Living in Hillhead
A wonderful neighbourhood that's located in the heart of the city's West End, Hillhead is understandably popular with all sections of the community. While it's rightly regarded as one of the more fashionable neighbourhoods of Glasgow, it's also home to a sizable student population. If you're new to the city and you're looking to make a home in its very heartbeat, this could be the place for you.
The University of Glasgow is located nearby, having moved here back in 1870, and student properties abound throughout Hillhead and the surrounding areas. With more than 26,000 students enrolled every year, the clamour for flats and houses as term-time approaches can be rather hectic. The main Gilmorehill Campus is just a short walk away from Hillhead's Subway station.
Getting from A to B in the centre of the city is easy if you use the Subway. It runs on a loop to the north and south of the River Clyde, stopping at 15 strategically placed stations along the way. It's estimated that around 35,000 people use the network on a daily basis, although even at peak times travel is still relatively comfortable for the many students, office workers and professionals.
Anyone who's living in Glasgow Harbour, Hillhead or Kelvingrove will already know about the iconic buildings which can be found throughout the area. They include the beautifully laid out George Square, the dramatic Glasgow Central railway station, the ultra-modern Riverside Museum and, perhaps the most celebrated of all, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
This wonderful landmark is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the whole of Scotland, and it's located right on the doorstep of Hillhead's residents. Among the many artists whose works adorn the walls you'll find Monet, Renoir, van Gogh and Dali. The Hunterian Art Gallery is also nearby in University Avenue, while the Centre for Contemporary Arts in Sauchiehall Street is also within easy reach.
Get away from it all in no time
While the majority of Hillhead consists of built-up areas, there are also several green spaces to be found nearby. They include the impeccable Kelvingrove Park, which offers plenty of activities and also provides a vital breathing space in the centre of a busy city. Glasgow Botanic Gardens, featuring the must-see Kibble Palace, is also to be found in the West End.
Many people who seek flats to rent in Glasgow want to find a home that's close to gyms and health clubs, and there is a huge selection in and around Hillhead. For those who would rather exercise in the open air, the tree-lined avenues are particularly attractive. And it's worth remembering that there are many delightful cycling and jogging routes which straddle the River Kelvin as well as the Clyde.
One of the more pleasing aspects of life in Hillhead is the fact that a number of impressive live music venues are within easy reach. They include the O2 Academy Glasgow just across the river and, closer to home, the O2 ABC Glasgow, which is in Sauchiehall Street. The city's Royal Concert Hall is in the same road, and is primarily associated with classical music performances.
There are several theatres and cinemas in the centre of Glasgow, and all of them are within easy reach of those who live in Hillhead. The Glasgow Film Theatre in Rose Street is a particular favourite, as is the city's Theatre Royal in Hope Street. Even closer to home is Cottiers, a restaurant, bar and theatre that's housed in a converted church in Hyndland Street.
It's important to investigate localised healthcare facilities when you are looking for houses to rent in Glasgow, and the good news for those who choose Hillhead is that several good options are open to them. They include the Barclay Medical Practice in Hillhead Road and the Northcote Surgery in Victoria Circus. Nearby hospitals include Gartnavel General and, just south of the Clyde, the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
The rest of Scotland is within easy reach
While the majority of residents will be working or studying in and around the local area, it should be noted that it's easy for motorists to get from Hillhead to the outer suburbs of the city and out towards the rest of Scotland. The A379 road runs north to south here, and it provides a vital link with the M8 motorway, the speediest route from Glasgow to Edinburgh.
There are a number of highly rated schools in the West End of Glasgow, so it's reassuring to know that parents of young children will have a good selection to choose from. Hillhead Primary School in Otago Street is a popular choice, while for older pupils there is Hillhead High School in Oakfield Avenue, just to the north of the university's main campus.
Getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city is easy, and those who venture out for the day will be rewarded by some stunning views. Hill-walking to the north of Glasgow is understandably popular, and the spectacular Loch Lomond is less than 20 miles away. Just nine miles from Hillhead you'll find the tranquil pathways of the Mugdock Country Park.
If you're looking to be close to the epicentre of a wonderful city yet remain within easy reach of rural life, Hillhead could be the ideal choice to match your needs. Have a chat today with the experts from Citylets and we can point you towards a wonderful selection of highly impressive properties.
