Hidden Treasures
Quirky community of artists and designers tucked away behind one of Glasgow’s busiest streets
AS the proverb goes, “Seek, and ye shall find.” And if what you’re seeking is a quirky community of artists, designers and musicians, then you’ll find it in The Hidden Lane, off one of Glasgow’s main thoroughfares.
Carole Dunlop, lead lane alchemist, says, “The Lane is a lovingly-preserved corner of Glasgow where artists nurture their crafts among like-minded creatives in truly unique surroundings.
“The Hidden Lane Gallery provides a permanent home for the work of the illustrious photographer Margaret Watkins – and the Hidden Lane Tearoom is a Glasgow institution, serving much-loved afternoon teas and wonderful cakes.
“The Lane’s authentic cobbles and ivy-strewn barrels are a delightful discovery for people dining in or exploring Finnieston’s increasingly food-focused main street.”
The Hidden Lane started life more than 350 years ago as a series of corrals for cattle and sheep, as well as a smiddy for shoeing horses and repairing swords and daggers. Among the many Highlanders who used the nearby drovers’ inn – now The Finnieston bar and restaurant – as their final stop on the way to market in Glasgow was the famous Rob Roy Mcgregor.
Today, The Hidden Lane and the Hive is a community of more than 100 studios, hosting a variety of artists, designers, musicians, jewellers, guitar makers, upholsterers, printers, publishers and writers.
Carole says, “Highlights include the Mexican takeaway Rafa’s as well as record label Last Night From Glasgow, representing the cream of Scottish musical talent.”
Snow Patrol started off in The Hidden Lane’s Argyle House, though Mogwai had to go as apparently no one could work within 100 yards of them!
And if you fancy getting creative, too, Carole says, “There are stained glass classes with Quatro Manis Studio, wildflower classes with Briar Rose Design, pottery classes for adults and kids at Spin Pottery Glasgow and yoga at Damn Hot and Finnieston Yoga Shala.”