Glasgow isn't short of places to relax and enjoy nature. Even right in the centre of this buzzing city, you can escape to find tranquility in some beautiful green spaces.
Glasgow's Botanic Gardens are located in the West End, making them the perfect place to unwind after a hard day's shopping or exploring. Founded in 1817 by botanist Thomas Hopkirk, the gardens opened on their current site in 1842. Home to the impressive Kibble Palace, a striking and elegant glasshouse, and housing over 12,000 species of plant across indoor and outdoor displays, the gardens are a jewel in Glasgow's crown and not to be missed.
Glasgow Green, the oldest of the city's parks, is home to the People's Palace & Winter Gardens, providing a series of exhibits showing what life was like in Glasgow through the ages. This is a great wet weather option which combines a museum with social history and nature.
Next to the iconic Kelvingrove Museum & Gallery is Kelvingrove Park, a beautiful green space situated on the banks of the river Kelvin. Created by Sir Joseph Paxton, this urban oasis is buzzing with birdlife and it's a joy to walk around.
If you're willing to travel a little further to get out on the open, two wonderful parks within a short journey of the city centre are Pollok Country Park to the south and Mugdock Country Park to the north. Pollok Country Park is home to Pollok House, and formed the backdrop for a good few of the outdoor scenes in the popular historical drama, Outlander. It is also well known for exceptional mountain-biking, with three specially-designed circuits to choose from. Mugdock has plenty of wonderful trails for hiking and biking, a children's playground and a collection of cafes and coffee houses which make it a great place for a family day out. Both parks are easily accesible by car and public transport from the city centre.