Catch the hottest deals at the best shopping centres in Glasgow!
I’ve always loved wandering around shopping centres. When I was younger, I’d tag along on weekend trips, admiring all the cool stuff—well, just admiring, since my allowance barely covered a snack, let alone anything from the fancy shop displays.
These days, it’s still one of my favourite ways to spend an afternoon, whether I’m browsing on my own or making a day of it with friends. And catching a huge discount? Easily one of the best feelings ever.
To help others have the same great shopping experience, I’ve put together a list of the best shopping centres in Glasgow. Let’s get right to it!
Princes Square by M
– Photo credit: princessquare
Website: https://princessquare.co.uk/
Address: Princes Square, 48 Buchanan St
Contact details: +44 141 221 0324
Operating hours:
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-FRI)
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SAT)
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (SUN)
Princes Square by M is one of my top picks whenever I’m in the mood for some retail therapy. I’ll admit, it’s got a bougie feel, so most of my visits end up being a good bit of window shopping.
It’s got a mix of high-end shops and independent boutiques, so there’s always something interesting to browse. Whether you’re after fashion, gifts, or just a wee treat for yourself, you’ll probably find it here.
Another cool thing about this place is its architecture. It’s been around since the 1840s, blending Victorian-era design with modern touches like intricate glasswork, sandstone, and elegant staircases.
Pro tip: If you fancy a cinema experience that’s a bit more special, Everyman Glasgow at Princes Square is the place to be. It’s not your typical cinema since it’s got luxury sofa seating, a stylish bar, and food and drinks served right to your seat.
St. Enoch Centre
– Photo credit: stenochcentre
Website: https://st-enoch.com/
Address: 55 St Enoch Sq
Contact details: +44 141 204 3900
Operating hours:
9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (MON-WED)
9:00 AM – 1:00 AM (THURS-SAT)
10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (SUN)
Another shopping centre that’s been a part of Glasgow for decades is St. Enoch Centre. It’s actually quite a decent hangout spot thanks to its longer-than-usual operating hours.
One of the coolest things about this place is that it used to be a railway station before transforming into a shopping centre. Its massive glass roof makes it instantly recognisable, earning it the nickname “The Glasgow Greenhouse.”
It has a decent mix of shops where you can buy clothing, toys, gadgets, and stationery. There are even a couple of restaurants here, like Burger King and Gloria Jeans Coffee, perfect for a quick break while shopping.
Pro tip: A lot of shops in St. Enoch Centre usually offer special deals and discounts to attract more customers. You can stay updated on the latest offers available by checking out this website.
Glasgow Fort
– Photo credit: glasgowfort
Website: https://www.glasgowfort.com/
Address: Junction 10, M8
Contact details: +44 141 771 7777
Operating hours:
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (MON-FRI)
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (SAT)
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SUN)
On days when I fancy some fresh air while shopping, Glasgow Fort is my go-to spot. It’s an open-air shopping centre you’ll find in Garthamlock, just off Junction 10 on the M8.
Opened in 2004, it was built on land that used to be part of Auchinlea Park and has expanded loads over the years. These days, it’s got a ton of shops, restaurants, and even a Vue Cinema.
Some might say getting here is a bit of a hassle, but I’d say it’s worth it. With its horseshoe-shaped layout, everything’s easy to find, and you never feel like you’re stuck indoors.
Pro tip: The quickest way to get to Glasgow Fort by public transport is to take the X19 bus from Thomas Graham Building in the city centre. It’s a direct route, running every 10 minutes, and gets you there in about 17 minutes.
If you prefer the train, ScotRail services can get you close, but you’ll need to hop on a bus for the final stretch.
Braehead Shopping Centre
– Photo credit: braeheadcentre
Website: https://www.braehead.co.uk/
Address: King’s Inch Rd, Renfrew G51 4BN
Contact details: +44 141 885 1441
Operating hours:
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (MON-FRI)
9:00 AM – 6:30 PM (SAT)
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SUN)
Braehead Shopping Centre sits in Renfrew, right on the western edge of the city. Since opening in 1999 on the old Braehead Power Station site, it has grown into one of Glasgow’s top retail spots, drawing 16 million visitors annually.
Even though my flat is a bit far from the mall, I still make an effort to visit here at least once a year. The modern, spacious layout makes it easy to wander through its 100+ shops without feeling overwhelmed.
But it’s not just about the shopping; the entertainment options here are just as good. Braehead Arena, right next door, hosts ice hockey and concerts, while XSite offers fun activities like laser tag and adventure golf, making it a good spot for a day out.
