While these well-dressed ladies might look as though they are relaxing in one of Glasgow's glorious parks, in reality they're sunbathing in Blythswood Square. And, judging by the baskets on the left, that pair have even brought a picnic.

The wee green oasis, seen here in the early 1960s, was planned out in the 1790s, although the fine private houses around the square, part of Glasgow's march westward, weren't completed until the 1820s. Strange to think that alleged murderess Madeleine Smith (1835-28), who lived at No 7, would have walked in these private gardens.

From the 1920s the luxurious houses increasingly became offices and clubs including on the eastern side the Royal Scottish Automobile Club, now the Blythswood Hotel.

The Square is still private, run and maintained by The Blythswood Square Proprietors' Association, but is open at lunchtime in the summer months for all to enjoy.

--

If you are interested in purchasing one of our products but live outside of the UK please get in touch.

--

The Herald Picture Store is proud to present these images in their actual condition. We haven't manipulated these photographs and are proud of their character.

Please be aware that due to their age some images may show imperfections. This is as a result of the technology available at the time they were captured and/or scanned and saved for our records.