Introduction

Today, I undertook a visit to nearby Paisley (pop 77,000). Key purpose was to visit a restored Art Deco building. However, today was a semi-official holiday in Scotland and it seems the only business closed was the one I wished to visit! Will have to return later in the week. With time to spare I took the opportunity to undertake a walk-around with photography in mind.

Information on the Visit to Paisley

Paisley has its roots in heavy industry, particularly the thread and textile industries (c.f. Paisley Shawl). This created huge wealth in the past but little of the industries remain today. There is a physical legacy in terms of grand buildings and elaborate architecture. Hopefully, the portfolio of images below will prove of interest.

Paisley Council Offices. Originally financed by wealthy industrialists.

Picture of industrial scene from 19th century. Apologies for image quality.

Company specialising in tours of Paisley

Baptist ‘Cathedral’. Again, financed by wealthy industrialist. No longer used for worship.

Statue of Mary Donoghue, a single parent who, in 1928 commenced a ground-breaking legal action and ultimately won, in 1932. Case revolved around a polluted drink. The case set a precedent for consumer litigation.

John Neilson Institution, a former school endowed by a local wealthy grocer. Now converted to flats.

Thomas Coats Observatory. Financed by wealthy textile industry magnate.

Image looking north-east

Churches

Art Deco building (1930s.)

Visiting Paisley

For persons interested in industrial history Paisley is deserving of a visit. Although the town does not usually feature on tourist trails it easily accessible. Paisley is home to Glasgow Airport and served by rail and bus links.The town is about eleven miles west of Glasgow.

More information

For more information on Scotland and it’s cities please refer Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4. This publication is also available via Kindle.