This one is worth a visit. No crowds, no tourists, and garnering far less attention than it's big…read morebrother Glasgow Cathedral, this is what I like to see. Out of the way, lesser known stops that are equally stunning yet peacefully serene. A Neo Gothic Catholic church designed in 1814, the structure sits on the north bank of the River Clyde. A spectacular organ built in 1903 was relocated here in 1981, and the entire building was significantly renovated in 2009. A mirrored memorial stands outside the building dedicated to the Arandora Star ship disaster of 1940, the largest in the world dedicated to this disaster. Look for the 200-year-old olive tree in the courtyard near the memorial.

Situated on the banks of the Clyde, just across from the court, I have often popped in for a quiet…read morethink. Since my religious life has been reduced to visiting churches when the congregation are out, I haven't caught more than the end of a mass here, but I find it one of the more congenial spots for a little rest after shopping, a peaceful contemplation of life before going out for the night or a total tearful breakdown after getting dumped, again. St Andrews is nicely old fashioned: the pews are scattered with penitents and regular worshippers, spending time alone with their faith- or, as in my case, existential doubt. It has shrines, a sense of calm and plenty of spots for personal prayer. I find this an atmosphere far more conducive to prayer than the updating that many churches have embraced. It also has a good selection of prayer books and helpful texts at the back.

Carfin Pilgrimage Centre popped up in 1996, and has been a popular visitor attraction ever since. I…read moream not Catholic, but the centre is not exclusively for those of the Catholic faith. Over the years, I have been inside the centre many times, as they have a large cafe. My mum and I used to go up for lunch every Wednesday and it was always lovely, real home cooking and friendly service. The unique thing about this centre is the Pilgrimage exhibition. On the upper level of the centre, the display is audio-visual, and takes you through an account of the pilgrims who travelled to the site, which is interesting regardless of faith. It costs a small fee to enter the exhibition, all of which goes towards the upkeep of the Grotto. A nice place to stop off for a cup of coffee and a cake, or have a break if you are visiting the Grotto.

lovely grotto and miracles have happened here , however i hate the pilgramige centre. it is anti…read morechristian. jesus lost his temper when they were trading in the temple. the church is not the place to make money!!! selling good luck guestures are AGAINST the cathoic faith , we beleive in jesus and his teachings not pegan charms for luck !! its shamfull to see the charms and evil in this place. look with your own eyes its not the way of god the grotto is otherwise a place of god

One of the finest designs by Glasgow's other great architect, GFC has a beautiful exterior that…read moredisplays Indian influences and a sharp, clear interior that expresses the rational revolution that inspired the Scottish protestant movement. Determinedly elegant and sparse, the austerity contributes to an atmosphere of calm, intelligent contemplation: perfectly in tune with the theology of the Free Church. Despite its city centre location, this is not a bustling church but one where thoughtfulness is valued: for anyone wishing to get off the increasingly kitsch treadmill of MacIntosh, it is more than worth a visit.