Pro tip: If you’re spending a good chunk of time at Braehead Shopping Centre, make use of their free WiFi to stay connected without eating up your data. Just search for “free wifi” in your settings, and you’re good to go.
And if your phone’s running low, Joos mobile charging units are available throughout the centre. You’ll find them at MenKind, Joules, Nando’s, and Boots, so you won’t have to worry about your battery dying mid-shopping spree.
Buchanan Galleries
– Photo credit: buchanangalleries
Website: https://www.buchanangalleries.co.uk/en
Address: 220 Buchanan St
Contact details: +44 141 333 9898
Operating hours:
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-SAT)
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SUN)
Buchanan Galleries has been a staple in Glasgow’s shopping scene since 1999, sitting right in the heart of the city. It’s got a solid mix of shops, from renowned brands to independent boutiques, making it good for a classic shopping experience.
What’s interesting is that it was designed to blend in with the nearby Royal Concert Hall, with its sandstone exterior and glass atriums, giving it an elegant feel. I’ve always liked how easy it is to navigate here since the layout is simple.
Another thing I appreciate about Buchanan Galleries is its great transport links. With Buchanan Bus Station and Glasgow Queen Street Station right next door, it’s easy for me to pop by whenever I need to pick something up after work.
Pro tip: Are you planning to shop at Buchanan Galleries often? Sign up for their PLUS+ Membership! It’s free to join and gives you access to exclusive offers, early event access, and first looks at new store openings.
The Forge Shopping Centre
– Photo credit: theforgeshoppingcentre
Website: https://forgeshopping.com/
Address: 1221 Gallowgate
Contact details: +44 141 556 6661
Operating hours:
8:30 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-SAT)
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SUN)
For those of you who live on the eastern side of Glasgow, The Forge Shopping Centre is one of my top recommendations. It’s got a bit of cool history because it was built on the old Parkhead Forge steelworks site.
What’s also nice is it has a simple, no-nonsense vibe that’s perfect for folks who just want to get their shopping done without the faff. There are over 70 shops here that sell a wide range of products, including clothes, beauty products, and gadgets.
Another good feature of this shopping centre is its indoor market, which adds a proper community feel. Plus, with 1,600 parking spaces and solid public transport links, getting here is almost always hassle-free.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out their offers page every now and then! You’ll usually find some good deals here, from big discounts to “Buy One, Take One” promos that’ll keep your wallet loaded.
The Avenue Shopping Centre
– Photo credit: avenue_shopping
Website: https://www.avenueshopping.co.uk/
Address: off School Rd, Capelrig Rd, Newton Mearns
Contact details: +44 141 639 5926
Operating hours:
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON, TUES, WED, FRI, and SAT)
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (THURS)
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (SUN)
I find the Avenue Shopping Centre to be a solid spot for a relaxed shopping trip away from the city’s usual bustle. You’ll find it in Newton Mearns, which is just a 20-minute drive from the city centre.
The best thing about it is that it’s compact, easy to navigate, and has free parking, which makes popping in hassle-free. It’s the kind of place where you can grab what you need without spending half the day wandering around a massive mall.
Despite its small size, there are plenty of familiar brands here, like Asda and Marks & Spencer. There are also some good restaurants and cafes, making this place a nice spot for a quiet, relaxing lunch with no distractions.
Pro tip: If you’re driving an electric vehicle, The Avenue Shopping Centre has EV charging units located in the M&S car park. They’re available from 8 AM to 10 PM, but keep in mind there’s a four-hour maximum parking limit.
They also have a car wash and valet service in the lower Asda car park, open from 9 AM to 6 PM.
Clyde Shopping Centre
– Photo credit: clydeshoppingcentre
Website: https://www.clyde-shoppingcentre.co.uk/
Address: 170 Kilbowie Rd, Clydebank G81 2UA
Contact details: +44 141 952 4594
Operating hours:
9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (MON, TUES, WED, FRI, and SAT)
9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (THURS)
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (SUN)
Clyde Shopping Centre is a spot I visit often, especially when meeting up with friends. It’s been around since the late 1970s and has a solid mix of big-name stores and local shops worth checking out.
You’ll find familiar brands like O2, Primark, and TJ Hughes, along with plenty of restaurants. There’s even a multiplex cinema here, so we often stop by to catch the latest blockbusters.
Another reason my friends and I like meeting here is its proximity to Clydebank’s attractions, like Dumbarton Castle. Furthermore, with Singer Train Station nearby, getting here is always easy.
Pro tip: In case you don’t have the time for a classic shopping trip, Clyde Shopping Centre has a Click-and-Collect service that lets you order online and pick up your items when it suits you. You can find out which of their stores offer this service on this website.