What do James McAvoy, Sir Alex Ferguson, Andy Murray and Maggie Bell have in common? They were all born in Glasgow – the most populous and largest city in Scotland that brims with history, culture and charm. Now that you know these “Weegies” (inhabitants of the city are referred to as “Glaswegians” or, informally, as “Weegies”) called this wonderful place home, here are some reasons why you follow suit.
Things to do in Glasgow
You can’t go to Glasgow and not visit the Clydeside Distillery, one of the first new distilleries in generations to operate in Glasgow. Located in the old Pumphouse and has significantly contributed to Scotland’s whisky exports to the world. Another key attraction in Glasgow is the Glasgow Tigers Speedway. Being one of the only professional speedway teams in Scotland, be sure to catch one of their events that take place between March and August. If high octane motorsports isn’t your thing, you can visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum or go shopping on Buchanan Street or grab some food at the infamous Bread Meats Bread. There is really no shortage of things to do in this city!
Restaurants in Glasgow
We have to start with the most famous eating establishment in the whole of Glasgow – Bread Meats Bread. One of the main reasons it is so well-loved by locals and tourists alike is the way they make customers feel like home. There is no such thing as reservation here, everyone gets the same exact treatment. This, coupled with lip-smacking food ranging from a Scotland’s national dish Haggis to Canada’s national dish Poutine, Bread Meats Bread has it all and comes as no surprise to see this restaurant become so successful. Other eateries like Nardini’s Black Sheep Bistro and Nippon Kitchen are well worth a visit.
Universities in Glasgow | Student Housing Glasgow
In recent years, Glasgow has transformed into a true UK hub for education. It has shaken off its former gritty image and has now become an important centre for trade, commerce, culture and research. Glasgow is home to 2 universities in the top 300 of the QS World University Rankings 2020. They are the University of Glasgow and the University of Strathclyde, perched at the number 67 and 296th spot respectively. Glasgow’s rich history and heritage provides the perfect background for students to continue their higher education. Just like other big UK cities, Glasgow attracts a large number of international students every year.
University of Glasgow
Where?
Glasgow G12 8QQ, United Kingdom.
About University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow has garnered impeccable reputation during its 569 years of existence. Along the way, it has made revolutionary changes in the way education is taught. If you happen to get admitted to this prestigious university, consider yourself incredibly lucky as eminent people like economist Adam Smith and television pioneer John Logie Baird are alumni of this university. It is truly a global hub for education, attracting students from almost 140 countries. It currently consists of four colleges, each containing several schools, the College of Arts, College of Science and Engineering, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, College of Social Sciences. The university is ranked 67th in the world, 10th in the UK and 2nd in Scotland and 1st in Glasgow.
University of Strathclyde
Where?
16 Richmond St, Glasgow G1 1XQ, United Kingdom.
About University of Strathclyde
Being Glasgow’s second-oldest university, it has grown to become a vibrant, international community with more than 20,000 students from over 100 countries. During its years of dominance in the education section, the University of Strathclyde has won several laurels including being named University of the Year 2012 by Times Higher Education and again in 2019, becoming the only university to receive this award two times. The university consists of four main faculties that include the Faculty of Engineering, Humanities & Social Science (HaSS), Faculty of Science and Strathclyde Business School. It is highly ranked among the top 10 in the UK in various subjects according to the Complete University Guide 2019. It includes being 1st for Social Policy, 1st for Aural & Oral Sciences, 1st for Communication & Media Studies, 1st for Pharmacology, 1st for Medical Technology, 1st for Hospitality, Leisure, Recreation & Tourism and 1st for Accounting & Finance.
Glasgow School of Art
Where?
167 Renfrew St, Glasgow G3 6RQ, United Kingdom.
About Glasgow School of Art
The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) is a higher education art school based in Glasgow, Scotland, offering undergraduate, postgraduate and PhDs in architecture, fine art and design. GSA has been ranked among the top 10 specialist educational institutions in The Guardian University Guide, ranking it the top specialist visual arts institution in the UK.
Glasgow Caledonian University
Where?
Cowcaddens Rd, Glasgow G4 0BA, United Kingdom.
About Glasgow Caledonian University
Glasgow Caledonian University is a public university in Glasgow, Scotland. It was formed in 1993 by the merger of The Queen’s College, Glasgow (founded in 1875) and Glasgow Polytechnic (founded in 1971). This is an excellent research-intensive university having over 70% of the university’s research submissions judged as being internationally recognised and 30% deemed to be world-leading or of international excellence.
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Where?
Renfrew Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
About Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, formerly the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, is a conservatoire of dance, drama, music, production and film in the centre of Glasgow, Scotland. It is a member of the Federation of Drama Schools.
Cost of Living in Glasgow | Students accommodation Glasgow
One would think that living in a big city in the UK would burn a hole through the pocket. This might be true for cities like London and Birmingham. But the huge city of Glasgow does not follow this trend. Glasgow was ranked the second most affordable city in the UK by the cost of living (Mercer Cost of Living Survey). The average monthly expenditure of a student is as follows (subject to lifestyle)
- Accommodation £550
- Food shopping £90
- Local transport £105
- Books and printing £80
- Internet and mobile phone £40
- Social activities £200
It is advisable to have a monthly budget of around £1,500 to live comfortably in Glasgow.
Transport in Glasgow
Glasgow has an excellent network of railway and subway stations. The two main railway stations are Queen Street Station and Glasgow Central Station. The Glasgow Subway, built-in 1896, has a singular circular route. Despite being the third oldest subway system in the world (after London’s and Budapest’s), it has never been expanded beyond its original route.
