Photo of Melody Jacob outside Newark Castle, Port Glasgow, Scotland

For my birthday this year, my partner and I embarked on the ultimate castle-hopping adventure, and our very first stop on June 11th was the magnificent Newark Castle in Port Glasgow. If you, like us, are members of Historic Scotland, then it's free entry.

We had to wait a bit when we got there because the staff was on break. It gave us a chance to refuel; we had some snacks. The views over the River Clyde are just stunning, and there's this half-constructed, almost falling-apart bridge nearby with a barricade to keep folks safe—it added a bit of mysterious charm to the whole scene. And for all you birdwatchers out there, keep your eyes peeled—there were so many beautiful birds around. Plus, it's pretty cool to see the Ferguson Marine shipbuilding company nearby, a real piece of Scottish industry right next to ancient history.

Finally, the staff were back, we flashed our Historic Scotland memberships (always a win), and we were in.

Melody Jacob, UK travel blogger, visit to Newark castle

I am absolutely stunned. Oh my gosh, some people are blessed with good voices, and John Legend is definitely one of them. He sounded even better than on his album; his voice is truly beautiful. I was smitten by his voice, and his energy was so calming and relaxing. I loved every minute of the show and enjoyed it so much; I'm so happy. It felt incredibly soothing, and my friend and I had a really good time.

John is so talented and plays the piano so well. His performance was outstanding. He used the stage effectively, and his energy was pure. I wish him and his family the very best on his tour.

The "Get Lifted" tour is all about his journey. He shared amazing insights and even told us about some songs he was part of that we didn't know he was. He has worked in the background with many popular musicians.

My Outfit for the John Legend Concert

For my outfit, I picked up this pink mini jumpsuit with flowers from River Island. I wanted something simple yet stylish and definitely a bit girly. To go with it, I chose some gold earrings and styled my trusty cornrows – honestly, the easiest hair ever. I love that I don't have to do anything with them.

I also put a little effort into my makeup. I spent more time blending and trying to get my face just right, even though I'm still learning. What matters is that I know how to work with my own face. For shoes, I wore my gold gladiator sandals from Zara, which I think I've only worn once before with my stylish green dress.

I went with a friend, and she was so happy when I invited her. I was glad she could make it. We've been chilling together since our days in Ukraine, and now we sometimes go out with her daughter – if you remember seeing a kid in some of my beach posts, that's her beautiful daughter.

Overall, I kept my look pretty simple. Since this is Scotland, I definitely brought a jacket – you can never be too sure with the weather here. Plus, I actually went to the gym yesterday in the rain and got a bit chilly, but I still enjoyed the walk and woke up feeling great.

So, did I nail the music tour outfit? Let me know. You can watch the clip on my Instagram:.

A vibrant pink mini jumpsuit from River Island, adorned with a delicate floral pattern.

Two friends smiling and enjoying a concert together, one in a pink floral jumpsuit.


If you’re in Glasgow and looking to step back in time, Provand’s Lordship is one place you absolutely don’t want to miss. Not only is it free to enter, but it also gives you a peek into Scotland’s medieval past. Open from 10 AM on some days and 11 AM on others (but closed by 5 PM), you’ll want to make sure you catch it during its limited hours.

Provand’s Lordship is said to be the oldest house in Scotland, dating back to 1471! It’s had a recent £1.6 million restoration, though, to be honest, the renovations don’t exactly give off that ‘£1.6 million’ vibe, it gives way less. But that’s okay! The house is solid, built to last through centuries. Some of these old buildings are actually sturdier than many modern structures. Plus, Provand’s Lordship is one of only four surviving medieval buildings in Glasgow, so it’s a true piece of history! The nearby Cathedral, also the oldest in Glasgow, holds the crown as the city’s oldest building.



The house was originally constructed by Andrew Muirhead, the Bishop of Glasgow, as part of St Nicholas's Hospital in 1471. The ‘front’ of the house probably faced west, and the area where St Mungo Museum now stands used to be part of the grand Bishop's Castle, which was the center of medieval Glasgow.

Although the house may have been built for the Master of the hospital, it later became part of the accommodation for the 32 canons of Glasgow Cathedral. Each canon was tied to a specific area of the city, known as a prebend. Fast forward to the 1800s, and it’s said to have been home to a canon supported by income from the Prebend of Barlanark.




One thing to note is that to preserve the original oak floor beams, some false floors were added to the upper levels. This does change the dimensions of the rooms and can make the fireplaces look a bit off, but it’s all part of making sure the building lasts for future generations.

