Towards the east end of Glasgow, Barras Market has been operating since the early 20th century and is a complete contrast to the sleek modernity of the Style Mile. Passing under its towering metal gate you'll find yourself amid an array of old fashioned market stalls selling everything from vintage clothes to home-made sweets – you might even have your fortune read, if you dare. Even if you don't buy a thing, just ambling around, chatting to the colorful characters and veteran sellers makes for a lively and memorable day out in Glasgow.
Argyle Street
Glasgow's epic shopping thoroughfare, Argyle Street is where you'll find the major outposts of well-known high street stores. Expect massive, multi-level shopping experiences and bustling crowds, although there are plenty of nooks and side streets to seek refuge in, where smaller shops await. One example is Argyll Arcade – note the different spelling – which is where numerous jewellers call home. In this warren of genteel and high-end shops, windows gleam and glitter with engagement rings, watches and other treasures.
Buchanan Street
Decked with elegant Victorian buildings, Buchanan Street is another of Glasgow’s primary shopping destinations. From well-known fashion brands to footwear and beauty shops, Buchanan Street is a busy hive of activity where a lot of the city’s high-end retailers can be found. Towards one end of the street stands the Buchanan Galleries shopping mall, resplendent with a collection of popular high street retailers as well as smaller specialist stores. As night falls, the street is bathed in dazzling electric-blue streetlights, making it an atmospheric area to end your shopping spree and refuel in the surrounding bars and restaurants.
Merchant Square
Merchant Square is a quaint, historic oasis in the city centre, and on most weekends it offers a relaxing environment to peruse smaller craft stalls. Whether you need a special gift for your loved ones, or a unique trinket to remember your trip by, you can wander around its historic walkways receiving the most personal shopping experience in Glasgow. When you’re finished for the day, you can drop the shopping bags and savour a range of craft ales and authentic Scottish cuisine in one of Merchant Square's many bars and restaurants.
