Silent Sunday – 4 May

We love Glasgow in bloom… sigh

 

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The art of the matter

It’s no secret that we love Glasgow.  A lot.

It’s an eclectic treasure trove of discovery – one that never ceases to amaze and surprise.

Especially us.

But sometimes even we are at a loss for words to truly describe our appreciation for this ‘dear green place’.

So this week we’ll let some of Glasgow’s impressive street art do the talking.

Artfully done…

If a picture’s worth a thousand words – these  would definitely include ones like inspiring, captivating, clever and even energising.

Next time you’re out,  go on play a game of I spy.  Keep your eyes open for the impressive street art transforming our city into a colourful collage of vibrant wonder.

Discover and enjoy!

-T

Sanctuary in the city

The rain has stopped, the sun is shining and so we’re off to Southside to the Hidden Gardens.  Tucked away behind the Tramway through the glass doors is a world of green grass and serenity.

A gem of green tranquillity

It’s hard believe this gem of green tranquillity exists in the city.  Here, surrounded by lush foliage, my shoulders relax, my mind clears and the open space embraces me.  It’s certainly come a long way from its early days as Copelawhill Tram Works – now beautifully transformed from a 5000 square metre derelict brownfield site into a peaceful haven.

Magical and mischievous

There’s a lot to explore – follow footpaths, bridges or like my son dart in and out of hidden areas to discover the many wee sculptures or give one of the instruments a go.

We even discovered a talking hedge – kind of.  So, it actually turns out to be a few rascals concealed in the middle of some bamboo rather than the gateway to Narnia.   Even still, it’s a truly enchanting escape from the hub-bub of the city.

But this wonderful space is more than a moment of tranquillity. There’s loads of activities to try out from the Cultural Kitchen to various family activities. If you’re feeling under the weather, there’s a Medical and Cultural Courtyard to revive and rejuvenate in.  Maybe you’ll even find that gateway to Narnia and have a chat with a talkative hedge.

Enjoy

-B

Rejuvenating views in the most unexpected of places

I’m running late and so haven’t managed to book a walking tour of the Glasgow Necropolis.  Fortunately my nine-year old’s running commentary as we walk through the sprawling grounds keeps me in-the-know.  A previous school trip has apparently turned him into an expert.

We meander  along the path up the hill enjoying the sights and checking out the gravestones.  Our birds-eye view of the Cathedral from the second highest hill in Glasgow means the landscape is fantastic.

But the necropolis isn’t just a bunch of tombstones.  This Victorian cemetery is a beautiful garden, including numerous grand monuments – and is said to have over
50 000 people buried here, though not all have stones.

Its many graves tell the story of generations of families in Glasgow spanning over 100 years.  Along our explorations, we discover the grave of William Miller who wrote the nursery rhyme Wee Willie Winkie – which we dutifully sing as we climb further up the hill.

Not gloomy, just spectacular views

Arriving on the top of the hill I realise how spectacular gravestones can be; intricate carvings, statues, mausoleums and inscriptions detail the history of each person.  The Necropolis allows you to explore Glasgow’s rich history, chart its achievements through the celebration of its past people – all the while surrounded by an impressive 360 degree view of the city.

As I look out at the city far away from the hustle and bustle, I can’t help but have a sense of peace in this quiet natural space.

It’s worth a visit and worth the climb.  And if you’re not fortunate enough to have your own personal tour guide, book one of their tours – but do it early as they fill up quickly.

– B