Glasgow’s Coolest Neighborhoods
Although far from intimidating, Glasgow is still big enough to facilitate several days of exploration. Its different areas all have their own fascinating quirks and highlights. From the gritty East End of the city, containing such places as Glasgow Green and Barrowlands, to city center enclaves such as Garnethill and Merchant City, to the leafier environs of the West End and Southside, the city boasts a wealth of possibilities in every direction.
Ashton Ln, Glasgow G12, UK
This charming cobblestoned back street, lined with restaurants and bars, is the place for lively nightlife in Glasgow’s West End. When darkness falls, festive strings of lights twinkle overhead, and the sounds of live music and laughter drift from pubs and cafes—some of which have been here for decades. The legendary Ubiquitous Chip has served up the finest Scottish produce in a magical courtyard dining room for over 40 years. There’s also the historic Grosvenor Cinema, which has screened films on the lane since 1921—and just underwent a multi-million-pound renovation. When was the last time you visited a movie theater with quirky double sofas for seats, and ordered a beer or glass of wine? For more information about the places and people who make Glasgow special, visit peoplemakeglasgow.us
Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, UK
An ornate late-Victorian heap of red sandstone, the Kelvingrove (located within a lovely park of the same name) is Glasgow’s signature museum—and one of the most popular attractions in Scotland. Free to enter, it features a full house of historic exhibitions on everything from animals to Ancient Egypt and Charles Rennie Mackintosh, plus a wide range of important Scottish art (like Colourist Samuel John Peploe’s Roses), several French and Dutch works, and Salvador Dalí's iconic Christ of Saint John of the Cross. Visiting exhibitions, such as Leonardo da Vinci drawings, round out the offerings. There are also regular organ recitals and free tours on weekends, making the Kelvingrove a perfect family attraction.
Cresswell Ln, Glasgow G12, UK
While Glasgow’s city centre is the place to go for high-end international names, the cobbled lanes of the West End shelter a more eclectic range of shops. At the centre of this scene is Cresswell Lane, which is a one stop shop for everything from homeware to jewellery and one off gifts.
Ingram St, Glasgow G1, UK
An important element of Merchant City’s transformation into one of Glasgow’s most important tourist areas is high-end shopping. The streets and lanes close to the River Clyde are packed with studios, workshops and galleries, but closer to Ingram Street the enclave is more famous for its bars, restaurants and retail options such as Boudiche, a lingere specialist, and Niche Optical Tailor, an outlet for bespoke eyewear.
