South Side: Glasgow's Eclectic Jewel

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

South Side in Glasgow is a dynamic and vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of cultures, history, and modernity. This area is renowned for its stunning Victorian architecture, lush green parks, and a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the expansive Pollok Country Park, home to the Burrell Collection, a treasure trove of art and artifacts, as well as the majestic Pollok House, an 18th-century mansion with beautiful gardens. Shawlands, a bustling part of the South Side, is famed for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to experience Glasgow's culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisines. The area also hosts regular farmers' markets, offering fresh local produce and artisanal goods. The South Side is also a hub for arts and culture, with venues like the Tramway Theatre providing a platform for contemporary performances and visual arts. Additionally, the Queen's Park offers a serene escape with its scenic views, walking trails, and a charming boating pond. This neighborhood is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a vibrant community atmosphere while enjoying the tranquility of green spaces.

Local tips in South Side

Visit Pollok Country Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene environment.
Check the local events calendar for performances at the Tramway Theatre for a taste of Glasgow's contemporary arts scene.
Take a leisurely walk around Queen's Park and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Explore the Shawlands area for a variety of dining options and unique local shops.
Don't miss the farmers' markets in Shawlands for fresh produce and local delicacies.

File:Wfm burrell collection.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Gateway to Glasgow Queen's Park, Glasgow, Scotland 04.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Glasgow Science Centre and Tower.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Hampden Park (Glasgow) aerial view cropped.jpg - Wikipedia

File:The Scotland Street School Museum (Glasgow) (3817350578).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Bellahouston Park, Glasgow - geograph.org.uk - 2090044.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

George Square

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and historical significance of George Square, Glasgow's central hub of culture and architecture.

Riverside Museum

Discover the Riverside Museum in Glasgow, where transport history comes alive through engaging exhibits and stunning architecture on the banks of the River Clyde.

Queen's Park

Explore Queen's Park in Glasgow - a lush urban retreat offering gardens, recreational activities, and stunning views for a memorable day out.

The Lighthouse

Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.

Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow

Explore endless fun and adventure at Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow, the ultimate indoor amusement center for children and families.

The Tall Ship Glenlee

Visit The Tall Ship Glenlee, Glasgow’s historic maritime museum, and embark on a journey through Scotland's seafaring past aboard a magnificent sailing ship.

Pollok House

Experience the rich heritage of Pollok House, a stunning historical museum and garden in Glasgow, showcasing exquisite architecture and captivating art.

The Tenement House

Uncover the rich history of Glasgow’s working-class life at The Tenement House, a museum that preserves the spirit of early 20th-century urban living.

Maxwell Park

Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.

McLennan Arch

A timeless neoclassical arch marking the historic gateway to Glasgow Green, symbolizing the city’s rich heritage and architectural grandeur.

Newlands Park

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Newlands Park, Glasgow's serene green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Holmwood House

Experience the architectural beauty and rich history of Holmwood House, a must-visit museum and café in the heart of Glasgow's Southside.

The Hidden Gardens

Explore the tranquil beauty of The Hidden Gardens in Glasgow, a serene escape filled with vibrant flora and peaceful spaces.

Queen's Park Playground (South)

Explore Queen's Park Playground in Glasgow - a family-friendly attraction filled with fun play structures and beautiful green spaces for relaxation.

Southside Studios

Experience Glasgow's vibrant art scene at Southside Studios, a hub of creativity and inspiration in the heart of Govanhill.

Unmissable attractions to see

Riverside Museum

Explore Glasgow’s award-winning transport museum with immersive exhibits and a recreated 1930s street scene on the scenic River Clyde.

Kelvingrove Park

An expansive Victorian park in Glasgow’s West End, blending serene landscapes with iconic art, history, and lively community spaces.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Discover Glasgow’s lush urban sanctuary with iconic glasshouses, diverse plant collections, and tranquil riverside walks in the heart of the West End.

Glasgow Green

Glasgow Green: Scotland’s oldest park blending rich history, vibrant culture, and expansive green spaces in the heart of Glasgow.

Pollok Country Park

Explore Glasgow’s largest country park with historic estates, woodland trails, Highland cattle, and world-class art nestled in a vast urban oasis.

Glasgow Science Centre

Explore hands-on science exhibits, immersive planetarium shows, and Scotland’s tallest rotating tower at Glasgow’s premier science destination.

