Neighbourhood Watch: Best Areas to Stay in Glasgow Near Commonwealth Games Venues

Planning your stay for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow? Choosing the right neighbourhood can make all the difference. Whether you’re prioritising walking distance to venues, vibrant local culture, or affordable train connections, this detailed guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Glasgow near Games venues – plus which neighbourhoods to avoid.

Planning accommodation? Read:
– Where to Stay in Glasgow for the Games
– Budget vs Luxury Accommodation Close to Games Venues

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City Centre: Merchant City, Cowcaddens & Anderston

Best for: Quick venue access, nightlife, and walkability

Glasgow’s city centre is ideal for visitors who want to stay close to most venues, public transport links, and entertainment.

• Merchant City – Trendy, walkable and filled with cafés, cocktail bars, boutiques, and art spaces. Ideal for foodies and first-timers.
• Cowcaddens – Quieter but close to Buchanan Bus Station and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. Perfect for those attending indoor sports events.
• Anderston – Near the SSE Hydro and Clyde Auditorium. Ideal for shows, ceremonies, and events along the river.

Transport: Excellent subway, bus, and train links.
Walkability: High – most venues, restaurants, and fan zones are nearby.
Note: Accommodation here may be pricier due to demand.

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East End: Glasgow Green, Bridgeton, Dalmarnock & Parkhead

Best for: Staying near Emirates Arena, Velodrome and Celtic Park

The East End is home to many key venues and will be buzzing during the Games. It’s also close to Glasgow Green, one of the main fan zone locations.

• Glasgow Green – Calm and leafy, yet close to the action.
• Bridgeton – Authentic and residential, with direct access to the Emirates Arena and Velodrome.
• Dalmarnock – Offers train connections and is just a few minutes from key events.
• Parkhead – Home to Celtic Park, perfect for football lovers or ceremonies.

Transport: Served by low-cost rail and bus routes.
Walkability: High to moderate depending on the venue.
Note: Bridgeton and Dalmarnock are undergoing regeneration; safety is improving but stay alert at night.

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Southside: Mount Florida, Govanhill, Crosshill & Langside

Best for: Attending athletics, ceremonies and escaping the city centre rush

This area gives you access to Hampden Park and quieter neighbourhood vibes.

• Mount Florida – Closest to Hampden Park, making it perfect for track and field fans.
• Govanhill – Culturally rich with great food options, popular with younger travellers.
• Crosshill – Calm and convenient, ideal for families.
• Langside – Slightly further out, but offers village charm with easy train access.

Transport: Mount Florida Station connects directly to Glasgow Central.
Walkability: Very high for Hampden Park; moderate for other venues.
Note: Govanhill is vibrant but can feel gritty in parts – ideal for adventurous travellers.

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West End: Finnieston, Partick, Hillhead & Kelvinbridge

Best for: Culture, food, nightlife and weekend explorers

While not right next to Games venues, Glasgow’s West End offers a memorable local experience.

• Finnieston – Glasgow’s food capital, just west of the Hydro and SECC.
• Partick – Major transport interchange with great pubs and local shops.
• Hillhead & Kelvinbridge – Full of cafés, record stores, and the famous Kelvingrove Museum.

Transport: Subway and train routes connect easily to the city centre.
Walkability: Moderate; best for SECC-related events.
Note: Slightly longer commutes for those attending East End or Hampden Park events.

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Nearby Towns Connected by Train

Paisley

• Commute time: 15–20 minutes
• Why stay here? More affordable than Glasgow, with direct trains to the city centre. Good for budget travellers who don’t mind a commute.
• Booking tip: Check Booking.com, Trip.com, or Tripadvisor for early deals.

Clydebank

• Commute time: 15 minutes
• Why stay here? Small-town feel, budget-friendly and well-connected by ScotRail.
• Consideration: Limited nightlife, so plan to return early.

Hamilton & Motherwell

• Commute time: 20–30 minutes
• Why stay here? Great for those seeking peace and quiet. Train travel adds up, so consider weekly passes.

East Kilbride

• Commute time: 30–40 minutes
• Why stay here? Good for longer stays or families wanting a quieter base.
• Transport tip: Buses are more frequent than trains from this area.

Need help with routes? Read:
Navigating Glasgow Transport During the Games
How to Get Around Glasgow on a Budget

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Areas to Avoid for the Commonwealth Games

While Glasgow is generally safe and welcoming, not all areas are ideal for visitors attending a high-energy event like the Commonwealth Games.

• Remote suburbs like Bearsden, Milngavie or Newton Mearns – Beautiful, but too far from Games venues with slower transport links.
• Industrial or commercial zones near the outskirts – Lack amenities, atmosphere, and walkable streets.
• Parts of Possilpark, Easterhouse or Govan – While these areas are undergoing change, they may feel unfamiliar for tourists and are better suited for experienced or local travellers.

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Final Tips

• Choose proximity over price if attending events daily.
• Train costs add up – if staying outside the city, factor in £5–£10 per day for return travel.
• Pre-book accommodation early on Booking.com, GetYourGuide, or Trip.com to lock in Games-time prices.

Don’t miss:
Ultimate Glasgow Commonwealth Games Travel Guide
Top Cafés & Pubs Near Commonwealth Games Stadiums
Best Family-Friendly Activities in Glasgow