This was my #1 choice for Doors Open Day 2015. The grandiose, Greek façade of the GFC has peaked my…read morecuriosity for years, but I never thought to venture in as I thought it was closed to the public. The gravity of the building belies the warm welcome visitors receive from the congregation inhabiting the building. Like many a Greek temple, unfortunately this building is in need of some work. Entering into the vestibule, you'd be forgiven for thinking you are in just another church. It's fairly unspectacular & somewhat dated, but look at the pillars supporting the staircases at either end and you'll see the first sign that this building is a wee bit special. Entering through either of the double doors and you're immediately transported to a venue which could easily be a smaller sibling of Glasgow grand theatres. You're line of view is cut off by the overhanging balcony, before the space opens up in front of you. The yellow oak pews, striped with dark strips of mahogany, have buffeted by years of worshippers, the dark crimson paint on the walls has faded and is in need of retouching. The pulpit and organ are set on a stacked platform in front of the pews, the top of the organ reaching up almost to the gods themselves. The wooden frame of the organ has ornate carvings on either side and is peppered with a printed motif. What really gives this place it's character is the balcony and upper cornicing. As I arrived at the top of the stairs I came face to face with a small door (that's small to even to a person of my diminutive stature) which frankly looked like something out of a creepy fantasy/horror film. Turning away from the door to hell, I was immediately struck with the feeling of being in another place. Although I could look right down onto what would be the congregation and pulpit etc, the balcony feels abandoned and almost of a different era. Peeling paint, dusty piles of old forgotten books and broken handrails suggest that the upper levels aren't normally used by anyone. I really felt that I could be exploring an old, abandoned building, the light streaming in from the windows only highlighted the dust I was kicking up. Looking up, again I could see beautifully carved decorations running around the perimeter. Alexander 'Greek' Thomson was said to have been inspired by Greek & Middle Eastern themes, I saw hints of Asia (maybe that's just wishful thinking), whatever it is it's impressive. Sat upstairs, away from the crowds, so to speak, you get a real sense of the church's past. Looking up and down and picturing the yourself perched above St Vincent Street, you can only the gravitas the church must once have enjoyed, how different it once was to today.. Today the church is on a list of 100 most endangered buildings. The city has already been forced to buy and save it from ruin, I just hope that this rough diamond doesn't get lost to another developer or dilapidation.

I was on an escorted tour of Scotland and our guide informed us that although a visit was not…read moreincluded to this Cathedral that it was worth a visit. I'm glad that I went with his suggestion and took time on my own to explore. I loved all the stained art and the beautiful architecture. There were also volunteers available to answer any questions. Entrance is free but a donation is encouraged.

Beautiful piece of history, incredible architecture, nostalgic & awe inspiring. Lots of nearby…read morehistoric sites as well.

Iconic building that's been modernized. Has a nice cafe, some Christian paintings, and a welcoming…read moreair. Great for a stop in to see how a church can be modernized.

On Buchanan Street, round about level with the New Look shop, there is a very attractive church;…read morethis is St George's Tron Parish Church. Although a very pretty building - it does look a bit like it's been left there accidentally. In an attempt to draw in more shoppers, perhaps, the Tron (as this church is often fondly referred to) have stuck a big sign on the front of the building that says "Book Shop - Free Entry." To be honest, I'm not really sure why they needed to add the second bit - isn't access to most shops free?! Inside, Gareth's right when he says the place resembles more of a community centre than a church. There are glass doors everywhere and the place feels a little bit, well, sterile. I can't help but think that in somewhere in the recent renovation - the Tron lost all it's character. I hope I'm not being too unkind by suggesting that maybe this place is best viewed from the outside.

This is an amazing building with great architecture and masonry work alike. It is centrally located…read moreon Clarkston Road for all of Cathcart, Mount Florida and even, some parts of, Clarkston. Despite, rarely walking past this place I have seen many weddings and funerals coming or going. Hence, it seems they are a popular church with a large congregation and most likely also allow non-church members to use this church as a venue for certain occasions. I've never actually been to a service here, but as mentioned above they appear to be popular with a significant number of people. They also offer Alpha Courses which gives the impression they are a teaching church not a 'grab and convert' number. Something which I have a lot of time and respect for being an ex-Theolgoy student.

One of the many vibrant, independent and evangelical churches that are thriving around Glasgow,…read moreFindlay Memorial has a growing and energetic congregation. Increasingly engaged with social issues- poverty, in particular- the outreach is dynamic and the body of worshippers large. They have a choir, use theatre to explore their beliefs and have an active presence in the local community. They are particularly keen to welcome students and often offer holiday clubs for local children.

From the owner: Findlay is an independent Evangelical church meeting in a large building situated near St George's…read moreCross in Glasgow. The congregation of about 300 includes people of all ages from all walks of life. We value the links we have with students in the city, and together we enjoy worship and ministry. There is a wide range of activities for all ages.