Tollcross Park

Historic Victorian park in Glasgow’s East End, famed for its rose gardens, restored Winter Gardens, and family-friendly animal farm.

Freddy

A vibrant Shawlands burger spot famed for fresh, flavorful meat and vegan patties in a lively, welcoming setting.

Essential places to dine

The butterfly and the pig

A quirky, cozy Scottish restaurant and bar offering hearty fare, vintage afternoon tea, and lively live music in Glasgow’s vibrant Bath Street.

Chaophraya

Elegant Thai dining in Glasgow’s city centre, blending authentic flavors with sophisticated style and a vibrant cocktail scene.

La Lanterna

Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow at La Lanterna, a city centre classic for over 40 years.

Battlefield Rest

Historic Italian dining in a quirky 1914 landmark with hearty food, lively atmosphere, and a beloved Southside Glasgow vibe.

Loks Bar and Kitchen

A vibrant Shawlands hotspot serving modern British cuisine with a lively bar, flexible event spaces, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

The Rum Shack

Authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant live music create a tropical escape in Glasgow’s Southside at The Rum Shack.

Stag and Thistle Bar & Restaurant

A lively Southside pub with diverse menus, craft beers, and a sunny outdoor patio perfect for social gatherings in Glasgow.

Buck’s Bar Southside

Authentic rock’n’roll vibes meet legendary buttermilk fried chicken in Glasgow’s lively Mount Florida neighborhood.

Six By Nico Southside

Innovative six-course tasting menus with rotating themes in a cozy Southside Glasgow setting.

Lobo

Mediterranean-inspired small plates in Glasgow’s Southside, blending vibrant flavors with a warm, rustic atmosphere and a dedicated vegan menu.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mr Ben Retro Clothing

A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.

Sunshine No.1

Discover Scotland's handmade heart: Sunshine No.1 curates vibrant gifts, jewelry, and art from over 100 local makers in cozy Mount Florida.

The Glasgow Vintage Co

Two floors of quirky vintage treasures in Glasgow's West End: furs, sequins, Barbours, and rustic charm await at this authentic style haven near Kelvinbridge.

Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store

Dive into goth, emo, and eclectic styles at this Queen Street haven for alternative fashion in Glasgow's creative heart.

Eurasia Crafts

Discover handmade Eurasian treasures on Glasgow's elegant Queen Street—unique gifts steeped in cultural heritage and artisan skill.

Braw Wee Emporium

Cosy city-centre gift shop celebrating Scottish makers, small-batch finds and hands-on craft sessions.

Ruby Woo Boutique - Shawlands

Discover trendy women's fashion, accessories, and gifts at this independent Shawlands gem—playful styles, frequent sales, and feel-good finds await in a cozy Glasgow boutique.

Downstair Design Co.

Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.

Hell Yeah

Vibrant vegan gift haven in Shawlands: indie designs, eco treats, and pure shopping joy from small makers that make you say 'Hell Yeah!'

Studio South

Unwrap Glasgow's creative soul at Studio South, where local artisans craft gifts that capture the heart of Scotland's vibrant south side.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Loks Bar and Kitchen

Glasgow's Shawlands gem: modern British-Scottish eats, craft beers, and versatile spaces from cozy bar to event suite in a lively southside spot.

The Rum Shack

Glasgow's ultimate Caribbean rum bar with jerk feasts, live reggae, and punches that pack tropical heat—perfect for southside nights.

The Allison Arms

Glasgow southside's craft beer gem: dog-friendly, queer-welcoming pub with malts, malty vibes, and neighborhood warmth on Pollokshaws Road.

Phillies of Shawlands

Fusion bites and craft pours in Shawlands' cozy bar haven—Japanese fried chicken, wagyu burgers, and quirky vibes await on Pollokshaws Road.

Georgic

Stained-glass glow, live tunes, and Southside cheers at Glasgow's friendliest neighborhood pub on Pollokshaws Road.

The Corona Bar & Kitchen

Vibrant Shawlands pub serving global beers, hearty comfort food, and Sunday roasts in a spacious, quirky setting—perfect for mates, dates, or solo pints.

