Having lived in Strathbungo for a while, it’s clear to see why it appeals to so many people (Image: Nicola Roy/Reach PLC)
It’s not often that your local area grabs the headlines, and if it’s for a positive reason, it’s a pretty great feeling. That’s exactly how I felt last week when my tiny Scottish neighbourhood was named one of the best places to live in the UK by the Sunday Times.
Strathbungo, a small but vibrant gem in the south side of Glasgow, is really having its moment. In September last year, it was also named as the coolest neighbourhood in Scotland and one of the hippest in the world by the experts at Time Out. Having lived here for coming up to three years, and seeing how it’s progressed with new openings and events in that time, I can confirm that it’s definitely worthy of this title.
You can walk everywhere in Strathbungo, and the streets are beautiful (Image: Nicola Roy/Reach PLC)
The Sunday Times experts described Strathbungo as ‘distinctly villagey’, which is probably down to the fact that it did start life as a village for miners and crofters hundreds of years ago. Its transformation into a residential suburb began in 1860.
The experts visited each individual place on the list and made decisions based not just on house prices, schools or famous residents, but culture, the state of the high street and access to green spaces.
It’s a small area comprised of just a few streets – tucked close to Queen’s Park and Govanhill – yet packed with superb amenities, exciting events, breathtaking landscapes, and striking architecture that continually presents something fresh to explore.
Strathbungo’s cafes, restaurants, bars and shops are one of the great things about living there (Image: Nicola Roy/Reach PLC)
The thriving café culture on the south side is a major attraction and my personal favourite thing about it, especially on Sunday mornings. Burnfield Bakery on Pollokshaws Road is a standout, its display window always packed with tempting Viennoiserie-style delights such as cinnamon buns and babkas – perfect companions for your coffee as you amble around the neighbourhood.
Pollokshaws Road is also home to Gusto and Relish, 721 Hinba, Grain and Grind, and Sunnyacre – all excellent options for your morning caffeine and pastry fix.
If you’re hankering for something more substantial later in the day, there’s no shortage of eateries. The Bungo is a snug spot perfect for a meal or a few drinks, and it’s also a prime location for people-watching.
Japanese cuisine enthusiasts should make a beeline for Wasabi. With sushi, katsu curry, and ramen among the delicious offerings, and an array of matcha flavours – the beverage of the moment – it’s a must-visit.
Little Hoi An serves up amazing authentic Vietnamese cuisine (Image: Nicola Roy/Reach PLC)
And Little Hoi An, a fantastic Vietnamese restaurant tucked away on Allison Street, is so worth a visit if you’re craving a warming bowl of pho or some noodles.
While the area may not have as many late-night bars as the city centre – one of the few drawbacks of residing here, in my opinion – there are still plenty of superb places to spend an evening. Cosy pubs are plentiful here, from the Allison Arms to Koelschip Yard, ensuring you’ll never run out of new spots to check out.
The Rum Shack is a fantastic choice if you fancy a dance, hosting DJs from around the world and offering a diverse music selection that perfectly embodies the community spirit of Strathbungo.
Marchtown’s stunning interior is the perfect place to sit and people-watch while sipping a glass of orange wine, and I can’t wait until it gets warm enough to sit outside.
The Bungo is a great spot for people-watching (Image: Daily Record/Nicola Roy)
Strathbungo in spring is just stunning, and it’s lovely to see so many people out and about now that the weather has started to get a little better.
A short five-minute stroll will lead you to the verdant splendour of Queen’s Park, which becomes even more stunning in the spring.
For those seeking some retail therapy, be sure to check out the Cooperage – a hidden treasure trove of shops nestled away from the main street. Some Great Reward is a must-visit for vinyl collectors, while Seamstress Vintage offers an eclectic range of clothing that you won’t find on the high street.
The area is rich in charity shops, with Category Is Books standing out as a fantastic independent queer bookstore. They host regular readings and events and even provide a book delivery service.
While Strathbungo may not carry the same prestige as certain areas in Glasgow’s west or south, it boasts a strong sense of community and has a wealth of attractions. It’s no surprise that it’s been named one of the best places to live.
Over in Shawlands, there are plans underway to build flats on the shopping arcade site, leaving many residents puzzled and concerned about the potential impact on local property values.
Meanwhile, Strathbungo maintains its appeal and more affordable housing options, although these prices are quickly on the rise.
With excellent transport connections to the city centre, plenty of parking spaces, and the tantalising promise of a flat white and almond croissant always within reach, what’s not to love?
