Explore Glasgow’s Filming Locations

Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, has consistently been a source of inspiration for various art forms over the years. Its unique blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy has particularly captivated the film industry. The city’s stunning architecture, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage have made it the backdrop for many  famous films. This guide is for film enthusiasts, bookworms, and travelers looking to explore Glasgow from a unique perspective. Let’s embark on a cinematic journey through Glasgow’s iconic filming locations, unravel the city’s cryptid legends, and discover hidden gems.

Glasgow in the Limelight: Famous Films Shot in Glasgow

Glasgow has played a starring role in many renowned films that have enthralled audiences worldwide. The city’s breathtaking landmarks and vibrant streets have been captured in various genres, from action-packed thrillers to heartwarming dramas. Here are some popular examples of famous films shot in Glasgow:

1. “World War Z” (2013): Brad Pitt’s blockbuster zombie apocalypse film utilized Glasgow’s George Square, which was transformed into Philadelphia for the movie’s intense action sequences.
2. “Fast & Furious 6” (2013): Glasgow’s streets served as a backdrop for the high-octane car chases in this action-packed franchise.
3. “Trainspotting” (1996): While primarily set in Edinburgh, this cult classic also features scenes shot in Glasgow, capturing the gritty reality of urban Scotland in the 90s.
4. “Under the Skin” (2013): This science fiction film starring Scarlett Johansson used many Glasgow locations, showcasing the city’s haunting beauty.
5. “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012): Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy finale used Glasgow to represent Gotham City, with the city’s architecture providing a fittingly gothic backdrop.

Glasgow on the Small Screen: TV Shows Set in Glasgow

In addition to being a favorite among filmmakers, Glasgow has also served as a setting for several popular TV shows. The city’s distinctive character and dynamic environment have added layers of depth to the narrative of these series. Here are a few examples of TV shows set in Glasgow:

1. “Taggart” (1983-2010): This long-running detective series, one of the UK’s longest-running dramas, is set and filmed in Glasgow, providing viewers with a glimpse into the city’s darker side.
2. “Still Game” (2002-2019): This hit comedy series about two Glaswegian pensioners is as much a love letter to the city as it is a humorous exploration of aging.
3. “River City” (2002-present): Glasgow’s answer to EastEnders, this popular soap opera is set in the fictional Glasgow suburb of Shieldinch.

Animated Glasgow: Animated Films Set in Glasgow

Although not as common, Glasgow’s enchanting landscapes and architectural wonders have also served as inspiration for animated films. Here are a few examples:

1. “Sir Billi” (2012): Often referred to as Scotland’s first full-length animated feature, this film features a skateboarding veterinarian voiced by Sean Connery and showcases Scottish landscapes inspired by Glasgow and other regions.
2. “Brave” (2012): While not directly set in Glasgow, Pixar’s Brave depicts medieval Scotland, and the city’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum hosted a major exhibition featuring artwork from the film.

Glasgow in Literature: Famous Books Set in Glasgow

Glasgow’s rich history and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. Both classic and contemporary authors have woven compelling narratives set against the backdrop of the city. Here are three classic and three contemporary famous books set in Glasgow:

Classics:

1. “Lanark: A Life in Four Books” by Alasdair Gray (1981): This renowned novel is considered a masterpiece of Scottish literature, with Glasgow serving as the basis for the book’s fictional city of Unthank.
2. “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” by Muriel Spark (1961): Although much of this classic novel is set in Edinburgh, pivotal scenes are set in Glasgow, where the titular character was born.
3. “Buddha Da” by Anne Donovan (2003): This novel, written in Glaswegian dialect, tells the story of a working-class man’s exploration of Buddhism, offering insights into life in contemporary Glasgow.

Contemporary:

1. “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman (2017): This bestselling novel is set in Glasgow, weaving a poignant tale of loneliness and friendship in the city.
2. “Shuggie Bain” by Douglas Stuart (2020): This Booker Prize-winning novel, set in 1980s Glasgow, depicts a young boy growing up in a deprived community.
3. “His Bloody Project” by Graeme Macrae Burnet (2015): Partly set in Glasgow, this novel is a faux historical document detailing a murder case in the 19th century.

Exploring Glasgow Filming Locations – Where to Go

To fully immerse yourself in Glasgow’s film history, there are several key locations you must visit. Here are a few must-see places chosen by authors and filmmakers to shoot films or set novels:

1. Glasgow City Chambers: This stunning Victorian building in George Square has been used in films like “World War Z” and “Fast & Furious 6”.
2. Glasgow Cathedral: One of the city’s most historic buildings, Glasgow Cathedral has been featured in films like “Cloud Atlas”.
3. Glasgow School of Art: This iconic building, designed by the famous Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, has been used in various films and TV series, including “Still Game”.
4. George Square: This is one of the most popular filming locations in Glasgow. It was transformed into Philadelphia for “World War Z” and used as a stand-in for London in “Fast & Furious 6”.
5. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: As one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions, this museum and art gallery has appeared in several films and TV shows, including “Doctor Who”.

