Glasgow , Scotland

Gander Walking Tours in Glasgow

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About this experience

Go for a gander on a tour which reflects the energy and welcoming nature of Glasgow itself. All tours are conducted by myself, Johnny -- so if you have read a good review, you will know that that is the tour that you will be getting! I will provide you with a memorable introduction to this stupendous city, and at the conclusion of the tour, will be delighted to email you as many Glasgow recommendations as you can handle, tailored to your personal interests.

Walk with the self-styled Glasgow Gander around Glasgow City Centre, from Royal Exchange Square to Glasgow Cathedral, taking in the city's famed Victorian architecture, and drinking deeply of its vibrant atmosphere. Learn the fascinating story of Glasgow in the company of a passionate guide.

PLEASE NOTE: Every effort is made to keep tour numbers to a maximum of 15, but, in exceptional and rare circumstances, there may be more than 15 people per tour. You will be informed about this by email if this is the case.

Available options

May 15th Tour

TUESDAY 31st Nov 2023 TOUR

MONDAY 24th November 2023 TOUR

Jan 21st 12pm tour

Jan 21st 12pm tour<br/>Duration: 3 hours

Gander Walking Tours in Glasgow

Afternoon tour

2pm Tour

What's included

Enjoy a sample of Scotland's other national drink (non-alcoholic)!

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Discover the hidden history of this landmark building and be introduced to Mother Glasgow, Scotland's powerhouse, by the self-styled Glasgow Gander.

See the original cone-wearing commander, and discover the amusing story of this tradition of modern Glasgow at the expense of the Duke of Wellington.

Stop 3

Be guided around the symbolic heart of Glasgow, watch for the unpredictable movement of a rooftop ship, and see one of northern Europe's finest civic buildings, Glasgow City Chambers.

Encounter a often-overlooked gem of Georgian Glasgow and hear about a club where pig-like gluttony was encouraged!

In the shadow of one of the city centre's most striking buildings, hear the unflinching tale of Glasgow's growth as a commercial, then industrial city; its decline, renaissance, and the legacy, and ongoing impact, of Mother Glasgow on the world today.

On this ancient thoroughfare, near the 16th century Tron Kirk Steeple, hear the remarkable story of an incredible hidden entertainment venue, in all its glory and grottiness!

Beneath the glorious 17th century Tolbooth Steeple (where the Trongate, the Saltmarket, London Road, the Gallowgate and High Street meet), encounter the eye-popping history of Old Glasgow at its epicentre -- Glasgow Cross.

See Glasgow's most famous son hiding in plain sight: one of the best pieces of street art you'll ever see.

Stop 9 Pass by

Across from the 15th century Provand's Lordship (the city's oldest house) take in four quite special buildings -- including a small blue one which is sometimes used for inter-dimensional travel!

Stop 10

Glasgow's architectural pinnacle -- our medieval, Scottish Gothic cathedral, with the dramatic backdrop of Victorian Glasgow's 'city of the dead', the Necropolis, behind. (Depending on COVID restrictions on group size and mask-wearing inside the cathedral, the tour may finish outside the church.)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

137 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

364 reviews

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362

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

North side of Royal Exchange Square (not George Square!) outside COSTA coffeeshop -- look for the man in the Glasgow Gander T-shirt/jacket!

About Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, is a vibrant urban hub known for its rich architectural heritage, thriving arts scene, and friendly locals. With a mix of grand Victorian and modern buildings, the city offers a dynamic blend of culture, history, and innovation.

Top Attractions

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

One of Scotland's most popular free attractions, this museum features a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Glasgow Cathedral

A stunning example of Scottish Gothic architecture, this cathedral is one of the few medieval buildings to survive in Glasgow.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Riverside Museum

Award-winning museum showcasing Glasgow's rich transport and industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historic vehicles.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Glasgow School of Art

A masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Glasgow School of Art is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Architecture 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Buchanan Street

One of Glasgow's premier shopping destinations, Buchanan Street offers a mix of high-street brands, luxury boutiques, and department stores.

Shopping 1-2 hours Varies by store

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Contains meat and offal.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the town of Cullen in the northeast of Scotland.

Soup Contains fish.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef, seasoned with pepper and spices.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian, but may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Trossachs Kayaking on Loch Lomond Mountain biking in the Campsie Fells Climbing at the Rucksack Club Spas and wellness centers Afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms Strolling through the Botanic Gardens Relaxing in Kelvingrove Park

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic, Scots
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Glasgow is generally safe for travelers, but like any city, it has its share of petty crime and safety concerns. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious in crowded areas and at night
• Use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked cabs

Getting there

By air

Glasgow Airport • 10.5 km (6.5 miles) west of the city center
Glasgow Prestwick Airport • 50 km (31 miles) southwest of the city center

By train

Glasgow Central Station, Glasgow Queen Street Station

By bus

Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is easy to use and affordable, with a circular route connecting key areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

West End City Center East End Southside

Day trips

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

30 km (19 miles) northwest of Glasgow • Full day

A stunning national park offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting.

Stirling

40 km (25 miles) northeast of Glasgow • Full day

A historic city offering a mix of medieval architecture, museums, and scenic views.

Edinburgh

75 km (47 miles) east of Glasgow • Full day or overnight

Scotland's capital city offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

The Glasgow International Comedy Festival • March The Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art • July The Celtic Connections Festival • January to February

Pro tips

Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
Take advantage of the city's free museums and galleries, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Riverside Museum
Visit the Necropolis for a unique perspective on the city's history and a stunning view of Glasgow
Experience the city's vibrant nightlife, from traditional pubs to trendy bars and live music venues
Try local Scottish dishes, such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, and enjoy a traditional ceilidh (Scottish dance)