Kelvingrove Park – A Dear Green Place

The West End’s Kelvingrove Park is one of the many parks created for the people of Glasgow as a refuge from the appalling living conditions they had to endure during the industrial revolution. I think it’s the finest park in the city, but I would say that – it’s only a five-minute walk away from my house and I visit it almost every day.

Home of the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, the park has bowling greens, tennis courts, two children’s play areas and a skateboarding park. Follow the cycle route leading north in the park and you’ll come to the Forth and Clyde Canal which links Glasgow with Edinburgh and Loch Lomond.

Behind the children’s play area nearest the city, the An Clachan cafe serves homemade cakes, tea, coffee and juice and snacks for children.

The hill in the main section facing the duck pond is a favourite hang-out for students in the summer. If it’s peace and quiet you’re after, head for the hill in front of the University on the other side of Kelvin Way.

A word of warning: Please be aware that it’s illegal to drink alcohol in public places in Glasgow.