City guides: Glasgow

Once famous only for hard drinking and the Glaswegian patter, Glasgow has recently been forging a reputation as one of the UK's cultural hotspots. It even graced Lonely Planet's top ten cities in the world list in 2008...

Bars and clubs

Each of the major universities has their own unions which host nightly student events that are usually cheap, cheerful and a great way to meet new people. Outside of campus life it is impossible to mention a night out without describing Sauchiehall Street - one of Scotland's most famous streets - which is full of cheap bars and clubs. The more discerning clubber should visit The Arches and the Sub Club while King Tuts and Stereo are a must for the committed gig goer.

Shopping

Lovers of fashion boutiques should head for the West End but for more traditional high street and high fashion look no further than Buchannan Street. The Buchannan Galleries and the St Enoch Centre have all the high street brands you could ever want. If you are feeling fancy, a trip to Merchant City will ensure that you are spoiled for choice, though your bank account may not be too happy the next day.

 

Eating out

Glasgow has one of the most complete dining experiences restaurant scenes outside of London. Try Two Figs on Byres Road for cheap eats, Piece for the best butties and The Ubiquitous Chip for fine Scottish dining. Don't forget to sample the fabled Glaswegian takeaway Munchy Box - although your arteries might not forgive you.

Entertainment

Comedy lovers need look no further than The Stand on Woodlands Road and for the thespians there are a range of theatres and cinemas, including Cineworld on Renfrew Street, the world's tallest cinema. The city has 13 museums, all of which are free of charge, including the world famous architectural wonder that is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. The Glasgow International Comedy Festival attracts acts like Dara O'Briain, Sarah Millican and Stewart Lee, while the West End Festival in June is a great event and provides an opportunity to try something different.  

Student accommodation

Student accommodation varies in cost with the most popular area to live being the West End. Try Winton Drive and Murano Street for two of the cheaper areas. Alternatively, head to the areas around Hillhead and Kelvingrove which are more bohemian and near to the universities. If you really want to push the boat out, look for more expensive flats in the city centre.

Top 3 places to see

• Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery
• Stravaigin restaurant
• The Necropolis

Glasgow is an edgy, vibrant and modern city bursting with things to see and do. It has a live music scene to rival anywhere in the world and has plenty of cutting edge bars and clubs. Best of all, Glasgow is a place where without breaking the bank or walking for miles you can have a great meal, see a show, grab a pint and go to a world-class club. It is a city that is in your face in all the right ways.