Scotland’s largest city is famed for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture, as well as being a cultural hub packed full of theatres, museums and music venues. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding which buildings to visit, from the gothic Glasgow cathedral to the hyper-modern Riverside Museum. In these cases, the exterior buildings are just as fascinating as what can be found inside, so if you’re looking for some of the most interesting buildings to visit in Glasgow, both inside and out, see our choices below.
Glasgow Cathedral
This medieval cathedral predates the Scottish Reformation, and sits on the same spot that’s thought to have hosted the Church of St Mungo, Glasgow’s patron saint. The stunning gothic architecture includes many traditional features, such as high ceilings, pointed arches and intricate stained glass windows. It is the oldest cathedral in Scotland, as well as the oldest building in mainland Glasgow
The Lighthouse
This six floor building dates back to 1895, and was the first public commission of Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Once used as the offices for the Glasgow Herald newspaper, it is now a visitor centre and exhibition space in its new role as Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture. The spiral staircase is stunning in its own right, and climbing to the top offers spectacular views of the city.
Riverside Museum
Designed by Dame Zaha Hadid, the first woman to win the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize, the Riverside is considered an exceptional example of modern architecture. The industrial, maritime and shipbuilding museum features an enormous glass façade that directs light into the building, offset with sharp, futuristic angles on the roof.
Glasgow City Chambers
The ornate city chambers were opened by Queen Victoria herself in 1888, and survive as a grand example of Victorian civic architecture. The exterior is built in the Beaux Arts style, which incorporates ornate Italianate styles with Renaissance Classicism. The interior is just as grand; featuring a marble staircase, mosaic ceilings, gold leaf and stained glass.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Built in a Spanish Baroque style, this vast museum opened in 1901 and is home to 22 themed galleries and over 8,000 objects. The façade really stands out, thanks to its grand style and construction made from Locharbriggs red sandstone. It houses one of Europe’s most impressive art collections, with works by Monet, Renoir, Rembrandt and Salvador Dali.
You might not be building something as grand as any of the above, but if you’re in need of concrete and cement supplies in Glasgow, get in touch with Forth Valley Concrete. We offer a full range of products for projects big and small, including ready mixed concrete, concrete bases, blocks and groundwork. To discuss your needs or find out more about our products and services, give us a call or visit the website.