Things to do

Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Paisley is a vibrant town steeped in history and culture. Renowned for its iconic Paisley shawls, which once adorned the shoulders of royalty and the wealthy, the town boasts a rich heritage that stretches back centuries.

Beyond its textile legacy, Paisley offers a diverse range of attractions, food and activities.

View our suggested list below:

Must-See Attractions:

Paisley Abbey: This 12th-century Gothic cathedral is a stunning example of mediaeval architecture.
Sma’ Shot Cottages: Step back in time and explore these preserved weavers’ cottages, offering a glimpse into Paisley’s industrial past.
Paisley Museum and Art Galleries: Discover the town’s history and culture through its extensive collections of art, textiles, and artefacts.
Gleniffer Braes Country Park: Enjoy scenic walks, birdwatching, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Shopping:

Paisley offers a variety of shopping experiences, from high street chains to local boutiques. Here are a few suggestions:

Paisley Town Centre: Explore the bustling town centre, which is home to a variety of shops, including national chains and local boutiques.
The Anchor Mill: This historic mill building has been converted into a retail and leisure complex, offering a unique shopping experience.
Paisley Centre: This shopping centre features a range of stores, from fashion to homeware.
Local Markets: Check out the local markets for a more authentic shopping experience, with a variety of goods on offer.
High Street: Paisley’s high street is lined with shops, including major retailers and independent businesses.
Out-of-Town Shopping Centres: If you’re looking for a wider range of stores, there are several out-of-town shopping centres located near Paisley, such as Braehead Shopping Centre and Silverburn Shopping Centre.

History:

Paisley, with its rich history, offers a variety of activities for history enthusiasts:

Visit Paisley Abbey: This 12th-century Gothic cathedral is a stunning example of medieval architecture and a significant landmark in the town’s history.
Explore Sma’ Shot Cottages: Step back in time and visit these preserved weavers’ cottages, offering a glimpse into Paisley’s industrial past.
Discover Paisley Museum and Art Galleries: Learn about the town’s history and culture through its extensive collections of art, textiles, and artifacts.
Join a guided tour: Take a guided tour of Paisley to learn more about its history, heritage, and famous residents.
Visit Paisley Cemetery: Explore this historic cemetery to pay your respects to famous Paisley residents and admire the beautiful gravestones.
Read about Paisley’s history: There are many books and online resources available that provide detailed information about Paisley’s history.
Attend historical events: Paisley often hosts historical events and reenactments, offering a fun and interactive way to learn about the town’s past.
Visit local archives: Research Paisley’s history at the local archives, which contain a wealth of historical documents and records.

Outdoor Activities:

Paisley offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy:

Cycling: Enjoy a bike ride along the Paisley Canal path or through the countryside.
Picnic: Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal in one of Paisley’s many parks or green spaces.
Birdwatching: Gleniffer Braes Country Park is a great spot for birdwatching, with a variety of species to spot.
Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the River Clyde or one of the local lochs.
Golfing: Paisley has several golf courses, including the Gleniffer Golf Club.
Swimming: There are several swimming pools and leisure centres in the area, offering swimming lessons and recreational swimming.
Gardening: Visit one of Paisley’s beautiful gardens, such as Coats Park or Abbey Gardens.

Walking routes:

Gleniffer Braes Country Park: Explore the scenic trails in this beautiful park, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Paisley Canal Path: Follow the canal path for a peaceful walk along the water.
Paisley Town Centre: Stroll through the historic streets of Paisley, taking in the architecture and atmosphere.
Paisley Cemetery: Visit this historic cemetery and admire the beautiful gravestones.
Coats Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk through this peaceful park, which features a variety of trees and flowers.
Abbey Gardens: Explore this beautiful garden, which is located next to Paisley Abbey.
Paisley Cross: Follow the Paisley Cross trail, which takes you to several historic landmarks in the town.
Paisley Canal Path Extension: This extension of the canal path takes you through the countryside to the village of Linwood.

Restaurants:

Taste Buds: A popular café serving breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea.
Indian By Nature: Offering a variety of authentic Indian dishes.
Royal Taj: Another excellent Indian restaurant with a wide menu.
La Banca Italian Restaurant: Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Jam Jar: A trendy Italian restaurant with a modern twist.
Trattoria Genova: A family-run Italian restaurant serving classic dishes.
Cardosi’s Restaurant: A fine dining experience with a European menu.
Grand Fusion: Chinese restaurant offering a diverse range of dishes.
The Craig Dhu: A traditional pub serving bar food and drinks.
Japan Street Food: Authentic Japanese cuisine, including sushi and ramen.

Pubs:

The Anchor Mill: A converted mill with a unique atmosphere and a variety of cuisines.
The Townhead: A cozy pub serving traditional Scottish food and drinks.
The Gabriels Pub Restaurant: A Belhaven Brewery pub offering delicious food and a wide selection of beers.
The Bungalow: A friendly pub with a relaxed atmosphere.
De Beers: A popular pub with a lively atmosphere.
The Abbey Inn: A traditional pub with a beer garden.
Linwood Farm – Farmhouse Inns: A family-friendly pub with a carvery.
Bird & Signet Bar: A bar and grill serving burgers, steaks, and other pub classics.

This is just a sample of the many things to do in Paisley. With its rich history, beautiful scenery, and friendly atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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