Q) Where in Glasgow can you simultaneously time travel and go to France ( sort of) ?
A) Glasgow Cathedral.
Disclaimer- it only works if you’re a dedicated Outlander fan with a vivid imagination.
So the opening question is just a bit fun but Outlander fan or not, Glasgow Cathedral is worth a visit. Travelling around Europe over the past few years, I’ve visited a lot of churches and Cathedrals and you might forgive me for being a bit Cathedral fatigued.
Not so in Glasgow. Here’s why.
Glasgow Cathedral: The Approach.
We’d arrived in Glasgow by train and its an easy walk from Glasgow Central to the Cathedral. The route we used took us through the University campus and, to be honest, it’s not the most inspiring walk. Lots of high-rise and fairly bland modern buildings.
But then you see the Cathedral on the horizon , with the Necropolis climbing the hill behind it. The older buildings with the cemetery backing them create a little island of history and heritage .
Seeing them come into view as you approach is beautiful, and a little bit exciting.
Cathedral Square
The Cathedral might be the star attraction but the area around it, Cathedral Square, is more than just an area to pass through. It’s home to a variety of statues and monuments including one of explorer David Livingstone. Imagine if travel blogging was a thing in his day. He would have had some interesting posts.
On a more sombre note there is also a plaque dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Piper Alpha disaster. It’s touching in its simplicity.
The Glasgow Necropolis
I’ve already blogged about my visit to the Necropolis , and my love of a good graveyard is no secret. The Necropolis was modelled on the Pere Lachaise in Paris and these days it rivals the finest burial grounds of any European city.
Due to the sheer scale of the place, you’d be wise to book a tour or at least pick up a heritage sheet or guide from the Cathedral. I didn’t and as much as wandering the paths made for a good day out, a bit of guidance would have unlocked more secrets and stories.
Check out Friends of Glasgow Necropolis for more information.
The Welcoming Spirit
The Cathedral remains a place of worship with an active congregation, but it’s also a place that feels welcoming to all. Free to visit with volunteer guides on hand for tours and questions, postcards and leaflets on sale with payment by honesty box and guide literature available in several languages, this is a place that is embracing visitors. A beautiful balance of worship, heritage and tourism.
It’s an Outlander Filming Location
So about that time travelling French connection. Well, its not entirely inaccurate. Parts of the Cathedral were used as a filming location for Outlander. This little corner of medieval Glasgow doubles up as L’Hopital Des Anges in Paris where Claire volunteers to work alongside the French nuns.
So if you’ve the imagination- and I believe we all have-you can transport yourself back in time to Paris of old and embrace all your Outlander day dreams. Or is it just me who wanders about with a head full of thoughts like that?
Day dreamer or hard headed realist, Glasgow Cathedral is worth a visit. Or two, or three. There’s so much to discover here. It’s definitely worth discovering for yourself.
If you liked this post, maybe try reading this one next: Sweet Treats from Scotland
Helen x
What a beautiful Cathedral, really enjoyed seeing it! Thanks!
It is a beautiful place inside and out! Thank you for taking the time to read and comment, I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
I didn’t know about the cathedral, but if I had a clearer memory of reading “Rob Roy,” apparently Scott describes it in the novel. The oldest building in Glasgow. See, I found it interesting, even though I’ve never seen “Outlander.” Thanks for visiting Under Western Skies.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and comment.