2014 in Glasgow

Well, 2014 proved to be a particularly special year in Glasgow.

From the carnival that was the 2014 Commonwealth Games to the Referendum ( we, as a business remained strictly neutral), Glasgow's streets, cafes and bars were buzzing with energy, excitement and passion for months.

These two events brought the world's attention on Scotland's cultural capital and Glasgow certainly lived up to the moment.

I find it poignant, however, that almost a year to the day when writing a small review of the year, the tail end of the year in Glasgow is tainted by tragedy. Last year there was the Clutha bar tragedy, and this year there was the terrible event in George Square only a few days before Christmas. Our sympathies lie with everyone affected by these two awful incidents.

Yet again, however, these tragedies have shown the true warmth, spirit and kindness of Glasgow and it this that we will take into 2015.

So, it is with a hopeful eye we cast our lens onto 2015. Hopeful that you have a brilliant time when you come to stay with us in Glasgow and hopeful that this city can be spared any more tragic events.

Wishing you all the very best for 2015 and we look forward to welcoming you to Glasgow's est End sometime soon

As we say in these parts; lang may yer lum reek!

2014 deals in our Glasgow hotels.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (5mins from our hotels)

While we're enjoying a very mild winter here in Glasgow, now is a great time to make the most of our special 2014 deals between January - March.

• Singles from £40
• Double/twins from £50
• Triples from £65
• Quads from £75

Glasgow Botanic Garden (2mins from our hotels)
With the 2014 Commonwealth Games taking place this summer, why not take a short break to Glasgow to get your bearings before the crowds descend.

Or why not make the most of the end of the January sales?

Or maybe you need to treat your loved one to a romantic Valentine's break in Glasgow's West End?

Whatever the reason, our 2014 New Year deals will inspire you... and that's before you even get to Glasgow!

Book direct at: http://www.glasgowhotelsandapartments.co.uk/

Merry Christmas from McQuade

Well hasn't 2013 gone by quickly?

Ice skating in George Square, Glasgow

It took a while to get warmed up, literally, but once it got going 2013 settled into a glorious summer that was enjoyed the  length and breadth of Glasgow. From the Mela in the Botanic Gardens to the return of the Mardi Gras Parade on the Byres Road. And, of course, not forgetting the amazing World Pipe Championships on Glasgow Green.

But, 2013 was also tinged with tragedy after the events at the Clutha Vaults bar and our heartfelt sympathies will forever be with all those affected.

Yet, in adversity comes strength, and Glasgow has strength in barrow loads. So as the wintry winds blow us out of 2013 and into 2014 we are looking forward to another year of providing relaxing escapes in the heart of Scotland's best city.

So, from everyone at McQuade Hotels, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and 'aw the very best' for 2014. Looking forward to seeing you in the West End next year.

Is it ever too early for Christmas Shopping?

George Square at Christmas

Okay okay, I hear your howls of derision!

BUT, in my defence, I noticed in Tesco yesterday while I picked up a pint of milk, that at the end of one aisle was 5 shelves of Christmas Selection boxes and sweets. Surely it won't be long before mince pies and Christmas puddings are on display.

While you (and me) may not agree that we have bypassed autumn in our race to Christmas, what it does mean is that more and more people are already planning their Christmas shopping trips and, in fact, many are taking these trips earlier and earlier.

Skating in George Square

Glasgow Doors Open Day

Glasgow Central Station

Have you ever wanted to see behind the scenes of some of Glasgow's most famous and iconic buildings? I know I certainly have, especially the wonderful Panopticon and to explore the tunnels under Central Station that I've heard so many urban rumours about.

Well, hang on to your hats, because you can do all of this and so much more on Open Doors Day...well, it's actually a weekend, which makes it even better!

Bank Holiday Weekend in Glasgow

Not sure how to spend your bank holiday weekend in Glasgow? Well, Glasgow's calendar is full with plenty to satisfy parents, children and the young-at-heart all at once. Here is a selection of some of the best this weekend.

The Riverside Festival is a new event taking place on Saturday, August 24 from 4pm - 11pm on the grounds of the iconic Riverside Museum and The Tall Ship, on the banks of the River Clyde. The event will feature outdoor stages and bars, covered dance floors, street food, comedy and performance art and have a real carnival atmosphere.

Scotland's Exclusive Wedding Event at Hampden Park all weekend. If you're planning for the Big Day, then this event will help you choose everything from the piper to the flowers. Or, if you're not planning just yet, why not go along and live the dream!

Medieval Sport at 2pm on Saturday, 24th at the People's Palace & Winter Gardens. See how they amused themselves in the Middle Ages with archery, jousting and kubs.

Go bat hunting! Pollok Country Park, 24th at 8.30pm. It's European Bat Weekend, so grab the bat detectors and torches and go on a bat hunt. Ages 8+; all children must be accompanied.