The buses in Glasgow, formerly operated by the municipal transport, is now owned and operated by First Glasgow, a private company. These buses operate over 80 routes across the city and have a variety of tickets to choose from. They range from 4.60 to allow you unlimited travel in your selected area all day or a weekly ticket if you’re staying here longer from £17.
Cycling is another way to get around the city. Nextbike Glasgow has 700 bikes and e-bikes for hire in over 50 locations, available 24/7.
Student Accommodation in Glasgow
1. Dobbie’s Point
This student accommodation Glasgow proffers en-suite and studio rooms, there are 4 to 8 en-suites per room and dual occupancy is offered at studio rooms at no extra cost. A Wi-Fi connection, a bed and 24/7 on-site staff as well as on-site laundry facilities. It has ANUK and National Code. It is a 2-minute walk to Glasgow Caledonian University and a 5-minute walk to the University of Strathclyde. Several train stations are located within a 15-minute walking distance and bus stops at 10-minute walking distance. Many restaurants, bars and pubs are located within a 15-minute walking distance.
2. Merchant Studios
This Glasgow uni accommodation proffers studio rooms, dual occupancy is offered at studio rooms at no extra cost. A Wi-Fi connection, a bed and 24/7 on-site staff as well as on-site laundry facilities. It has ANUK and National Code. It is a 5-minute walk to the University of Strathclyde and a 15-minute walk to Glasgow Caledonian University. The high Street train station is the nearest train at a distance of 4-minutes on foot. There are several bus stops located in a 10-minute walking distance. Several restaurants, bars and pubs are located within 20-minutes away on foot. Glasgow Royal Infirmary is a 9-minute walk away.
3. Buchanan View
This student flats Glasgow offers en-suite and student apartments Glasgow, there are up to 5 en-suites per room. A Wi-Fi connection, a bed and 24/7 on-site staff. It has ANUK and National Code. It is a 5-minute walk to Glasgow Caledonian University and a 12-minute walk to the University of Strathclyde. There are several train stations and bus stops within a 15-minute walking distance. A plethora of restaurants, bars and pubs are located within a 20-minute walking distance. There are three hospitals within walking distance.
4. Foundry Courtyard
Foundry Courtyard Glasgow is one of the great student housing Glasgow. It offers you a pleasant experience in the perfect location of Exeter. The Booking process is quite easy, and overall management is excellent. It believes in providing a better learning environment for students. Universities like the Strathclyde University, Caledonian University and the City of Glasgow College are quite close to the property.
5. Claremont House
Claremont House is a secure facility with on-site staff during the day, an emergency out of hours service is also in place, CCTV is additionally installed in communal areas for students peace of mind. It is ANUK accredited. Double beds, Wi-Fi connection and laundry room are provided to ease everyday life hassle. It has studio, terraced studio and en-suite rooms. It is situated at a 13-minute walk from the University of Glasgow, Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of Strathclyde is a 10-minute ride away. There are several train station in a 15-minute walking distance. A few bus stops are present within a 15-minute walking distance. A plethora of restaurant, bars and pubs are located within a 20-minute walking distance. Glasgow Royal Infirmary is an 8-minute drive away.
Best Properties in Glasgow for Students
| Property Name | Price (£) | |
| St Mungo’s | £159/week | |
| Kyle Park House | £155/week | |
| Beautiful 2 bedroom flat for 4 people – GLA-12692 | £3600/month | |
| Chic 2 bedroom flat for 4 people – GLA-582692 | £3600/month | |
| High – Class 2 bedroom flat for 4 people – GLA-3388 | £3600/month | |
| Beautiful 2 Bedroom Apartment with Balcony – GLA-382051 | £3518/month | |
| Cozy 1 Bedroom apartment with additional sofa bed – GLA-570288 | £2884/month | |
| Two Bedroom Apartment for 4 – GLA-561772 | £3791/month | |
| Comfy 2 Bedroom Apartment – GLA-883516 | £3103/month | |
| Bright Apartment for 4 – GLA-318948 | £3357/month |
Nightlife and Lifestyle
A fun night out doesn’t always have to be in the city centre. Lucky for you, Glasgow has you covered as there is a club or pub at every corner of the street. Glasgow is proving to be a strong force to be reckoned with in the nightlife scene. No matter which direction you head, you’ll have a large selection of clubs and pubs to choose from.
The Shed – This spacious 2-storey club is the most famous one in Glasgow’s Southside. People keep coming back here thanks to its diverse taste in music. It ranges from 80’s rock to dubstep. Classic dance hits to latest chart-toppers, The Shed has it all.
SWG3 – This warehouse turned party moshpit, is a perennial favourite of people who enjoy DJs and electronic bands. Some of the biggest names in the music industry have played at this venue.
The Poetry Club – This intimate spot is a hidden gem that is tucked right under SWG3. This place generally hosts a number of live music gigs and theatrics.
The Run Shack – This new and upcoming hotspot has become a favourite of critics and punters alike. Located in the south side of Glasgow, The Rum Shack serves delectable food and offer a variety of, you guessed right, rum.
Blackfriars – This lively gastropub-live music venue is open until 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays. It has won several accolades in the food and beverage space bagging the Camra’s Glasgow Pub of the Year twice. The music here ranges from hits of the 90’s to latest chart-toppers.
Sports
Sports is an important part of Scottish culture. Football, in particular, is immensely popular here. Everyone in Glasgow closely follow the Scottish Professional Football League especially the matches between 2 of the most successful clubs in the Scotland – Celtic and Rangers. The national stadium, Hampden Park, is a great venue to watch football games. An interesting fact to know is that in 1872, the world’s first official international match took place in Glasgow. Apart from football, the city also has professional teams in rugby, basketball and motorcycle speedway.
