Down the road from Glasgow, Paisley has a stylish history, from namesake textiles to the second-highest concentration of listed buildings in Scotland.
Paisley is a historical and cultural city, which has a very friendly feel about it. It is an old city, yet has modern buildings, shops, and facilities too. The abbey is beautiful and is open to the public. The university is centrally located, and has easy access to all amenities. (Second year student, Highland Theological College UHI)
What Paisley's famous for...
Alien at The Abbey
Not all 12th century abbeys feature a tribute to sci-fi classic, Alien. The story goes that a stonemason had some fun with the abbey’s gargoyles while restoring them.
Paisley nightlife, according to students
All the main pubs and clubs are found right next to the uni, around Shuttle Street. My regular places are The Lane or Hashtag, which both have a great atmosphere and cheap drinks. You could have a great night here, but if you want a bigger night out, Vienna's and Fantoosh are alright too. Not quite up to Glasgow standards, but it's cheaper and still great. Going to Glasgow and back is easy enough for a night out too. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Stylish threads
Paisley made its name around the world as a textile titan. Its distinctive teardrop motif has been sported by royalty and celebrities alike.
Paisley nightlife, according to students
Paisley has pubs everywhere. There is a concentration of bars around the university, conveniently. There’s a student bar a two-minute walk up the hill, beside the library. Burger and Keg puts on live music every week, as well as a pub quiz once a week. You can pick up your student discount card for B&K in freshers' week. There are (at least) two nightclubs within a five-minute walk of the university. If you want, you can go into Glasgow, and get the late bus back. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Famous 'buddies'
Those from Paisley are referred to as ‘Buddies’, and the town has a few famous ones, including actors David Tennant and Gerard Butler, and musician Paolo Nutini.
Student life in Paisley
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Low on cash
[My] personal favourite cheap food place is Castlevechi, which is a sit-in/takeaway chippy with the most friendly staff you'll meet. [It’s] owned and run by Paolo Nutini's family. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Treat yourself
I would definitely go for a night in Glasgow, and get a taxi back. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Friday night out
The Lane, Vienna's. Fantoosh, Hashtag Bar, [or] The Last Post. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Sunday chilling
Barshaw Park is nice for a walk. There's the Car Park in the Sky up the Braes – great views with the abbey, the river, the town hall etc. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
When family visit
Discover streams, waterfalls, woodland, and even some hairy cattle at Gleniffer Braes Country Park. A ten-minute drive from UWS campus, it's the perfect place for a hike, cycle, or picnic.
Feeling cultural
Paisley Abbey is free, as are all the museums in Paisley and Glasgow. (Third year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Catch up with mates
There is an excellent comic book shop, which is also a cafe, beside the train station with a variety of board games to play. There are pubs everywhere, [and] a multitude of coffee shops. (Third year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Grab a bite
Jam Jar is great for dinner, as they aren't too expensive, and have great food. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Living in Paisley
Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.
Where you'll find students
Local transport
- Weekly ticket: £26.70
- First Group FirstWeek – Network Student ticket
- Bus
Living in Paisley, according to students
George Street is pretty decent. It's near uni, and as a third year STEM student, that's more important than what the neighbourhood is like. (Third year student, University of the West of Scotland)
Student money tips
There are some car parks around Paisley centre that have free parking for three hours after 10:00, and it's very cheap if you want to stay longer too. (Second year student, University of the West of Scotland)
The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
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