A guide to food shopping in Galashiels

One of the first things you’ll need to get sorted is food – and where to find it.

Luckily, Galashiels has a great selection of supermarkets within easy reach. From budget-friendly bulk buys to treats for when family visit, here’s where to head when it’s time to stock up.

Tesco Extra

A solid all-rounder, Tesco Extra is ideal for your weekly shop. You’ll find fresh fruit and veg, frozen food, homeware, and even clothing all under one roof. It’s a large store with long opening hours, and it’s only a short walk or bus ride from campus.

Asda Superstore

Another reliable choice for students, Asda is known for its low prices and wide range. You’ll find groceries, home essentials, toiletries, and a George clothing section. It’s also handy if you need to grab last-minute bits like printer paper, pillows, or paracetamol.

Aldi

Aldi is brilliant for sticking to a student budget. It might be smaller than Tesco or Asda, but it’s packed with low-cost groceries, bakery goods, and frozen food. You won’t find loads of branded items here, but the own-brand alternatives are just as good.

M&S Foodhall

If you’re after something a bit nicer – or you’ve got visitors coming – the M&S Foodhall is the place for quality ingredients and ready meals that feel a bit more special. It’s definitely more expensive, but great for treats, last-minute lunch deals, or impressing friends with a "fancy" meal.

Top Tips for Student Shopping

Split the big shops: Share your trolley and cost with housemates to save money and cut waste.

• Use supermarket loyalty apps: Tesco Clubcard and the Asda Rewards app often have exclusive offers.
• Don’t forget your bag for life: Avoid the 10p bag charge and save the planet too.
• Check for yellow sticker deals: Late evening is great for picking up reduced items.
• Online delivery: Tesco and Asda both deliver locally if you don’t fancy carrying lots of shopping home.

Fancy Something Different?

If you're after a wider range of world foods, vegan bits, or niche ingredients, consider hopping on the train to Edinburgh for the day. There’s a much bigger choice of supermarkets, international supermarkets and independent stores just under an hour away.