Glasgow West End: The Best Things to Do

Kelvingrove Gallery Museum

Glasgow West End

The West End of Glasgow has a distinctive character that sets it apart from the rest of the sprawling metropolis. Situated in the heart of Scotland’s largest city, the area is a captivating blend of both the old and the new, where urban buildings and wild green spaces coexist in harmony.

The West End is bordered by the River Clyde and is cut in half by the River Kelvin, comprising a large part of the city west and northwest of the M8. The area is known for its Victorian architecture and public parks which offer a quieter, more relaxed environment than the bustling city centre.

One of the most notable landmarks in the West End is the University of Glasgow. Founded in 1451, it’s one of the oldest universities in Britain and is famous for its Gothic architecture as well as the Hunterian Museum which houses a plethora of exhibits from archaeological artefacts to anatomical items.

University of Glasgow

Near to the university is Kelvingrove Park, a beautifully landscaped 85-acre green space with the magnificent Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum on its southern edge. The museum, one of the most-visited attractions in Scotland, houses an impressive collection of art including works by renowned artists like Monet and Renoir.

Just a stone’s throw away is the Glasgow Botanic Gardens, a lush green oasis housing a variety of plant species from around the world.

The gardens are home to the Kibble Palace, an enormous Victorian glasshouse filled with tropical plants and the national collection of ferns. Nearby, visitors can wander around an arboretum and another, even larger greenhouse before enjoying a leisurely walk along the Kelvin Walkway.

When it comes to family attractions the West End never fails to amaze thanks to top attractions like the Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship – both of which are completely free to enter.

The Riverside Museum of Transport

The West End is also known for its vibrant food and drink scene.

Streets like Byres Road and Ashton Lane are lined with cosy cafes, trendy bars, and a variety of restaurants serving everything from traditional Scottish food to Italian and Chinese cuisines. The area’s nightlife is equally buzzing, with venues like Òran Mór, set inside a converted church, offering live music and theatre performances.

In conclusion, the West End of Glasgow is a melting pot of history, culture, and nature, offering something for everyone no matter their age and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or a shopper, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this dynamic part of Glasgow.

Find places to visit and things to do in Glasgow’s West End with these visitor guides.

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Craig Neil

Craig Neil is a travel writer from Edinburgh with a passion for visiting Scotland’s tourist attractions. Over the last 15 years he has explored Scotland from the Shetland Islands to the Scottish Borders, and he shares his travel experiences in Out About Scotland.