A LITTLE LIGHT LEARNING
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Recommendation added: 11/05/2006 20:49
By: Lou3000 (YSUK rating +25)Lou3000 has been thanked 3 times for this contribution
"There can be few visitors to Glasgow who haven't heard of one of it's famous sons, the architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, or glimpsed his trademark geometric designs and stylised flowers which can be seen in places such as the famous Willow Tea Rooms; the Glasgow School of Art and Scotland Street School, to name but three.
On a recent visit to Glasgow, I discovered another Mackintosh 'gem', quite by chance. Staying overnight in a Glasgow hotel, and flicking through some of the tourist literature in the foyer, I found a brochure about 'The Lighthouse', describing it as Scotland's Centre for Architecture, Design and the City and, on reading further, I discovered that if I took along the leaflet, it would entitle me to purchase two tickets for entry into The Lighthouse for the price of one. Normally £3 per adult, I decided to take up the offer.
Located in the heart of Glasgow, but tucked away in a back lane off Buchanan Street, The Lighthouse is a skilful reincarnation of the former Glasgow Herald building which had been commissioned by Mackintosh in 1895. When the Glasgow Herald newspaper moved to Albion Street in 1980, the old building in Mitchell Street lay empty and derelict for a decade.
Glasgow was awarded the title 'UK City of Architecture' in 1999. With the aid of £13 million, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the rescued building evolved into 'The Lighthouse', a spacious six-storey arts and exhibition centre high of ceiling (well, it is a very high tower) and brightly welcoming. Regularly showcasing and promoting contemporary Scottish and international designers and architecture, there is something for everyone – child and adult.
Our visit was on the Sunday of the May Bank Holiday weekend in 2006. We found the young man at reception to be very friendly and knowledgeable. He gave us our programme and pointed out the new exhibitions in the gallery – one of which was 'Babes in Sport' on Level 2 Young Designers Gallery. Babes in Sport is an exhibition by Danish fashion designer Anna Gulmann, featuring four new interpretations of traditional sportswear for figure skating, dressage, curling and boxing. Very different, and worth a look-see (running from 29 April-27 June '06).
The Mack Room on Level 3, which includes original artefacts and models alongside the illuminated time line wall and touch screen displays, is a permanent exhibition but there is a constantly changing programme of events and exhibitions so, if you are planning a visit to Glasgow and fancy taking a trip to The Lighthouse, visit their website at www.thelighthouse.co.uk for an up-to-date programme.
The highlight of the visit, for me, was the old Mackintosh water tower, now transformed with a 137-stepped helical staircase. It's a steep climb and not for those afraid of heights, but I beg you to make the effort because once you get to the top and step out onto the platform you will be rewarded with the most breathtaking views of Glasgow's stunning cityscape.
After the unexpected exercise of the climb and descent of the spiral staircase, refreshment is most definitely in order and fortunately, the centre also has it's own restaurant/bar, the Doocot, on Level 5.
The food was something of a pleasant surprise. Instead of mince, 'neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), the menu ranged from typically Scottish to dishes of a more cosmopolitan flavour. From a traditional Scottish soup of Cullen Skink, to a most un-tartan offering of tasty Thai Salad, there is definitely something for everyone's taste, including vegetarians. All freshly made on the premises, you can choose from soups, sandwiches, pastas, salads, the delicious 'house special', the Dootcot Salcicia burgers or scones and tea. Prices vary, depending on your choice. Again, if you visit the website, you can find the Doocot menu and get an idea of the prices.
A highly recommended visit.
Ticket prices:
Adult £3.00
Child £1.00
Concession £1.50
A range of group and multi-tickets are also available.
Opening Times:
Mon, Wed-Sat: 10.30am-5.00pm
Tues from 11.00am-5.00pm
Sun from 12 noon-5.00pm
Access:
All levels of the building are fully accessible via lift except the Mackintosh Tower which can only be accessed by climbing stairs. There is an induction loop at reception. Call or speak to a staff member about access enquiries.
Tickets and information:
0141 221 6362
enquiries@thelighthouse.co.uk
www.thelighthouse.co.uk
T he Lighthouse
11 Mitchell Lane
Glasgow
G1 3NU"
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