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!

50 Days to go to the Commonwealth Games

Excitement is rising here in Glasgow as we approach 50 days to go until the 2014 Commonwealth Games kick off.

The "Big G" in George Square

The recently installed "Big G" has been drawing a lot of attention from locals and visitors alike and as the opening ceremony at Celtic Park nears, we are beginning to feel the buzz of the Games.

The Kelvingrove Bandstand after its £2.1m upgrade

A lot has happened in the run-up to the Games, including the re-cobbling of Ashton Lane and some major refurbishment and improvement taking place in Kelvingrove Park; none more so than the recently opened bandstand.

The new bandstand will be hosting a great lineup of artists this summer.

We hope you have arranged your travel and accommodation for the Games as we hear Glasgow is pretty full up. But wherever you have found to rest your head, we hope you're feeling the excitement like we are.

Roll on the Games!

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.

Christmas is coming to Glasgow

The iconic St Enoch Reindeer

It may still be November, but things in Glasgow are starting to get very festive.

There are huge reindeer in the St Enoch centre, the Christmas lights in George Square are being switched on this week (14th Nov), Christmas music can be heard filtering out of the shops and, slowly, Glasgow is looking more and more festive.

Yet, this is not to mention the annual Christmas market in St Enoch Square. When this opens and hot, mulled wine is on offer, then Glasgow will be truly in the festive spirit.

St Enoch Christmas Market

George Square

And, you know what? We can't wait!

There's spooky goings-on in Glasgow this Halloween

Mwahahahaa! *laughs in a sinister fashion*

The ghosts and ghouls of Glasgow's streets and lanes are slowly starting to get ready for their annual outing at Halloween.

Dragging their dusty, cobweb-filled bones from their alleys and underground dens, these spooky beings may be lurking round any corner at this time of year... so watch out!

There's plenty eery goings-on in Glasgow this Halloween. From ghost walks to haunting concerts, Glasgow is the perfect place to enjoy Halloween...if rubbing shoulders with ghouls and demons is your kind of thing!!

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

The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

How the action will look in the new Hydro arena

Now that the ticket applications are closed we are entering the Home Straight for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Taking place between 23 July - 3 August 2014, the Games will be taking place right across Glasgow as well as further afield.

Starting with a booming Opening Ceremony at Celtic Park, the Games will see some of the world's best athletes swimming, running, jumping and punching their way across the city to get their hands on a coveted gold medal.

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.

Take a Tour of Glasgow

Enjoy a bus tour of Glasgow

Did you know there are many different kinds of tour you can take around Glasgow?

From bus tours, to walking tours, music tours and 'geek' tours, they provide a brilliant way to explore Glasgow and find some of its hidden gems that most visitors will never see.

Not only that, but seeing Glasgow in a tour can bring you into contact with some of the city's colourful characters as they share stories about the history and events that have taken place to shape Glasgow into the vibrant city we enjoy today.

The best thing about a tour, though, is that you can easily pop back to your favourite parts to spend even more time there.

So when planning your visit to Glasgow, check out some of the great tours on offer. They are guaranteed to show you something you would otherwise not have seen!

Enjoy Glasgow Show on Glasgow Green

This weekend, make the most of the hot weather and enjoy the family-friendly Glasgow Show on Glasgow Green.

With live music, extreme sports, dancing, theatre, countryside activities, children's funfair rides and a main arena filled with international acts, it's shaping up to be a great weekend on Glasgow Green.

In fact, I'm planning on sweet-talking the boss to see if I can wangle an escape down there myself to see
the amazing Blazing Saddles Horse Stunt Team.

The Show is on both Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 5.30pm and the Glasgow Show Parade leaves George Square at 11.30am on Saturday and its arrival marks the formal opening of the Glasgow Show at 12.00pm in Glasgow Green. The Parade will include vintage buses, dancers, horse and dray, pipe bands, street theatre and much more.

Exploring Glasgow's Green Spaces

Did you know Glasgow is bursting with green spaces? Parks and gardens adorn Glasgow and what better time of year to enjoy them than the height of summer?

Whether you are green-fingered, fancy a relaxing stroll or even a spot of sunbathing, Glasgow's green spaces have plenty to offer.

Starting in our own neighbourhood, we have Kelvingrove Park and the Botanic Gardens on our doorstep (literally!).

The best of Glasgow's Museums this Summer

St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art

The Burrell Collection

It has long been known that Glasgow boasts some of Europe's best museums. Earlier this year the Riverside Museum was voted The European Museum of the Year 2013 and the sheer number and variation in the city's museums has tourists flocking from all over the world.

Throughout the summer Glasgow's museums have a packed itinerary full of new exhibitions and interactive fun for all the family.

With painting exhibitions to  the story of football and everything else in between, Glasgow's museums are bursting with life and activity this summer.

Oh, and don't forget, most of them have great little cafes for you to relax while the kids explore.

Get your funk on...

... with the Glasgow International Jazz Festival!

Taking place this weekend, the Glasgow International Jazz Festival began in 1987 when Glasgow was bidding to become the European City of Culture for 1990.

Attracting some of the biggest names in jazz over the years, such as; Sarah Vaughan, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Buddy Guy, Michael Brecker and Tony Bennett, the Glasgow International Jazz Festival has grown from strength to strength.

With a rich and varied programme providing something for everyone, the Glasgow International Jazz Festival comprises of a whole range of styles, from traditional and Dixie to free jazz, and even blues and hiphop crossovers.

So if you fancy a bit of New Orleans in Glasgow this weekend, or just fancy opening up your eyes to something completely new, the Glasgow International Jazz Festival sounds (excuse the pun!) like just the very thing for you this weekend!

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.

Exploring Glasgow's East End

While the West End gets all the hype and all of our hotels and apartments are situated to the west of the city centre, the intriguing East End has plenty to offer the Glaswegian and tourist alike.

The famous Barras market

Venturing past Glasgow Cross in Merchant City you will find the 'Barras' market. Open every Saturday and Sunday, this market hustles and bustles with East End life and is a must for anyone looking for antiques, bargains, or an amazing place to photograph Glasgow in its raw beauty.