Here at Red Deer Village, we’re extremely lucky to have so many of Glasgow’s finest locations right on our doorstep, including the wonderful West End.

If you’ve never been to Glasgow’s West End, it’s definitely worth exploring. Having been voted the Best Neighbourhood in UK and Ireland, this vibrant part of the city is bursting with life and filled with character.

Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re simply in need of some recommendations, we’re here to help with our guide to exploring Glasgow’s West End.

Culture and Scenery

Hidden away in the West End is one of the world’s leading university museums, The Hunterian. As part of the prestigious Glasgow University, the museum houses the work of some of the top names in antiques, print and art; it’s also home to the first ever ultra-sound machine! Definitely worth a visit for those interested in history and art.

As mentioned in several of our other guides, the West End is also home to the stunning Kelvingrove Park, the Botanic Gardens and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. All of which make the perfect mid-week afternoon activity.

Something out of the ordinary

There are lots of quirky little things to do in The West End; from watching an afternoon play to doing a little bit of vintage shopping. There’s plenty of scope to do something different.

If you’re interested in interior and architecture, a visit to the Mackintosh house in the Hunterian is well worth it. Despite originally being demolished in the early 1960’s, the house of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh has been replicated to provide a glimpse into the life of the famous, artistic couple. Featuring original fixtures and contents and decorated in true Mackintosh style, this replica build is the perfect homage to one of Scotland’s greatest talents.

Alternatively, Òran Mór’s world famous “A Play, A Pie and A Pint” makes for a great, very different afternoon out. Their successful lunchtime theatre began in 2004 and is now on it’s 24th season, producing 38 unique plays a year! A Play, A Pie and A Pint is currently taking a short break, but keep an eye on their website as new dates are expected to be announced on the 29th of June.

 

A post shared by A Play, A Pie and A Pint (@playpiepint) on Jan 12, 2019 at 6:44am PST

Cuisine

The West End is home to Glasgow’s hidden treasure, Ashton Lane. For all the foodies out there, you’ll be delighted to know that Ashton Lane contains some of the city’s most unusual and unique restaurants.

The Hanoi Bike Shop serves up the most delicious home-made Vietnamese dishes. Located just off of Byres Road, this restaurant is beautifully decorated. The hanging lanterns and bikes to bring you a truly unique dining experience.

Brel is another west-end favourite, specialising in Belgian cuisine; it also features a beautiful beer garden for perfect those sunny summer nights. Additionally, the West End’s famous Ubiquitous Chip has earned itself the title of Glasgow’s best restaurant. It is particularly well-known for serving up delicious Scottish dishes. Their stunning outdoor terrace also makes a lovely location for a romantic meal for two.

Whatever you decide to get up to in the West End, we hope you have a wonderful day.