Glasgow: Itineraries

This absorbing stroll will take you from George Sq to Glasgow Cathedral through the trendy Merchant City, a planned 18th-century civic development and home to many fine pubs and restaurants.

The TIC on George Sq is a good starting point for exploring the city. The square is surrounded by imposing Victorian architecture, including the old post office, the Bank of Scotland and the grandiose City Chambers. There are statues of Robert Burns, James Watt, Lord Clyde and, atop a 24m-high Doric column, Sir Walter Scott.

Once you've ogled the City Chambers, cross George Sq and walk one block south down Queen St to the Gallery of Modern Art. This striking four-floor colonnaded building, built in 1827, was once the Royal Exchange. Pop in for a look at some of the best contemporary art displays in the country.

The gallery faces Ingram St, which you should cross and then follow east for four blocks to Hutchesons' Hall. On your way, duck into the former Court House cells now housing the ornate, dazzling Corinthian pub/club for a glimpse of the extravagant interior (and perhaps a cheeky half!). Retrace your steps one block and continue south down Glassford St past Trades Hall, designed by Robert Adam in 1791 to house the trades guild. This is the only surviving building in Glasgow by this famous Scottish architect; the exterior is best viewed from Garth St. Turn right into Wilson St and first left along Virginia St, which is lined with the old warehouses of the Tobacco Lords; many of these have now been converted into flats for the upwardly mobile.

Back on Wilson St, the bulky Sheriff Court House fills a whole block. Continue east on Wilson St into Bell St and take a break at the excellent Blackfriars pub where you can do some fine people-watching while sipping a cask ale. Turn left into Albion St, then first right into Blackfriars St. Emerging onto High St, turn left and follow High St up to the cathedral - you can't miss it!