The majority of visitors to Scotland’s most populous city stay in one of four areas, the bustling city centre, the perma-trendy west end staples of Byres Road and the University district, or the new hotel developments which share the riverfront with some of the former industrial powerhouse’s modern architectural gems, including the famous Transport Museum. While all of these options are great, it’s hard not to wonder what else the city might have to offer. Well, wonder no more! We have five great options for the intrepid first-time visitor to Glasgow, spanning all corners of the Second City of Empire.
Dennistoun
Staying close to the city centre, but avoiding the hustle and bustle of the large shopping and arts districts, Dennistoun is an up-and-coming area of the East End that features both large converted ex-industrial buildings and traditional Glasgow Tenements, with their usual cute crescents and communal gardens. The centre of town is a short bus ride or a leisurely stroll away. A recent draw for the area is Tennents Brewery, now a trendy tasting room for the beer’s more upmarket products, located conveniently beside the city’s gorgeous Necropolis, the resting place of giants of industry and enlightenment philosophers alike, and a wonderful place for a walk to take in views out to the nearby hills. Especially recommended before a beer and burger in the brewery! Dennistoun is well-served by public transport, ringed by three train stations, as well as the aforementioned bus links to Argyle Street and Central Station.
Finnieston
Moving west, younger travellers and foodies might find themselves very at home in Finnieston, a small area bordered by the River Clyde and the beautiful Kelvingrove Park, which has seen great regeneration in the last few years. A little more expensive than Dennistoun, but with a larger range of available accommodation and a real upscale party atmosphere, Finnieston is not to be missed even if you don’t make it your home base. There are numerous cafes and brunch spots along Argyle Street, the area’s main strip (note: confusing, I know, but be sure not to confuse this with the Argyle Street in the city centre. A rooky mistake!) and at night there’s everything from upscale cocktail bars to the artsy SWG3 club and music venue, which also houses a gallery. For culture vultures, Finnieston is adjacent to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to an impressive collection of work from both Scottish and international artists, as well as historical and zoological exhibits. Finnieston is also the perfect place to stay for anyone who intends to catch a show at the SECC, one of the country’s premier music venues.
Partick
Just up the road from Finnieston lies Partick, a taste, perhaps, of the ‘real Glasgow’, but quickly catching up with its neighbour in terms of eateries and bars, this area is a strong option for the budget-conscious visitor. Dumpling Monkey is a must-visit for handmade Chinese potstickers (the best in the city!) and there are several pubs, from the traditional Lismore to the excitingly-named Sparklehorse, or St Louis at the far end of Dumbarton Road, which hosts regular live shows. Byres Road, the main artery of the west end proper, begins in Partick, offering a scenic walk up past the incredible neo-gothic University of Glasgow. A subway stop, Kelvinhall, means there is also the option of quick transport into the city centre and west end, as well as under the river to Govan and Ibrox.
Great Western Road
Our final pick in the west end (but still off the beaten track) is Great Western Road, specifically the stretch that runs from Byres Road up to St George’s Cross and the surrounds of the Glasgow School of Art. Accommodation along this stretch of road could suit any budget, ranging from cheap Airbnb finds to boutique guesthouses. At the Byres Road end visitors will find access to Glasgow’s deservingly well-known botanic gardens, where the Victorian glasshouses contain a myriad of exotic plants and fish. The gardens also provide access to the river Kelvin, a small and fast-flowing waterway where the remains of an old mill are visible and walks can include otter spotting, and, at the right time of year, foraging for wild garlic or elderflowers. Close to the gardens is the Oran Mor, a converted church that is now a bar, venue, and theatre. If it’s an option make sure to see a production in one of the rooms decorated with murals by one of the city’s most prolific son’s, the inimitable artist and writer Alasdair Gray. Further up Great Western Road, towards town, there are amenities to delight foodies and music lovers alike. Papercup, a coffee shop with multiple Glasgow locations, has its original storefront on Great Western Road. Be sure to get their early for brunch, as it fills up fast! Close to the St George’s Cross end of the long road lies The Hug and Pint, a bar, eatery and venue that has quickly become a staple in the Glasgow scene. Delicious vegan asian-fusion menu items change on a daily basis, and any show booked downstairs is guaranteed to be a belter. At this end of the road there is also a subway station, and, over the footbridge that crosses the motorway, Tenement House, a fascinating historical museum that shows how Glasgow’s impressive tenements were originally lived in.
Queen’s Park
Our last recommendation is the only one that lies south of the river. A great pick for families, or visitors who value their peace and quiet, Queen’s Park is a beautiful neighbourhood with some of the most impressive tenements in the city, bordering, aptly, Queen’s Park. The park is a wonderful green space, with a glass house, duck ponds, and ample walking trails, as well as a weekend farmers’ market. With excellent transport links in the form of several nearby train stations, the area is extremely popular with young families. Community projects and general growth in the area have recently seen a lot of new bars, shops and restaurants open, the crown of them being The Glad Cafe, a community run cafe and arts space. That’s not to say old favourites haven’t stuck around, The Church on the Hill is a recently updated gastropub that has occupied the neoclassical church that sits beside one of the park’s entrances for many years, and remains a wonderful place for a bite to eat or a beverage. And just because Queen’s Park is family friendly, that doesn’t mean there’s no nightlife! Just down the road, the canny night owl will find The Rum Shack and The Bungo, two favourite local watering holes.
As is obvious from everywhere we’ve suggested, Glasgow more than pulls its weight as a city of beauty and culinary adventure. There’s also plenty that’s not-to-miss in the centre of town, where the Merchant City houses many of the city’s art galleries and theatres and shopping can be found a stone’s throw away on Buchanan street and in the surrounding areas. In fact, for any travellers who have time, we would recommend exploring every local on this list and more besides!