Hidden gems to discover around BSAVA Alba, Glasgow

2 mins

Your insider guide to making the most of your trip to BSAVA Alba, Glasgow Crowne Plaza, 26-27 September 2025.

For many of you, BSAVA Alba isn’t just about the conference itself. Whether you’re arriving a little early or planning to stay on for the weekend, Glasgow has so much to offer. From riverside walks and iconic museums to hidden gems tucked away in Finnieston, there’s plenty to explore just minutes from the Crowne Plaza.

As regular visitors, we’d love to share some of our favourite local tips to help you make the most of your time in Scotland’s biggest city.

And of course, in between all that exploring, don’t forget to drop by our booth (stand 18) — we’d love to see you there!

🚶‍♂️ Within 10 minutes – Explore around the Glasgow Crowne Plaza

If you don’t feel like venturing too far from the conference, there are some great options within walking distance.

• The Riverside Museum: Striking Zaha Hadid-designed building housing Glasgow’s transport museum. Interactive, family-friendly, and right next door. (~5 mins walk)
• The Tall Ship Glenlee: A fully restored 19th-century sailing ship moored outside the Riverside Museum. Climb aboard for a slice of maritime history. (~5 mins walk)
• The Finnieston: A stylish bar and restaurant on Argyle Street, known for seafood, craft cocktails, and a buzzing atmosphere. (~10 mins walk)

🚉 15–30 minutes – Stretch your legs!

If you’ve got a little more time, take time to explore these Glasgow highlights.

• Mother India’s Café: A Glasgow institution offering Indian tapas-style small plates. Perfect for sharing and sampling a mix of flavours. (~15 mins walk)
• Kelvingrove Park: A Victorian park with leafy walks, statues, and a riverside route to the University of Glasgow. Great for fresh air between sessions. (~15 mins walk)
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Glasgow’s most-loved museum — free entry, with everything from fine art to natural history. (~15 mins walk)
• Hidden Lane: A colourful laneway in Finnieston filled with artist studios, vintage shops, and cafés. A true creative hub. (~15 mins walk)
• Inn Deep: A quirky craft beer pub built into riverside arches, with murals, board games, and live music. (~20 mins walk / short subway ride)
• The Lighthouse: Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, with a spiral staircase leading to a viewing platform over the city. (~20 mins by subway)
• Glasgow Botanic Gardens: Glasshouses filled with exotic plants, plus peaceful parkland. Ideal for a relaxing break. (~25 mins by bus/subway)
• Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre: An offbeat gem featuring mechanical sculptures that move in choreographed shows — unusual, artistic, and unforgettable. (~25 mins by subway)

See you at the Crowne Plaza!

Whether you stay close to the conference or head out to explore Glasgow’s hidden gems, we hope these tips inspire you to enjoy the city beyond the show floor. And remember, between your adventures, make sure to stop by our booth (stand 18). We can’t wait to catch up with you at BSAVA Alba.