Glasgow is jam-packed with Victorian architecture, style, and a great sense of humour.
The slogan, ‘People Make Glasgow’ rings very true. The West End boasts lots of quirky, independent shops, cafes, and boutiques, as well as beautiful, historic parks and galleries. Glasgow is one of the only cities in the UK with an underground metro service. It's an eclectic mix of huge, new glass buildings, [and] Victorian gothic terraces. (Second year student, University of Glasgow)
What Glasgow's famous for...
Irn-Bru
Forget Coke! Irn-Bru is the true soft drink of choice in Glasgow, where it's produced.
Glasgow nightlife, according to students
Glasgow [is] by far the best city in Scotland for live gigs. It has many iconic venues, like The Barrowlands and O2 Academy. It’s got loads of bars, ranging from really cheap to more expensive, and also has all kinds of clubs to suit every music taste. (Second year student, University of Glasgow)
Celtic vs Rangers
The Old firm rivalry goes beyond football, with deep roots to Scottish history.
Glasgow nightlife, according to students
Most students tend to gravitate towards The Garage on Sauchiehall Street for clubbing, but there are a lot of quirky little pubs in West End if that’s not quite your thing. The LGBTQ+ scene in Glasgow is thriving, particularly around Merchant City. (Second year student, University of Glasgow)
Mackintosh Architecture
Charles Rennie Mackintosh is a name you'll get to know – the homegrown architect's fingerprints are all over Glasgow.
Student life in Glasgow
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
All the art galleries are free in Glasgow. Window shopping in the vintage shops in the West End is also nice, with a stop at Loop and Scoop for ice-cream. (Third year student, University of Strathclyde)
Friday feeling
It's always worth a mosey on down to Broadcast or Nice n Sleazy’s to see what they have on: movie screenings, karaoke, DJ nights or gigs. (Third year student, University of Glasgow)
Sunday chilling
The glasshouse at the Botanical Gardens [has] got a fish pond and huge tropical trees. It's the most calming place to just sit. (Third year student, University of Glasgow)
Feeling cultural
Inn Deep do an open mic poetry night every second Tuesday, which is amazing. But come early if you want a seat, it's always jam-packed! (Third year student, University of Glasgow)
Grab a bite
Bar Soba have lovely cocktails, Thai-fusion street food, and plenty [of] yummy gluten-free, veggie, and vegan options. (Third year student, University of Glasgow)
When family visit
Head north for some really nice hikes. Both the Loch Lomond area and The Highlands are stunning. The Cobbler hike can be easily done in a day. (Second year student, University of Glasgow)
Treat yourself
For dinner, Miller & Carter steakhouse. Best steak meal you’ll get in Glasgow, and the Pornstar Martini is the best I’ve ever tasted. (Glasgow Caledonian University student)
Catch up with mates
The Ark is a great place, especially on Wednesdays when there’s chicken wings for 40p! (Second year student, University of Strathclyde)
Glasgow in pictures
Kelvingrove Park
Kelvingrove Park and the University of Glasgow in the snow. (Niamh, University of Glasgow student)
Living in Glasgow, according to students
Dennistoun – 20-minute walk from the uni and [city] centre. Full of all types of different cultural restaurants and eateries. One of the cheapest places to live in Glasgow. Usually peaceful area, although further out towards Celtic Park may become a bit dangerous at night. (Third year student, University of Strathclyde)
George Square Christmas Market
Every winter it makes me feel at home while I'm just trying to get through the last few weeks of class before I can get back home to my family. (Danielle, third year student at Glasgow Caledonian University)
Kelvingrove Park bridge
Taken from a bridge in Kelvingrove Park, on my way to one of my first placements in the fall. It was such a beautiful day, with the leaves already changing colour, and Glasgow Uni just stood out among them. (Danielle, third year student at Glasgow Caledonian University)
Living in Glasgow, according to students
Finnieston – very safe, and relatively quiet for being so close to town and uni. Lovely stretch of bars and cafes along Argyle Street too, and right near the Mitchell Library if the uni library is too cramped. Only real con would be that it's not great for public transport. It's an OK walking distance from near enough anywhere, so you just have to be organised enough to give yourself enough time. (Third year student, University of Glasgow)
Murals
One of Glasgow’s many murals! This one is on Sauchiehall Street. (Rebecca, second year student at University of Strathclyde)
Living in Glasgow
Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.
Where you'll find students
- Dennistoun
- Kelvinbridge
- Finnieston
Local transport
- £18
- FirstWeek Unlimited Travel for One Week – student ticket
- Bus
Student money tips
Parking is a problem. If you find a space, it's costly! I would strongly recommend getting a subway ticket. Weekly tickets cost £14, and can be used as many times as you need. Monthly tickets and ten-week passes are also available. (Second year student, University of Glasgow)
The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
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