My name is Adam Dalgleish and I’m currently a 3rd year Law Student here at the University of Strathclyde. I moved up to Glasgow in 2016 from my small home town in Dumfries & Galloway when I embarked on my university journey. I came to Glasgow very much as an outsider who didn’t know their bearings, however it’s fair to say that since then my love affair with the city has blossomed. I have spent the last 5 years exploring every aspect of the city which I have illustrated through my Instagram platform (@adamdalgleish).
So, what makes Glasgow so special?
The People
Glasgow is renowned for its people (there’s a reason for that huge slogan!) and has been recognised several times as one of Europe’s friendliest and most welcoming cities. Whether it be the sales assistant you speak to while out shopping on Buchanan Street, the barista you order your flat white from on Byres Road or even just the stranger you ask for directions on the street, you are sure to be greeted with some of the Glasgow charm.
With three universities, Glasgow is also a deeply cosmopolitan city. One of the many unique benefits of studying in Glasgow is meeting people from many different countries and from all walks of life.
The Food & Drink
Glasgow has some of the best food & drink in the country, with a range of cuisines reflecting the international nature of the city. Regardless of which corner of the city you find yourself in, there is something to cater for everyone. Here are just some of my favourite places to head for some food & drink, as well as some great places to grab a coffee.
Restaurants
- In the mood for Italian? Be sure to check out Amore Ristorante e Pizzeria just round the corner from campus in the Merchant City. Closer to the city centre you’ll find Mozza, Paesano Pizza & Viva Ristorante. If further south, you’ll find ORO in Shawlands
- Maybe it’s Indian? Check out Chaakoo Bombay Café in the city centre or KoolBa in the Merchant City
- If it’s a steak you’re after, you won’t be disappointed at either Miller & Carter or The Anchor Line in the city centre, or Hutchesons City Grill in the Merchant City
- If you’re like me and can’t decide, or maybe just want a bit of everything, I can’t help but recommend Marble Global Buffet for a truly international experience
Coffee shops
- For a great cup of coffee in and around the city centre, be sure to head to Spitfire Espresso, Riverhill Coffee Bar or Gordon Street Coffee
- The southside is also home to an abundance of great coffee/brunch spots, such as Grain and Grind and Café Strange Brew
Bars/pubs
- The Merchant City has some of Glasgow’s best pubs and bars: Maggie May’s, Bar Soba and Max’s Bar & Grill – to name but a few
- You’re also spoiled for choice in the West End, with spots like the Hillhead Bookclub and Brel in the Hillhead area, and Lebowskis and Kelvingrove Café in Finnieston
Its Location
One of the biggest benefits to living in Glasgow is simply its location. Based in Scotland’s central belt, the city is within easy reach of Scotland’s many towns and cities. The best way to get between Glasgow and its surroundings is by public transport; travelling by train, for example, allows you to reach Edinburgh in just 48 minutes. If you’re after somewhere quieter, a trip to Balloch on the banks of Loch Lomond takes only 49 minutes. Likewise, a visit to Stirling to see the historic Stirling Castle and National Wallace Monument can take as little as 26 minutes by train!
When travelling within Glasgow, the best method is undoubtedly by foot to fully take in the city’s glory. If this isn’t possible, the Glasgow Subway is at your service. Operating since 1896, the Glasgow Subway is the third oldest of its kind in the world. The Subway connects various corners of the city together and is an ideal way to get out & about when exploring the city. For just £3 you can spend the whole day taking in what the city has to offer, whether that be shopping on Glasgow’s Style Mile, a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum or a trip to the Glasgow Botanic Gardens.
Selection of my favourite #StrathLife spots
While Glasgow has an abundance of places worth a visit, here are my favourite locations which are a must-visit, along with some of the photos I’ve taken along the way.
