Visitors to Glasgow are being encouraged to step away from the city’s best-known attractions and explore the hidden corners of the West End.
David Deans, who has spent 11 years with Papercup coffee on Great Western Road, says some of the city’s most interesting discoveries can be found by wandering down its quieter streets and alleyways.
The coffee shop, which serves speciality coffee and brunch, has become part of the local community, with Deans describing the area as a place where businesses and customers have built lasting relationships.
He said visitors should take time to explore beyond familiar destinations such as the Botanic Gardens, Byres Road and the city’s museums.
“After you’ve had your breakfast and your coffee, take another coffee. And go on to the side streets,” he said.
Deans recommended exploring Otago Lane and the lesser-known paths beside the River Kelvin, where visitors can discover parts of Glasgow they might otherwise miss.
He also shared an unusual local story he had only recently discovered himself — the reported burial site of a circus elephant near Gibson Street.
Even after years of working in the area, Deans said there were still new things to uncover, encouraging visitors to ask local businesses for recommendations and seek out places beyond the usual tourist routes.
“There’s so much that’s just off the beaten track that you don’t see,” he said.
For Deans, discovering the city is about being curious rather than simply following a guidebook.
“All the little alleyways, just follow a sign, be curious,” he said.
“And you’ll find the best parts of Glasgow that way.”