The UK Equivalent

Richmond = Glasgow?

9/2/10 8:54 AM

Do you like this?

Christine Stoddard

Ever wanted to travel far from home without feeling like you have gone too far? Cue Scotland, a natural travel option due in part to its tinge of familiarity. Victorian-era buildings? A healthy drinking culture? Entertainment by the riverside? Sounds sort of like Virginia's historic yet quirky capital, doesn't it? Imagine Shockoe Bottom on a larger scale, but instead of hearing slight Southern drawls every which way, you hear thick brogues. This sense of belonging first struck me when I studied at the Glasgow School of Art during VCU’s Artist and Writer Workshop last summer. For five weeks, I breathed Glaswegian air and walked on Glaswegian ground, yet for all the crumbling brick and cobblestone, I almost thought I was trotting down Virginia Avenue.

The UK Equivalent

If you're not a Richmonder, you might not know what we like about our city. Opinions vary, of course, but, time and time again, I hear Richmonders gush about First Fridays, the diverse architecture, the James River, the unique family businesses, and the city's overall friendliness. Richmond is charming in a classically Southern way—porches, sweet tea, and fried chicken—but isn’t afraid to show its edge. Most of us have heard of or even gone to The National, Fall-Out, RVA Revolution, Slaughterama, and Best Friends Day. Glasgow isn't exactly full-time “Brigadoon,” either.

Glaswegians admire many of the same things about their city. Like Richmond, Glasgow was once a major industrial city built alongside a river. Now it's full of artists, students, and its fair share of families looking for a more relaxed urban lifestyle than say, what London offers. Richmond is full of ex-Washingtonians and New Yorkers who wanted culture but a slower pace. Events like the VCU/UR French Film Festival or the Richmond Italian Street Festival help fulfill this desire, and the liveliness of VCU and UR brings variety to many folks’ schedules. (Personally, I’m a big fan of the Richmond ‘Zine Festival, which is a happening that would suit Glasgowians’ penchant for artsy get-togethers beautifully.)

Glasgow also boasts raging live music and gallery scenes. Architectural gems designed by the likes of Charles Rennie Mackintosh are scattered throughout the city. The River Clyde attracts nature and sports enthusiasts alike, but it's not even Glasgow's only river. The River Kelvin flows through the northern part of the city. And, just like Richmond, Glasgow has dozens of cute thrift shops throughout the city, and parks galore. (Richmond has its beloved Maymont and Glasgow has its scenic Kelvingrove). As for Southern hospitality? How about Scottish hospitality? In Scotland, strangers greet you with smiles and even invite you to share a pint.

Tag Topics: Christine Stoddard

Richmond = Glasgow?

by Christine Stoddard

9/2/10 8:54 AM

Latest Comments

A different perspective...

After living in Richmond for 2 and a half years and then Glasgow for 3, I have to disagree. Glaswegians are much more down to earth, and far less concerned with status than the Richmond crowd. Both groups can be friendly, but the Scots will take you at face value from the moment they meet you, while you will be instantly judged for your background, job, wealth, and current living location by the majority of those in Richmond. Yes, Richmond houses a wealth of US/Virginia History, and for that will, the capital will always have a place in my heart. When you consider that the University of Glasgow was founded in 1452, a full 50 years before Columbus discovered the West Indies, it's a little difficult to compare the histories of these two cities. Since I'm not an artist, I cannot speak to the artist's vibe of either city, so I will refrain. The night life and music scene in Glasgow is beyond reproach. There are multiple clubs and bars for every type of music fan, open 7 nights a week until the wee hours. Constant live music is offered, and so frequently so that on several occasions decisions had to be made on which live act to see on a given night. I agree, the shops in Glasgow are amazing, given that it is the 2nd biggest commercial center in UK, with London being the first. And yes, Ice cream can indeed be found at 3 am, all you have to do is go into the numerous 24 hr shops and chippies and ask.

I agree that I'm biased, and I make no bones about it. When I moved to Richmond, I was always treated like an outsider, which I was. When I moved to Glasgow, I was welcomed with open arms by every Scot, and non-Scot alike. I am traveling back to visit my home away from home in November, and cannot wait. I also have a meeting in Richmond next week, so I'm at least looking forward to the BBQ.

Posted by Aden September 02, 2010 10:41:10