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 centre 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.
Time to share some photos with you all!
Click the photos to enlarge and view them in detail.
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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!
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. 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.
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?
Hello, fellow adventurers! Happy Sunday and welcome to the month of September.
Last Saturday, my partner and I visited a historical site in Glasgow—the Govan Stones. After a bit of online searching, we decided this was the perfect spot to explore, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The Govan Stones: A Treasure Trove of History
The Govan Stones are an incredible collection of early medieval carved stones displayed at the Govan Old Parish Church in Glasgow. This site is a treasure trove of history, dating back to the 9th–11th centuries AD. The stones include the magnificent Govan Sarcophagus, thought to commemorate St. Constantine, the son of Pictish king Kenneth MacAlpin. The intricate carvings on these stones, depicting everything from hunting scenes to stylized animals, are simply mesmerizing.
A Walk Through Time
As we walked through the churchyard, we were transported back in time, imagining the lives of the Brittonic Kingdom of Strathclyde’s rulers, whose power and wealth these stones commemorate. The atmosphere was serene, and the historical significance of the place was palpable.
Ancient Artefacts
The artifacts at Govan Old are some of the oldest early medieval sculptures in Europe. Amazingly, these Viking-age treasures have been in the Govan Old Churchyard for over 1000 years! This exhibition shows a time before Scotland was even a thing, when warlords fought for control of the British Isles and Viking longships caused chaos along the coasts and rivers. Inside the church, the Govan Stones give us a glimpse into the wealth and power of the last British kingdom in Scotland.
The Churchyard
The churchyard by the River Clyde has been around for about 1,500 years and has always been significant for Christians in the area. Its teardrop shape is reminiscent of medieval churchyards, which you don’t see much anymore. It is thought that the original entrance was on Pearce Lane, over in the southeast corner, and it lined up with an ancient path that used to connect the church to Doomster Hill, a man-made hill where kings used to hold court.
People have been buried there since the very beginning of Christianity in Scotland, but most of the gravestones you see today are from the 16th to 19th centuries, when Govan was booming. with people and industry. By the 1900s, the churchyard was surrounded by shipyards, tenements, and workshops, all crammed along the river. But somehow, the churchyard has mostly kept its original shape.
In 1993, Historic Environment Scotland stepped in and made the churchyard and its gravestones a Scheduled Monument, which means they’re protected by law now.
A Glimpse into the Past
We spent a good few hours marveling at the detailed carvings on the stones and soaking in the rich history. The Govan Stones are not just a collection of rocks; they are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era. It’s fascinating to think that these stones have survived Viking raids and the passage of centuries to tell their story today.
Exploring Govan
After our visit, we strolled around the charming neighborhood of Govan, which has its own unique vibe and history. But more on that in my next post!
The highlight of this trip for me was the elderly man playing the piano in the church—so beautiful, it sounded absolutely heavenly.
If you ever find yourself in Glasgow, I highly recommend a visit to The Govan Stones. It’s a perfect blend of history, art, and a touch of mystery. Plus, it’s a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon with someone special.
Until next time, happy new week!
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
I’m bubbling with joy as I write this, and I can’t wait to share why! 😊
Let me start by saying I’m absolutely head over heels in love with nature—especially on those glorious sunny days when everything seems to sparkle with happiness. Being surrounded by trees and greenery just makes my heart sing! This Scottish summer, with its crisp, cool air, was a dream come true, and I’m so grateful to have spent it exploring with my special someone.
When we decided to venture out and discover more of Scotland, I took on the role of finding charming spots, and boy, did we hit the jackpot with Loch Lomond!
We drove for about 49 minutes to reach this gem, and every second was worth it. The road leading to Loch Lomond isn’t very wide, but it’s packed with breathtaking views. We had so much fun listening to our favorite Nigerian songs, making videos, and soaking in the scenery. From cute houses to picturesque cattle and sheep farms, the drive itself was an adventure. We even had a tiny hiccup with navigation but got back on track thanks to some friendly locals. And guess what? We didn’t even check the weather beforehand, but we were blessed with a perfect sunny day!
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?
Notable burials:
George A. Walker Arnott (1799–1868), botanist
Andrew Bonar (1810–1892), Moderator of the Free Church of Scotland
Thomas Barclay (1792–1873), Principal of Glasgow University
James Hedderwick (1814–1897), newspaper editor
Robert Jamieson (1802–1880), Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland
John Mitchell (1786–1881) was a Glasgow merchant and ship owner, known as "the Father of the Glasgow Town Council".
John Mossman (1817–1890), sculptor
William Mossman (1793–1851), sculptor
James Seaton Reid (1798–1851), Irish-born academic
Sarah West (1790–1876), actress
William Rae Wilson (1817–1893), social reformer
Andrew Bonar (1810–1892), Moderator of the Free Church of Scotland
Thomas Barclay (1792–1873), Principal of Glasgow University
James Hedderwick (1814–1897), newspaper editor
Robert Jamieson (1802–1880), Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland
John Mitchell (1786–1881) was a Glasgow merchant and ship owner, known as "the Father of the Glasgow Town Council".
John Mossman (1817–1890), sculptor
William Mossman (1793–1851), sculptor
James Seaton Reid (1798–1851), Irish-born academic
Sarah West (1790–1876), actress
William Rae Wilson (1817–1893), social reformer
Identified casualties from first & second world war.
Total identified casualties: 116
Total identified casualties: 116
Address: Springburn Rd, Glasgow, G21 1SE
Hours: Open 24 hours
Hours: Open 24 hours
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