Glasgow's Armadillo concert hall has pride of place on its waterfront

Scotland's largest city, gritty Glasgow sports an upbeat work-hard, play-hard attitude.

In contrast to aloof Edinburgh, Glasgow prides itself on its friendliness. Indeed, you'd be hard-pressed to find a warmer welcome in any other British city.

Lying on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow is vivacious, artistic and cosmopolitan. It ain't, however, what you'd call a pretty city. Still, it scrapes together some lovely Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture, not to mention some classy restored 18th century warehouses.

And in recent years this former industrial hub has had the magic wand of gentrification waved over it. The most notable rejuvenation has been along its waterfront where the titanium Armadillo concert hall now enjoys pride of place. George Square - the city's heart - has also scrubbed up well, while in the adjoining Merchant City district, chic cafes, bars and boutiques compete for your cash.

Glasgow has a bunch of world-class galleries and museum. Don't miss the impressive Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) housed in a stylish, central neo-classical building, or the extensive Burrell Collection, with its treasure trove of Chinese, Egyptian, Greek and Roman antiquities as well as Impressionist art.

Glasgow's nightlife is legendary and if you've come here for a relaxing city break, count on a change of plans. Upon entering pubs, it is not unusual for perfect strangers to be welcomed into the fold with open arms and overflowing pints.

The music scene here is also one of the best in Britain. Glasgow has spawned bands such as Mogwai, Franz Ferdinand, Arab Strap, Belle and Sebastian and Travis, most of whom honed their craft at concert venues like King Tut's Wah Wah Hut and Barrowlands.

Glasgow lies 50 miles west of Edinburgh. Trains and buses link Glasgow with England. Glasgow International airport lies eight miles southwest of the city while Glasgow Prestwick airport is 30 miles south.