bread, and it just had to be included in the best things to do this winter list. From stunning cocktails at Princes Square to a quaint escape to Ashton Lane, you can explore our favourite brunch spots with phenomenal cocktails here.