Oh, and don’t miss the lovely St Nicholas Garden out back! It’s a peaceful little spot, perfect for a moment of reflection.

In my opinion, the best time to visit is during the summer, when the weather in Glasgow is typically milder, and you can enjoy the garden in full bloom. However, I must say it was quite warm inside during my visit, especially towards the end. The building traps heat, making it feel a bit stuffy, but the rich history inside more than makes up for it!

But here’s the thing—I have to admit, I’m a bit claustrophobic, and the ground floor gave me some of those ‘close quarters’ vibes at first. I felt a bit off, but after a moment, I got over it. The history in that building is so captivating.

If you’re headed there, the address is 3 Castle Street, Glasgow, G4 0RB. Enjoy!




It’s been a while since I posted a travel update—or has it really been that long? I’m not so sure. Either way, on October 10, 2024, I found myself ready to explore a part of the city I’d overlooked for too long: the Glasgow City Chambers, right in the heart of George Square.

The building had always intrigued me, so I decided to step inside. A friendly receptionist greeted me and, sensing my curiosity, mentioned that a tour was about to begin. He handed me a pass and invited me to join, a golden opportunity to see the inner workings of this historic building.

Each space showcased architectural splendor that seemed timeless yet perfectly in the bustling city center.

The City Chambers, or the Municipal Buildings, as they’re also known, have been at the heart of Glasgow's government since 1889. Designed to reflect the city’s civic pride, this Category A listed building has served as the headquarters of Glasgow City Council since 1996, standing proudly on George Square’s eastern side, a landmark to locals and visitors alike.

The tour itself was a delight. Our guide had a wonderful sense of humor, mixing fun facts with a genuine passion for Glasgow’s history. It was clear he enjoyed sharing these stories, and his enthusiasm pulled us all in.

As we explored further, I learned how the need for a grand city chamber had been growing for over a century. By the 18th century, the old Glasgow Tolbooth at Glasgow Cross was struggling to keep up with the city’s expanding governance needs. In 1814, the council moved to public buildings near Saltmarket and later, in 1844, to the City and County Buildings between Wilson Street and Ingram Street. 

However, City Architect John Carrick didn't find a suitable, purpose-built location for Glasgow's civic operations until the early 1880s. Carrick ultimately chose George Square’s east side, and the rest is history—one that lives on vividly in the intricate details of this building.

The tour left me with a renewed appreciation for the city and its layered past. The Glasgow City Chambers isn’t just a building; it’s a storyteller, keeping the legacy of Glasgow’s transformation from a bustling town to a proud metropolis alive.










Do you remember when I shared a post about the Govan Stones? Well, before our visit, we made an unexpected stop at a nearby church. We were actually on our way to buy sanitizer before the Govan Stones tour when we noticed this beautiful church right across from where we parked. It’s just a 1-minute walk from the Govan Stones, and we couldn’t resist checking it out!




St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church

Address: Govan Rd., Govan, Glasgow G51

When you're visiting Glasgow, a must-see historical church is St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church, located in the heart of Govan. This architectural masterpiece, designed by John Honeyman in 1877-8, combines intricate Byzantine and Romanesque styles, creating a stunning visual experience for anyone who steps through its doors.

The church’s exterior showcases beautiful red ashlar bands and coursed rubble, lending it a distinctive look. A striking round-headed doorway with delicate dogtooth molding greets you as you approach. Look up, and you’ll spot a magnificent rose window framed by blind arches, adding an element of grandeur. The square tower to the side, complete with its copper-topped pyramidal roof, stands as a prominent feature of the skyline, offering a snapshot of 19th-century architectural ingenuity.

As you step inside, the spacious nave with its wide wooden roof immediately draws your eye. The highlight, however, is the chancel, which boasts a semi-circular domed apse lined with colorful marble panels and intricate stencil decorations. The church also features striking stained glass windows that fill the space with soft light, including simpler designs on the side windows and more elaborate artistry in the chancel’s lancets. For organ lovers, the historic pipe organ, originally installed in 1952, adds an auditory layer to your experience, especially after its refurbishment in 1976.

For a peaceful visit, attend one of the regular Mass services, held every day of the week, with special Vigil Masses on Sundays. St. Anthony's Church isn’t just a place of worship—it’s a journey through Glasgow’s rich history, a living monument to Gothic and Byzantine design, all nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Govan. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet moment of reflection, St. Anthony’s is a hidden treasure that offers something for everyone.



Hey friends!

