University of Glasgow

As one of the most prestigious universities in the UK and owner of a coveted spot in the world’s top 100, the University of Glasgow is a major part of Glasgow history. Home to over 100 listed buildings, it’s a truly fantastic to visit, even if you’re not a bar-hopping student. Whether you’re a prospective student on an open, visiting to watch a loved one’s graduation or maybe you’re booked in for a talk, we’ve got a hotel nearby for you to rest in before the big day ahead.

Founded back in 1451 and the fourth oldest university in the world, this establishment is also one of Scotland’s four ancient universities. Full of famous alumni and powerful pioneers, back in 1883 the Queen Margaret College was launched offering the first higher education opportunities for women. Past graduates include six Nobel Laureates, two Prime Ministers, Scotland’s current First Minister and the pioneer of television, John Logie Baird. Oh, and Albert Einstein once gave the first Gibson lecture here.

Whilst you're here, why visit Strathclyde University or Caledonian University? Or may even the Glasgow School of Art?

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University of Glasgow

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University of Glasgow

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Essential information

Top tip
Make a visit to the Hunterian Museum, housed in the Royal College of Surgeons of England, located on campus. You’ll get to see a host of specimens, models and instruments dating back to the 17th century.

Eating and drinking
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat and drink near the university. Everyone from your visiting friends to your family will enjoy the student deals!

Whether you’re looking for a celebratory graduation meal or a cheap meal during freshers week, there are lots of options nearby. The Stravaigin is perfect for trying some Bib Gourmand awarded Scottish food with an Asian twist while The Parmigiana serves classic and not-so-classic Italian dishes such as squid ink tagliatelle. Cheaper options for those with a smaller purse can enjoy a student biryani special down at The Wee Curry Shopor The Hillhead Bookclub for burgers, beer and retro games.

Finding a bar near the university won’t take you long at all. Visit Belgian bar Brel for all the beers you can imagine or Vodka Wodka on Ashton Lane offering the same… but in vodkas. If a traditional pub is more your kind of thing, try the Tennent’s Bar for food, drink and music or relax at The Belle- you can even take a seat next to the lovely pub dog!

Getting to University of Glasgow
Well-connected to the city centre, the university is easily reached by rail, subway or bus. While parking on campus is a little sparse, the Subway Park & Ride scheme is ideal for resting your wheels at the Kelvinbridge subway station, just a five minute walk away.

By car
Car parking on campus is quite difficult, however, there are some pay & display spaces near Byres Road and Kelvin Way.

By bus
If you’re coming from the city centre, you can catch the 4 or 4A bus which both run through the main campus. There’s a seasonal tourist bus that stops in the campus as well.

By train
There are intercity links to Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central from Edinburgh, London and more. Also, the nearest suburban station is Partick.

By subway
Hillhead is the nearest subway station to the main University campus while Kelvinhall and Kelvinbridge are close by, too.

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