Where to Sleep in Glasgow

When it comes to accommodation, Glasgow offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few suggestions for both luxury and budget stays:

Budget:

1. Euro Hostel Glasgow: This centrally-located hostel offers affordable dormitory rooms, making it an ideal choice for budget travelers.
2. Ibis Budget Glasgow: Located a short distance from the city center, this hotel offers basic but comfortable rooms at a budget-friendly price.
3. The Z Hotel Glasgow: This budget boutique hotel is located in the city center, offering compact, stylish rooms.

Luxury:

1. Blythswood Square Hotel: This five-star hotel is located in a historic building and offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
2. Kimpton – Blythswood Square Hotel: This is another top-rated five-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations, a spa, and a restaurant.
3. The Grand Central Hotel: Conveniently located next to Glasgow Central Station, this historic hotel offers stylish rooms and a champagne bar.

Where to Eat in Glasgow

Glasgow’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its film industry. From traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors, the city offers a plethora of dining options. Here are a few suggestions for both budget and luxury dining:

Budget:

1. Mother India: This popular restaurant serves delicious Indian food at very reasonable prices. It’s a must-try for curry lovers.
2. Mono: This trendy vegan café and music venue offers a range of budget-friendly dishes.
3. Bread Meats Bread: Known for its gourmet burgers and sandwiches, this restaurant offers great value for money.

Luxury:

1. The Gannet: This award-winning restaurant in the Finnieston area offers modern Scottish cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients.
2. Cail Bruich: This West End restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu that showcases the best of Scottish produce.
3. Two Fat Ladies at the Buttery: One of Glasgow’s best seafood restaurants, it offers a luxurious dining experience in a grand setting.

Detailed Itinerary: A Cinematic Exploration of Glasgow Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Glasgow, here is a comprehensive itinerary that will take you to the city’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: Central Glasgow

1. Start your day at  George Square, the heart of Glasgow and a location featured in numerous films.
2. Visit the  Glasgow City Chambers, a majestic building that has been used as a backdrop in many films.
3. After lunch, visit the  Gallery of Modern Art, a neoclassical building used in films like “Trainspotting”.
4. End your day with dinner at  Two Fat Ladies at the Buttery, a popular filming location for many Glasgow-based dramas.

Day 2: Glasgow’s Historic Sites

1. Begin your day with a visit to  Glasgow Cathedral, which has been the filming location for several historical dramas.
2. After lunch, head to the  Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery that has been used in numerous films and TV shows.
3. End your day with a visit to the  Glasgow School of Art, a location featured in several films and TV series.

Day 3: Modern Glasgow

1. Start your day at  Glasgow Harbour, featured in films like “Under the Skin”.
2. From there, go to the  BBC Scotland Headquarters  at Pacific Quay, a key location for several TV productions.
3. After lunch, visit the  Transport Museum, used for shooting modern and period films.
4. End your day with a stroll along the  Clyde Arc, a popular location for filming panoramic cityscapes in both local and international films.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities of Glasgow’s Film Industry

Glasgow’s film industry is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. For example, the city’s Kelvin Hall was once the world’s biggest cinema, with a seating capacity of over 4,000. Another local legend is the Glasgow Film Theatre, one of the city’s oldest independent cinemas, known for its annual Glasgow Film Festival.

One particularly captivating story is the transformation of George Square for the filming of “World War Z”. The square was completely redesigned to resemble Philadelphia, complete with American street signs, vehicles, and even newspapers.

Hidden Gems in Glasgow

While the iconic landmarks of Glasgow often steal the spotlight, the city is also home to several lesser-known filming locations that are worth exploring. Here are some hidden gems:

1. Pollok Country Park: This beautiful park, the largest in Glasgow, was used as a filming location for “Outlander”.
2. Glasgow University: Its stunning architecture has been used to represent various locations, such as Harvard in “Outlander” and a Parisian street in “Cloud Atlas”.
3. Queen’s Park: This park, located in Glasgow’s Southside, offers fantastic views of the city and has been used for several local film and TV productions.

What to Pack for a Trip to Glasgow

When packing for your cinematic journey in Glasgow, consider the city’s unpredictable weather. Pack a mix of lightweight clothing and layers for cooler temperatures. Comfortable shoes are essential as you’ll likely be exploring various filming locations on foot. An umbrella is a must, along with a camera to capture the city’s cinematic landscapes. Don’t forget a map of Glasgow, a portable charger, and a translation app to help you navigate the city and interact with locals.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Glasgow

Getting around Glasgow’s filming locations is relatively easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation network:

1. Subway: The Glasgow Subway is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city.
2. Bus: Buses cover a large part of the city and are a good option for reaching places not served by the subway.
3. Bicycle: Glasgow offers bike rental services like Nextbike, making it an eco-friendly way to travel between close-by locations.
4. Walking: Many famous filming locations in Glasgow are located in the city center, making it ideal for exploring on foot.

As you embark on this cinematic journey through Glasgow, remember to enjoy the city’s unique charm, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a book lover, or a curious traveler, there’s a story waiting for you in every corner of Glasgow.