Anyone know how I can hire someone with Mackintosh knowledge to lead us around to all Mackintosh buildings and exhibits in Glasgow. My wife and I plan to be there (and also Edinburgh) sometime between May 8-13, right after we finish our RS Paris in 7 Days trip. We are "turn of the century" nuts, so we try to see Art Nouveau and Art Deco wherever we travel. We won't have a car, and I have some small walking difficulties. Thanks.
Posted by
white plains, ny, usa
4140 posts
There are a number of Mackintosh sites in the center of town easily accessible , and a guide is really not necessary , Willow Tea Room , Art School , Buchanan Tea Rooms , The Lighthouse , Glasgow Herald . By train , a trip out to Helensburgh to see the Hill House is simple , and by metro , The Scotland Street School and The Mackintosh House at The Hunterian Museum are easy . Also REALLY worthwhile and accessible by metro and/or bus is The House for an Art Lover in nearby Bellahouston Park .. This 45 minute documentary about Mackintosh from 1996 will whet your appetite to see these things https://youtu.be/LNrV6vbu4os Also there is a wonderful collection of work by Mackintosh and his brilliant wife , Margaret MacDonald , at The Kelvingrove Museum in The West End
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
Since you have some minor walking difficulties, it probably isn't the best advice to see all the sites with public transportation. I've done it with a car and the sites are quite distant. Note that most of the sites offer their own guided tours so what you really need is the transportation.
I would Google search and see what comes up. A quick search shows Glasgow Taxis offering a service, including a drive out to Hill House (very much worthwhile).
The Willow Tea Room and GSA are accessible on your own (though a hike between). Check the GSA website for current tour info since the fire.
The Queens Church is also very worthwhile to visit and has a nice gift shop (so does the GSA).
Posted by
OP
Seattle
36 posts
Thanks. Any suggestions on what buildings and art in Edinburgh are also in my area of interest? I realize Mackintosh stuff is not there, but what else from 1800s to the present is notable? (Obviously we'll see castles and cathedrals, but I soft of overdose on these, so need some relief)
Posted by
white plains, ny, usa
4140 posts
Edinburgh is roughly divided between the Old Town ( medieval ) and The New Town ( Georgian eighteenth century ) The architecture in both is stunning , The Royal Mile in the Old Town is one of Europe's great streets , since it it a hill that runs downhill from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood , I would suggest getting to the top ( the castle ) via cab or bus and then walking down . There is a lot to see , and perusing Rick's book will list them . One favorite for me is The Scottish National Museum , but there is much more . I have been to Edinburgh several times , and never tire of it ! The National Gallery , is also a winner .