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Glasgow Live
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Alexander Smail

Glasgow tourist attractions ranked from worst to best according to TripAdvisor

Anyone who lives in or visits Glasgow will know there is plenty to see and do in the city for a day out.

This can make deciding how to spend your time a difficult task, especially if you're only here for a short while.

From the football stadiums to the city's many museums and galleries, you could easily spend days upon days trying to see all of the sights on offer.

READ MORE — Primark shoppers 'relive childhood' with clothes featuring 90s favourite

For those who are needing a bit of help narrowing down their options, we have put together a list of all of the major tourist attractions in Glasgow and ranked them from worst to best by their rating on TripAdvisor.

While it would be nearly impossible to include every single potential thing to do, we've included the biggest and most popular spots amongst locals and tourists.

Gallery of Modern Art

Ranked 150 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 3/5

Number of reviews: 761

You might be surprised to see the GoMA so low down on this list, but many of the reviews on TripAdvisor were in agreement that it doesn't live up to its full potential. The gallery features work by local and international artists and offers a programme of temporary exhibitions and workshops.

What one visitor said: "Visited today on an off chance and i didn't get it at all. The gallery is free to enter so I went in to see what it was like had no plans to visit. I found there wasn't much in way of things to see there are 4 gallery there is more empty space I was in there 20 minutes hoping to see something worth while but ended up disappointed thankfully it wasn't a paid attraction."

The Lighthouse

Ranked 48 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4/5

Number of reviews: 964

The Lighthouse, Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture, is a visitor centre, exhibition space and events venue that promotes design and architecture through a creative programme of exhibitions and events.

What one visitor said: "Great exhibition at present on unbuilt mackintosh works, a bit low on the lighting but worth a look. The cafe on level has great cheap soup - perfect in a cold Glasgow day. Great spiral staircase in the old tank tower. Has a viewing platform but closed on our wet day visit."

Pollok House

Ranked 44 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4/5

Number of reviews: 418

Pollok House is an elegant stately home is set in the scenic Pollok Country Park, and features an impressive collection of Spanish art — as well as a selection of baked goods in its Edwardian Kitchen café. Visitors were impressed by the house itself, but less so by its gift shop.

What one visitor said: "Pollok House sits in lovely grounds, perfect for family picnics and leisurely strolls. Despite the car park being full, we were pleasantly surprised to find the house almost deserted. This allowed us to wander around the 18th century building, admiring the numerous artworks and taking everything in at our leisure. The gift shop was a bit underwhelming and not up to the usual Scottish National Trust standards. We weren't able to find any souvenirs for Pollok House itself, like the usual printed magnets and so on. Instead it was other standard fare. While it's not the most prominent NT property the volunteers are knowledgeable and helpful and it's worth a visit if you're in Glasgow. The estate really feels like a thriving part not just of history, but of the community."

Drygate Brewery

Ranked 43 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4/5

Number of reviews: 621

Drygate have been brewing beer in Glasgow since 2014, but are also known for showcasing food, art, design, music, comedy, poetry and more. Featuring a bar, restaurant, Bottle Shop, Beer Hall, terrace & multi-use events space, if you like your beer Drygate Brewery is a must-see.

What one visitor said: "Really fun and interesting selection of beers. There was a great variety and tasting sizes were offered at an affordable rate. I enjoyed all my beers and they all get unique and not like something I could get anywhere. The food was of a high quality and very tasty. The staff were all very nice and friendly :) The restaurant has a great feel and you can see the stills from the restaurant."

People's Palace and Winter Gardens

Ranked 42 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 1,485

Located in the historic Glasgow Green, the People's Palace is a museum and glasshouse that is home to objects, photographs, prints and film which tell the story of Glasgow and its people from 1750 to the end of the 20th century.

What one visitor said: "Nostalgic visit to this magnificent building. Advanced booking is required due to the pandemic and the exhibitions are limited and not interactive at present. Some displays out of action and oneish way system in place. Interesting and informative displays. Toilets clean. Still enjoyable and worth a visit. Set within beautiful grounds. Great for play parks, bike rental and leisurely strolls through the park. Visited by the Hop on Hop off bus. Free parking if you are early enough. Could feel the subway trains underneath!"

Glasgow Science Centre

Ranked 40 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 2,633

One of Scotland's most popular paid-for visitor attractions, the Glasgow Science Centre is a must-see if you want to learn a bit whilst seeing the sights. Featuring around 300 hands-on interactive science exhibits over three floors, as well as a Planetarium, visitors agreed that it's a fun and educational day out.

