George Square

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 center 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.