Paisley has a big personality. This town with a population of around 76,000 is a vibrant place and a great location for travellers. Majestic architecture, a bustling town center, scenic nature spots and a unique lifestyle make it more than a commuter town on the outskirts of Glasgow. If you have never visited Paisley, here are the top 10 reasons to do it.

1.  Plenty of Things to Do

This town has a rich history, impressive cultural heritage and a lot of outdoor areas. You will never feel bored here as there is so much choice. The architecture, the diverse music scene, theatrical performances, national parks and recreational centers are some of the things Paisley is praised for.

2.  Paisley Abbey

In the very heart of town, you will find this magnificent Gothic building erected in the 12th century. Its history has been quite tumultuous. In 1307, it was torched in by the Scots during the Wars of Independence. William Wallace was educated by the monks in this building, which has since been restored many times. It is a serene and fascinating place.

3.  Paisley Museum

The town museum, which is being restored, has a focus on the textile industry. The Persian style ‘Paisley Pattern’ and the weaving past of the town are its important cultural assets. This pattern has been popularized throughout the centuries. It was worn by the Beatles and Queen Victoria. In the museum, you can observe the intricate process in action and be amazed by the dexterity of the manual machines.

4.  Thomas Coats Memorial Baptist Church

The town center is very walkable, and the architecture is majestic. The scale and beauty of this church, which was built in the 19th century, is bound to impress. It has a crown steeple and an entrance one could expect to see in a cathedral in Paris or Madrid.

5.  Celebrities

Quite a few famous people were born or raised in this town — Paulo Nutini, Gerard Butler, Steven Moffat and David Tennant, to name just a few.

6.  Thrilling Lifestyle

Although the town is quite relaxed and laid back, it is also fascinating. The center is dominated by churches and other iconic structures, pubs and terraces. This is a great place to explore during the UK bank holidays.

7.  Shopping

You will not have to visit the local mall for shopping sprees and entertainment. All the hot spots are concentrated in High Street. Here, you will find an incredible density of national shops, services, and eateries, from fast food outlets to luxury restaurants. There is something for everyone, including travellers on a budget.

8.  Nature Spots

Paisley is not just a town of period structures. It is situated right next to the Gleniffer Braes Country Park. You can also visit the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, which is not far from the town center.

9.  Proximity to Glasgow

Whenever you feel like switching to a more urban environment, you can ride to Glasgow. The journey by train takes just 10 minutes, and it will take you only half an hour to drive there.

10.  Getting to Paisley Is Easy

You can get to Paisley by car, by rail, or by air. The town has plenty of railway stations, which all go to Glasgow Central. You can also get to cities like Wemyss Bay, Ardrossan Harbour, Ayr and Gourock. Glasgow Airport is just 10 minutes away by car!