Glasgow’s West End is a neighbourhood steeped in history and culture, renowned for its charming Victorian architecture, trendy cafes and vibrant nightlife. From bustling Byres Road to tranquil Kelvingrove Park, the West End offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of this diverse and captivating neighbourhood in the heart of Scotland, introducing you to its most notable sights and hidden gems. Whether you’re a resident or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Glasgow’s West End.
Ashton Lane
Start your visit on Ashton Lane. It is a popular cobblestone backstreet lined with bars and a cinema. The white-painted brick and string lights make it a classic Glasgow photo spot.
Stop at the Grosvenor Cafe for a drink and grab a balcony seat. It is the perfect place to sit and watch the crowds coming and going below.
2. De Courcy’s Arcade
Walk down the lane to the vintage shops at De Courcy’s Arcade. It is a two-story building packed with small independent sellers and local art. You might be tempted by a full set of teacups and saucers like I was, but if you prefer something a little less breakable, there are lots of lovely stationery, art prints and more! The arcade also has a quiet vintage tea room if you are not ready for a full meal just yet.
Vintage Shopping
Check out a few more vintage shops before lunch. Bring cash for this part of the trip. Find Starry Starry Night. The store is packed from floor to ceiling and specializes in pristine army jackets. They might be too heavy for a suitcase, but the quality is incredible. The costume designers from Downton Abbey even shopped here.
Next, head to Ruthven Mews, a small alley packed with independent antique traders. You can find unique items like old cookie tins for a few dollars. Small sellers do not always accept cards, so cash is handy here.
5. Afternoon Tea at Kember & Jones
After shopping, we finally decided it was time to grab something to eat. We had our heart set on Kember & Jones, a delightful little bakery/cafe. Kember & Jones are popular for their local produce and in-house bakery.
We were dying for some a sweet and savoury meal so we opted to order their local cheese and charcuterie board along with a freshly baked scone with clotted cream and jam. It cream was like eating air, and the scone was heavenly fresh. One of the best I’d ever eaten. The cheese board was chock-o-block full of local cheese, fresh pate and homemade chutney. It was divine.
6. Used Book Shops
After filling our bellies to the point of bursting, we wandered through the street, stopping into all different shops on the way home. We stopped into on charity shop where I found a 1911 printing of Shakespeare’s Henry IV. It smelled wonderful; you know that old book smell that is beyond replication.
7. Oran Mor Pub
After a long walk, we stopped into the Oran Mor pub. The Oran Mor was a Kelvinside Parish Church was built in 1862 by J.J. Stevenson that has since been restored and turned into a bar, event and theatre space.
It was one of the coolest bars I’d even been to. The stained glass on the windows and the old wood on the floors were all original, and the place was brimming with history. Even the bar itself, which was a new installation felt lived in like it had been there for ages.
8. Glasgow Botanic Gardens
After having a drink in the pub, we headed off to the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. The gardens were created in 1817 and as such, the trees, flowers and even the building feel like it has been a part of the city for hundreds of years. When we arrived, the sun was out and shining, and the flowers in the garden simply glowed.
The most famous building in the gardens is the Kibble Palace. A 19th century wrought iron glasshouse. The building initially just an exhibition and concert venue but in the 1880’s it was turned into a greenhouse. For a city that doesn’t get the most warmth or sun, this place was an oasis for the people to visit when they needed a respite from the cold.
Inside the glass while the domed structure is bright green plants growing wild and yet restrained. Plants from all over the world have lived here for 120 years. We walked through the pathways like walking through a maze. Losing each other for moments and then seeing each other reappear around the bend. We sat down for a few minutes here and there to take a break from all the walking, and there wasn’t a perfect place to take a break.
9. The Hillhead Bookclub
After the gardens, and before heading home, we stopped off at the Hillhead Bookclub. The Book Club is a fun bar where patrons can play retro video games, ping-pong, board games and even order cocktails served up in a gramophone. Yes, you heard me right.
You can play Sonic the Hedgehog on old big box TVs, old gastronomic creations and play a myriad of old board games inside the dark and edgy interiors.
10. Old Salty’s
To finish off a tour of the West End of Glasgow, you need to end with Fish and Chips and ‘Old Salty’s’ is one of the best places to get it.
Don’t miss out on trying the macaroni pie. Whether you eat inside or get it for “take away” it’s the best way to end your day, or start it for that matter 😉
Leave a Comment