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New Year’s Eve: Celebrate in Glasgow

A cork-popping ceilidh

Dance the night (and the wee hours) away with Ceilidh Minogue, Scotland’s favourite ceilidh band, plus a five course banquet when you need a breather. Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with Scottish dancing – you just follow the directions called out by the band and let the music sweep you off your feet. Find out more.

A stomping street party

Celebrate under the stars at Ashton Lane’s legendary street party, just a ten minute cab ride away. Enjoy an array of street food, fireworks, live music and entertainment, and lashings of Glaswegian hospitality as you count down to the new year.

A disco den

Electric slide into the new year at Drygate Brewery’s Northern Soul, Motown and Disco Hogmanay – and if you can say that at the end of the night, you haven’t sampled enough of their brews. Along with live music and DJ sets, your ticket also includes a three course Hogmanay meal in the downstairs brasserie. Find out more.

A city centre celebration

Bringing back their much loved Hogmanay party for another year, Merchant Square will be kicking off 2020 with all its trademark Glasgow charm. There’ll be live performances from The Bonnie Scots Showgirls, Emma Hale, The Brightside and The Foxes, along with a DJ and a balloon drop at midnight.

Oh, and if you want to blend in, don’t link arms until the final verse of Auld Lang Syne. It’s a rookie mistake.

Sing in the new year, Glasgow style.

Book aparthotel in Glasgow.

Best Christmas Markets in Glasgow

The traditional ones

If you’re a chestnuts-roasting-on-an-open-fire kind of festive fan, you’ll want to head to George Square (about 2 minutes from Native Glasgow) and St Enoch Square (a mere 6 minute walk away) for gifts and knick-knacks, hearty food and steaming cups of mulled cider.

At St Enoch Square, you can feast on the classic bratwursts and hog roast, or go off piste with a bit of local duck rotisserie or crêpes. At George Square you’ll find the city’s stunning 15 metre Christmas tree, a vintage Helter Skelter and carousel, and Santa himself, who’s essentially a living advent calendar, giving out treats to kids every day. You may be lucky enough to get an apartment on the east side of the building that has views over George Square, where you can watch the festive fun from the warmth of your own room. The location is so good that we even had a party in our penthouse apartment with our friends at El Perro Negro to watch the Christmas light switch on over George Square.

St Enoch Square Christmas Market

 

 

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Until Sunday 22 December
Sunday to Wednesday: 10am – 7pm, bars open until 10pm
Thursday to Saturday: 10am – 10pm

George Square Christmas Market

 

 

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Until Sunday 29 December
10am – 10pm every day, 10am – 6pm on Christmas Eve

Find out more.

The indie ones

A Vegan Connections Christmas 2019

 

 

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Saturday 14 December, The Briggait, Bridegate

A glittering Christmas market with a vegan twist, Vegan Connections will be hosting 35 stalls serving hearty food and selling thoughtful, ethically sourced gifts.

There’s also a charitable side to the market, with proceeds from the raffle and other fundraising going towards The Glasgow Winter Night Shelter.

Sloans Market

 

Every weekend, 11am to 5pm, Sloans Lane, between Argyle Street and Buchanan Street.

Brilliant independent traders from across the country gather at Sloans Market every weekend, and things turn seriously festive throughout December. The stalls are quirky and original, the pub there serves great food and you might even catch a piano playing elf or two.

Merchant Square Craft & Design Fair

 

 

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Every Saturday, 11am–6pm
Every Sunday, 12pm–6pm

Merchant Square’s regular craft fair is twinkling with fairy lights and scented with spice at this time of year. From handmade baby clothes and soaps to artwork and photography, it’s perfect for a bit of last minute Christmas shopping.

Plan your festive escape and book your stay in our art deco boutique hotel in Glasgow.

Best live music in Glasgow

St Luke’s

What was originally St Luke’s Parish Church on the outskirts of Glasgow’s Merchant City is now a breath-taking music venue, beautifully restored to show off all its original features, like stained glass windows and an 1800s pipe organ. Catch up-and-comers and big names alike, from Jessie Buckley and Joan As Police Woman to top notch tribute bands and club DJs.

What’s on at St Luke’s?

The Old Fruitmarket

Home to the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, this glorious spot is also Glasgow’s oldest purpose-built performance space. In January it’s home to the annual Celtic Connections music festival and in June it’s Glasgow Jazz Festival, while classical, rock and folk concerts fill its vaulted ceilings the rest of the time. It’s broadened its scope over the years too, with theatre and comedy performances on the bill.

What’s on at the Fruitmarket?

The Barrowland Ballroom

Starting life as an actual ballroom – sprung dance floor and everything – this iconic venue now boasts a prominent neon frontage and a capacity of 1,900, as well as one of the best gig atmospheres you’ll ever experience. The Barrowlands has proudly hosted legends like David Bowie, U2, The Stranglers, The Clash, Muse and Foo Fighters, just to name a few. So, it’s no surprise that both Metallica and Oasis have said it’s one of their favourite venues in the world.

