Paisley Overview
Paisley is nicknamed “Scotland’s largest town” even though it is the fifth largest human settlement in Scotland, it also has not gained city status yet and is sill known as a town. Paisley has a rich history and a very cultured present and future, the town has been shortlisted for the UK City of Culture 2021, this means it is a great place to live and study as well as everyone in the town being nice and respectful to different cultures. In the heart of the town you will find the Paisley Abbey, the Abbey is over 800 years old and has been a talking point of the town for many years, it is free to enter so make sure you go and have a look around. Paisley was transformed by the industrial revolution which catapulted the economy during the 18th and 19th century. The main industry in Paisley during these times was the textiles industry and you will still be able to see the decommissioned mills dotted around the town, some of the mills have now been turned into museums. Paisley is also the home to Scotland’s oldest observatory; the Thomas Coats observatory is free to enter during the winter months so that you can come see the night sky during telescope viewing sessions. There are two different shopping centres located in the town with both of them offering a wide range of discount especially for students, just outside the shopping centres you will find independent boutiques and high street shops.
Escape Paisley
Glasgow is a short drive to the east of the town, Glasgow is a great place to visit with a plethora of activities to do, there is also lots of restaurants, bars, clubs and cafes so that you won’t be bored when you visit this great city. To the west is Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, here you will find clearly marked walking and cycling paths mixed in with some very beautiful scenery. This is a great place to visit during the summer months and is perfect for those of you who want to escape the stresses of university life for a day.
Transport in Paisley
A ten-minute drive north of Paisley is Glasgow Airport where you can get international flights to many different countries as well as major cities in the UK. Running through the town is the M8 motorway which links Paisley with Edinburgh (Scotland’s capital), from there you can get direct trains and national coach services to most parts of the UK. Once you are on the M8 you will be able to travel on the national motorway network linking you to all parts of the UK.
