In the heart of Govan, something special happens every Thursday morning. A group of walkers gathers at the Pearce Institute in Govan and sets off on a journey. Our journeys are through the streets and green spaces of this historic area, through stories, shared experiences, and fresh connections. This is Meet Me in Govan, a community-driven walking group that has been bringing people together since July 2022. Our walks are about well-being, inclusion, and celebrating the spirit of Govan led by our guides Angie and Silvana. Each walk is themed where we cover topics such as housing, work, culture and community, youth & education, immigration & languages, and sports & well-being.
Recently, the project was featured by BBC Scotland which showcased how walking together can combat loneliness, improve mental health, and foster a sense of belonging. Meet Me in Govan is a free, weekly walking initiative designed to encourage people to explore their local area while connecting with others and led by Invisible Cities as a part of the Invisible Neighbourhood initiative. Invisible Cities is a social enterprise that empowers and trains people who have experienced homelessness to become walking tour guides.
With a strong focus on inclusivity, we welcome anyone to join the walks, people of all backgrounds and experiences which includes new people to Govan, long-time residents, and even our pet friends! No matter the weather, the group comes together every week as we want the shine and community spirit to always carry on.Over the past two years, Meet Me in Govan has grown into a thriving community. Participants have shared how the walks have helped them feel more connected, given them confidence, and even introduced them to new opportunities.
Sarah, one of the regular walkers, explains:
“Being retired and not really knowing a lot of people in the area, this has been a great thing for me. As a result of visiting GalGael with the group, my partner now attends their workshops twice a week. Before that, he was sitting at home every day. So, the group has helped both of us!”
With 700 participants in the past two years, the impact is clear. The walks provide a space for people to build friendships, discover local organisations, and reconnect with Govan’s heritage. Our walk participants can enjoy outdoor walks in combination with visits to the Fairfield Shipyard Museum and The Govan Stones, a behind-the-scenes look at Film City Glasgow, or the traditional printing place Letterspace, every walk offers something new to explore.
One of the most exciting recent developments is the expansion of the project beyond Govan. The opening of the Govan-Partick Bridge has paved the way for Meet Me in Govan to extend its reach across the Clyde, connecting with new organisations in Partick and the West End. Plans are already in motion to collaborate with The Annexe Communities, Riverside Museum, and SWG3 with Yardworks.
We absolutely enjoy working with our key partners, such as Florence House, a local care home whose residents now regularly join the walks, and Sunny Govan Radio, which has been supporting the group since its early days. In fact, the partnership with Sunny Govan has led to the launch of a monthly Meet Me in Govan radio show, where walkers share their experiences, discuss local issues, and invite more people to get involved.
As Meet Me in Govan looks ahead, the focus remains on growing the community, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that everyone has a welcoming space to walk, talk, and connect.
If you are in Glasgow and looking for a way to get outside, meet new people, and explore the rich history of Govan, why not join us? You can meet us every Thursday at 10:30 am at the Pearce Institute Reception, Govan. For more information and see all our adventures you can follow us on Facebook @meetmeingovan.
We will be happy to see you there!
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