Best live music venues near our campuses

Live music lovers unite! Our campuses are a mere hop, skip and a jump away from some of the most exciting live music venues. From stadiums to ballrooms, there’s something for every music fan at UWS. Check out our recommendations of the best places to enjoy live music in and around our campuses. 

The Bungalow, Paisley

The Bungalow is an independent live music venue in the heart of Paisley Town Centre. Based in Shuttle Street, The Bungalow has supported big names early in their careers including Paolo Nutini, Jerry Rafferty and Frightened Rabbit. Check out what’s on at The Bungalow's Facebook page.

 

An exterior shot of The Bungalow music venue, Paisley

Paisley Arts Centre

Paisley Arts Centre is one of Scotland's most exciting venues for comedy, live music and theatre. Housed in the Old Laigh Kirk, the centre has reopened following a spectacular refurbishment. Check out their website for a full programme of upcoming events. 

 

Venue38, Ayr

Venue38 is Ayr's largest music and events space. A platform for grassroots music, Venue38 hosts all types of live music from club nights to rock music. They've also just been named 'Entertainment Venue of the Year 2024/25' at the Scottish Prestige Awards. Check out what events are happening at Venue38. 

Barrowland Ballroom, Glasgow

As the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow is home to some of the world’s most iconic live music venues. And nowhere is more iconic than the neon lights of the Barrowland Ballroom in the city’s east end. Legendary bands have played here, including Oasis, David Bowie and Metallica. It's a music bucket list item that you absolutely must tick. 

 

Exterior shot of the Barrowland Ballroom neon sign lit up at night

The OVO Hydro, Glasgow

Gie it laldy. The OVO Hydro is the largest entertainment venue in Scotland. Since opening in 2013, it's hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Taylor Swift, The Killers and Billie Eilish. Located in trendy Finnieston, there's many a bar and restaurant to dine in before heading to your gig. Find out what’s on at OVO Hydro’s website.

 

Interior of The OVO Hydro music arena with a music performer on the stage surrounded by crowds of people

 

Blog written by UWS Digital and Marketing Team | January 2025

Last updated: 06/01/2025