Glasgow & District Fuchsia Society Annual Show, Kibble Palace, all weekend. A competitive event judged under British Fuchsia Society rules, with the chance for visitors to see plenty of rare varieties.

Whatever you decide to get up to in Glasgow this weekend, share your photos on our Facebook page.

Glasgow's Hidden West End

Ashton Lane

If you are coming to Glasgow's West End to enjoy the array of shops, restaurants and bars, don't be shy about venturing off the beaten track. While Byres Road is buzzing day and night, many of the small lanes tucked away hold delights for the inquisitive visitor.

Ashton Lane is by far the most popular of the Byres Road's 'off-shoots'. Boasting an array of award-wining restaurants, cafe bars as well as a cinema, Ashton Lane has something for everyone.

Getting Excited About the Commonwealth Games

I know it's still a year away, but we are already getting excited about the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

The peleton being cheered into Byres Road

Last weekend's epic road cycling race through the streets of Glasgow was fabulous as half of the city came to a halt to admire the physical fitness and endurance of some of the UK's top cyclists.

Glasgow's Tour de France

 This Sunday (23rd) Glasgow plays host to the National Road Race Championships. This is the first time the championships have come to Glasgow and will be brining some of the world's best riders to the city streets.

Alex Dowsett, Tour de France stage winner Mark Cavendish, Olympic and World champion Laura Trott, 5-time World champion Ed Clancy, Olympic silver medallist Lizzie Armitstead and Scotland’s own David Millar will all be among the peleton on Sunday.

Glasgow's West End Festival

Look out for the costumes at the Mardi Gras Parade

For the month of June Glasgow's West End will play host to Glasgow's biggest festival, The West End Festival!

From Friday 31st May - Sunday 30th June over 100 Glasgow-based organisations, arts groups, local and international artists will deliver a mixture of activities and projects. The festival programme includes; events, exhibitions, performances, talks, tours, workshops and screenings, and many events are free of charge.

Glasgow hosts The European Museum of the Year

European Museum of the Year

We've mentioned before how great the Riverside Museum in Glasgow is, but it seems it is not only us Glaswegians who know about it status.

Glasgow, come rain, hail or snow!

Glasgow in all its summer beauty

It seems that spring and summer have stalled on us and we are stuck in limbo somewhere between cold and Baltic!

Never mind though. If there's one thing the Glaswegians have it's an unshakeable ability to have fun no matter what the weather brings.

When it rains in Glasgow the city's warmth comes out

What to do in Glasgow when it rains

The weather forecast for this coming weekend doesn't look great, but that doesn't mean there is no fun to be had in Glasgow.


Glasgow is awash with culture and history which makes it a great place to explore come sun, rain or shine. The Riverside Museum, Tall Ship and Gallery of Modern Art are great places to explore for all the family and have previously been highlighted on our blog.

Kelvingrove Museum

Today we'll look at the splendour of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Rugby 7s this weekend in Glasgow

Round 8 of the HSBC Sevens World Series

Whether you like rugby, men with big thighs, dressing up like a movie star or just like a good day out, then this weekend's Rugby 7s at Scotstoun are the perfect tonic for your bank holiday weekend.

Top three things to do in Glasgow this weekend

If you're staying in Glasgow this weekend you'll want to know the best things to see and do. With such a vast amount of info out there it can be easy to be overwhelmed with choice, so to make things simple, we're giving you the top three. Yes, only three because quality trumps quantity on any city break.

Win with McQuade every month

Did you know that every month McQuade Hotels give away a night's B+B for two and a meal for two through our Facebook page?

It costs nothing to enter, you just need to follow the simple instructions on our Facebook page and keep an eye out to see if your name comes out of the hat each month.

Come to Glasgow for the World Pipe Band Championships

The World Pipe Band Championships will be held over two days for the first time this summer.

Held in Glasgow Green, the event will be in a brand new two-day format, on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 August. Enjoy a fantastic day in the centre of Glasgow with the air filled with the most Scottish of sounds. It not only makes a great day out for true piping fans, but there's plenty going on for the whole family.

All of this makes the perfect excuse to spend the weekend in Glasgow. Our hotels and serviced apartments are ideally situated in the West End allowing you to access the "Worlds" easily on the Subway or buses, while ensuring you can still 'get away from it' when you want to rest your feet.

Having a coffee on Byres Road?

While staying in Glasgow, no visit would be complete without a wee trip to Byres Road, the centre of the vibrant West End.

On the Byres Road there's a huge range of shops, delis and buildings to set your sense on fire, but more of them in future blog posts.

What to do this Easter in Glasgow with the kids

If you're staying with McQuade Hotels this Easter weekend there's plenty to do with the kids in Glasgow.

Why not head down to the Clyde where two fantastic attractions sit side-by-side.