The winter season of Glasgow varies by a combination of windy gusts, unpredictable rainfall, and sometimes beautiful snowfall. At first, adjusting to this cold weather can be intimidating for you as a new student, especially if you are not used to colder climates. Still, with a few smart adjustments, you'll discover that Glasgow's winter is not only tolerable but also charming in itself. In this blog, with my experience with dressing appropriately and adopting a warm indoor lifestyle, I will share some tips for adjusting to Glasgow's chilly climate.

Understanding how to dress appropriately is the first step in navigating Glasgow's winter. The secret is layering; a single thick garment is not nearly as good at trapping heat as several thin layers. I prefer leggings and thermal tops, which are reasonably priced at shops like Primark or Tk-Maxx, that are great bases for your winter outfit. I protect myself from Glasgow's regular rain by wearing a good-quality waterproof jacket. It’s worth it to spend money on winter accessories like scarves, hats, and gloves; they give your outfits a stylish touch while also providing warmth.

View across Kelvingrove Park bowling greens in the winter

Footwear is also another important component. During the winter, Glasgow's streets get wet, icy, and slippery, so having boots that are waterproof and non-slip is essential. Although trainers may be cozy, they won't keep your feet dry and warm on chilly mornings or during unexpected downpours. If your shoes do get wet, they can be dried out overnight by packing them with newspaper and placing them next to a radiator. One of my Scottish friends told me about this hack, and I use it a lot. Drying without using paper will make your room walls mouldy.

When it comes to managing indoor warmth, there are a few simple tips that I use and have a big impact. It's always better to check your heating system if it’s working well before the start of the winter. As it happened with me in my accommodation, I didn’t check it before the winter and when I needed it, the maintenance work took a week to fix it. When the heating is on, it’s better to keep your windows closed to keep the heat inside your room. I also recommend investing in a hot water bottle for added comfort; it's ideal for warming your bed or keeping your hands warm while studying and would recommend it to you.

Nothing beats the winter like a hearty meal. There are numerous cafes around the city that offer perfect spots to enjoy a warm drink and take shelter from the chill. I also love wintertime staples like soups and stews because they are simple to prepare and highly nutritious. You may get warm quickly with a cup of homemade lentil soup, tomato bisque, or a tasty vegetable stew. But if you’re short on time or don’t know how to make soups, Glasgow’s supermarkets and cafes provide a nice range of premade soups that you can quickly reheat.

Finally, I would say that don’t forget to take care of your mental well-being during the shorter, darker days of winter. Winter's shorter days with fewer sunlight may be exhausting at times, so I've come to realize how important it is to look after my mental health. On sunny days, I try to go outside, even if it's only for a little stroll. If you live near campus, taking a walk in Kelvingrove Park or by the River Kelvin may improve your state of mind. The winter frost covering the grass and trees adds an extra touch of beauty to the scenery, making these outings even more special.

View from student accommodation window in winter

First published: 29 January 2025

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