Exploring the Vibrant South Side of Glasgow
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The South Side of Glasgow is a cultural treasure trove that offers tourists a unique blend of art, history, and local charm. From bustling markets to serene parks, this vibrant area promises an enriching experience.
A brief summary to glasgow south side
- Glasgow, GB
Local tips
- Visit Pollok Park during spring to see the beautiful cherry blossoms.
- Check out local art galleries during the First Thursdays event for special exhibitions.
- Try the traditional haggis at a local pub for an authentic Scottish experience.
- Use public transport like the subway or buses to explore the wider Glasgow area easily.
- Don't forget to explore the hidden gems in side streets for unique shops and cafes.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the South Side, start by heading towards the closest subway station, which is the 'Shields Road' station on the south side of the River Clyde. From any point in South Side, look for signage to direct you to Shields Road. Once you arrive at the subway station, purchase a ticket to 'Buchanan Street', which costs approximately £2.20. Board the subway train heading northbound. After about 10 minutes, disembark at Buchanan Street Station. Exit the station and walk towards the west along Buchannan Street. Continue straight until you reach the junction with St. Vincent Place, then turn left to head towards the city center. Enjoy the local shops and cafes along the way.
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Bus
Another option is to take a local bus. Find the nearest bus stop and check the local schedules for routes heading towards the city center. Popular routes include the 34, 3, and 6 buses. Ensure you have exact change or a contactless payment method, as most buses do not provide change. The fare is typically around £1.50. Once on the bus, stay alert for stops like 'Argyle Street' or 'Buchanan Street', where you can disembark to explore the city center or proceed to your destination.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle via a local bike-share program. You can find bike rental stations throughout South Side. Look for a nearby station, and follow the instructions to unlock a bike. Cycling to the city center is straightforward; just follow the designated bike lanes. The ride should take about 15-20 minutes depending on your pace. Keep in mind that there may be a rental fee of around £2 for a short-term use.
Discover more about glasgow south side
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
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Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
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Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Walter Scott Monument
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A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
McLellan Galleries
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Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Old Police Post
0.7 km
A historic blue police box marking Glasgow's pioneering role in British law enforcement and urban policing innovation.
Box Hub
0.8 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
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Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
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Explore the vibrant Mural Trail #.09 in Glasgow, celebrating Billy Connolly's legacy through stunning public art. A cultural gem awaits your discovery.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ramshorn Graveyard, a hidden gem in the heart of Glasgow, perfect for reflection and discovery.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.9 km
Explore the rich musical heritage and stunning architecture of City Halls & Old Fruitmarket, a premier live music venue in Glasgow.
Merchant Square
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Experience Glasgow's vibrant cultural scene at Merchant Square, a premier events venue combining great dining and lively entertainment.
Glasgow Police Museum
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Explore the unique history of law enforcement at the Glasgow Police Museum, a must-see destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Charing Cross Mansions
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Explore the architectural beauty of Charing Cross Mansions in Glasgow, an iconic Victorian landmark surrounded by vibrant city life and rich cultural experiences.
The Tenement House
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Explore The Tenement House in Glasgow, a museum that showcases the rich social history and culture of the city's working-class families.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stereo
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Discover Stereo, Glasgow's premier live music bar and vegan café, where vibrant culture meets delicious cuisine in the heart of the city.
The Pot Still
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Discover Glasgow’s iconic whisky bar with nearly 600 bottles, warm atmosphere, and traditional Scottish fare on historic Hope Street.
All Bar One Glasgow
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Explore the vibrant atmosphere of All Bar One Glasgow, where wine lovers unite for exceptional drinks and delicious tapas in the heart of the city.
Nelson Mandela Pl
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A vibrant Glasgow square honoring Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the city’s historic stand against apartheid.
The Lighthouse
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Discover Glasgow’s iconic design centre with stunning Mackintosh architecture and panoramic city views from a historic spiral staircase.
Geek Retreat Glasgow
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Glasgow’s vibrant geek culture hub blending games, comics, and café comforts in a welcoming community space.
Buchanan St
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Glasgow’s vibrant pedestrian shopping street blending historic charm, diverse retail, lively entertainment, and cultural landmarks.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
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Explore Glasgow’s city centre through a unique, tactile bronze 3D map blending art, accessibility, and urban history at Buchanan Street.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
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Dive into immersive escape rooms in Glasgow’s city centre, where puzzles, stories, and friendly hosts create unforgettable adventures for all ages.
Good as Gold Street Art
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A witty mural in Glasgow’s city center humorously capturing the soaring price of Freddo chocolates as a symbol of inflation.
Princes Square Shopping Centre
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A stunning blend of Victorian elegance, luxury shopping, and fine dining beneath Glasgow’s iconic glass roof.
The Social
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Discover The Social, Glasgow's lively bar and grill, offering delicious food, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in Royal Exchange Square.
Blythswood Square
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A serene Georgian square in Glasgow blending historic elegance, artistic heritage, and vibrant city life in a lush garden setting.
Argyll Arcade
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Scotland's diamond epicenter: Victorian arcade brimming with luxury jewelry, watches, and bespoke sparkle in Glasgow's heart.
Gallery of Modern Art
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Scotland’s premier modern art gallery in a grand neoclassical building, offering free entry to diverse contemporary artworks and vibrant cultural programs.
