Where Old Meets New
Antique Shops Glasgow West End
Interior individuality is all in the mixing, finds Anne Marie Hillan. Feel confident to combine antiques with contemporary styling.
I’m a firm believer that a home should reflect the people who live in it – their personality, their quirks, their stories. In my own home, I’ve slowly gathered an eclectic mix of pieces: a bureau I fell in love with at first sight, a Singer sewing machine from 1904 on its original table that I upcycled myself, old chairs I’ve had reupholstered, interesting finds from local shops (my most unusual being a retro optician’s chart) – each item adding another layer to the story my home tells.
Interior designers often talk about creating a space that’s personal, that feels lived-in and loved. What better way to do that than by giving pre-loved pieces a new life?
So, for this issue of Westender, I went treasure hunting around Glasgow’s West End to highlight some of the best places to find those quirky, characterful gems – places where no two visits are the same, and you never know what treasure might be waiting for you.
Rag & Bone – Salvage Meets Style in Finnieston
First stop: Rag & Bone, tucked away in The Hidden Lane in Finnieston. This place is an absolute gem. Housed in a converted old garage, it’s bursting with charm and personality. The shop bills itself as purveyors of ‘salvage, antiques, curios, upholstery, art and sustainable finishing’ – and it delivers on every count.
It’s one of those spaces that’s a joy to simply wander around. There are beautifully reupholstered sofas, retro lampshades crafted by local makers, reclaimed industrial furniture, and oddball curiosities you didn’t know you needed until you spotted them. It’s playful, thoughtful, and full of inspiration.
While you’re there, make a day of it. The Hidden Lane is full of little surprises: a tea room, antique shops, art galleries, recording studio, and quirky gift stores. And of course, you’re only a short walk from the buzz of the Finnieston strip with its bars and restaurants.
Found and Trove – Vintage, Retro Charm & Changing Stock in Partick
Next, head west along Dumbarton Road and you’ll stumble upon another brilliant interiors’ spot (it’s one of those places you’d miss if you weren’t looking). Found combines vintage and new, home décor, lighting, and collectables, and their stock is constantly changing. It’s a treasure trove.
On a recent visit, I was particularly taken by an upcycled cabinet on elegant bright red hairpin legs – effortlessly accessorised and full of charm. This is the kind of place you want to pop into regularly. The turnover is fast, and that special item you spot today might be gone tomorrow. So if something catches your eye… snap it up.
Literally a few doors away is Trove – your go-to shop to discover Mid-Century Modern finds. As well as fabulous retro lamps and accessories, you’ll also find vintage clothes and vinyl. So worth a visit.
The Crows Nest – A Hidden Haven in Anniesland
Over in Anniesland, tucked behind the Morrisons supermarket and accessed via a wee lane, is a shop that completely surprised me: The Crows Nest. From the outside, you would never guess just how big, or how packed, this place is.
Inside, it’s a haven of industrial, rustic, farmhouse, antique furniture and décor, with a whole outdoor garden section filled with salvage and quirky finds. Think industrial-style cabinets, factory-style tables, retro signage, and vintage oddities, all displayed with a relaxed, rummage-friendly vibe.
Right next door? Roasted Vinyl – a coffee and vinyl shop that’s just as cool as it sounds. It’s the perfect pitstop after browsing – a flat white and some records before you head back in for round two.
Hyndland Home – Hidden Gems and A Secret Room
If you’re up Hyndland Street way, don’t miss Hyndland Home. It’s a well-curated blend of old and new, and while the shop itself isn’t huge, it has a wonderfully homely feel. Better still, there’s a secret room at the back (yes, really) where even more treasures are tucked away.
Like many of these places, the stock turns over fast, and each visit is a little different. Whether you’re after a statement piece or a small decorative touch, there’s usually something to tempt you.
Great Western Auctions – The Buzz of the Bid
Now, if you’ve got a good eye, a bit of imagination, and perhaps a little adventurous spirit, you have to try a visit to Great Western Auctions. You might even spot Anita Manning herself, gavel in hand!
I recently went along to soak up the atmosphere – and I can’t recommend it enough. There’s a real buzz to the bidding, a mix of seasoned collectors and total newbies (like me) all looking to snap up something special. And yes, you might just bag yourself an absolute bargain.
If you’re up for a bit of DIY or love the idea of upcycling, this is where the magic happens. Some of the pieces might need a little love – a coat of paint, some reupholstering, a bit of polish – but that’s half the fun. You’re not just buying furniture; you’re creating your own unique piece.
Why Buy Old? The Joy of the Mix
So why is mixing old and new such a winning formula in interiors?
For one, it’s personal. You’re not copying a showroom or following a trend; you’re building a space that feels real. Second, it’s usually more affordable. Many of the items you find in these shops are far better value than brand-new equivalents – and often much better made. And finally, it’s sustainable. Giving pre-loved items a second life keeps them out of landfill and reduces waste and that’s something we can all get behind.
Let’s be honest – ordering a flat-packed sideboard online might be convenient, but it doesn’t come with a story. It doesn’t make your guests say, ‘Wow, where did you find that?’
When you furnish your home this way, you’re not just decorating – you’re curating. And Glasgow’s West End, with its creative energy and independent spirit, is the perfect place to start your treasure hunt.
So next weekend, ditch the scrolling and hit the streets. Whether you’re a vintage pro or just starting out, these West End shops are packed with potential finds and hidden gems. Often one of a kinds, when they are gone, they are gone! But who knows – your next statement piece might be waiting just around the corner, with a past to discover and a future in your home.
Happy West End treasure hunting!
For more information on antique shops, interiors in Glasgow West End, visit –
