Glasgow is a city with lots of hidden gems – from wall murals to hideaway streets. It is famous for being the friendliest city in the world, as well as its eccentric people and views; people visit to see the architecture, the music scene and sporting rivalry. Whether you want to see live music at the Ovo Hydro, head to small bars, or watch football from Hampden Stadium – Glasgow caters for all.
Student life:
I think where you go on a night out really depends on who you are, what you like and who you'll be with. Personally, I have really enjoyed going to places such as Box, and Polo. For a more chill night I enjoy going to Molly Malones, however, Hillhead Book Club is one of the quirkiest spots in town - you can eat, drink, play pingpong or listen to poetry. Lauders and Sloan’s are also great places to stop off for a drink with some friends, especially in the summer when it’s beer garden weather.
Most people visit Kelvingrove Museum and Ovo Hydro at least once (it’s a must!), many also enjoy walks around Kelvingrove Park and Glasgow Green. If you’re looking for a good place to shop – Glasgow has the best malls outside of London – then look no further than St Enoch Shopping Centre for the basics and Buchanan Galleries, or the Barras Market for local traders.
There is a trail you can walk through the city where you can spot all of the (not so) hideen art murals on the walls. Hidden Lane (quite self explanatory – can be hard to find) is in the West End and has a load of food spots, shops and overall is quite a vibrant place to explore.
My favourite live music venue is Barrowland Ballroom, it used to be a dance hall many years ago but now holds most of the city’s concerts.
The friendly city
Glasgow is consistently mentioned as a friendly place to visit and live in, in 2006 it was given the title of ‘World City of Friendship’ and was also named as the ‘friendliest city in the world’ in 2022 by Time Out Worldwide. The hospitality of locals and the lively social scene are the biggest reasons for Glasgow receiving such a positive reputation. The city even has its own slogan ‘People Make Glasgow’ which highlights the accepting spirit of the area where you can be yourself.
Affordable for students
Compared to other cities, Glasgow is said to be much more affordable. Hap Lettings says that Glasgow is 20% cheaper than London and 10% cheaper than the rest of the UK. This statement includes Glasgow to be cheaper for cost of rent as well as the general cost of living. This means that students get to experience life in a vibrant city (as well as the employment opportunities of city life) and they don’t have to sacrifice living in comfort to do so!
Plenty of culture
Being the UNESCO City of Music, you can join in one live music listening sessions, visit music bars showcasing hidden talent, check out small music shops or gain plenty of inspiration for your own songwriting in Glasgow (like many other students do.) Alongside music, there are also plenty of museums (including Kelvingrove, the People’s Palace, and The Burrell Collection), art galleries, science centres and city walls filled with murals. Many of these experiences are also free for visitors to explore.
Job opportunities
For many students, finding part-time work while you study is crucial in order to be able to support yourself. Glasgow is said to be a great place to find such opportunities, with plenty of cafes, museums and shops accepting students for part-time work. There are also high employment rates after graduation (Glasgow Caledonian has the highest rate of graduates in full-time employment in Scotland, 95% of University of Glasgow students find employment 6-15 months after graduating, and 92-93% at University of Strathclyde.)
