One of the best reasons for visiting Glasgow has got to be it’s shopping. It is a shopaholic’s dream destination and has been voted the top place to shop in the UK, outside of London’s West End. There are over 1,500 shops and the ‘Style Mile’ which holds a huge variety of shops including top high street retailers. There really is no better place to indulge in some retail therapy. To promote your business in Glasgow more effectively think about a Glasgow web designer. For more information, visit http://mediadesignassociates.co.uk/
There is a great selection of shops in Glasgow’s Style Mile including malls, independent boutiques, designer stores and speciality shops. According to Lonely Planet, “The Style Mile around Buchanan Street, Argyle Street and Merchant City is a fashion hub, while the West End has quirkier, more bohemian shopping options”. So there really is something for everyone.
There are stores for menswear, kids, hair and beauty, homeware and women’s fashion. Merchant City used to house tobacco factories and cotton trading but now is home to a lively cultural quarter. The streets closest to the Clyde are full of workshops and galleries, while closer to Ingram Street you will find some of Glasgow’s best restaurants and bars. Merchant Square is here as well featuring a weekly craft fayre every weekend. There are 70 stalls and some great handmade items including photography, art, jewellery, cakes and flowers.
If you like all your stores under one roof then head to the Buchanan Galleries where you’ll find over 80 of the best high street names. With a huge car park available, shopping will be both fun and convenient here. Other malls include Glasgow Fort, Silverburn (a shopping and entertainment venue), St Enoch Centre, Princes Square and the Forge Shopping Centre. As you can see, you’ll be totally spoilt for choice.
And you’re not likely to go hungry either with almost 1,800 cafes and restaurants in the city. Lonely Planet has described it “the best and most eclectic dining city in Europe”. High praise indeed! Enjoy all things Scottish at some of the finest eateries featuring mussels, oysters and langoustines.
Once you’ve exhausted the shops, or your credit card, Glasgow is compact enough for you to be able to explore some of the interesting neighbourhoods. Enjoy the trendy West End and then head to Finnieston with all its bars and independent stores. There is a flea market in the East End if you like hustle and bustle but for a more tranquil experience, head over the river to the South Side and take a walk through the huge Pollok Park.
The West End has been voted ‘Best Neighbourhood in the UK and Ireland’. That is quite an achievement and you’ll find a very cool area with sandstone villas and leafy roads. If you enjoy mooching in vintage shops then the West End will be right up your street. There are also some very good delis, cheesemongers and fishmongers to be found in the West End.