It’s April 2021 and at long last, we can travel throughout Scotland! We’re pretty sure that no-one will dispute what a tough time it has been particularly since Christmas but with travel restrictions being lifted and the vaccine roll-out continuing at pace, it feels like we might finally be on a path to happier and brighter days. With the days getting longer and lighter, we’ve put our heads together to think about some fun trips close to the Technology and Innovation Centre (TIC) where social distancing can be easily practiced, should you wish to explore Glasgow!
The City Centre Mural Trail is stunning pieces of street art enhancing the buildings and streets of Glasgow. We’re very lucky to have several within walking distance of the venue including one of our favourites which shows Saint Enoch breastfeeding her baby son, Saint Mungo, the patron Saint of Glasgow. This can actually be seen from the window of one of our meeting rooms – hopefully it won’t distract delegates too much when they can safely return to the venue!
If you wander over to the mural of Saint Enoch and Saint Mungo to take a closer look, you’re just a stone’s throw away from Glasgow Cathedral and Glasgow Necropolis. This is a Victorian garden cemetery where fifty thousand people are remembered. With fascinating stories of those buried there as well as stunning architecture and sculptures, it’s worth taking a wander through it particularly to enjoy the beautiful views of Glasgow from the top of the hill.
Glasgow boasts a vast array of statues which can be found across the city, many based in George Square, just a short walk from TIC. Of course, you can’t visit Glasgow without saying ‘hello’ to the 1st Duke of Wellington in Royal Exchange Square who is best known for wearing a red and white traffic cone on his head most days; a tradition that started in Glasgow in the 1980s. In 2011, the Lonely Planet guide included the statue in its list of the ‘top 10 most bizarre statues in the world’ so it’s one not to be missed!
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, why don’t you take a walk down to Glasgow Green which is only 10 minutes from TIC? Alternatively, you can hop-on the open-top bus tour and hop-off at the Green so you have more energy to enjoy the walks around the park! The bus tour is certified as ‘Good To Go’ meaning it adheres to public health and Government guidance so you can enjoy the sights of Glasgow safely!
If you manage to squeeze all of this in, then then you’ll definitely be in need of a seat and a wee drink! Fortunately, Drygate Brewery is just a few minutes’ walk towards the east of the city and offers a fine selection of craft beers as well as great food to fill a hungry tummy! With an outdoor terrace and yard, it’s the perfect place to end a busy day!
Singl-end Merchant City is also a popular lunchtime haunt of the TIC team, so definitely worth a visit if you enjoy scrumptious home baking, soup and sandwiches amongst countless other tasty lunch options. With plenty outdoor seating available too, it’s worth a visit but don’t forget to book, tables disappear quickly!
We’re working hard to get the venue ready to welcome our lovely clients and delegates when it is safe to do so and if you’d like to find out more about what we’re up to, then we’d love to hear from you; email Conference Glasgow to get in touch! Stay safe!