1) A Visit to the Glasgow Lighthouse
The Glasgow Lighthouse is an often overlooked attraction situated on a lane just off the main thoroughfare of Buchanan Street. 6 stories high, this free entry attraction, features art exhibitions, a rooftop cafe/bar, and great views of the Glasgow skyline from the Mackintosh Tower.
Entrance to The Lighthouse Glasgow.
2) Scotland’s National Centre for Design
The Lighthouse building has been designated Scotland’s National Centre for Design and Architecture. Built in 1895, the building was originally used as the head office for the Glasgow Herald newspaper, and was opened as a public attraction in 1999, to mark Glasgow’s status as UK City of Architecture & Design.
Futuristic Interior of the Lighthouse, Glasgow.
3) A Hub of Creativity
All year round the Lighthouse is home to a series of exhibitions featuring the best from Scottish and international designers. A permanent exhibition is dedicated to Charles Mackintosh, charting the life of the iconic Glaswegian architect.
Art Exhibition at the Lighthouse.
4) Futuristic Design
Whilst the Lighthouse building was originally built in 1895, the interior design of the building is futuristic and modern, in line with what you would expect from a National Centre for Design & Architecture.
Modern Interior of the Lighthouse.
5) The Mackintosh Tower
The tower seen in this photo used to contain an 8000 gallon water tank, which was designed as an anti fire precaution. These days the tower no longer plays a fire safety role, and visitors can climb to the roof, for spectacular views of the Glasgow skyline.
Lower Levels of the Mackintosh Tower.
6) The Lighthouse Staircase
This spiral staircase leads to the top of the Mackintosh Tower. It’s hard going, getting to the top, but well worth the effort!
Mackintosh Tower Spiral Staircase.
7) View From the Top
If you make it to the top of the Mackintosh tower, you are are rewarded with 360 degree views of the city.
View North Along West Nile Street.
8) Glasgow From the Rooftops – A Mish Mash of Architectural Styles
Perhaps not fitting in with the traditional image of Scotland being a land of castles and lochs, this photo shows a mish mash of architectural styles ranging from the 1700’s to present day.
View to the North West from the Lighthouse.
9) Glasgow at Dusk
Probably the best time to visit the Lighthouse is at dusk, during the winter months. The days are short and the sun begins to set around 4pm, allowing you to see the city in a very different light.
