Fun Things to Do in Glasgow
A brilliant blend of culture, entertainment, history and character, Glasgow is a great place to live. And if you’re lucky enough to be studying here, you’ll find plenty of things to do when you put down those books for the day.
From iconic music venues to street art, we’ve rounded up six fun things to do in Glasgow to make the most of your precious downtime.
Explore the City Centre Mural Trail
Since the first works were commissioned in 2008, Glasgow’s City Centre Mural Trail has grown to include around 30 pieces of street art, bringing colour and character to the city’s buildings and vacant sites. From St Mungo (Glasgow’s patron saint) on the historic High Street to a mural celebrating the city’s African community, these artworks celebrate the diverse charms of Glasgow and the people who call it home.
The full trail takes around 2.5 hours and is a great way to get to know the city. Why not make an afternoon of it and discover your new favourite cafés, bars and restaurants along the way?
Download the map here
See live music at Barrowland
The legendary Barrowland Ballroom and its flashing neon sign are synonymous with Glasgow’s music scene. The former ballroom is considered a must-play venue for many artists; in fact, a 2023 Time Out poll of UK music artists named it their favourite live venue. Scottish singer Amy MacDonald even wrote a song about it!
Known for its rowdy gigs, great sound and sprung floor, it’s seen the likes of Pulp, Daft Punk, Oasis, Blondie and Metallica play in its hallowed interior. Definitely one to check off the list during your time in Glasgow.
Check out the gig listings here
Get your skates on at a roller disco
When thinking about fun things to do in Glasgow, Roller Stop offers up some good old-fashioned entertainment at student-friendly prices. For around £12, you can enjoy an evening of unadulterated roller-disco fun, complete with flashing lights and pumping tunes. And, for just a few quid more, you can hire a pair of retro skates and truly look the part.
Whether you’re whizzing round like a pro or clinging to the side, a roller disco is the perfect place to be silly with your mates. Headbands and leg warmers optional.
Buy your tickets here
Go and see Highland cows at Pollok Country Park
With their docile nature, shaggy hair and large curved horns, Highland cows are one of the most endearing symbols of Scotland. Pollok Country Park is home to a herd of around 50 Highland cows, so a trip to this beautiful park to see the “coos” up close makes for a great day out. You can jump on a train from Glasgow Central Station and be there in around 15 minutes.
Plan your day out here
See some fresh comedy faces at The Stand
Had a heavy week of lectures and in need of some laughs? Head to Glasgow’s popular comedy club, The Stand, for Red Raw, their weekly new faces showcase. It’s your chance to catch the future Katherine Ryans and James Acasters, and at only a fiver a ticket, you can’t go far wrong!
Buy tickets here
Explore Ashton Lane
With its independent bars, cinema and cafés, Ashton Lane packs plenty of atmosphere into one little cobbled street. It’s tucked away just off Byres Road in the city’s West End, a short stroll from the University of Glasgow, making it the perfect place to meet for drinks after lectures, catch a film or go out for dinner. Best experienced at night when it’s lit up with twinkling lights.
Find your perfect student accommodation in Glasgow
Feel inspired by our list of fun things to do in Glasgow? Our luxury student accommodation provides the perfect base from which to enjoy it. We’re located right in the heart of the city, and within easy distance of the University of Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde and Glasgow Caledonian University.
Inside our studio rooms and apartments, you’ll find all the creature comforts you need to make you feel at home. And with our great communal spaces, such as a cinema, Sky Garden and Festival Zone, and a calendar of fun events, your social life is sorted too.
Want to find out more? Check out our luxury student accommodation: true student Glasgow