Last Thursday I attended a festive day out with Glasgow Loves Christmas and we visited some fabulous places, including restaurants, shops and the Christmas market. I adore Glasgow in December, even when it's busy with people shopping for gifts. It always looks stunning and never fails to make me excited for Christmas.
We started at the Mackintosh at the Willow tea rooms, first opened in 1903 and designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Now after years of careful restoration, the public can enjoy the stunning surroundings and a new Christmas menu curated by three-time Scottish Chef of the Year, Bruce Price. If you're interested in some activities/events at the venue, there's Sunday afternoon Christmas arts workshops and festive film screenings. The museum and shop are fabulous as well and definitely worth a visit.
Address: Mackintosh at the Willow: 217 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3EX
Next, we headed to The Good Spirits Co. on Bath Street. We tasted some whiskey, gin and in house cocktail blends (just a little bit, it was too early for alcohol, haha). Perfect if you're looking for Christmas gifts for whiskey and gin connoisseurs or for stocking up your own bar for the festive season. There is so much choice, including some in house blends and limited edition local spirits, like the Glass Wee Gin. They had plenty of little stocking fillers too, including alcohol filled baubles and little cocktail bottles handmade in store.
Address: The Good Spirits Co. 23 Bath St, Glasgow G2 1HW
After warming up with some really strong whiskey (it was a cold, rainy day), we headed to my favourite place in Glasgow - Princes Square. I just love it!
We checked out the Glasgow School of Art Pop Store first, filled with unique gifts designed by students, staff and alumni of The Glasgow School of Art. There is something for everyone, from jewellery, accessories and homeware, to cute cards and toys. The pieces are full of character and are lovingly made by really talented artists.
Address: The Glasgow School of Art Pop Up Shop, Princes Square, Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 3JN
I have visited the brand new Everyman Cinema before, but it was lovely to have a little tour of the full place and learn more about it. It is one of the most beautifully designed spaces in Glasgow and I am obsessed with it's cool vibe! The decor is simply stunning and the sofas are so comfy! Talk about watching a movie in style! I might write a separate post about it actually. I already ate at Everyman with my friend a few weeks ago, but I had a chance to sample more of the food and drinks and I am really impressed. And the cocktails are soooo delicious! If you are planning to go to the movies soon, you have to visit Everyman! Did you know that you can order drinks and food to your seat? Yes, please!
Address: Everyman Cinema at Princes Square, Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 3JN
After checking out the Everyman Cinema, we arrived for lunch at the Corinthian Club. Again, it is one of my favourite venues in Glasgow - I mean... it is breathtakingly beautiful! I ordered the crispy spiced cauliflower on a bed of wild rice, quinoa, pomegranate & edamame beans and it was delicious. It comes with a citrus dressing, but it's mayo based, so I just had the salad and cauliflower and it was yummy! I also had a lovely mojito and truffle oil fries. Yum! The food at the Corinthian Club is absolutely amazing. I had a pleasure of attending a private dinner in one of their upstairs rooms a few months ago and it was incredible. This time we were at directly underneath the glass dome on the roof and it was stunning!
After fuelling up with delicious food, we walked to John Lewis to talk all things personal shopping, fashion and makeup. I was immediately drawn to the YSL products, because I am a makeup addict and I adore the brand. We enjoyed a glass of prosecco and chatted to the lovely Personal Stylists, Sarah and Rachel and YSL Beauty Therapist, Jessica. It's always a pleasure visiting the John Lewis girls. If you're looking for a new party outfit or any style and makeup advice at all, they have it all covered.
Address: John Lewis, Buchanan Galleries Glasgow G1 2GF.
We also visited the Glasgow Museums Store at the Gallery of Modern Art and it was filled to the brim with incredible goodies! From unique gifts, to fun stocking fillers, I was actually amazed with the variety of items available! My personal favourite was the Frida collection. Amazing! And the little wireless speakers below - so tiny, but so powerful!
Address: Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AH
Next on the list was House Of Fraser. Have you seen how stunning it looks with all the twinkly lights outside? Glasgow wouldn't be the same without it. We started with a MAC masterclass focused on the perfect base/complexion and got to learn some fantastic tricks from the Pro Makeup-Artist. I fell in love with a few products ideal for the festive season.
We also headed downstairs to have a look at the Dior fragrance and makeup boutique, as it always looks lovely and their Christmas decor at HOF is iconic! They have the most beautiful setup in the Glasgow store and you simply can't miss it.
This gift set was so gorgeous! You can use this case as a clutch bag.
House Of Fraser have the most beautiful Santa's Grotto upstairs and we had a little peek inside. I want to move in right now! So cute!
Address: House of Fraser 45 Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 3HL
Last but not least, it was time for the George Square Christmas Market and oh my... is it beautiful! It is an absolute must on any Christmas to do list! The lights, the music, the stalls with festive products, food and drink and my favourite part - giant twinkly baubles in the middle of the market, where you can take a photo inside - stunning! We also went on the big wheel to see the market from the sky and it looks amazing! I would love to take the kids to see it next week.
I had to finish this post with me inside this stunning bauble! Absolutely magical! It was a busy day, but we braved the weather to make some memories and have a little bit of festive fun.
Glasgow at Christmas is really special and I always look forward to seeing it in all it's sparkly glory!
See more at www.glasgowloveschristmas.com
Sandra xxx
*All the activities were complimentary