A West End institution, Barretts has been selling papers, pens and envelopes to Wendies since the days of King Charles II trotting down Byres Road. In fact, legend has it he nipped in for an Evening Times, a Curly Wurly and a scratch card himself.
Undoubtedly the best thing about the independently run newsagent, and the reason for its longevity, is its consideration for its customers. Appreciating that much of the passing trade comes from across the country, given the close proximity of Glasgow University, the shop has always stocked an extensive range of local papers, giving many a little slice of home they would struggle to get elsewhere. If they do not have a particular local rag you are looking for, just ask and they'll do their best to order it in.
Despite being forced to downsize from two premises two years ago, the shop's popularity has arguably soared in that time, primarily because it has never rested on its laurels. As well as the usual newsagenty things, Barretts' stationary section has saved many a student upon the realisation they're heading to an exam without a pen, while the recent range of in-house West End merchandise has been a stroke of genius and underlined the relationship it has with the area. The "I Love Glasgow" bags in particular proved to be a popular Christmas present for many. read more