Glasgow and the Clyde Valley

The City of Glasgow

Glasgow, built along the banks of the River Clyde, is Scotland's largest city, and has a rich industrial and cultural heritage. Once considered to be the Second City of the British Empire after London, the city has long been a hub for trade and shipping. Indeed, 'Clydebuilt' became synonymous with engineering and shipbuilding excellence. After the decline of heavy industry in the 20th century, Glasgow struggled to adjust, but is now the focus of regeneration: it's now one of the best cities outside London for shopping.

Glasgow is worth a visit for its architecture alone. One of her most famous sons, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, spawned an artistic and architectural movement, and designed such buildings as the Glasgow School of Art and the Willow Tearooms. Alexander 'Greek' Thomson was given his nickname because much of his architecture echoed classical Greek and Roman styles.

Glasgow is the setting of many modern Scottish crime novels, including the work of Denise Mina, Alex Gray and Lin Anderson. Glenn Chandler's Taggart cemented, rather unfairly, the impression of Glasgow as a violent city.