Lunar Wine & Cocktail Bar

Cosy southside sanctuary for lunar-cycle cocktails, natural wines, and dog-friendly vibes in Glasgow's Strathbungo—creative sips in glowing intimacy.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to South Side

Discover South Side with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloAlright
  [aw-rite]
- GoodbyeTa'ra
  [ta-ra]
- YesAye
  [aye]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Ta
  [please/ta]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [sorry]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [hows it goin]
- Fine. And you?Sound. You?
  [sound. you]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do you speak English]
- I don't understandI don't get ya
  [I don't get ya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna see the menu, mate
  [I wanna see the menu, mate]
- I don't eat meatI'm veggie
  [I'm veggie]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna settle up, mate
  [I wanna settle up, mate]
- Help!Help!
  [Help]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [Clear off]
- Call the Police!Ring the Old Bill!
  [Ring the Old Bill]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm poorly
  [I'm poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [Just browsing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much]
- That's too expensiveThat's dear
  [That's dear]
- Can you lower the price?Can you budge on the price?
  [Can you budge on the price]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of South Side

The South Side of Glasgow began to develop in the late 18th century, primarily as a residential area for the burgeoning middle class. The establishment of the Glasgow Green and the expansion of the city beyond the River Clyde facilitated this growth. The introduction of the railway in the 19th century further connected the South Side to the rest of the city, promoting industrial development and the establishment of factories, particularly in areas like Pollokshaws and Govanhill.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the South Side became known for its diverse communities, including significant Irish, Italian, and Polish populations. This cultural amalgamation contributed to the vibrant local identity, evident in the area's restaurants, shops, and cultural events. The presence of various religious institutions, including churches and synagogues, reflects this rich cultural tapestry.
The South Side is home to several notable architectural landmarks, including the stunning Victorian-era tenements and the iconic Pollok House. The area showcases a range of architectural styles, reflecting the prosperity of Glasgow during the Industrial Revolution. The influence of architects such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh can also be seen in some of the residential buildings, contributing to the area's historical significance.
The establishment of key educational institutions, such as the University of Glasgow's expansion into the South Side and the Glasgow School of Art, has played a pivotal role in the neighborhood's development. These institutions have fostered a culture of innovation and creativity, making the South Side a hub for artists, musicians, and academics, particularly in the 20th century.
In recent decades, the South Side faced challenges related to economic downturns and urban decay. However, community-led initiatives and investments have led to a revitalization of the area. Projects focusing on sustainability and cultural heritage have emerged, strengthening the community's identity and attracting new residents and visitors. The South Side has become a vibrant area known for its parks, markets, and arts scene, symbolizing resilience and transformation.

South Side Essentials

The South Side of Glasgow is easily accessible from various parts of the city. From the city centre, you can take the Subway (the 'Clockwork Orange') to stations like Shawlands or Kilmarnock. Alternatively, buses run frequently, with routes connecting to major hubs such as Buchanan Bus Station. If arriving from Glasgow International Airport, the Airport Express bus service can take you directly to the South Side. Taxis are also readily available, providing a convenient option for direct travel.
The South Side is well-connected by public transport. The Subway stations provide quick access to the city centre and beyond. Buses are plentiful, with several routes traversing the area. Cycling is a great way to explore the neighbourhood, with bike rental stations available. Walking is also recommended, as many attractions are within a short distance of each other. For late-night travel, taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber are widely used.
The South Side is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant, particularly in less crowded areas during the late evening. While incidents of violent crime are rare, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in busy public transport areas. Areas like Govanhill have higher reported crime rates; however, these incidents often do not target tourists directly. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. For non-urgent matters, you can contact the local police station. Medical services are available at hospitals, with the nearest being the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. Pharmacies are also scattered throughout the South Side for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking; layers are advisable due to unpredictable weather. Don’t wear overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect religious practices; when visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or nod. Avoid overly familiar gestures until you gauge comfort levels. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local dishes and try haggis or Scottish whisky. Don’t engage in excessive drinking, as it may be frowned upon in public settings.
To experience the South Side like a local, visit markets like the Pollokshields Farmers' Market on Sundays for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Explore hidden gems such as the stunning Holmwood House and the picturesque Queen's Park. Engage with locals in cafes and pubs, where you can learn about the area's rich history. Attend local events or festivals for a taste of community spirit, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations—Glaswegians are known for their friendliness.

South Side: Glasgow's Eclectic Jewel

Local tips in South Side