Lonely Planet has named Glasgow one of the world’s top 10 cities for visitors – awash with so many cool things to do, see and eat – whatever the weather! So, when storm clouds gather, why not take shelter in one of the local’s favourite.
The Hidden Lane Tearoom
The only sort of drizzle found in this little tea shop is delicious lemon drizzle cake! Wobbly tables, books and bunting create a warm and homely atmosphere. And a changing selection of home baked goodies include mojito cup-cakes and hazelnut scones – with vegan and gluten free options on offer. A choice of 30 teas are served in the traditional way – loose leaf in a proper teapot with a strainer and beautiful cups. On dry days, the outside tables are a real sun trap…
1103 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8ND
www.hiddenlanetearoom.com
Britannia Panopticon Music Hall
Try singing in the rain at the world’s oldest surviving Music Hall, celebrating its centenary in 2018. This awesome A-listed building closed in 1938 but has now undergone major restoration and offers a great range of performances, including stand-up comedy, burlesque and sing-along music hall shows. Maybe take a banana for the resident ghost chimpanzee…
113-117 Trongate, Glasgow G1 5HD
www.britanniapanopticon.org
Platform Street Food Market
A Glasgow downpour is the perfect excuse to sample some amazing Scottish street food. The iconic Arches – a former world-famous nightclub – has been refurbished and re-born as a showcase for local, sustainably sourced, seasonal produce. Catch the ultimate fish finger sarnie at Shrimpwreck – or head to Ginger and Chili for vegan Vietnamese noodle soup. To follow, crème brulee or ice creams offer instant sunshine.
Platform at The Arches, 253 Argyle Street, Glasgow
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The Wee Pub
Duck out of the showers and find a warm welcome in the charming Wee Pub – the smallest in Scotland. It’s cosy. And it’s tiny – with space for around 30 people. This gem of a bar specialises in whiskies, offering the perfect hideaway to down a few drams with a selection of bar snacks.
12 Ashton Lane, Glasgow, G12 8SJ
www.ubiquitouschip.co.uk/pubs/
The Red Bus Bistro
Enjoy the storm with a teacup and cake, trundling round the city sights safe and dry on Red Bus Bistro – an iconic old 1966 Routemaster double decker. Choose from an Afternoon Tea or Gin Tea Experience, driving round top Glasgow attractions. Or go for Gourmet Burger option – and get dropped off for a tour of Wellpark Brewery. Ding ding!
www.redbusbistro.co.uk
Clydeside Distillery
When that rain descends, spend an hour or two becoming an expert in Scottish whisky, watching craftsmen distil pure new spirit by hand. Learn about the history of Glasgow and its famous docks. Then sink a fine single malt. Or two…
The Old Pump House, Queen’s Dock.100 Stobcross Road, Glasgow G3 8QQ
www.theclydeside.com
Or, for those who love a walk in the rain…
Grab your umbrella, get the app and follow brilliant Glasgow mural trail with its vast pieces of urban wall art: don’t miss the amazing Charles Rennie Mackintosh mural – commissioned by Radisson RED to mark the 150th anniversary of the architect’s birth. Or take a guided walk to learn all about the people and places that shaped the Glasgow music scene: the city is home to a legion of legends like Primal Scream Travis and Paulo Nutini. The sound of open air gigs – with big name artists – reverberates round the restored – and rockin’ – Kelvingrove Bandstand. And don’t forget to check out – and book for – the eclectic Glasgow summer festival…
