Southside Glasgow’s Southside is a world unto itself: a densely populated, vibrant part of the city, as well known for its history of community-minded activism as it is for its fabulous parks, restaurants and bars.
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his cosmopolitan corner of Glasgow is where the historic Rent Strikes of 1915 first began and, in 2001, where a local community famously occupied a swimming pool (Govanhill Baths) to prevent its closure (the building is now a grassroots, activist organisation and local arts and well-being hub). Encompassing two of Scotland’s most diverse neighbourhoods, Govanhill and Pollokshields, the Southside is also home to an incredible range of restaurants, cafes, shops and takeaway hole-inthe-walls. Cuisines from all over the world can be found in
Govanhill’s packed, bustling streets, where 32 languages are spoken within a span of just 13 tenement blocks. Thanks to its low rents, community spirit and buzzy atmosphere, Govanhill is also fast becoming a city hotspot for artists and creatives. Small social enterprises, hip indie businesses and creative hubs have sprung up all over the neighbourhood in the last couple of years. For a slightly quieter, more relaxed vibe, visitors can head to neighbouring districts Mount Florida and Pollokshields – here you’ll find snooker halls, quiet pubs and
cosy cafes, dotted along widely spaced, residential streets that feature some of Glasgow’s most beautiful architecture. Up the road, Shawlands is the Southside’s busy shopping district, teeming with indie outlets, charity shops and cheerful eateries. Every urban region needs a good green space, and thankfully the glorious Queen;s Park is just that. Nestled between Shawlands, Mount Florida and Govanhill, this gorgeous expanse of greenery, nick-named ‘the people’s park’, is the beating heart of the Southside.
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