What one visitor said: "Very informative and interactive experience! Many things to get involved in on the top-floor which has the the most engaging exhibits in my opinion! Variety of physical/endurance tests amongst other things which was a very positive unexpected welcome! There’s a plethora of information on upcoming scientific topics such as Big Data, so it’s a great place to bring your kids / mates to learn more about something which is very relevant to the world. The staff here are extremely polite and helpful, ours even helping us store the luggage we had since we were travelling afterwards. It was a wholesome experience!"

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Ranked 35 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 2,215

With summer just around the corner and the city enjoying more and more sunny days, Glasgow Botanic Gardens is a great shout if you want to do some sightseeing without being stuck inside. If you go, be sure to check out the stunning Kibble Palace greenhouse.

What one visitor said: "It's not got the size and grandness of Kew Gardens but well worth a visit. Good collections and well laid out. The glasshouses certainly were an attraction even though some areas were restricted due to covid precautions. We wandered down to the arboretum but found that part disappointing."

Buchanan Street

If you want to do some shopping Buchanan Street should be top of your list (Ingram Publishing)

Ranked 31 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 5,292

While locals likely won't view Buchanan Street as much of an attraction, if you're visiting Glasgow for the first time you need to check out the biggest shopping hotspot in the city. Whether you're after souvenirs or upmarket clothes, you're sure to find what you're after here.

What one visitor said: "This is the main pedestrianised shopping street in Glasgow, and whatever the weather it’s got a lively vibe. It’s also the most successful U.K. high street outside of London. The 19th century architecture is striking , so don’t just focus on the restaurants, shops and speciality stores here ( many which are boutique and high-end) - remember to look up at the skyline. This street’s also popular with buskers, so often you get entertained whilst shopping. Princes Square is very elegant, but I like this building beside it that houses the Nespresso Boutique."

Hunterian Museum

Ranked 30 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 1,000

The Hunterian Museum is the oldest museum in Scotland, and is dedicated to eighteenth-century surgeon and anatomist John Hunter. It features collections of human and non-human anatomical and pathological specimens, models, instruments, painting and sculptures.

What one visitor said: "Unmissable for fans of Rennie Mackintosh design, the museum boasts a recreated interior from his home, replete with furniture, ornaments and artwork. Next door is an impressive art gallery. The whole area adjacent to the Glasgow University is delightful."

Glasgow Green

Ranked 28 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 478

Like the Botanic Gardens, this is one to check out on a sunny day if possible. By far the oldest park in the city, Glasgow Green features numerous landmarks such as Nelson's Monument, the St. Andrew's Suspension Bridge, and the previously mentioned People's Palace.

What one visitor said: "I have walked thru Glasgow Green many times over the last 50 years. Yesterday I walked in at the High St entrance and followed the Riverwalk along the Clyde to Dalmarnock - it’s about 4 miles round trip. The walk takes you past several boathouses and bridges along well-kept and generally clean pathways in a very pleasant setting. It’s hard to believe that you are so close to the City Centre. You will also see the great greenhouses attached to The Peoples Palace. There are play areas for kids, a large football centre and a mixture of street parking (mostly metered but some free spaces). It’s an excellent walk."

Glasgow Cathedral

Ranked 27 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 2,981

Glasgow Cathedral is the oldest building in Glasgow, as well as the oldest cathedral in mainland Scotland, and so is surely worth checking out on that basis alone. Visitors naturally loved the cathedral's magnificent architecture and ornate interior.

What one visitor said: "Glasgow cathedral is stunning with its distinctive green roof and inside is just as magical with mesmerising colourful stained glass windows, St Mungo’s tomb, and what was different about this cathedral is the highlighted message ‘returning and into your arms’ illuminated above . It’s great to have a walk around the grounds to see some fabulous memorials and this is where the tv series Outlander was featured too so I would say this place is definitely worth a look around!"

Scottish Football Museum

Ranked 22 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 226

Featuring over 2500 exhibits across 14 galleries, if you're mad about football — particularly Scottish football — you need to check out the Scottish Football Museum at least once. Highlights include the world's oldest cap and match ticket from the first official international match of 1872, and the world's oldest national trophy, the Scottish Cup.

What one visitor said: "Me and my 2 boys were really impressed by the museum and tour. Museum was full of stuff to talk about, my 10 year old was never bored and took the whole lot in. A genuine insight into the history of the game from its very roots. The stadium tour was the highlight, a memorable experience to walk out the tunnel and take it all in. Tour guide was so easy going with great interaction and obviously knowledgeable."

The Necropolis

Ranked 18 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 3,528

Unlike the other outdoor sites on this list, The Necropolis is best visited on a dark and gloomy day to capture to full effect. Modelled after Père-Lachaise in Paris, it is one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe.

