The Willow Tea Rooms are an example of the ingenuity of one of Glasgow's most famous sons. Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed the tearooms in the early 20th century alongside his wife Margaret Macdonald. Now open as Mackintosh at The Willow it remains one of the city's most fascinating buildings - you can still get lunch and a pot of tea. placeholder image
The Willow Tea Rooms are an example of the ingenuity of one of Glasgow's most famous sons. Charles Rennie Mackintosh designed the tearooms in the early 20th century alongside his wife Margaret Macdonald. Now open as Mackintosh at The Willow it remains one of the city's most fascinating buildings - you can still get lunch and a pot of tea.

Best of Glasgow: 18 independent Glasgow businesses that make the city a better place to live

Callum McCormack
By Callum McCormack

News Features Writer

Published 29th Sep 2026, 12:09 GMT

These 18 Glasgow businesses are contributing to the city's unique character and making it a better place to live.

It often takes the loss of a landmark to truly appreciate the vital role independent businesses play in a city's character. These are the unique institutions that define Glasgow and that, in turn, have been shaped by the city itself.

From our dining and entertainment spots to the clothes we wear, Glasgow boasts an abundance of distinctive places that enrich the cityscape.

To celebrate them, here are 18 distinctive Glasgow businesses that contribute to making the city a better place.

Jimmy Egypt & Sons is a West End musical institution. Next year will mark 60 years since it opened and it's frontage is instantly recognisable. But what they have in quirkiness, they have double in knowledge.

17. Check out Jimmy Egypt's...

Jimmy Egypt & Sons is a West End musical institution. Next year will mark 60 years since it opened and it's frontage is instantly recognisable. But what they have in quirkiness, they have double in knowledge. | National World

Laings the jeweller has long had roots in the community of Glasgow. They opened in 1840 and are still run by the sixth generation of the same family. You can find their flagship store today in the Argyll Arcade.

18. Laings

Laings the jeweller has long had roots in the community of Glasgow. They opened in 1840 and are still run by the sixth generation of the same family. You can find their flagship store today in the Argyll Arcade. | Laings

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