Would you believe me if I told you that Glasgow, Scotland reminded me of Philadelphia? Scotland’s largest city certainly hasn’t produced any Hollywood-blockbuster wrestlers or created a cheese steak that draws foodies from all over the world, so the comparison might seem as though it’s coming from out of left field. But, Glasgow and Philadelphia have something in common that, as a traveler on a budget, I can’t help but appreciate: a surplus of open-air murals scattered throughout downtown.
I’m a massive fan of street art because I cherish the idea that creation ought to be accessible to the public (while still paying artists fair wages). My appreciation of architecture, another form of public art, stems from this exact belief, and believe you me when I say that Glasgow’s Victorian structures are another attraction in of themselves. Glasgow’s charming appearance is remarkable, especially given that a few decades ago, nearly the whole city was a soot-covered industrial working town.
Glasgow revamped its image in a number of ways, and has earned a reputation as a champion of music and the arts. In 2008, the city of Glasgow started commissioning local artists to add color to dated or lackluster spaces around town, and has grown wildly from there. The murals are the most accessible way for travelers to soak up Glasgow’s infatuation with all things creative, and make for a fun scavenger hunt when walking about town. Here are the murals I stumbled upon during my one-day stay in the city:
As you can tell, there are numerous different styles and subjects featured. Some are more realistic, while others are fun and stylistic – however, each and every mural is larger than life. While I chose to wander around the city and happen upon murals unexpectedly, travelers can choose to map out their route using the city’s official mural guide, available here. Bonus: even a few hours spent on foot will give any traveler an excellent taste of downtown culture and afford numerous mural sightings. Like most European metropolises, Glasgow is incredibly pedestrian friendly.
To learn more about what to do and see while in Glasgow, Scotland, check out my free guide to the city here!
