Events and Activities

 

‘Attentive Writers’: Healthcare, Authorship and Authority

Hosted by the Medical Humanities Research Centre

School of Critical Studies

University of Glasgow

23-25 August 2013

Events and activities

 

Glasgow and the surrounding area offer fantastic opportunities for those interested in Scottish cultural and literary heritage, including the history of medicine. There is also a vibrant contemporary arts scene.

Things to See and Do in Glasgow:

  • The Museum of Anatomy: Housed in the main building of the University of Glasgow, the museum hall was designed by Sir John James Burnet and opened in 1902. On display are the historical Hunterian collection and the Cleland collection, as well as a modern anatomical collection. Entry is free. Opening hours: 9am-4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
  • Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow: Granted a Royal charter from James VI in 1599, the RCPSG is the only multidisciplinary Royal College in the UK.  The College library and archives house an extensive historical collection. Open by appointment, 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. The Crush Hall and the Library Readings Room are open to the public, with no need to book an appointment, on Monday afternoons (2-5pm).
  • Centre for Contemporary Arts: CCA showcases a wide range of Scottish and international contemporary art. Entry to most exhibitions is free. Opening hours: 10am-midnight, Monday to Saturday.
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Following a three-year refurbishment programme, Kelvingrove is now Scotland’s number one tourist attraction and is conveniently located opposite Glasgow University. As well as stunning Victorian architecture, highlights include works by Charles Rennie Macintosh, Monet, Whistler and Dali’s “Christ of St. John of the Cross”.  Entry Free.
  • Hunterian Museum. Scotland’s oldest public museum houses permanent displays on the lives and works of Lord Kelvin and Dr. William Hunter as well as collections of ancient Egyptian and Roman artefacts, medical instruments and the Bryce skulls. Access through Glasgow University main building. Entry Free. 
  • Hunterian Art Gallery. The gallery has a fine Whistler collection and, in September, will be housing a number of exhibitions including ‘James Paterson: Works from the Artist's Studio’ and ‘Aspects of Scottish Art 1860 - 1910 ’. The Macintosh house is also attached to the gallery and features some fine examples of the artist’s architecture and design. Entry to gallery free. Charge for Macintosh house. 
  • Botanic Gardens. Created in 1817, the highlight of the gardens is the stunning 19th Century wrought-iron-framed glasshouse, the Kibble Palace. Entry Free.
  • Gallery of Modern Art. The GOMA features work from local and international contemporary artists. It is located in the heart of the city centre, only a short bus, taxi or underground ride away from the university. Entry Free
  • Glasgow Necropolis. Glasgow's Victorian necropolis was opened as an interdenominational burial ground in 1832 and is a fine example of the Victorian 'garden cemetery' style.

 

For those interested in taking a short train ride to Edinburgh, the conference will be running at the same time as the Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Edinburgh International Festival.

 

Restaurants in the West End:

Prices indicated are £ lunch / £ dinner

Oran Mor. (Top of Byres Road) This converted church is one of Glasgow’s best-loved dining/music/theatre venues. The Brasserie serves a selection of traditional fare and don’t leave without taking a dram at the famous whisky bar! £6/£23.

Mother India. (28 Westminster Terrace) Imaginative, colourful Indian cooking using fresh ingredients. You’re welcome to bring your own wine for only £1.95 corkage and, if you prefer a take-away meal, Mother India also owns the Wee Curry Shop on Ashton Lane. £17/£18.50.

Stravaigin (28 Gibson Street) and Stravaigin 2 (8 Ruthven Lane) Pub food of the very best kind - great if you want to try authentic Scottish haggis. Produce is locally sourced and the atmosphere is cosy and welcoming. £11/£15.

The Loft (Ashton Lane) Set in a converted cinema, the Loft has adopted a movie theme in its decor. Offering excellent bar food through the day, there is also a £7 lunch menu and frequent 2-for-1 specials. £7/£18.

Tchai-Ovna House of Tea (Otago Lane) Popular with students and backpackers, this cafe is crammed with mismatched furniture and funky knick-knacks. The cafe serves food and snacks from around the world including more than 80 varieties of tea. £8/£8.

Sofia’s (337 Byres Road) Located conveniently close to the university, Sofia’s offers wholesome, unpretentious Italian food and great value for money. £6.95/£12.