Geek guide to Glasgow

Geek-Aboo is a popular geek hub in the city centre. They offer merch from movie and TV franchises, comics, tabletop games and video gaming gear. They also have a wide selection of anime merch and comics. Alongside their retail offering, they host various in-store events throughout the year - perfect for solo travellers looking for somewhere to meet others. Learn more about what’s coming up at Geek-Aboo.

Settlers has a similar offering in the southside. Once Lanarkshire’s premier games and comic book shop, they moved into the city in 2023 and have become the core of geek culture south of the Clyde. They also have an event space with regular pre-release events and social gatherings. View upcoming events and products at Settlers.

In the east end, Static Games sells a wide range of tabletop and board games, as well as basic merchandise like stickers and toys. They are one of the most popular destinations for trading card enthusiasts, with Pokemon fans regularly visiting the shop to boost their collections. Keep up to date on their Instagram.

Forbidden Planet is a homegrown Scottish business known for their large selections of comics and merch. They have shops across the UK, and their Glasgow branch is based on Sauchiehall Street. You can purchase merch in advance on their website to pick up when you are in Glasgow. They are a great option for blind boxes, posters and souvenirs to take home. Browse the selection at Forbidden Planet.

There are a number of great options for anime fans visiting Glasgow. Tokyo Toys on Union Street stocks merchandise, comics and Japanese snacks. Anime Gallery offer similar items and are based in the St Enoch centre. You can also find major chains such as Hamleys and HMV in the centre.

West End Games specialises in tabletop RPG games and accessories. They are a community focused business, and operate a gaming cafe in Partick and Cessnock. Here you can meet with other tabletop gamers and pick up some merchandise to take home. View their event calendar at West End Games.

For a more typical café experience with a geeky vibe, R-cade is a great spot near Trongate. At their retro café you can play board games, attend events and grab a bite to eat. They also have a console arcade with a selection of over 2000 video games. Explore some of the games on offer at R-cade.

If you’re in Glasgow for a long time the Gamer Club is a members club with video game, board game and arcade rooms. You can pay for a monthly membership for unlimited access. If you’re visiting for less than a month you can also sign up to one of the events listed on the Gamer Club.

Many of these events are hosted by Glasgow Geek Social. This meetup group is popular with locals and visitors alike with regular video games, board games, TTRPG and quiz nights. They also hold events at bars across the city. See upcoming events and sign-up through Meetup.

The Glasgow Zine Library in Govanhill is home to a large collection of self-published zines. You can view their selection in-person or online before your visit. They also host a wide variety of social gatherings including fanzine making sessions. Keep an eye out for upcoming events at Glasgow Zine Library.

The Barras Market is a must visit attraction in the east end. You can find anything from clothes to cuisine, as well as some truly unique souvenirs to take home. Some of their traders include Devious Designs, known for their collectable pins, and Retro Games, stocking games from various classic formats such as Gameboys and Nintendo 64s. Browse traders at Barras Market.

Glasgow is known for its bold and creative murals that cater to many interests. The Spaceman mural by Recoat and Ali Wylie is inspired by comi books and graphic design culture. This is the perfect photo stop on a geeky itinerary in Glasgow. See what else is available with our city centre mural trail.

There are plenty of film and TV locations to be found throughout the city. Glasgow has become a popular destination for blockbuster film crews. Spider-Man Brand New Day, The Batman (2021), and The Flash were all filmed in the city. Discover the best spots with our guide to the top film and TV locations in Glasgow.

Located just off Trongate, Super Bario is Glasgow’s first arcade bar. They offer a typical selection of beer, wine and spirits - and are also home to classic arcade games from the 80s through to modern day. Keep up to date on their Instagram.

NQ64 is a UK-wide chain offering something similar. You can purchase game tokens when you arrive to use them in their machines and console games. They also have a good selection of geeky cocktails inspired by retro video games. Plan in advance at NQ64.

The Drake is a typical bar in the west end with an extensive drinks menu and pub grub. They also have board games that you can play with friends and family during your visit. Occasionally they also host meet-ups for Glasgow Geek Social. Check out their menus at the Drake.

Hosted by Fan Frontier, EPIC Comic Con is the largest event of its kind in Glasgow. This year it will be held at the SEC from 26 - 27 September. You can enter their cosplay competitions, pick up some highly sought-after merch, and attend meet and greets with actors and writers from your favourite films and TV series. More info about tickets and events at EPIC Comic Con.

Fan Frontier also hosts Koyo Con - this year on 24 October at the SEC. Similar to EPIC Comic Con, this is where you can attend panels, join in fun activities and enter cosplay competitions about your favourite anime and manga. Find tickets at SEC.

Showmasters Events host the annual Glasgow Film & Comic Con at Braehead Arena every summer, with the next event 4 - 5 July. There are dedicated comic and cosplay zones, with opportunities to meet stars from across film and TV. Plan ahead at Glasgow Film & Comic Con.