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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Entertainment
Sean Murphy

Why Glasgow's Shawlands deserves its crown as one of Scotland's best places to live

You might have heard that the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide has been released and there is one very recognisable name standing out.

That's right, Shawlands has been singled as Glasgow's only entry on this prestigious list, beating out the likes of Finnieston, Strathbungo, Dennistoun, and Kelvinside to be named as the city's only entry.

But is this "creative, multicultural corner of the Southside", as it was described by the Sunday Times judges, as good as they say?

Well, Glasgow Live has pulled together a list of reasons we agree with everything the ST team had to say about this amazing place to stay.

READ MORE: Glasgow's Shawlands named as one of Scotland's 'best places to live' in new list

Glasgow's best park on your doorstep...

Kelvingrove, Alexandra, Rouken Glen... we've got a park that beats the lot. Queen's Park is an incredible place to be no matter the time of year, from basking on its sloped greens in the sunshine in the summer to sledging on the hill at the Queen's Drive end in winter, this park is packed with fun things to do.

From dog walking to grabbing a coffee or ice skating on the frozen pond to feeding the ducks there is plenty to see and do, and don't forget there is one of the best views in the city to be found up at the flagpole.

There's quality food and drink aplenty...

Shawlands has plenty of amazing places to eat and drink, from the laid-back bar and kitchen vibes of Loks, Oscars, and the Dapper Mongoose, to established eateries like Oro, the Indian on Skirving Street, and the Brooklyn Cafe.

While newcomers like the Thai and Salt and Chilli Oriental sit side by side with top brunch spot Cafe Strange Brew and next-level chippy Salt and Vinegar – and that's to name just a few.

And don't forget incredible coffee places and bakeries for during the day and pubs like The Granary, the Glad Cafe, and Phillies for having a drink at night.

The Community...

People make Glasgow and in Shawlands, that's truer more than most, from community groups to events and classes, no matter your interests you're sure to find what you need here.

Always happy to answer any query, you'll get plenty of assistance in the numerous Facebook pages and social media community groups you'll find online.

And don't forget to look out for local ginger tomcat Freddie, described as 'the mayor of Skirving street', he's become an unofficial mascot for the area.

Transport links...

Shawlands is ideally located in the southside, with a plethora of train stations and of course, great bus connections to the city centre and beyond.

And don't just take our word for it either, we asked some locals for their thoughts:

Sophie said: "I love Queens Park. I think it's really nice to walk around - especially with a coffee from nearby cafes. There are so many small businesses around that beat the chains and I think that's what makes Shawlands. The southside I'd say is big for small businesses and it's always good to see them thriving."

While Lena added: "We have great parks nearby, for example, Queens Park and Pollok Park, It's got a relaxed atmosphere and a good mix of people IMO, it's quite young so has a youthful energy which I like (although I'm not so young myself anymore)."

While another resident Aiden pointed out that it's great for shops, he said: "As well as some bigger supermarkets, there are lots of little independent stores like Stalks and Stems and We Are Starter Culture."

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