People make Glasgow – Glaswegians tell us their favourite things about the city

By Jenna Morrison

Thumbnail image credit: Calum Bastable

Glasgow is renowned for being one of the worlds friendliest places. But what else has it got to offer?

I reached out to people across Glasgow and asked them the simple question: what is your favourite thing about living in the city?

1. The sense of community

It is no news that Glaswegians love to talk. They are known for being extremely welcoming to strangers but also, for their kindness and generosity.

One participant said: “You can’t go anywhere without someone smiling at you or recognising you or even just saying hello.”

They explained: “When you visit other places in England or even in Scotland, people are not as kind.

“I went a walk this morning and got given free cake along with my coffee in my local cafe; people are kind and generous even when they cannot afford it.”

Another participant said: “I enjoy living in Glasgow because of its multicultural atmosphere.

“The main streets are full of beautiful people from all over the world, and various cultures can be seen. Glasgow makes me feel like I can finally be me despite my skin colour.”

2. Restaurants

Glasgow is home to hundreds of restaurants, serving cuisine from around the world.

A participant said: “It a place where you can enjoy food from other countries, there are lots of restaurants that blend different cuisines with Scottish food too. It is an amazing celebration of food and culture.”

Another person said: “Glasgow just gets food right!

“Especially when the UK has a terrible reputation for its food, Glasgow just does it better than anywhere else in the country, trust me,” said another respondent.

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3. The humour

Dialect differs between cities across Scotland, but Glasgow has created some of the countries funniest and most used phrases.

“The slang is great. We sound stupid but it is only stuff we would understand.”

Someone else said: “We have our own sense of humour, but everybody gets it!

“It is nice to laugh with strangers every day, I feel like you don’t get that anywhere else.”

Another participant added: “the unique charisma of a Glaswegian can be hilarious at times but also, is what makes Glasgow different from anywhere else in the world which makes me proud to be from this daft wee city.”

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4. The Parks

Pollok Country Park was named the best park in Europe, and at 361 acres it is Glasgow’s largest park. There are many more beautiful green spaces in Glasgow that can be enjoyed all year round.

Someone said: “The parks are beautiful, especially in the sun”

One respondent recommends Kelvingrove Park in Glasgow’s West End.

They said: "Sitting in Kelvingrove on a warm day with a picnic honestly gives me life.

“It is so peaceful and beautiful; I could spend my whole summer there.”