Glasgow City Guide

Welcome to Glasgow, a city full of history, culture, and an amazing student vibe. Glasgow is home to some top universities like the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of Strathclyde. It's a fantastic place for students with its mix of great location, safe environment, and tons of amenities.

Glasgow is the ultimate student city. Its central location makes it easy to get around, and the universities here are top-notch. The city is safe, with plenty of affordable places to live and a wide range of facilities. Whether you need a quiet library to study in, a gym to keep fit, or just a friendly café to hang out with friends, Glasgow has got you covered.

Universities

University of Glasgow: It is one of the oldest universities. It's particularly strong in research areas like medicine, veterinary science, and the arts. The university looks like you are walking on the lawn of Harry Potter, with stunning views. Do not forget to take pictures in the university, it is insta friendly. Also located in West End, away from the chaos of the city centre and amazing cafes.
University of Strathclyde: Known for its engineering and business courses, it ranks highly in both national and international charts. The building is fairly new and modern, unlike the University of Glasgow. The Strathclyde Sport membership there is something I recommend everyone to take, much more affordable than other gyms around.
Glasgow Caledonian University: Famous for social sciences, health, and engineering programs, this university offers a modern campus with all the latest facilities. Close to the city centre, with another amazing gym offered by the university.

There is also the University of West Scotland.

Student Areas and Accommodation

First-year students often stay in university halls or private student accommodations. After the first year, many students move to private houses, flats, or studios near university or whichever area they want to stay in.

For many, West End is great as it is close to the University of Glasgow. It is a vibrant area with parks, cafes, shops, and bars. The city centre is also perfect for students from all universities, with everything you need just a short walk away. Alternatively, Dennistoun is a bit more budget-friendly. It has a strong community feel and great local food spots.

Getting around

This is the best part of the city, it is fairly easy to travel around Glasgow. You can take trains which do not cost too much from city centre to west end or even take subways (they have launched new Glasgow Subway recently) or buses are always there. It is rare that you'll face train cancellations due to strikes.

From the city to the airport, it takes roughly one hour. Take the coach which charges £12 from Buchanan bus station to the airport. Otherwise, the next best option is to book a taxi which would cost you around £30.

Food and drink

Staying in a student city has its perks; you get to enjoy student discounts almost everywhere. A lot of bars during freshers week have money saving offers. Places to go to include Wonder Bar for a chill night with friends and live music; Subclub if you are into techno music, the Berkeley Suite for nice music. Revolution is also good for chilling and talking (don't forget to register with revolution and get free Prosecco on your birthdays), Hill Head Book Club is nice in the summer, and Ashton Lane in Westend is full of food and amazing cocktails.

Nightlife

The Garage and Sub Club are must-visit nightclubs, while King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut is perfect for live music. Both UOG and Strathclyde have their Student Unions, which have good discounts on drinks and are perfect for chilling with friends after a study session.

Study spots

Students generally study in libraries, cafes or Student Unions. Each university has a Library and a student union, so you would not struggle to find spots there. Libraries will be mostly crowded during exam season. There are coffee shops around, where you can put your headphones on and study instead.

Local amenities

Supermarkets and shops: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons are all nearby,. You can always buy from Lidl or Aldi too.
Gyms and sports facilities: Check out Strathclyde Sports Club and Glasgow Club for excellent facilities.
Health services: There are plenty of doctors and dentists around, with health centres catering specifically to students.
Job and volunteering opportunities: Lots of part-time job and volunteering options are available, can find part-time jobs in University as in a union, or cafe. Plenty of fast food joints as well like Five guys, Mcd etc. to find a part-time job.