Glasgow’s Southside is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities and attractions that perfectly complement your visit to Fun Street. This comprehensive guide explores the best the area has to offer, from parks and museums to libraries and community centres, helping you plan the perfect family day out in this vibrant part of Glasgow.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces 🌳
The Southside boasts some of Glasgow’s most beautiful green spaces, perfect for before or after your Fun Street visit.
Pollok Country Park
Glasgow’s largest park offers extensive family activities:
•Woodland Walks: Miles of accessible paths through ancient woodlands
•Pollok House: Historic house with beautiful gardens
•Adventure Playground: Modern play equipment for various ages
•Highland Cattle: The famous fold of highland cows
•Riverside Trails: Scenic walks along the White Cart Water
Bellahouston Park
A versatile outdoor space with various attractions:
•Play Areas: Multiple playgrounds for different age groups
•Sports Facilities: Including tennis courts and pitch and putt
•House for an Art Lover: Mackintosh-designed building with family activities
•Walled Garden: Beautiful enclosed garden space
•Open Spaces: Perfect for picnics and games
Queen’s Park
A Victorian park with excellent facilities:
•Glasshouse: Tropical plants and fish pond
•Boating Pond: Seasonal boating opportunities
•Play Area: Modern playground equipment
•Sports Facilities: Tennis courts and bowling greens
•Viewpoint: Panoramic views of Glasgow from the flagpole
Cultural Attractions 🏛️
The Southside offers rich cultural experiences suitable for families.
Burrell Collection
Recently reopened after extensive renovation:
•Family-Friendly Exhibits: Engaging displays for all ages
•Interactive Elements: Hands-on learning opportunities
•Children’s Trails: Guided routes designed for younger visitors
•Family Events: Regular workshops and activities
•Accessible Design: Suitable for buggies and wheelchairs
Scotland Street School Museum
Charles Rennie Mackintosh-designed former school:
•Victorian Classroom: Experience education from the past
•History of Education: Engaging exhibits about schooling through the ages
•Hands-On Activities: Interactive learning experiences
•Family Events: Regular themed activities during holidays
•Architecture: Beautiful Mackintosh design elements throughout
House for an Art Lover
Art and design in a family-friendly setting:
•Art Workshops: Regular sessions for children and families
•Heritage Garden: Beautiful outdoor space to explore
•Exhibition Spaces: Changing displays of art and design
•Studio Pavilion: Contemporary art space with family events
•Café: Child-friendly refreshment options
Libraries and Learning 📚
The Southside’s excellent library network offers more than just books.
Pollokshaws Library
A hub for family learning:
•Children’s Section: Extensive collection of books for all ages
•Storytelling Sessions: Regular events for younger children
•Homework Clubs: Support for school-age children
•Family Activities: Craft sessions and special events
•Digital Resources: Computers and internet access
Govanhill Library
Community-focused library with diverse offerings:
•Multilingual Resources: Books in various community languages
•Rhymetime Sessions: For babies and toddlers
•Craft Activities: Regular creative sessions
•Reading Challenges: Seasonal reading promotions
•Community Events: Family-oriented cultural celebrations
Sports and Recreation ⚽
Active families will find plenty of options in the Southside.
Bellahouston Sports Centre
Comprehensive sports facilities:
•Swimming Pool: Lessons and family swim sessions
•Sports Halls: Various activities and classes
•Fitness Classes: Including family-friendly options
•Holiday Programmes: Structured activities during school breaks
•Outdoor Facilities: Tennis courts and more
Pollok Football Centre
Football-focused facility:
•Coaching Sessions: Age-appropriate training
•Mini Leagues: Competitive opportunities for children
•Casual Play: Book pitches for family kickabouts
•Holiday Camps: Intensive football experiences during school breaks
•All-Weather Pitches: Play regardless of typical Glasgow weather
Rainy Day Activities ☔
Glasgow’s changeable weather means indoor options are essential.