Essential places to dine
Halloumi Glasgow
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Experience authentic Greek meze and lively vibes at Halloumi Glasgow, a vibrant Mediterranean gem in the city centre.
Alston Bar & Beef
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Discover premium dry-aged Scottish steaks and an extensive gin bar beneath Glasgow Central Station’s historic arches.
The Smokin' Fox
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Victorian charm meets modern Glasgow at this welcoming pub serving seasonal comfort food and exceptional spirits.
Opium
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Sleek Asian fusion dining on Glasgow’s Hope Street, blending traditional flavors with modern style and diverse dietary options.
Verona
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Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Glasgow’s city center at Verona.
Gamba
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Elegant seafood dining in Glasgow’s city center, where classic flavors meet creative finesse in an intimate, welcoming setting.
Gōst
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Discover Gōst, Glasgow’s elegant bar and restaurant where smoky flavors meet sustainable Angus beef in a cozy, speakeasy setting.
Las Iguanas - Glasgow
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Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in the heart of Glasgow with bold dishes and irresistible cocktails.
Sugo Pasta
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Fresh, handmade regional Italian pasta in a lively, modern Glasgow setting – no bookings, just great pasta and a buzzing atmosphere.
La Lanterna
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Authentic Italian dining in Glasgow’s city centre, blending tradition, quality, and warm hospitality since 1980.
Amarone
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Stylish Italian dining with open kitchens, vibrant flavors, and a lively atmosphere in Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Chaophraya
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Elegant Thai dining in a grand Glasgow townhouse, known for its cocktails and dramatic interior.
The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow
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Glamorous Glasgow brasserie with art deco charm, reliable British cooking, and cocktails in a converted bank.
Red Onion
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Experience vibrant Scottish dining with modern twists in the heart of Glasgow at Red Onion, a welcoming spot for classic and contemporary flavors.
iasg
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Refined Scottish seafood dining in a stylish hotel setting with fresh flavors, elegant design, and warm hospitality in Glasgow’s heart.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
House Of Cashmere Glasgow
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Discover authentic Scottish cashmere craftsmanship and timeless luxury in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Braw Wee Emporium
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Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
MAIA GIFTS
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Discover Glasgow’s award-winning independent gift shop with unique, quirky, and handpicked treasures for every special occasion.
Wee scottish shop
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
The Shop Network
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A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Tartan House of Scotland
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Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
House of Fraser
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Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
Glasgow Gifts
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Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and unique gifts at Glasgow Gifts, nestled in the vibrant heart of Sauchiehall Street.
Taste of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and rare whiskies in the heart of Glasgow at Taste of Scotland, your gateway to Scotland’s rich heritage.
Fat Buddha Store
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Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Geek-aboo
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Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Eurasia Crafts
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Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
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A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Ilahui&Ximi Vogue Life Uk
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Discover bold, stylish gifts and fashion-forward lifestyle treasures in the heart of Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blue Dog
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Glasgow's chic cocktail haven with live piano, masterful mixes, and cozy vibes for unforgettable nights out in the city center.
Drum & Monkey Glasgow
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Traditional Glasgow gastropub in a historic bank building, famed for its ales, hearty pies, and welcoming city centre vibe.
Devil of Brooklyn
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A chic speakeasy cocktail bar in Glasgow’s city centre, blending Italianate elegance with creative drinks and a warm, intimate vibe.
Horseshoe Bar Glasgow
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Historic Victorian pub with Britain’s longest horseshoe-shaped bar, lively karaoke, live sports, and warm Glaswegian hospitality in the city centre.
Missoula - Glasgow
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A vibrant Glasgow cocktail bar blending expert drinks, live DJs, and an all-day menu in a lively city center setting.
Gin71
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Discover Glasgow’s elegant gin sanctuary with exotic vibes, expert cocktails, and a vibrant social atmosphere on Renfield Street.
Ross's Original Bar
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Classic Glasgow pub with hearty food, lively karaoke nights, and a welcoming old-school atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Howlin' Wolf: Bar, Kitchen, Juke Joint
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Glasgow's ultimate blues juke joint: live music daily, soul food till 2am, whiskey flows, and rock 'n' roll vibes in a Mississippi-inspired den.
TABAC
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Retro Parisian cocktail bar on hidden Mitchell Lane, blending masterful mixes, street food bites, and lively vibes in Glasgow's heart.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Wunderbar
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Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
The Duke's Umbrella
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Cozy Glasgow gastropub blending fine-dining comfort food, live music, and rustic charm in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Sloans
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Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Slouch: Live Music, Kitchen & Late Night Venue
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A stylish Glasgow gastropub blending live jazz, blues, and rock with hearty food and creative cocktails in a cozy, speakeasy-inspired setting.
Tiki Bar & Kitsch Inn
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Glasgow’s vibrant tropical escape blending exotic cocktails, authentic Thai cuisine, and a lively beer garden in the heart of the city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
142B Lounge
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Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Club Tropicana & Venga
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Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
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Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
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Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Kokomo Glasgow
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Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
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Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Buff Club
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Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
Cathouse Rock Club
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Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
The Savoy
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Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
Classic Grand
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Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Saint Judes After Dark
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Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Sub Club
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Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
The Plug Glasgow
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Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
La Cheetah Club
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Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Delmonicas
0.6 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
