If a posh cup of tea does not take your fancy, grab a pint at Stereo Café/Bar, housed in the Old Daily Record Building on Renfield Lane. Unfortunately the building itself cannot be fully appreciated due to the narrow streets.
Although not designed by Mackintosh himself, his influence on Liz Peden’s series of works in the Townhead area, where the famous architect spent much of his youth, are a must-see for any fan.
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Mackintosh’s first commission, a Celtic Cross headstone in the Necrpolis for Alexander McCall, a Chief Constable of Glasgow for 18 years. Mackintosh’s father William was also a policeman, and had worked as McCall's assistant.
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The Glasgow School of Art cemented Mackintosh’s reputation for design, not only by creating the wonderful and unique building in his recognisable style, but also by spreading his legacy to the thousands of students to enter its doors.
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The Martyr's School pre-dates Mackintosh’s more famous Scotland Street design by almost a decade. It is also more personable, built on the same street that the architect grew up on.
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The Royal Highland Fusiliers Regimental Museum is one of Mackintosh’s gems hidden in pure sight. As well as a clever use of internal space, the designer indulged his fascination with swirls, as well as emblazoning the letters RHF upon the structure itself.
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The Lighthouse was originally built as a home for the Glasgow Herald. Now it is a centre of architecture and design, and hosts the excellent Mackintosh Centre, celebrating the architect’s designs. There is also a viewing platform at the top of the tower.
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Stop for a drop of afternoon tea at the Willow Tearooms on Sauchiehall Street, which has painstakingly preserved and restored the original furnishings. The adjoining jeweller is a premium seller of various Mackintosh inspired jewellery and trinkets.
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The second Willow Tearooms is actually located in the building next to the original tea shop, currently occupied by Puma. Enjoy a cup of tea then shop for some shoes to enjoy the best of both worlds.
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Former home to the Crown Luncheon Room, it is now is now Cranston House, named after Mackintosh’s patron Kate Cranston, who was heavily involved in the tearooms. It is now home to Sloans Bar, which plays host to a popular weekend market.
1. The Necropolis – Celtic Cross
2. Martyrs School
3. Townhead Memorial
4. Glasgow School of Art
5. Royal Highland Fusiliers Regimental Museum
THEN CHOOSE A DIRECTION
NORTH
SOUTH
Queens Cross Church
Scotland Street
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Ruchill Church Hall
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House for an Art Lover
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6. Willow Tea Room – Sauchiehall Street
7. Old Daily Record Building
8. The Lighthouse
9. Willow Tea Room – Buchanan Street
10. Sloan Market / Cranston House
NORTH / SOUTH
11. Queens Cross Church
12. Ruchill Church Hall
13. Scotland Street School
14. House for an Art Lover
Many of Mackintosh's buildings and works are found in a convenient walk around the city centre. However, there are a couple that may require you to stretch those legs or hop on a bus or underground train.