Shopping and Afternoon Tea in Glasgow

Glasgow is home to over 1500 shops and is the largest and most successful shopping destination outside London's West End. With 13 shopping districts from high end designer stores to outlets and vintage fashion, you literally can shop until you drop in Glasgow.  The main fashion hubs can be found around Buchanan Street, Argyle Street and Merchant City with quirkier more individual shopping available in the West End.

During our girls weekend stay with Hostel Suites by Eurohostel in the City Centre, we couldn't resist a spot of shopping ourselves. Katie and Chloe were over the moon to find a Tiger store in Glasgow and actually shouted out loud when they spotted it! I had no idea what they were on about as they dragged me inside but have to admit it was full of quirky gifts and household items at bargain prices. Chloe and Katie both treated themselves to a rose gold basket for their dressing tables.

I love shopping local and we hunted out some Scottish honey, local coffee and whisky to bring home with us to remember the trip and I had to buy a Mackintosh fridge magnet from the Glasgow School of Art to add to our collection too.

Shopping is thirsty work - luckily we had planned ahead and booked afternoon tea at the Cup Tea Lounge in Glasgow City Centre. The stunning Victorian interior with original tiles and ornate chandeliers make for a perfect setting for a special treat. Classic afternoon tea is priced at £16.95 and I love how there is a children's option too. I was a little envious as I watched two adorable girls on the table next to us tuck into their children's afternoon tea (£6.50) featuring grilled cheese sandwiches, mini pancakes with nutella, jelly, cupcakes, strawberry and chocolate fondue plus a milkshake! I will definitely return when I visit Glasgow with my own children.

Back to the grown ups though......

Chloe was provided with a timer to ensure her tea was perfectly brewed.

You can order a signature hot chocolate with your afternoon tea at no extra cost.

Scones are served warm, straight from the oven.

A plate of fresh cookies was the perfect end to our tea.

The Cup Tea Lounge also features an irresistible cake counter packed with sweet treats to take away. 

An afternoon filled with shopping and afternoon tea with friends really is a treat and I think Glasgow is one of the best cities in the UK to take your next shopping break. 

Have you been to Glasgow? We are hoping to re-visit next year with the children and I would love to hear your tips and recommendations for visiting with little ones.

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