Right, here’s exactly how students can make the most out of Glasgow before summer is over

It can be easy to let the FOMO set in when staying in your uni city over summer.

Your friends may be off on beach holidays (funded by ever-mysterious income streams), working the Edinburgh Fringe, or seeking fancy London internships, but there is still much to be enjoyed in our beloved Glasgow, without the tourist stampedes or bank-breaking expenses.

From beer gardens to day trips, pub quizzes to peaceful green spaces, August is the perfect time to soak up the city and reset before uni returns. So, for all our Glasgow transplants, here’s exactly how to make the most of the rest of 2025’s summer as a student. 

Beer gardens 

It’s a student classic, and for good reason. Glasgow has some great pubs and beer gardens to offer in the summer – think Inn Deep, Brel, or even Wunderbar if you’re looking for something more glam. Trust me, those who’ve left the city for summer will be longing for their local haunts after seeing your Instagram story.  

Gigs and festivals 

Gig culture in Glasgow is, of course, a massive part of the city’s cultural make-up, and with world-famous venues like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, you might just catch the next big thing this summer.

And, if you think Edinburgh is the only Scottish festival city this summer, think again. Glasgow’s Summer Nights at the Bandstand bring big names and buzzing crowds to Kelvingrove Park, without the chaos of the Fringe. Whether you’re rushing for barricade or soaking it all in from your flat window, it’s a fun, local way to enjoy some live music. 

Barras Market 

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An absolute must for any Glasgow newbie, the market runs all year round, but summer brings it to life in a whole new way. Grab a coffee, rummage through a crate of CDs you definitely don’t need, and hunt down some vintage finds away from overpriced West-End joints. Whether you’re into antiques, second-hand gems, or just people watching, there’s plenty to explore. And once you’ve browsed to your heart’s content, Barras Art and Design (BAaD) is right around the corner for some amazing food, drinks, and live entertainment. 

Pub quizzing  

Get those brain cells firing again with a bit of light pub-based revision. While a pub quiz might not be the most, ahem, academic of pursuits, Glasgow is host to a whole range of great options. Plus, fewer students around = better odds. You’re basically revising. Sort of. 

Museums

If you’re craving a culture fix, Glasgow’s museums are a great option. The Kelvingrove Museum, GoMA or Hunterian galleries offer free entry and a range of super interesting exhibitions to enjoy on less sunny days (which, let’s be honest, is pretty much every day). Visit now before the student crowds migrate back west and ruin your quiet gallery strolls. 

Take a day trip 

Major apologies to those 22 and over, but for us young’uns our Young Scot cards mean the whole of Scotland is our free oyster. Escape the city by hopping on a bus to Loch Lomond, Dunkeld, or even further north for the extra-keen adventurer. 

Enjoy Glasgow’s green space

Now that the TRNSMT-goers have evacuated Glasgow Green, it’s time to reclaim your picnic spot and soak up the last of the summer weather. As one of the greenest cities in the UK, whether you’re into park strolls, tanning sessions, or just lying dramatically in the grass thinking about your dissertation, there’s a green space nearby for you. Kelvingrove Park is a student staple: Bring a disposable BBQ, a speaker, and loads of snacks and you’re sorted.  

Okay fine… one day at the Edinburgh Fringe 

I know, I know: This guide is all about not giving in to the Edinburgh Fringe madness. But let’s be real – one day won’t kill you. In fact, it might be the perfect way to get it out of your system. The train from Glasgow Queen Street and 900 Citylink bus are cheap and efficient, and there are loads of free and pay-what-you-want shows if you plan ahead. Check out the Free Fringe and Just the Tonic programmes for some low-budget gems or just wander the Royal Mile and soak up the chaos. 

Once you’ve had your cultural fill, enjoy a pint in one of the city’s pop-up beer gardens or food truck spots. Then hastily return to Glasgow for some well-earned peace. 

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