Silverburn Shopping Centre
Where Fun Street is located:
•Cinema: Family films and special screenings
•Bowling: Family-friendly bowling lanes
•Restaurants: Multiple child-friendly dining options
•Shopping: Stores catering to family needs
•Seasonal Events: Special activities during holidays
Flip Out Glasgow
Trampoline park for energetic children:
•Trampolines: Supervised bouncing for various ages
•Soft Play: Areas for younger children
•Ninja Warrior Course: Challenge-based activities
•Foam Pit: Safe landing zone for tricks
•Café: Refreshments and viewing area for parents
Family-Friendly Eateries 🍽️
The Southside offers numerous dining options suitable for families.
Within Silverburn
Convenient options during your Fun Street visit:
•Food Court: Multiple quick-service options
•Family Restaurants: Sit-down dining with children’s menus
•Erina’s Kitchen: Fun Street’s own restaurant offering quality food options as described on our website
Local Neighbourhood Cafés
Community spots welcoming to families:
•Southside Cafés: Independent coffee shops with child-friendly policies
•Play Cafés: Venues combining refreshments with play areas
•Garden Centres: Several with excellent cafés and outdoor play
Seasonal Events 🎭
The Southside calendar is filled with family-friendly events throughout the year.
School Holiday Activities
Structured fun during breaks:
•Library Programmes: Free activities at local libraries
•Park Events: Outdoor fun in Glasgow’s parks
•Museum Workshops: Special holiday sessions at cultural venues
•Sports Camps: Active options for energetic children
•Silverburn Events: Special activities within the shopping centre
Annual Festivals
Mark your calendar for these family highlights:
•Southside Fringe: Community arts festival with family elements
•Govanhill International Festival: Celebrating diversity with family activities
•Queens Park Arena Events: Outdoor performances suitable for families
•Christmas at Silverburn: Seasonal activities and decorations
•Summer in the Parks: Council-run activities in local green spaces
Transport and Accessibility 🚌
Getting around the Southside with children is straightforward with various options.
Public Transport
Family-friendly travel options:
•Bus Routes: Extensive network connecting Southside attractions
•Train Stations: Several stations serving different neighbourhoods
•Subway: Connecting to wider Glasgow network
•Family Tickets: Money-saving options for group travel
•Accessibility: Information on step-free access and facilities
Car Travel
For families preferring to drive:
•Parking at Silverburn: Free parking available as mentioned on the Fun Street website
•Park Facilities: Car parks at major parks and attractions
•Journey Planning: Suggested routes between attractions
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
What’s the best way to combine a Fun Street visit with other Southside attractions?
Plan your Fun Street session (1.5 hours as stated on our website) either before or after visiting nearby attractions. Silverburn’s location makes it easy to combine with Pollok Country Park or Bellahouston Park, both just a short drive away.
Are there any free activities in the Southside for families on a budget?
Yes, many! All public parks are free to enter, libraries offer free activities and borrowing, and many museums have free admission. The Burrell Collection and Scotland Street School Museum both offer free entry with just special exhibitions sometimes charging.
Which Southside attractions are best for toddlers?
For the youngest visitors, consider the toddler areas at Fun Street, story sessions at local libraries, the smaller play areas in Queens Park, and the family-friendly cafés with dedicated play spaces.
How accessible are Southside attractions for buggies and wheelchairs?
Silverburn Shopping Centre (including Fun Street) is fully accessible. Most major parks have accessible paths, though some historic attractions may have limited access. Always check specific venues’ websites for detailed accessibility information before visiting.
What indoor options are there in the Southside for very wet days?
Beyond Fun Street, consider the Burrell Collection, Scotland Street School Museum, local libraries, Silverburn’s other attractions, or one of the family-friendly cafés with indoor play facilities.
Glasgow’s Southside offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that make it the perfect area for a day out or even a full weekend of exploration. By combining your Fun Street visit with some of these local attractions, you can create memorable experiences that showcase the best this vibrant part of Glasgow has to offer.
Remember that seasonal events and opening hours may vary, so always check the latest information before planning your visit. Our Fun Street team is also happy to provide recommendations based on your family’s specific interests and the current season.
Looking to make your Fun Street visit even more special? Check out our Soft Play party packages for birthdays and celebrations.
Find Us 📍
Silverburn Shopping Centre
Barrhead Rd
Glasgow G53 6AG
United Kingdom
