The skateboarding culture in Glasgow is both robust and lively, even though it often seems as if the streets and parks are perpetually drenched by rain. Consequently, when the sun does appear, it's not surprising to find parks across the city bustling with skaters of all ages and skill levels.
In fact, it's not only Glasgow that boasts a lively scene; it's all over Scotland. This is largely due to renowned skaters from the region, like John Rattray, who was born in Aberdeen and educated in Glasgow. Additionally, local organizations have played a significant role in expanding the movement. Skateboard Scotland was established as the official governing body for skateboarding in the country, and it is run by skaters for skaters.
Their objectives are straightforward: to foster the development of world-class facilities in Scotland, assist community groups in building local skateparks, organize competitions and events for amateur skaters, and draw international attention to Scotland's skateboarding scene. Within Glasgow, there's also the Glasgow Society of Skateboarding, and spending a weekend with them promises great enjoyment...
With this in mind, let's explore some of the best places to skate in Glasgow.
1. Unit 23
For top-notch Scottish skating, it's actually worth taking a brief trip outside of Glasgow towards Dumbarton. It may be quite a distance, but it still technically falls within a Glasgow postcode!
Unit 23 skatepark claims to be the largest indoor skatepark in the UK. It officially opened its doors in 2002 and prides itself on being managed and operated by both owners and riders. This ensures that everything is designed and used by those who skate there daily – what could be better?
The park spans 56,000 sq. ft., with ramps distributed across three halls to ensure skaters of all skill levels have the space they need to practice and perform. There are also obstacles suitable for every level, including a replica of the legendary devil bowl and an extensive foam pit. Additionally, there's a 'keep fit studio' on site if you're interested in working out.
With over 28,000 likes on Facebook, Unit 23 is extremely popular, and it's clear to see why.
• Opening hours:
o Weekdays: 12pm-10pm
o Weekends: 12pm-8pm
• Charge:
o Two hours: £6
o Three hours: £7
o Four hours: £8
o Five hours: £9
o Six hours: £10
o Seven hours: £12
o Foam pit and resi ramp: £2 per half hour (free for members)
o Annual membership (which reduces these costs): £40
o Skateboard rental is also available. Prices start at £4 for 2 hours.
• Address: The Old Bond, 45-50 Castlegreen Street, Dumbarton, Scotland, G82 1JD.
• Website: http://unit23skatepark.co.uk
2. Kelvingrove Skatepark
If you're searching for a large outdoor skatepark, then Kelvingrove Skatepark is the ideal location. With both street and transition elements, Kelvingrove offers something for every skater, regardless of their preferences and abilities.
The park features a double bowl on each side, as well as a speed bowl and kidney bowl. The rest of the skatepark is open, with captivating and intriguing lines. It includes flat banks, bowled edges, stair sets, staggered ledges, and bowled areas. There are also rails, ledges, hips, and raised levels, so there's something for everyone.
If you're looking for other local skateparks that are free to access, we also suggest Queens Park Skatepark and Corkerhill Skatepark, although they require a bit of a drive from the city.
Unfortunately, Kelvingrove is often overcrowded and extremely busy. Skatepark three in our series provides a solution to this...
• Opening hours: From dawn to dusk
• Cost: Free
• Address: Parkgrove Terrace, Glasgow, Glasgow City, G3 7SE
• Website: https://www.skateparks.co.uk/glasgow/kelvingrove-skatepark
3. Glasgow Urban Sports (GUSM74)
Our third and final choice for a skatepark is a bit of an outlier… because it has not yet been constructed.
Nevertheless, the plans for GUSM74 appear amazing, and municipal funding has been granted for the project, thanks to the oversubscription of Kelvingrove.
The location is owned by Transport Scotland and is set to become a versatile public park/recreational area that will cater to local, national, and international skaters. The design aims to be all-inclusive. It will be a visually captivating public space, creatively designed by artists to promote radical urban sports, including skateboarding.
You can view the complete plans below…
• Opening times: To be confirmed
• Charge: To be confirmed
• Address: Beneath the M74 canopy (exact postcode to be supplied upon completion)
• Website: http://glasgowurbansports.co.uk
With the UK's largest indoor skatepark, numerous municipal sites, and a brand new, cutting-edge park underway, Glasgow is undoubtedly one of the UK's premier skating destinations.
Image courtesy of iStock.