Things to do for students near West End in Glasgow
Glasgow is a city with a reputation all its own.
A reputation for famous bands and live music. For world-class art and creative spaces. For communities built around people who’ll welcome you in and help make the city home.
You’ll never be bored here. But if you don’t fancy straying too far from your studio at Vita Student West End, you’ll be happy to hear there’s more than enough to do within walking distance.
Whatever your scene, here’s how to find it right on your doorstep in Glasgow’s famous West End.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
It’s an oldie – but it’s most definitely a goldie.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the city’s favourite treasure troves. Ancient Egyptian artefacts? Got that. Artworks by Dalí, Rembrandt, and Macintosh? Yup. An entire spitfire suspended from the ceiling? You betcha.
This is your place to lose yourself in art and discover the history of Glasgow, as well as delve into mysteries and curiosities from all four corners of the world.
The best thing is, as it’s free to enter, there’s no pressure to see the entire museum in one go.
Drop in and out on rainy days when you need a little inspiration.
Walking time from West End: 15 minutes
Ashton Lane
If you’re craving a touch of whimsy, be sure to check out Ashton Lane, tucked away from the main thoroughfare of Byres Road in Hillhead.
Bedecked in fairy lights, with restaurant seating spilling onto its cobbles, Ashton Lane feels more like an indie street in your favourite boho town than a back lane in Scotland’s second city.
This is arguably Glasgow’s best date spot and certainly a unique night out with friends.
Come to Ashton Lane for drinks with a difference, cosy cinema, and Scottish food at the legendary Ubiquitous Chip.
Walking time from West End: 17 minutes
Glasgow Botanic Gardens
Where else is the city going to keep its collection of over 9,000 plant species?
Clock them all on a trip to Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens.
On a sunny day, catch some rays while wandering along the River Kelvin through more than 20 hectares of landscaped grounds. Or, if you’re really feeling the Scottish winters, make a beeline for the Victorian glasshouses, to warm up amongst the tropical plants.
While you’re there, look out for guided tours and special events to help you get the most from the Botanic Garden’s lush walkways and incredible specimens.
Walking time from West End: 24 minutes
SWG3
Glasgow’s beloved indie venue might not look like much from the outside, but don’t be fooled.
Behind the old industrial arches, you’ll find a space bursting at the seams with music, art, and entertainment.
As a non-profit organisation, the venue is centred around creating community experiences you’ll never forget, no matter your vibe.
We’re talking club nights and warehouse parties, but also art galleries and creative studios. Bring your uni mates for a bingo night like no other, experience traditional Celtic music, or celebrate authentic German beer at Oktoberfest.
Walking time from West End: 11 minutes
rIVERSIDE mUSEUM
Glasgow made a name for itself in the heat of the Industrial Revolution through shipbuilding and manufacturing.
This iconic past is brought to life at the award-winning Riverside Museum. But you don’t have to be a history boffin to appreciate all there is to see.
Here, you get to step back in time down the museum’s recreated Victorian street, exploring shops, houses and subway stations of years gone by. It’s a little bit like walking onto a film set, so don’t forget to snap some pics while you’re there.
If you want to understand Glasgow’s story better, a trip to the Riverside Museum should be on your itinerary.
Walking time from West End: 9 minutes
Òran Mór
Living at West End means you’ve got one of Glasgow’s best cultural gems just around the corner.
“Òran Mór” is Gaelic for “big song”, but this refurbished Victorian church is way more than a music venue. It’s a pub, a restaurant, a cocktail bar, a theatre, and a slice of Glasgow’s history all wrapped up in one.
And yes, you can also catch a sparkling mix of live music every month of the year, along with Òran Mór’s much-loved arts initiative, ‘A Play, A Pie and A Pint’.
Walking time from West End: 21 minutes
kELVINGROVE pARK
For quiet strolls along the river, footie kickabouts with course mates, or an evening run with a view, Kelvingrove Park is your go-to spot.
In many ways, it’s the lungs of Glasgow’s West End, connecting hip Finnieston with the university’s historic cloisters and study rooms.
But it’s not just a spot for students.
Local families, teens, and dog walkers flock to Kelvingrove Park for its grassy swathes, tennis courts, traffic-free footpaths, and touch of nature in a busy city.
This is a park for the people, and your new favourite green space.
Walking time from West End: 11 minutes
hILLHEAD bOOKCLUB
For the ultimate student hive, it’s got to be Hillhead Bookclub (and no, it’s not actually a book club).
Once a picture house that opened way back in 1913, these days Hillhead Bookclub serves drinks and moreish meals from its library-inspired bar and kitchen.
Expect vintage décor and the best-stocked bar in town, for pints, cocktails, or whatever else floats your boat at this West End hotspot.
Come during the day for hearty, home-cooked food, and stay late for DJ sessions, games nights, ping pong tournaments, and karaoke.
Walking time from West End: 21 minutes
All this is just a snapshot of what you can look forward to while living in Glasgow’s West End.
At our Vita Student West End accommodation, you’re perfectly placed to step out and explore the very best of it.
Once you’re done soaking up the atmosphere, head back to your spacious studio to enjoy five-star amenities, such as weekday breakfasts, a 24//7 gym, and exclusive student events.
