By Hannah Forsyth

Arriving in a new city, starting university, or even just finding yourself with that wee bit of extra independence can be a surprisingly daunting experience. Information seems to be flung at you from every angle, often becoming impossible to digest.

But Freshers, worry not! Here’s something to make it that bit easier for you to find the best goings-on in town, if you have a passion for poetry or film. There is always plenty to be explored.

So let us take the strain and guide you to the hidden gems of this vibrant city.

If film is your thing then there is no better place to start than the GFT (Glasgow Film Theatre). First opened in 1939, this art-deco cinema is not only host to the Glasgow Film Festival, which runs annually in the last week of February, but is also the best place in the city for showcasing both local productions and international movies. The Art House cinema often provides seasons of genres, from the cultish Japanese Studio Ghibli films, to 1980s sci-fi thrillers, there is something on offer for everyone.

On top of their ever-fantastic programme, the GFT is often home to question and answers with some of the finest folk in the industry. Past guests include Quentin Tarantino, Danny Boyle and Sean Connery. For full listings, just head over to their website.

For a slightly different movie going experience, then Sloan’s is the place to go. Situated just behind Buchanan Street, Glasgow’s oldest bar offers a night of “EatFilm” every Tuesday. For £13.95 you get dinner for two and a film screening, usually with picks of absolute classics. In the coming weeks alone, they have a Bridget Jones marathon, The Goonies, How to Lose A Guy In 10 Days and Reservoir Dogs. Pre-booking is recommended and if you find yourself stuck for a wee date idea, this is your perfect solution…

If your budget is tighter then never fear! The Flying Duck, a basement bar found directly opposite Glasgow’s Cineworld, will be hosting monthly film nights starting on September 21. The programme is still to be announced, but nights like these in the past have usually been free, so keep an eye on their website for further updates.

The Britannia Panopticon, Britain’s oldest surviving music hall and the home of Stan Laurel’s (Laurel and Hardy) stage debut also regularly hosts free movie nights – although a donation is suggested – showing mostly old classics and, of course, plenty of Laurel and Hardy! Tucked away behind Argyle Street this venue is probably the most breath-taking place in the city for a wee movie screening.

For all the poets out there, there is also a blooming scene for either participation or just observing. On Glasgow’s legendary Sauchiehall Street, Broadcast is the bar to find some serious poetry happening. Loud Poets is a slam-style night held on the third Friday of each month, doors opening at 19:30. But be warned, this night is big business. Pieces have to be less than three minutes and performers are not allowed prompts or paper so if you venture along, be sure to know your stuff.

Then finally, heading further west, you will find yourself in Inn Deep. A craft beer selling, basement bar situated on the banks of the River Kelvin, it has hosted its spoken word night since 2013. These nights take place every second and fourth Tuesday of each month, with doors also opening at 19:30. With free entry, Inn Deep can be found right next to Kelvinbridge underground in the city’s West End.

So Freshers, take a deep breath and get exploring!