FASHION & STILE
GLASGOW & ISLAY
You can’t beat Glasgow for culture. The city’s architecture is world-renowned and many of the old buildings are being reinvented as restaurants, arts venues and even a new distillery. Speaking of distilleries, did you know that the beautiful island of Islay is just an hour’s flight from Glasgow? Hop on a plane to discover amazing wildlife, fabulous scenery and some world-famous whisky distilleries. Here are eight reasons why you should twin Glasgow with Islay.
GLASGOW #1 A modern dram
Glasgow’s stills are flowing again! The Clydeside Distillery opened in 2017 in a former pump house on the banks of the Clyde. It’s now producing the first whisky in Glasgow for more than 100 years.
#2 Be transported
Make your way to the Riverside Museum, Glasgow’s free transport museum located on the banks of the River Clyde. Hop on a tram, check out the vintage cars and walk down an old cobbled Glasgow street.
#3 Tall tales
The Tall Ship, Glenlee, is berthed outside the Riverside Museum. Restored to her former glory, the Glenlee is one of only five remaining Clyde-built sailing ships still afloat in the world.
#4 Eat, drink & play
Head to Princes Square for lunch – and some shopping – or treat yourself to lunch at the iconic Corinthian Club. For dinner, book yourself a table at The Gannet, a multi-award-winning bar and restaurant in the Finnieston area. For after dinner fun make your way to Òran Mór for drinks and live music. And for a final pint, head to The Scotia, one of Scotland’s oldest and most iconic pubs. It has a legendary status on the city’s music scene.
Stay at Radisson Red, Glasgow’s hippest new hotel. Head up to the rooftop bar to watch the sun set over the Clyde as you sip a cocktail.
ISLAY #5 A peaty dram
No visit to Islay would be complete without a tour of a whisky distillery. There are nine on the island, including Ardnahoe, which opened this year, and Bowmore, said to be one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland.
#6 Wild at heart
Islay is home to an array of incredible wildlife, from rare butterflies to iconic Scottish creatures such as otters, seals and eagles. Join Wild Islay Birding for an unforgettable wildlife tour of the island.
#7 Paddle or pedal
Go on a sea kayaking adventure with Kayak Wild Islay. Explore the coastline and discover islands, hidden lagoons and beaches. Or how about heading off road with a Fat Bike tour?
#8 Eat, drink and play
Head to the south of the island for lunch at one of the island’s most famous distilleries. Ardbeg’s Old Kiln
Café serves up delicious dishes featuring local produce. Or treat yourself at Peatzeria in Bowmore. For dinner, treat yourself at 18 at the Machrie. Overlooking the 18th green of the famous Machrie Links golf course and the ocean beyond, this fabulous modern restaurant is all about great food and incredible views. Stay at Islay’s newest hotel, The Machrie, which opened this year. It’s a stunning renovation and expansion, providing luxurious hotel accommodation in a dreamy beachside setting. And if you like golf, one of the world’s finest Links courses is right on your doorstep!
TRAVEL
Travel around Glasgow on an Open Top Bus Tour or use the Glasgow Subway to get around the city centre and west end of Glasgow. Catch a Loganair flight from Glasgow to Islay. Once you’re out of departures there are various options for getting around. You can hire a car, use the island’s bus services, or go for a combination of taxis, hired bikes and foot.