What’s on at Barrowlands?

The SSE Hydro

Scotland’s largest entertainment venue regularly plays host to the megastars of music, and it’s little wonder. This imposing Foster + Partners-designed building welcomes up to 13,000 fans at a time and is ranked globally alongside the likes of Madison Square Garden and The O2. From classic rockers like Kiss and The Eagles to Khalid and The Chemical Brothers, there’s something for every musical palate.

What’s on at the Hydro?

Base yourself at Native Glasgow and experience Glasgow’s celebrated music scene.

Best walks near Glasgow

Ayrshire Coast (45 minute drive)

With quaint country towns, an ancient castle, museums, stately homes and sandy shores, the Ayrshire coast has been drawing crowds since the Vikings landed there.

Less than two hours’ drive away

Ben Vorlich and Lock Earn (90 minute drive)

Close to the Highland border and offering awe-inspiring views of the Lowlands, Ben Vorlich above Loch Earn is one of the most popular climbs in Scotland.

Two to three hours away

Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas (2 hour drive)

One of the country’s most popular hill walks, Ben Lawers is the tenth highest Munro, bordering the beautiful Loch Tay, and you’ll cross Beinn Ghlas on the way.

Schiehallion (2 hour drive)

Rich with botanical life and archaeology, this is a walk for scientists and history buffs. The mountain made its name in 1774, when it was used to estimate the Earth’s mass, and it’s simply a beautiful place to spend the day.

Buachaille Etive Beag (2 hour drive)

If rocky ridges and loch views are your thing, this magnificent summit is a little known gem among the Munros, offering plenty of Instagrammable views of the surrounding Glencoe peaks and down to Loch Etive.

Loch Ness (3 hour drive)

Nessie, the mythical monster, may be the most famous thing about Loch Ness, but thousands of people flock here every year to enjoy the 23 miles of lakeside trails, towpaths and falls amidst the lush greenery and mountain vistas.

Plan your route from Native Glasgow.

Top 10 Glasgow bars

Crafty cocktails

 

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Known for some of the best mixology in the city, The Kelvingrove Café has been serving locals and visitors since 1896. Chilled but trendy, the cocktails here are seriously creative, with clever ingredients like poppy seed liqueur, jalapeño vinegar and rose water, along with a fine list of wines, beers and spirits.

Must try: One Night in Jalisco – an irresistible concoction of mescal, grapefruit, jalapeño vinegar and all kinds of magic.

Bold brews with a view

 

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Fast becoming a Glasgow institution, WEST On The Green is the German-style beer hall run by the West Brewery. Innovative lagers, ales and pilsners abound, with a side of Bavarian bar snacks and barbecue in the summery dining garden.

Must try: The Heidi-Weisse is a cheeky little brew, named after the brewery’s dog. We love the top notes of clove and banana.

Clever cocktails with a difference

 

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Tucked away in Strathbungo, one of Glasgow’s best loved areas for a night out, Bungo Bar is a cosy, laid back and friendly place to spend an evening. Alongside the classics, there are some seriously special cocktails that have been barrel aged to bring out the depth in their flavours.

Must try: Brooklyn – a barrel aged, lovingly matured mix of Wild Turkey, maraschino cherry liqueur and sweet vermouth.

Classy modern cocktails

 

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If variety is your style, head to The Spiritualist for an unrivalled menu of spirits, liqueurs, cocktails, wines and craft beers inspired by old Scottish legends of the fey folk (fairies, to you and me). Whimsy meets good taste and beautiful presentation, all in elegant, jovial surroundings in the buzzy Merchant City area. Check out the wall on the right hand side that’s completely filled with spirits.

Must try: The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini – perfect if you’ve got a sweet tooth and like a caffeine kick to your cocktail.

A wee dram or two. Or three…

 

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Aficionados need look no further than The Pot Still for the whisky list of their dreams. If you’re new to the wonderful world of Scotland’s most famous export, talk to Frank – what this man doesn’t know about whisky isn’t worth knowing.

Must try: The Kilchoman 100% Islay, which combines citrusy notes and vanilla sweetness to balance out the Islay peat smoke.

Bespoke mixology

 

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Speakeasy-style bars are all the rage, but few retain that authentic secrecy that make them so special. Until Wheesht (Scottish for “shh”). Here there’s no cocktail menu – just tell the bartender what you like and they’ll whip something up for you. Weekly themes add an extra layer of intrigue and, since the talent behind the concept are two former Kelvingrove Café bartenders, you know the quality is well above par.

Must try: Your bartender’s current favourite.

Something a little bit different

 

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Just around the corner on Mitchell Lane is Tabac, a chic and cosy bar that has a tantalising secret. Head to the back and you’ll find Panther Milk – a tiny speakeasy in an old elevator shaft that serves variations on the Spanish Catalonian cocktail Leche de Pantera. It’s an infamous blend of condensed milk, rum, gin, Cointreau, peppermint and cinnamon – not for the faint of heart.

