Douglas Stuart's Guide to Scotland's Sister Cities

Douglas Stuart, the Booker Prize-winning author recognized for 'Shuggie Bain' and 'Young Mungo', presents his personal insights on Glasgow and Edinburgh. Having studied fashion and textiles in Edinburgh and worked for brands like Calvin Klein, Banana Republic, Jack Spade, and Ralph Lauren, he draws a distinction between the two cities: Edinburgh, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its historic castle and charming cobblestone streets, and Glasgow, a contemporary city celebrated for its lively music scene. His new novel, 'John of John' (Grove Press), tells the story of an art school graduate returning to his father’s sheep farm in the Outer Hebrides. He suggests accommodations like Hotel Du Vin in Glasgow, dining at Gloriosa and Errol's Hot Pizza, and visiting cultural landmarks such as the Barrowland Ballroom, Glasgow Cathedral, Tramway, and the National Galleries of Scotland. Stuart also points out architectural highlights like the Mackintosh House and recommends summer or winter visits. He notes the Fife Arms hotel, owned by Hauser & Wirth gallerists, and mentions the Edinburgh Festival in August, where talents like Graham Norton and Phoebe Waller-Bridge began their careers.