JUST hours after being branded a “ghetto” by a Reform politician, Glasgow’s Govanhill has been named the fifth coolest neighbourhood in the world
The ranking comes from Time Out’s 2026 global list, which praised the southside district for its community spirit, independent shops, and creative culture.
Govanhill placed higher than neighbourhoods in cities such as New York, Rio de Janeiro, and Bangkok.
Time Out described Govanhill as a “once-overlooked sandstone suburb” transformed by “quirkiness and energy” and a “thriving queer community”, independent shops, popular brunch spots, and busy pubs.
The area, home to around 10,000 people, is one of Scotland’s most densely populated and multicultural areas.
Time Out writers said: "Not long ago Govanhill was known, if anything, for being Shawlands’ rougher little sibling.
"But in the past couple of years, low costs allowed artists and writers to find a home.
"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."
Time Out highlighted businesses including queer bookshop Category is Books, Burning House Books, and Errol’s Hot Pizza.
It also recommended visiting during the Govanhill International Festival and Carnival, a two-week community celebration held each August.
"Look no further than Govanhill, where we have seen once a great community become a ghetto.
"Govanhill was once the historic heart of Glasgow's Jewish community, however, now its reputation is nothing more than daytime drug dealing, child exploitation, mass illegal migration, and street gangs."
Scottish Labour MP John Grady responded by saying: "Multiculturalism is one of the many reasons that Glasgow is one of the world’s greatest cities."
Defending the area, he said: "Govanhill's diversity is a source of strength and beauty.
"In Glasgow we work together, play sports together, socialise together and our children go to school together. I reject any attempts to sow division in our city.
"I recognise that our city has serious challenges, be they with housing, crime and other issues.
"As an MP I work on these challenges every day, and work hard to help people with these issues."
He continued: "I strongly reject any suggestion that these issues are caused by multiculturalism."
The MP also said constituents had raised concerns with him about racism.
He wrote: "Many constituents have spoken to me about the rise in racism in Glasgow.
"They tell me that they fear going about their daily lives. They face racist attacks and abuse. This is unacceptable.
"We must reject division."
