Just a 10-minute walk away from Kelvingrove Park is the UK’s fourth oldest university. Founded in 1451, there’s a reason many films and TV shows have chosen the University of Glasgow as a striking historic backdrop. 

The West Quadrangle, the peaceful cloisters and the bell tower are highlights, and all feature in the university’s self-guided tour. Time your visit for midday to enjoy free lunchtime concerts – every Thursday during term time, as well as Wednesday organ concerts – an absorbing and meditative way to break up an otherwise stressful day in the city.

Situated on a quiet corner overlooking Kelvingrove Park, Eusebi Deli is a family-run Glasgow institution, having supplied artisan produce to the city for over 40 years. As well as the well-stocked deli counter you’d expect, there’s a sit-down restaurant, a cabinet of cakes and - according to over 1,000 reviews – Glasgow’s best coffee. 

Roll up with a newspaper and a spare hour for a relaxing people-watching session, or take away one of their famous strawberry tarts to enjoy on a bench in the park opposite.

The Glasgow botanic gardens is a year-round oasis, offering indoor and outdoor spaces to enjoy. The iconic Kibble Palace, a grand Victorian glasshouse, houses an array of exotic plants – the perfect backdrop for quiet reflection.

Take your time exploring the collections or simply sit and admire the beauty of the gardens. When the sun is shining, the outdoor paths and hidden corners are quite mesmerising.

After a long day of exploring Glasgow, why not bring relaxation to you? With Urban (that’s us!) - you can book mobile massage treatments to your door,  transforming your living room or hotel room into a spa.

Our menu of tailored treatments is perfect for easing any tension from your adventures around the city. Whether it’s a gentle Urban classic massage to soothe tired feet and shoulders, or a more invigorating deep tissue session, we’re all about making your experience as effortless as possible.

Just choose your treatment, therapist and time and place and they’ll bring the massage table and oils – you just need to grab some towels.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned yogi, Merchant City Yoga provides the perfect setting to stretch out the stress. This centrally-located studio offers a range of classes, including yin yoga and restorative sessions designed to help you fully unwind.

The instructors are warm and welcoming, and the intimate studio is a calming space to escape the city buzz.

The Forth and Clyde canal offers a peaceful walking route away from the hustle. Start at Maryhill Locks and follow the path, where you’ll come across historic bridges and serene water views. It’s a great way to get some light exercise while soaking in the peace of this lesser-known part of Glasgow.

While it’s better known for gigs and weddings, Òran Mór in the West End also hosts acoustic sessions and relaxed evening performances. With its warm lighting and converted church setting, it’s hard to beat. Grab a seat with a drink and unwind while soaking up Glasgow’s cultural vibe.

One of Europe’s largest public libraries, the Mitchell Library is a must-see spot for book lovers. Its grand reading rooms are perfect for settling in with a good book or simply enjoying the stillness of the space. Pick a cosy corner and get stuck into a book you’ve been meaning to start.

For a different kind of relaxation, rent a kayak or join a paddleboarding session at Pinkston Watersports. Glide along the water and soak in the peaceful surroundings – an activity that’s both meditative and a bit adventurous, ideal for switching off from your everyday life.

Located in the Southside, Pollok Country Park is a gorgeous expanse of greenery that’s home to woodland fairydoor trails, grazing Highland cows, and the captivating Pollok House (which is shut until 2026 for refurbishment). Pack a picnic or enjoy a riverside stroll. You can also explore the park’s walled gardens for a splash of colour.

Relaxing doesn’t always have to equal stillness. A sweaty workout, a loud sing along or – in this case, a dance in the dark – can be just as therapeutic. Enter Groove is in the Dark, the Glasgow edition of global dance movement No Lights, No Lycra. 

The idea’s simple: a bunch of strangers get together weekly to dance in complete darkness to good tunes. It’s hard at first to let go of self-consciousness, but once you realise that although you can make out the rough silhouettes of fellow dancers, everyone’s too absorbed in their own fun to care how you look. Freeing, endorphin-boosting and a great alcohol-free way to relax in the evening. To keep up-to-date with events, follow NLNL on Eventbrite.

The Gorbals Leisure Centre offers evening swim sessions – the softly lit pool and quiet atmosphere make for a calming end to a busy day. Swimming is a great way to relax both your body and mind — and the Gorbals pool is an affordable and accessible option.

Sometimes you just need to escape to a place where the lights are low, the voices whispered and the music mostly panpipes.

The Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel’s spa is a standout, offering wellness amenities and a unique “shroom service” for overnight guests, featuring mushroom-infused coffee and cocoa. For a luxurious day spa experience or rejuvenating treatments like facials and massages, PURE Spa in the city centre is another well-reviewed option. For novelty-seekers, there’s also a Gin spa - the first ever gin inspired day spa, where most treatments come with a gin and Fever Tree tonic.

Carry on reading: discover Glasgow’s best-kept secrets – explore our list of hidden gems in Glasgow and uncover the city’s most delightful surprises.