As I sit down to write this post, I'm feeling so refreshed and full of self-love. My mental health is in such a good place, and Honestly, I haven't felt this light and joyful in a while. This is the energy I want to stay in forever!

So, last Sunday after church, we decided to visit this place I'd been seeing everywhere—it kept popping up every time I searched for cool spots to check out in Glasgow. And Honestly? We loved it. We spent the afternoon wandering through the Hunterian Art Gallary , taking in artwork from centuries past, created by some truly talented hands. Each piece had its own unique touch, but one artist really stood out to me: James Whistler. His work is bold, striking, and has a style that feels so confident. I could feel his personality come through in every brushstroke—it's like the painting was speaking for him.

Before I go into sharing all the photos I snapped, let me give you a little background on the Hunterian Museum itself. It's actually the oldest public museum in Scotland, and it houses an incredible collection spanning art, science, and the humanities. This collection is located at the University of Glasgow.

While I was poking around the website before writing this post, I came across this description that perfectly sums up what the Hunterian is all about: it's a space for exploration and experimentation, for enjoyment and reflection, and a hub for fostering equity, justice, and diversity in society. I love that this place is not just a museum but a community of ideas. They also offer learning opportunities for students at the University of Glasgow, which is pretty awesome.


What can you expect to see here?
You'll find works by some big names like Whistler, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Mackintosh, as well as newer pieces by contemporary artists. Some of the highlights include Chardin's  A Lady Taking Tea , Rembrandt's  The Entombment , and Gavin Hamilton's  Hector's Farewell to Andromache . I love that they're also featuring a lot of women artists and other underrepresented voices.

The Hunterian Art Gallery also has one of Scotland's largest print collections, a sculpture courtyard, the Mackintosh House (which is a whole experience in itself), and they always have some contemporary art exhibitions on display. Admission charge for the Mackintosh House is (£10/£6) - last admission 4.15pm.

Here are the details you need if you want to visit:

- Entry: Free!
- Opening times: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm
- Getting there: It's part of the University of Glasgow campus, which is about 3km west of the city centre. You can hop on the subway to Hillhead Station or take buses 4 and 4A from the city center to University Avenue. There's also bike parking if you're cycling in!
- Address:University of Glasgow, 82 Hillhead St, Glasgow G12 8QQ

Quick history lesson!
The Hunterian dates back to 1807, thanks to a bequest from Dr. William Hunter an Anatomist, who left his vast collections to the University of Glasgow. Originally, everything was housed together, but over time, different sections moved around campus. Now, the zoology collections are in the Hunterian Zoology Museum, the art collections are in the Art Gallery, and books and manuscripts are in the University Library. It's all part of this rich, sprawling collection that's worth exploring!

Honestly, this place has so much to offer, and I highly recommend checking it out if you're ever in Glasgow. It's more than just a museum—it's a whole experience that makes you think about art, culture, and the world in a new way.

These photos were taken on Sunday, September 29th, 2024, between 12:02 to 12:39 PM.

Time to share some photos with you all!




Oh my gosh, I just love going for walks around here! You wouldn’t believe how close Pinkston Watersports is—like, five steps from the Sighthill neighborhood! I walk by all the time, and it's just the best watching people at the water. There’s always something fun going on, whether it’s kayaking, canoeing, or even white water tubing! It’s so cool because Pinkston is actually home to Scotland’s only artificial whitewater course, and the water is so clean, it’s even good enough for swimming!

What’s really special is that Pinkston Watersports isn’t just about fun (though there’s plenty of that!); it’s part of the Glasgow 2014 Legacy and run by volunteers, which makes it feel super community-focused. They want everyone to get involved in watersports, and there are clubs, events, and coaching for all levels. So if you’re experienced, you can just pop in for a “Park and Play” session, but if you’re new, there are these white water taster sessions that are perfect for getting started. And if you get hooked (which I bet you will), you can even do progression lessons! It sounds intense, but I think it could be so rewarding.

Oh, and it’s not just about the water! There are also land activities like archery, team games, and bushcraft, which sound like such a blast. It’s like the perfect place for groups, whether you’re into watersports or just want to have some outdoor fun. I always feel like there’s something new to see or try when I walk by. It’s just such a cool vibe, and I totally recommend checking it out!






Hi everyone, and welcome back! Today's post is a little different from the usual travel adventures. Instead of a destination far away, we're taking a stroll through a neighborhood that's become a favorite of mine and my partner's. It's a place we often go for walks, and once, we even spent an afternoon simply relaxing in the car while he read, enjoying a bowl of rice and stew. It was such a peaceful day, and of course, we couldn't resist snapping a few photos, which I'll be sharing with you.

