(TEMPORARY CLOSURE) When I find myself in Glasgow City Center, I always try to pop in the Lighthouse, an interesting venue situated in the well-hidden Mitchell lane, off the busy Buchanan Street, one of the most famous streets in Scotland. 

The original building was the first public commission whose prominent Tower was designed in 1895 by the famous architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh (as a water tank to protect the former Glasgow Herald newspaper). The building has since been transformed into Scotland’s Center of Design and Architecture, now promoting exhibitions and events.

Probably my favorite experience here is climbing around the beautiful spiral tower staircase to reach the outside view over the city. Be prepared for a lot of steps, but the 360-degree view is worth the effort! You can reach it from the 3rd floor. If you are interested in the work and life of Charlie Mackintosh, do not miss the gallery on the 3rd floor!

Entrance to the Lighthouse is free and it is a great start to a C.R Mackintosh tour of the city. And only a hundred metres away, on Sauchiehall Street, you can treat yourself at the Willow Tea Rooms. the only surviving example of Mackintosh tea room design (REOPENED IN DECEMBER 2021).