GLASGOW’S WEST END

From: Monday 01 January 2007  To: Friday 31 December 2010

If your style icon is Carrie Bradshaw, Glasgow's ultra-trendy West End offers some of the best vintage shopping outside of Manhattan. Students from the nearby University rub shoulders with hip, urban professionals; a sophisticated but quirky mix that is reflected in the vast array of shops and bars found here. Easily reached from the city centre, Byres Road is in the heart of the action, with treasure troves like Starry Starry Night, Moon and Felix and Oscar within a few minutes walk of each other. De Courcy's Arcade is the place to head if you fancy some specialist shopping - this quaint little arcade houses a brilliant range of boutiques, selling everything from records to retro clothing.

Shopping for the home? Make sure you pop into Timorous Beasties, the store that's famous for making wallpaper cool again. Check out the fabulous range of textiles and fabrics from Glasgow duo McAuley and Simmons - it's their only outlet outside of New York.  And don't pass by Galletly and Tubbs, an exceptional lifestyle store in nearby Great Western Road. From one-off pieces of furniture to exceptional gifts, there's bound to be something that takes your fancy.

Of course Glasgow's West End isn't just famous for its fantastic shops. The area is choc-a-bloc with friendly pubs and first-rate restaurants. Take a stroll down Ashton Lane, tucked quietly away behind Byres Road. It's a quaint cobbled street filled with lively bars and exceptional eateries - an early evening drink here is highly recommended before heading back to the hotel.