What one visitor said: "We entered the Necropolis by crossing a bridge from the Cathedral, to see some very impressive memorials to the wealthy citizens of Glasgow. Lots of winding paths around the mound the Necropolis is built on. We spent over an hour here and there would be plenty more time to spend here if you wanted. Plenty to see from relocated graves from around the area, large memorials and with many religious, industrialists and educational figures."

Tenement House

Ranked 17 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 707

It can be easy to miss the unassuming Tenement House, given that on first glance it looks like an ordinary middle-class tenement from the late 19th century. However, journey inside and you'll be treated to an authentic time capsule of life in early 20th-century Glasgow, including the original fixtures and fittings.

What one visitor said: "If the past is a foreign country, The Tenement House is your passport. Even just a short visit illustrates perfectly the way so many people lived in early-mid 20th century Glasgow, and the stories of the long-term resident and how the property came to the national trust are both fascinating. When you're in an environment like this one, you pick up so much detail about daily life. This really is history come alive."

The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel

The Riverside Museum is a thing to behold (Glasgow Live)

Ranked 10 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 9,517

Unlike the Tenement House, the Riverside Museum is eye-grabbing both inside and out. The award-winning transport museum features more than 3,000 displays — from skateboards to locomotives to a Stormtrooper.

What one visitor said: "This is a great place for all the family to visit, situated right by the river and the tall ship, this museum has old buses, trams, cars, caravan's motorbikes, all forms of transport that you can go on and explore, a very interactive place and the icing on the cake is the cobbled makeshift street with it's old fashioned shops that you can look inside and horse and carts which was so exciting to see and its all free!"

The Clydeside Distillery

Ranked 8 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 859

If you're a whisky person, then you need to check out The Clydeside Distillery. Even if you aren't much of a drinker, the educational tour will almost certainly be worth your time. If you're willing to pay a bit more, the distillery also offers chocolate tours and tasting experiences.

What one visitor said: "The Clydeside Distillery tour is an absolute must, whether you're a visitor in Glasgow or whether you live here. Our tour guide, Austin, was brilliant, as were all the staff we met, and it was so interesting learning all about the history of whiskey and Glasgow. The tasting at the end was also a bonus, and the on-site cafe is very reasonably priced and has a great range of drinks. Fantastic value for money and couldn't recommend the tour enough!"

Ibrox Stadium

Ranked 7 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 1,151

The third largest football stadium in Scotland, Ibrox is worth a visit even if you aren't there to watch a match. Steeped in history, if you book a tour of the stadium you can get exclusive access to the home and away dressing rooms, as well as the illustrious Trophy Room.

What one visitor said: "Fantastic experience, 2nd time doing the tour and it was just at special. Lovely to hear so much history about the club. Would highly recommend to any Rangers ran or anyone that takes interest in the club. The staff were extremely helpful and kind and made our experience memorable."

Tennent's Wellpark Brewery

Ranked 3 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 1,223

If you can only check out one brewery on this list, make sure it's Tennent's Wellpark Brewery. Home to over 450 years of brewing tradition and award-winning beers, a visit here will take you behind the scenes to discover what makes Tennent’s unique and why they have been part of Scotland and its culture for generations.

What one visitor said: "Absolutely amazing experience. Our tour guide Tony was very educational in addition to being hilarious and making our experience very light hearted and not too heavy and serious. 10/10 would highly recommend if you’re in Glasgow. The pint at the end went down a treat."

Celtic Park

Ranked 2 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 1,806

The largest football stadium in Scotland, a visit to Celtic Park is well worth your time even if you're not a fan of the club. Visitors online praised the "fantastic" tour — in which you can see the boardroom, tunnel, dressing room and dugout — as well as the knowledgeable staff.

What one visitor said: "The tour was absolutely fantastic. Eric and David are an absolute credit to Celtic football club. Full of knowledge and incredible story’s. Made to feel welcome from the moment we stepped through the door. Felt like a V.I.P on a match day!"

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Kelvingrove desveres its place atop this list (© CSG CIC Glasgow Museums Collections)

Ranked 1 of 422 things to do in Glasgow

Rating: 4.5/5

Number of reviews: 15,434

This list started with an art gallery and it's ending with another one. Glasgow's Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is simply a must-see for locals and tourists alike. Featuring 22 distinct galleries, Kelvingrove has so much to see and do that you might struggle to fit it all into one visit.

What one visitor said: "Very impressed by this museum. The Scottish Colourist paintings are so impressive, as are the French ones. We ate in the cafe and the lunch was tasty. Service was fast and Covid friendly - I could see them wiping tables between customers and you go the impression they were really making an effort. Wonderful free lunch time organ recital."

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