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Every year, Time Out editors take it upon themselves to find the coolest neighbourhoods in the world. It’s no easy task. To be ‘cool’, a neighbourhood’s got to have unique local businesses, a strong sense of community, places to go out at night and great food and drink options.
We scoured the globe and found creative communities in Morocco, artsy hubs in Colombia, hip quarters in Italy and thriving districts in Bangkok. And for 2026, one British neighbourhood featured in the top five: Govanhill in Glasgow. It placed fifth on the list.
In the past, Govanhill has largely been known for being ‘Shawlands’ rougher little sibling’. But in recent years, the low cost of rent has meant that artists and writers have flocked there and launched dozens of exciting new businesses and community hubs. Time Out contributing writer and Glasgow local Annie McNamee wrote: ‘Gen Z are migrating from West End bars and brunch spots to trendy new spots in Govanhill, injecting this once-overlooked sandstone suburb with quirkiness and energy.’
To make the most of a day in Govanhill, Annie suggests starting with a proper Scottish fry-up at ‘unassuming greasy spoon’ Fulton’s, then picking up a coffee from Jeju Baked Goods. She also shouts out Burning House Books (which has previously been named among the best independent stores in the world), Errol’s Hot Pizza and pubs the Bell Jar and the Rose Reilly (one of Britain’s top boozers) to finish the night. As you wander Govanhill’s pavements, you’ll also come across Glasgow Zine Library, bar and community space Adrian’s and queer bookshop Category is Books.
Annie adds that the influx of new, trendy spots hasn’t come at the expense of Govanhill’s longstanding diversity. She said: ‘Thankfully the area, which has been Glasgow’s most diverse for a century, hasn’t lost its background amongst all the hype. On Victoria Road alone, you’ll still find Irish pubs, Pakistani and Indian restaurants, and even a Transylvanian shop. This welcoming ethos is Glasgow at its best.’
The other UK neighbourhoods on this year’s Coolest Neighbourhoods ranking were the Cathedral Quarter in Belfast at 24 and Newington Green in London at 33.
Explore the World’s Coolest Neighbourhoods for 2026 here.
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