Living in Shawlands
Located just a couple of miles south of the River Clyde, Shawlands is a popular area which offers something to suit all tastes. The population here represents a healthy mix of both professionals and students, with both the University of Glasgow and the centre of the city itself within easy reach for drivers, cyclists and commuters.
Glasgow has an excellent public transport network which enables locals and visitors to get from A to B with relative ease. Shawlands is to the south of the city's Subway system, with Cessnock station a couple of miles to the north. Overground stations can be found at Shawlands, Crossmyloof and Pollokshaws East, all of which offer direct links to Glasgow Central.
For motorists, Scotland's network of motorways can be accessed just to the north and west of Shawlands via the M8, M77 and M74 motorways. Traffic in the local area, like much of Glasgow itself, is driver-friendly outside of the main peak hours. The main A77 road offers drivers an easy route south-west to the Irish Sea ferry port of Stranraer.
Plenty to see, plenty to do
Anyone who's living in Govanhill or Shawlands will know they're never too far away from the bright lights of Glasgow's exciting city centre, although it should be pointed out that plenty of good times can be found locally. There are some excellent pubs, bars and restaurants in the area, including several which are located on Kilmarnock Road and Pollokshaws Road.
There are a great many flats to rent in Shawlands, from cosy studio apartments to larger properties with two or more bedrooms. While the main streets here tend to be pleasantly busy in the evenings, the side streets are quiet and peaceful, making them perfect for families with young children.
Another reason for the popularity of Shawlands among parents is the proximity of some excellent educational options. Langside Primary School in Tantallon Road is well-liked among the local community, as is Shawlands Primary and St Conval's RC Primary. For older children, Shawlands Academy, Hillpark Secondary and Hutcheson's Grammar are all viable options.
Student-friendly, professional-friendly, everybody-friendly
There are several opportunities for further education in the area. The Langside Campus of Glasgow Clyde College is to be found at nearby Prospecthill Road, while the main campus of the well-respected University of Glasgow, an institution that provides top quality academic opportunities to more than 25,000 students on an annual basis, is just five miles away.
A significant proportion of the houses to rent in Shawlands are occupied by incoming students, although of course there are many more which are let out to families. This particular neighbourhood is understandably regarded as one of the nicest in all of Glasgow, and this popularity is partly due to the pleasant combination of city streets and wide open spaces.
Finding tranquil greenery is easy in and around Shawlands. There are several parks and gardens to choose from here, including the highly popular Queen's Park. Bellahouston Park is located to the north-west while just a mile or two to the west you'll find the celebrated Pollok Country Park with Pollok House, an iconic Edwardian country house, in its centre.
Time to enjoy some sporting action
The streets and parks around Shawlands offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy a gentle jog or a picturesque cycle ride. For those who prefer something a little more structured, there are several gyms and health clubs in the area. Football enthusiasts are able to see plenty of action nearby, with Ibrox Stadium, Celtic Park and Hampden Park all within easy reach.
As you might expect from a large city, there are many other superb sporting venues to be enjoyed here. Rugby Union side Glasgow Warriors play at the Scotstoun Stadium just over the river, while the Commonwealth Arena and the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome are just to the east of Shawlands at Dalmarnock. No wonder flats to rent in Glasgow are so popular with sports fans.
Shawlands and the surrounding areas are well-served by healthcare options. Doctors can be found at a number of locations, including Waverley Park Medical Practice, Shawlands Surgery and at nearby Pollokshaws Medical Centre. There are also a number of hospitals within easy reach, such as the New Victoria in Grange Road and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to the north-west.
One of the most pleasing aspects of life in Shawlands is that it's an area with something to suit all tastes. It manages to keep a balance of lively and peaceful, of contemporary and traditional and of urban and rural. If you are currently thinking about renting a delightful house or flat in the area, you need to be speaking to the genuine experts. Here at Citylets, we know all about Shawlands, and will be happy to discuss your needs, so give us a call today.
