William “Braveheart” Wallace struck a blow for freedom here in 1297. Later known for its Victorian elegance and as a great shipbuilding center, Scotland’s largest city has taken the splendor of the past and given it renewed luster. Its name is thought to mean “dear green place,” and indeed, Glasgow has more city parks than anywhere else in Britain. It’s also an excellent home base for exploring the gardens, pastures, farmlands and forests of the Scottish countryside.