One of the best things about studying in Glasgow is that there’s always a gig to go to. We’re spoiled with great music and iconic venues to host them. If you’re new to the city, consider this your live music bucket list.
By Eva Curran
The Barrowland Ballroom
At the top of my list is, of course, The Barrowland Ballroom. The glowing star sign is one of Glasgow’s most recognisable landmarks and, for music lovers, almost a rite of passage.
During the day, the Barras Market is full of traders, locals and visitors. But when evening falls and the famous sign lights up, the venue comes to life.
Originally built as a dance hall, the Barrowland still has its iconic sprung dancefloor. My gran danced on it in her younger years – although I imagine her experience looked very different from mine. Think less two-stepping and more moshpitting.
The venue now holds thousands of fans bouncing in unison, unforgettable singalongs and the kind of atmosphere that artists talk about long after they’ve left the stage. If you get the chance to see a gig here, don’t hesitate.
244 Gallowgate, G4 0TT
King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut
Every city has that venue where careers begin, and in Glasgow it’s King Tut’s. Before you even reach the stage, take a look at the stairs. They’re lined with the names of artists who played here before making it big.
From The 1975, Paramore and Radiohead to Scottish legends like Biffy Clyro, Lewis Capaldi, and Paolo Nutini. And that’s just naming a few.
Grab some tickets for a band that you’ve never heard of. Go in blind, and you’ll find it’s a really fun way to spend an evening. You may even discover your new favourite artists.
Oh, and King Tut’s is also where Oasis were discovered. I mean c’mon.
272A St Vincent Street, G2 5RL
Saint Luke’s and The Winged Ox
If atmosphere is high on your priority list, Saint Luke’s is hard to beat. Housed inside a beautifully restored church, it’s one of Glasgow’s most distinctive venues.
Original stained-glass windows provide the backdrop for everything from Celtic Connections performances to indie, folk and rock gigs. It somehow manages to feel both grand and intimate at the same time.
Better still, there’s a brilliant bar next door, making it an easy place to spend the whole evening.
17 Bain Street, G40 2JZ
SWG3
Few venues have reinvented themselves quite like SWG3. Once an industrial warehouse space, it’s now one of the coolest cultural hubs in the city.
Whether you’re dancing in the Galvanizers Yard under the summer sun, heading to an intimate Poetry Club gig, or catching a huge international act, every space has its own personality.
100 Eastvale Place, G3 8QG
Best of the Rest
Some of Glasgow’s best nights happen in its smallest venues. The Hug and Pint is brilliant for discovering local talent before they outgrow the room, while Gael & Grain has become a favourite for lively traditional music sessions.
Then there’s Òran Mór, one of the West End’s most iconic venues. Alongside its varied programme of live music, keep an eye out for the ever-popular Candlelight Concerts.
Whether it’s the music of your favourite artist or a film soundtrack performed by candlelight, they’re a magical way to experience one of Glasgow’s most beautiful buildings.
171 Great Western Road, G4 9AW
23 Sandyford Place, G3 7NG
Byres Road, G12 8QX