Sighthill is a neighborhood located in the Scottish city of Glasgow. Positioned north of the River Clyde, it forms part of the larger Springburn area in the northern part of the city.

This neighborhood is still under development, so there’s a lot of open space. It's rarely crowded, making it the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and watch the birds or ducks at the nearby ponds. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Pinkston Water Park, and the two spots complement each other beautifully.






What I Love About Sighthill


Sighthill is peaceful and calm, with plenty of outdoor space that feels perfect for both kids and adults. I’m not sure what the future holds for the remaining open areas – whether they’ll be developed into more housing – but I personally hope they keep some of the natural beauty that makes this place feel so special.

The ponds here add a perfect touch of nature to the neighborhood, creating a balanced blend of modern living and outdoor tranquility. And because they’re set a little away from the housing areas, they offer a quiet retreat without feeling too far from home.

There’s a school and a church nearby, and I’ve noticed they’re selling houses in the area. One thing I’ve observed is that the front yards are quite small, almost right on the street, but even so, the overall feel of the neighborhood remains green, quiet, and inviting.

I’d love to hear your thoughts! What do you think of this neighborhood? Could you imagine yourself living in a place like this?
Explore the Govan Stones, Glasgow’s ancient treasures. Discover the rich history and medieval relics that unveil the city’s fascinating past.


Glasgow

Hey everyone! Last Sunday, after church, my partner and I decided to visit Springburn Park for a chill day out and to snap some fab pics of my lime green outfit.

Springburn Park is located in the north of Glasgow, Scotland. It’s about 2.8 miles from the city center and spans a whopping 31 hectares (or 77 acres!). This park is not just huge but also super pretty with its extensive spring and summer bedding, vibrant bulbs, wallflowers, and polyanthus. If you’re into plants and flowers, it’s definitely a must-visit!


The park has loads of facilities catering to everyone. Whether you're into sports or just looking to relax, you’ve got options like a synthetic football pitch with floodlights, a juvenile football pitch, a multi-purpose games court, three bowling greens, a cricket pitch, and even an orienteering course!



One cool feature is the Glasgow City Health Walks, which happen here. They’re perfect for anyone looking to get into walking as a gentle exercise. The routes are short, ranging from half a mile to two miles, and they’re mainly on flat ground, making them ideal for beginners. For more info on these walks, visit Glasgow city council.


Public toilets are available at the Bowling Pavilion (May to September), Stobhill Hospital, and Springburn Leisure Centre.



Fun fact: The park was first acquired by Glasgow Corporation in 1892. Back then, it was just agricultural land with an old ironstone pit and quarry. It was developed with contributions from Sir James Reid and his family, and even had a Winter Gardens built, thanks to a generous donation. Although the Winter Gardens are currently closed due to structural issues, there are plans to restore them.

The winter gardens at Springburn park
Oh my gosh, imagine this! So, I was walking around Sighthill Cemetery, all by myself, right? And suddenly, I see this guy with his whole face covered, wearing a full face mask, and he's riding a bicycle, right towards me. At first, I was like, "Wait a minute, I'm the only one here! What if he tries to snatch my phone?" I started thinking, "Okay, maybe I should put my phone inside my bag and get ready to run." But then I thought, "No, just walk; you’re fine." And guess what? I was totally fine!

I visited Sighthill Cemetery on a Sunday evening because the sun was still shining bright and beautiful. I really wanted to take photos of the cemetery, read about it, and share all this info with you guys on the blog. And I'm so glad I finally did it after passing by here like 100 times already. It was such an adventure!




So what is the Sighthill cemetery in Glasgow about?

Sighthill Cemetery is a super old cemetery right in the middle of Glasgow. It’s been around since 1840; can you believe that? It remains active, indicating that people continue to use it for various purposes. There's even a working crematorium there. It’s located in the Sighthill neighborhood, right on the A803 Springburn Road. It’s kind of between Cowlairs Park and Petershill Park, just north of the city center. And to the north, it’s bordered by Keppochhill Road.

The gates are totally gorgeous and were designed by John Stephen of Scott, Stephen & Gale back in 1839. They have this super fancy Greek style. The cemetery itself opened in 1840, and the very first burial happened on April 24th of that year.


