Big City Scotland lets rip

Few would argue that Glasgow, Scotland's biggest city, is pretty, but its centre, with all its showy Georgian buildings and smart contemporary developments, has a certain dignity to it.

Wandering its key shopping streets is easy enough, and the people-watching great, but you won't stumble upon many real city sights here. Most are a little outside the centre, so be prepared to use Glasgow's subway or buses to make the most of the city.

For an introduction to the city try this Glasgow-in-a-Day itinerary.

Glasgow first really hit its stride when British colonialism did, then declined as Scotland's heavy industry died. There have been plenty of efforts at boosting it since, so now both old legacies and new regenerative developments provide visitors a range of sights.