A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Glasgow for Nightlife, Music, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Nottingham or Glasgow?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Glasgow can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a historic, high energy, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Nottingham and Glasgow: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less active music scene
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Glasgow?

You'll generally find more things to do in Glasgow than Nottingham. Glasgow is bigger than Nottingham, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Glasgow is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and historical sights, while Nottingham is more popular for its shopping. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Glasgow is well known for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. Also, Glasgow is famous for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

How is Nottingham different from Glasgow?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glasgow and Nottingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Glasgow?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Glasgow is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Glasgow? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Both Nottingham and Glasgow offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Glasgow has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Glasgow is very popular for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Glasgow is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Music?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Glasgow is very popular for live music. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its live music scene.

Glasgow is a world class music destination. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.


Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for its Old Town?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Glasgow is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Nottingham does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Glasgow?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Nottingham is great for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Families?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Both Nottingham and Glasgow are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Glasgow offers lots of family activities. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.


Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Both Nottingham and Glasgow are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Glasgow makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Glasgow is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Glasgow is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Students?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Glasgow is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


Is Nottingham or Glasgow Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Glasgow

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Nottingham and Glasgow.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit in Glasgow can get you to some places easily. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Is Nottingham or Glasgow a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Glasgow

Nottingham and Glasgow both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Glasgow is a very walkable city. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Glasgow Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glasgow or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Glasgow?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Glasgow. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Glasgow than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glasgow.

Families should spend more time in Glasgow than Nottingham. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Glasgow, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Glasgow than Nottingham. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Glasgow that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glasgow than Nottingham if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Glasgow.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Glasgow? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Glasgow 2-3

One day in Nottingham or Glasgow?

In Nottingham, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With live music and food around the friendly city of Glasgow, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Nottingham or Glasgow?

In Nottingham, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Glasgow, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Nottingham or Glasgow?

Nottingham is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Glasgow, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Glasgow?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nottingham. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Glasgow is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Glasgow or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Glasgow is £144. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Glasgow in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Glasgow £74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Glasgow £148
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Glasgow

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Glasgow? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Glasgow


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Glasgow Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Glasgow £27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Glasgow

Also for Glasgow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Airport and Glasgow Centre Private Transfer to Oban: $312
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Business Car: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Luxury Car: $139
  • Departure Private Transfers: Glasgow City to Glasgow Airport GLA in Business Car: $98
  • Executive transfer Glasgow/Edinburgh: $275
  • From Private Day Trip to Edinburgh with Transfers: $834
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Edinburgh: $213
  • Glasgow Airport Transfer: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Van: $145
  • Glasgow Airport Transfers: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Car: $169
  • Glasgow Private Transfer from Glasgow city centre to Glasgow (GLA) Airport: $64
  • Glasgow city to Glasgow Airport -Luxury Transfer Chauffeured : $108
  • Glasgow hotels to Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) - Departure Private Transfer: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Glasgow?

Prices for flights to both Glasgow and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Glasgow £45

Typical Food Prices in Glasgow

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Glasgow:


  • Dessert at Farmer's Market
    £1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Glasgow £22

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $278
  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $151
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19

Typical Entertainment Prices in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34

Tours and Activities in Glasgow

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Glasgow.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Glasgow Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Glasgow Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Historical Walking Tour: $15
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Glasgow City Centre Daily Walking Tour: 10:30am, 2pm & 5pm: $15
  • Street Art Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Scottish Football Museum and Hampden Park Stadium Tour: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Glasgow £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Typical Alcohol Prices in Glasgow

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Glasgow:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Glasgow

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Glasgow:

  • Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting: $23
  • Tennent’s Brewery Guided Tour and Free Pint: $24
  • Glengoyne Distillery Tour with Whisky & Chocolate: $37
  • Glasgow Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Sample Fine & Rare Whiskies at Glengoyne Distillery: $62
  • Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow : $70
  • The Malt Master Experience at Glengoyne Distillery: $112
  • Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour: $186
  • Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Distillery Visit: $187
  • Pints & Past: Glasgow Pub Tour: $456


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nottingham and Glasgow, we can see that Glasgow is more expensive. And not only is Nottingham much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nottingham would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nottingham and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Glasgow would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Glasgow than you might in Nottingham.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nottingham Expensive? and Is Glasgow Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Glasgow?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Glasgow, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Glasgow?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Glasgow in the Summer?

Both Glasgow and Nottingham during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Glasgow. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Glasgow fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Glasgow. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 159 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Glasgow. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Glasgow 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Glasgow in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Glasgow. The autumn months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year.

Nottingham is a little warmer than Glasgow in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Glasgow fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Glasgow during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Glasgow 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Glasgow in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Glasgow. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Glasgow for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Glasgow. It's quite cold in Nottingham in the winter. In the winter, Nottingham is a little warmer than Glasgow. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Glasgow averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Glasgow. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 40 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Glasgow. Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Glasgow. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Glasgow 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Glasgow in the Spring?

Both Glasgow and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Glasgow in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Glasgow. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Glasgow fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Glasgow during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Glasgow 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Glasgow and Nottingham

Nottingham Glasgow
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)