Wanting to experience a little bit of its rock history, I headed to King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, a well-known destination for rock stars on the arduous journey to the top – it was within King Tut’s walls that Britpop legends Oasis were signed, after they played a gig there.
The intimate space is heaving as up-and-comers Mumford & Sons take to the stage.
Dancing in a sweaty, dark room with hundreds of strangers and the smell of spilt beer reminds me of my uni days.
And I’m loving every second of it. A follow-up search on the band’s MySpace page reveals every one of their forthcoming UK gigs is sold out. It seems they’ve been blessed with King Tut’s magic kiss.
Another legendary venue is The Arches. The massive subterranean space is host to tons of gigs, while clubbers rejoice at its Death Disco night, an event locals rave about.
Glasgow embraces all genres of music, from contemporary to classical to country. It’s no surprise, then, that it was named Unesco City of Music last year.
Moving forward and the city is bringing together some of Scotland’s finest musicians to perform under one roof with Homecoming Live – The Final Fling on November 28.
The indoor festival, part of St Andrew’s Weekend, is another example of the city’s passion for Scotland’s thriving music scene. Names performing include The View, The Vaselines and Orange Unsigned Act winner Tommy Reilly.
Forget fried Mars bars and throw away any rough and tumble preconceptions. Glasgow is all about rocking out. Yes, it really is the city of music.
» Natasha Vuckovic travelled with Visit Scotland. For information and accommodation phone 0845 225 5121
More than music
While Glasgow’s nightlife is great, it’s not too shabby during the day either. A city that embraces art in all its forms, check out its more creative vibe.
Art school
Designed by one of Glasgow’s most renowned designers, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow School of Art is considered one of the most influential structures of the 20th century. Take
a tour to find out about the quirky architect and his lateral way of thinking.
Big mack
Mackintosh put his stamp on many Glasgow landmarks, including the Martyrs’ School, the Mackintosh Church and the Scotland Street School Museum. The Mackintosh hop-on, hop-off bus tour reveals more about his life and work. See citysightseeingglasgow.co.uk
Dining out
Glasgow is packed with great restaurants. If seafood’s your thing try Two Fat Ladies (118A Blythswood St) or man up and sample some haggis (it’s nice, honest) at Guy’s Restaurant (24 Candleriggs), a cosy and relaxed affair that uses the best Scottish produce.
Fashion house
Fashion fans should head for Che Camille. Part shop, part workshop, designers use the space to create while shoppers can indulge in quirky, one-off products. Che Camille is in shopping mecca Buchanan Street, where you’ll also find all your high street favourites.
Warehouse sale
Newly opened in an Edwardian warehouse, art centre 103 Trongate is the place to buy, view and participate in art. There are some great exhibitions that cover a wide range of styles from photography to kinetic sculpture.