The cemetery has some pretty famous people buried there too! There's Andrew White, John Baird, and Andrew Hardie, who were all involved in the "Radical Rising" of 1820. They were executed for treason, which is so intense. Originally, they were buried in paupers' graves in Stirling, but in 1847, their remains were brought back to Glasgow and reburied at Sighthill. Andrew White was actually one of the nineteen people whose death sentences were commuted. He was sent to Australia but came back to Scotland years later and passed away in Glasgow Royal Infirmary in 1872.

And there’s also Duncan Brown, a really talented amateur photographer who lived from 1819 to 1897. His work gives us a peek into what life was like in Glasgow from the 1850s to the 1890s. Isn’t that just fascinating?

While walking on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, I stumbled upon the old swinger bridge. What I enjoyed most is the water view and blue skies.

The Old Swinger swing bridge is located on the Glasgow branch of the Forth and Clyde Canal at North Canal Bank Street in Glasgow, Scotland, UK.

This is a decommissioned single-track swing bridge that once carried the Port Dundas Branch (Caledonian Railway) over the Forth and Clyde Canal from north Port Dundas Mid Wharf over the canal to North Spiers Wharf. The span swung from its south end.

There was a small goods shed on the north wharf Port Dundas Goods [CR] immediately to the north that was rail served.

There was a short siding at the southeast end of the bridge, approached from the southeast and on the north side of the line. This was to serve an oil store.

The bridge remained closed after falling into disuse as the canal was also out of use. It is now fixed open, having been restored in the 2000s.

The base of a signal post remains nearby on the north bank of the canal.

A double lifting road bridge is just to the east. Nearby is a beached barge that was recovered from the basin.

These photos were taken on June 9, 2024. I began my walk around the Old Swinger at 2:56 PM on a sunny Sunday afternoon.

Port Dundas Swing Bridge: The Old Swinger



Embracing the Magic of Kelvingrove in Winter

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: A Must-Visit in Glasgow

Last winter, I had the pleasure of visiting the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow with my partner. As a travel blogger, I've been meaning to share this incredible experience, and now is the perfect time! Whether you're planning a trip to Scotland or simply looking for things to do in Glasgow, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must-visit destination.

A Winter Wonderland in Glasgow

Visiting the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum during winter added a magical touch to our experience. Bundled up in my warm jacket, we braved the chilly weather and made our way to this iconic museum, located in the beautiful Kelvingrove Park in the West End of Glasgow, adjacent to Argyle Street. The stunning architecture of the building alone is worth the visit, but what awaits inside is even more spectacular.

A Treasure Trove of Art and History

Kelvingrove is renowned for its impressive collection of high-end art and historical artifacts. With over 8,000 objects on display, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From ancient Egyptian relics to modern art masterpieces, the museum's diverse collections are truly awe-inspiring. My personal favorite was the vast array of artwork, featuring pieces from renowned artists that left me utterly captivated.

One of the highlights of our visit was the daily organ recital. The magnificent sound of the organ filled the grand hall, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. These recitals take place every day, Monday to Saturday from 1pm to 1:30pm, and on Sundays from 3pm to 3:45pm. If you visit, make sure not to miss this enchanting performance.

Plan Your Visit

The museum is one of Scotland's most popular free visitor attractions, and for good reason. It is free to enter, though leaving a donation is greatly appreciated to help maintain this wonderful institution. The regular opening hours are as follows:

- Monday - Thursday and Saturday:10am - 5pm

- Friday and Sunday: 1am - 5pm

Since the museum closes at 5pm, I recommend arriving early to make the most of your visit. We didn't manage to see everything during our first trip due to the vast amount of exhibits, but we had so much fun that we returned with a friend from Germany who was equally impressed.

Exploring Glasgow Botanic Gardens: A Green Oasis in the Heart of the City

Discover the Enchantment of Glasgow Botanic Gardens: A Must-Visit Destination

Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of Glasgow lies a verdant sanctuary known as the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This urban oasis, spanning 27 acres, offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts, families, and avid gardeners alike.

Explore Glasgow Botanic Gardens, an urban paradise boasting diverse flora and tranquil ambiance. Plan your visit with our guide to opening hours, address, and website

Introduction:

Stepping into the Glasgow Botanic Gardens feels like entering a different world. Lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and the soothing sound of trickling water welcome visitors into this enchanting space. As you wander through its pathways, you'll encounter a mesmerizing array of plant collections, historical landmarks, and architectural marvels.



Location and Opening Hours:

Located in the vibrant West End of Glasgow, the Botanic Gardens are easily accessible by public transport or car. Address: 730 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE. The gardens are open daily from 7:00 AM to dusk, offering ample opportunities to explore its wonders throughout the year.

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