As the leaves turn golden and the nights draw in, Glasgow comes alive with a new kind of energy. Autumn transforms the city into a vibrant hub of culture, creativity, and seasonal celebration — making it the perfect time for an urban getaway. Whether you’re looking for spine-tingling Halloween thrills, cosy cultural encounters, or the latest foodie hotspots, Glasgow promises a city break packed with colour and character.
Halloween in the City: From Haunted History to Light-Filled Magic
Glasgow embraces October with a playful mix of the spooky and the spectacular. Provan Hall, one of the city’s oldest buildings, offers eerie tours, witchcraft workshops, and a fascinating new exhibition on folklore. For lighter laughs, The Stand Comedy Club hosts the Big Halloween Kids Comedy Show, while the historic Britannia Panopticon — the world’s oldest surviving music hall — mixes ghost stories with a spirited Halloween market.
Families and night owls alike can enjoy immersive events such as GlasGLOW in the Botanic Gardens, a dazzling light trail celebrating “The Glasgow Story,” or Melting Pot’s One Night at the Museum, a late-night dance party set inside the Riverside Museum. From atmospheric walks in the Victorian Necropolis to dog-friendly fun at the Harry Pawter Party, Glasgow’s Halloween calendar has something for every age and thrill level.
Cultural Highlights and Family Fun
Beyond the ghouls and ghosts, autumn also brings creativity and discovery. Step into the world of Charles Rennie Mackintosh at Mackintosh at the Willow, where hands-on family workshops include everything from baking pumpkin pie to designing spooky tea stands. Book lovers can browse Glasgow’s independent gems such as Caledonia Books and Category Is Books, or venture out to Bearsden’s newly opened The Bookmonger for a novel paired with fine wine and Scottish cheese.
Art takes centre stage at Tramway with Leap then Look: Play Interact Explore, a free, tactile exhibition inviting children and adults alike to touch, move, and play with interactive sculptures. Meanwhile, the much-loved Aye Write Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this November, bringing names like Irvine Welsh, Jeanette Winterson, and Nicola Sturgeon to the stage for 130 events spanning literature, politics, and storytelling.
Autumn Walks Through Golden Glasgow
When it comes to seasonal scenery, Glasgow’s parks are nothing short of magical. Pollok Country Park sets the standard with its golden foliage, Highland cattle, and winding trails. For a more urban escape, wander through Kelvingrove Park, Queen’s Park, or along the Forth & Clyde Canal — each offering the perfect backdrop for a crisp autumn stroll.
A Tasting Tour of New Openings
No trip to Glasgow is complete without indulging in its thriving food and drink scene. This autumn, the city welcomes some standout newcomers:
- Dishoom brings Bombay café culture to the city centre, serving aromatic curries and signature comfort dishes.
- The Delphine, a stylish all-day café bar in Princes Square, offers brunch, dinner, and cocktails in a chic setting.
- Fook Mei, near the Barras Market, delivers Hong Kong-inspired street food with bold flavours — from hand-cut noodles to fiery chicken.
Plan Your Autumn Escape
From haunted music halls and dazzling light trails to literary festivals and fresh flavours, Glasgow shines in autumn. With its perfect blend of culture, history, and seasonal charm, the city is ready to welcome travellers seeking a break that’s equal parts thrilling and heart-warming.
