While the traditional image of a cruise vacation is all sun, surf, and sand, there is a lot more to cruising than just heading off to a tropical destination and sunbathing for days on end. Tropical paradise cruises are delightful, obviously, but they aren’t the be-all and end-all of cruising, and there are plenty more opportunities to discover other parts of the world on board a cruise ship.
European cruises, for example, often involve fewer mile-long golden sand beaches than those in the Caribbean, but still offer incredible experiences. Taking a river cruise through middle Europe, for example, provides some of the most stunning cultural, historical, and architectural experiences you can find anywhere in the world, while a cruise up the Norwegian fjords is a mind-blowing cacophony of frozen landscapes and remarkable Arctic wildlife.
Taking a cruise to the British Isles is another magnificent alternative cruising option, providing a remarkable combination of gorgeous scenery, delectable dining options, and a history and culture that is second to none. From Land’s End to John O’Groats, the British Isles are packed with adventure and excitement. And it’s not just famous names like London, Cardiff, Belfast, and Edinburgh that are worth exploring. All across England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland there are charming, picturesque towns brimming with history and culture. Paisley, in Renfrewshire, Scotland, is just one of these.
Paisley is often described as ‘Scotland’s largest town’, and played a hugely significant role in Scotland’s industrial development. It was the center of the weaving industry in the 19th century, lending its name to the famous paisley pattern, and was also the site of some of the most infamous and horrifying witch trials in the 17th century. It is home to some of the most striking religious and civic architecture in Scotland, and is one of the most interesting smaller places to visit in Scotland, and even across the entirety of the British Isles.
If your British Isles cruise adventure does lead you to Paisley, you will want to eat well. Luckily, the stereotype of British food being underwhelming is outdated, and there are a plethora of excellent eateries to try. Plus, Scotland has a few delicacies of its own, which are well worth seeking out! Here are a few of the highlights of the Paisley dining scene.
Ristorante Piccolo Mondo
Paisley has a large Italian community, so it is no surprise that it has a variety of excellent Italian restaurants. Piccolo Mondo is perhaps the pick of the bunch, an excellent, casual trattoria that serves up classic and modern Italian cuisine with excellent service and a laid-back, relaxed ambiance.
The Jam Jar
A great little modern European bistro/bar with particularly good cocktails and a fantastic selection of locally-brewed craft beer, the Jam Jar is a great choice for a slightly more lively and vibrant night out.
Indian by Nature
Amazing, fresh Indian cooking that is a particularly good choice for vegetarians and vegans. Every dish is thoughtfully created and incredibly reasonably priced, and the customer service from the staff is first rate.
Juniper Gin Bar
If you are looking for an after-dinner drink, then head straight to the Juniper Gin Bar, Paisley’s best cocktail establishment. As well as a huge range of speciality gins, Juniper’s also serves up a small menu of delectable modern British dishes.
The Craig Dhu
For something a little more traditional, head to the Craig Dhu, one of Paisley’s best and most authentic pubs. A hearty menu of Scottish classics like fish and chips and steak pie awaits, as well as a full bar, including a wonderful selection of uisge beatha, the water of life, or Scotch whisky as it is commonly called!