Visit George Square, named after King George III, to stand in the heart of Glasgow. See statues and sculptures of pioneering Scotsmen, admire historic architecture and enjoy fine dining. The square is a gathering place during large celebrations, such as St. Andrew’s Day on November 30, Christmas carnivals, student fairs and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve).
This welcoming spot was once a muddy wasteland. In the late 1700s the area was transformed into private gardens bounded by Georgian townhouses. By the late 19th century it was a public square. Today, it houses the Tourist Information Centre, so it’s a good place to start your tour of Glasgow.
Admire the square’s most prominent structure, the 19th-century building of the Glasgow City Chambers to the east. Have a meal or beer in the old Bank of Scotland, an Italian Renaissance-style building that now houses a pub and restaurant.
George Square is home to a dozen statues of famous names from British culture. Among these are war memorials and statues of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and James Watt, the world-famous Scottish inventor. The tall central column is a homage to the writer Sir Walter Scott and underneath it stands the sculpture of poet Robert Burns, who wrote the lyrics of the song Auld Lang Syne.
Often you can enjoy live music by bagpipers and local bands on George Square. During St. Andrew’s Day and Hogmanay, you will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the celebrating locals. Check the Glasgow City Council website for upcoming events, with the Commonwealth Games being the major focus for the summer of 2014.
Rent some skates and circle the ice rink in winter. During the holiday season the square becomes a sparkling fairground. Children will enjoy the traditional rides, such as a big wheel and carousel.
Situated in the centre of Glasgow, George Square is within walking distance of many of the major attractions, including The Lighthouse and Gallery of Modern Art.
Public buses stop near the square, and Glasgow Central and Glasgow Queen Street train stations are both a short walk away.
George Square
Visit George Square
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Food, drink & nightlife
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Reviews of George Square
5/5 - Excellent
Elia the Greek Restaurant. Great food and friendly staff.
5/5 - Excellent
Take time to go to The City Chambers (free tour twice a day 10.30 and 2.30)
3/5 - Okay
Don't go there during an SNP rally!
Popular places to visit
City Chambers
City Chambers is just one of the places to see in Glasgow, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theatre scene.
Gallery of Modern Art
Visit this impressive 18th-century building to see rotating exhibitions from local, national and international artists or to enjoy its café and library.
Duke of Wellington Statue
One of Glasgow’s most iconic sights is a noble statue standing proudly by an art gallery, although the famous sculpture is now famed as a target for pranksters.
Buchanan Street
Cutting through the heart of Glasgow, this bustling pedestrianized street is lined with sleek shopping centers, restaurants and several cultural highlights.
Lighthouse
Learn about acclaimed Glaswegian architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and share your own ideas with an expert at Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture.
Buchanan Galleries
During your trip to Glasgow, you can do some window-shopping at Buchanan Galleries. Discover the area's acclaimed art galleries or seek out its local tours.
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