Must try: The classic mint flavour. Or the pink. Or the white. Or all three…

Fine wines and a bubbly or two

 

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Once home to one of Glasgow’s newspapers, first published in August 1864, this glorious building now plays host to The Citizen, a simply brilliant bar and restaurant. The wine list here deals in quality, not quantity, with every bottle carefully chosen by a sommelier who knows their stuff.

Must try: If you’re in the mood for a good red, go for the Angel Tears. It’s an easy-drinking wine full of ripe plums and blackcurrants and delightfully moreish.

A G&T to write home about

 

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If it’s a quintessentially Glaswegian pub you’re after, you’ve found it. The Horseshoe, named for its 104ft Victorian bar (the longest in Europe, no less), offers a warm welcome, with sports on the telly, a great selection of beers, wines and spirits, and even a gin parlour.

Must try: The JJ Whitley Violet gin is a deliciously aromatic floral blend – ideal with a good tonic and garnished with lemon.

A bottle of something special

 

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Serving since the 1930s, Rogano is known for its seafood, but don’t get distracted by the oysters and miss the bar. All the wines here are firm favourites, guaranteed to please, and the elegant surroundings add a sense of occasion without being stuffy.

Must try: Like a dessert wine now and then? Try the Monbazillac Domaine du Haut-Rauly – it’s on the pricey side but well worth it.

Base yourself in our luxury holiday apartments in Glasgow ready for the ultimate Glasgow bar crawl.

Glasgow’s top 10 restaurants

I’m in the mood for…all things Scottish.

If you want to experience traditional Scottish cuisine, Café Gandolfini is your first stop. From cullen skink and haggis to smoked venison, the menu is a veritable culinary voyage across the country. It’s also just one of a growing local restaurant empire, with Bar Gandolfi, Gandolfi Fish and takeaway Gandolfi Fish to Go all flying the flag for seasonal Scottish cuisine.

I’m in the mood for…something hearty.

Germanic meets Glaswegian at West on the Green. Drink brilliant beer where its brewed, all alongside big, bold Bavarian barbecue, bar snacks and more. Think schnitzel, currywurst, and strudel for dessert. It’s also great for breakfast and brunch – try the West Full Breakfast or the Eggs Portobello – and there’s al fresco dining space too.

I’m in the mood for…fancy Scottish fare.

Inspired by the famously greedy bird that gave this place its name, The Gannet is a wonderfully elegant Three Rosette restaurant. The menus here are both delicious and seasonal, using lovingly sourced Scottish produce from across the country. The wine list is excellent, too – the organic and biodynamic vintages are well worth a try.

I’m in the mood for…sizzle and spice.

Julie Macleod, MasterChef contestant and resident Glaswegian, has opened one of the city’s favourite foodie spots. Serving vibrant, lovingly prepared Malaysian dishes passed down from her mother, Julie’s Kopitiam is the place to go for a proper culinary adventure. It’s a tiny place and there’s no booking, so be ready to join the waiting list, or turn up for an early dinner when it opens at 5pm.

I’m in the mood for…a big, juicy burger.

El Perro Negro is the home of Scotland’s best burger, according to scores of reviews and regular queues. Using carefully sourced beef from small farms and ingenious garnishes like bone marrow butter, truffle mayo and black pudding, these are more than just something to soak up the booze on a night out.

I’m in the mood for…something fresh and authentic.

Bibimbap is simply Korean comfort food – a warm and cosy rice dish that’s just one delicious option on the menu here. Bibimbap in the heart of town is the perfect place to experience authentic Korean cuisine, from bulgogi (barbecue beef) and japchae (sweet potato noodles) to saeu (prawn katsu curry) and the ultimate KFC – Korean fried chicken.

I’m in the mood for…a kebab.

No, not a sweaty pile of questionable meat in a microwaved flatbread. We’re talking real kebabs, as their Greek, Turkish and Levantine heritage intended. At ‘Babs, great quality lamb, chicken, swordfish and vegan steak is grilled over proper charcoal fires, all served on freshly baked pita bread, with hummus and a tangy shredded salad. There’s also plenty of moreish mezze and artisanal baklava for dessert.

I’m in the mood for…fine French food.

You needn’t venture far for Glasgow’s best French cooking. In fact, all you need to do is trot downstairs! Atlantic Bar & Brasserie at Native Glasgow offers a fresh take on Gallic classics. Think escargots, French onion soup and moules frîtes, along with a brilliant rotisserie for the juiciest roast chicken you’ve ever had. There’s also live jazz at the weekends, and a delicious low FODMAP menu.

I’m in the mood for…the best pizza in town.

Credited with bringing real Neapolitan pizza to Glasgow, Paesano now has two restaurants in the city and shows no signs of slowing down. Here the pizzas are made with moist, light and soft crust, simple but brilliant quality ingredients, and are made by pizzaioli who are truly passionate about what they do.

Book your stay in one of Native’s Art Deco holiday apartments in Glasgow and take a food-lover’s tour of the city.