If you are bringing the kids to Glasgow, you will want a few fun stories to share that make the city memorable. Glasgow is full of history, science, sport and quirky trivia that children enjoy repeating long after their trip. Staying at PREMIER SUITES Glasgow Bath Street gives you the perfect base to explore the city and share these facts on your walks.
Here are ten facts about Glasgow that children will love to hear and maybe even tell their teachers or friends when they get home.
1. Glasgow means green place
The name Glasgow comes from old Celtic languages. It is often translated as “green hollow” or “dear green place.” Once you walk around its many parks you will see why the name still fits today.
2. Home to one of the oldest universities
The University of Glasgow was founded in 1451. That makes it the fourth oldest university in the United Kingdom. Imagine students learning here more than 500 years ago while the world was very different outside the classroom.
3. The birthplace of television
Scottish inventor John Logie Baird changed the way the world sees entertainment. He sent the very first moving television images to the Grand Central Hotel at Central Station in Glasgow. Next time your children switch on the TV, they can thank a Glaswegian for the invention.
4. First international football match
Back in 1872, Glasgow hosted the very first official international football match. It was Scotland versus England and it finished as a draw. Football fans young and old still talk about the city’s love for the sport.
5. Trees older than dinosaurs
In Victoria Park you will find Fossil Grove. Here there are eleven fossilised trees that are even older than the dinosaurs. Children can walk around them and picture what the world looked like hundreds of millions of years ago.
6. A city that loves to shop
Glasgow has the largest urban economy in Scotland and is known as the second biggest shopping hub in the whole United Kingdom. From modern malls to busy streets filled with shops, you will not run out of places to browse or buy.
7. A city of culture
UNESCO recognised Glasgow as a special city of culture in 2008. The award came because of its strong music, arts and cultural scene. Families will find live music, street art, galleries and performances across the city that add to its fun and energy.
8. More marble than the Vatican
The City Chambers on George Square are impressive enough from the outside but their story is even bigger. They were built with more marble than the Vatican in Rome. Today it would have cost the equivalent of around forty million pounds. That is a lot of marble to explore under one roof.
9. A fair that started in the 12th century
The Glasgow Fair is one of the oldest holidays in Europe. It began in the 12th century and is still marked in July with fun events and gatherings. It shows how long traditions last in this busy city.
10. The tallest rotating tower in the world
Glasgow Tower stands at 127 metres and can rotate a full 360 degrees. That makes it the tallest fully rotating building in the world. The fact that a building can move like that is enough to amaze children and adults alike.
Making the most of your stay
Sharing these facts is a simple way to keep children entertained during your trip. You can weave them into your walks around the city, turn them into a quiz at dinner, or let the kids pick which site they want to see first. Staying in serviced apartments gives families more space and comfort to plan their days.
At PREMIER SUITES Glasgow Bath Street you have your own kitchen and living area, which is ideal when travelling with children. After a busy day of sightseeing, you can relax together, cook your favourite meals, and prepare for more adventures.
Your accommodation is close to public transport and the city’s main attractions, so you can easily reach parks, museums, and landmarks. The friendly team are always happy to share advice on things to do nearby that will keep the whole family entertained.
Glasgow is a city full of stories, facts and surprises. Share them with your children and watch their excitement grow as they discover a new side to Scotland. Book your stay today at PREMIER SUITES Glasgow Bath Street and make your trip one the whole family will remember.