Getting to know Glasgow: 10 classic drinking spots

Glasgow knows how to take something old and turn it into something new and exciting, so whichever of these 10 classic Glasgow drinking spots you find yourself in, you’ll certainly become part of this grand tradition.

West on the Green, Glasgow Green

Located in what was once the old Templeton Carpet Factory, the West on the Green stands out with its distinctive, Doge’s Palace inspired façade. West brews its German-style beers on site and they have a delicious menu of currywurst, bratwurst and schnitzel for a tasty accompaniment. 

Drygate, East End

Built into an old, jaggy roofed box factory from the 1960s, Drygate proclaims itself as the UK’s first “experimental craft brewery”. And with 24 craft beers on tap, it’s hard to argue with that.

Republic Bier Halle, Gorgon Street

Head to Republic Bier Halle for a trip around the world without the hefty airfare. Choose from over 100 different beers with specimens hailing from such far-flung places as Argentina and Thailand. There’s also an excellent deal on 2-for-1 pizzas so make sure you’re ready to take on all the Halle has to offer.

beGin, Byres Road

Step back in time with this speakeasy-style gin bar that proudly presents more than 80 different gins from around the world. A relative newcomer on Byres Road, it has already made its mark thanks to its extensive gin menu and a tantalising mix of cocktails both old and new. Look out for the Byres Bramble and the Gina Colada!

Oran Mor, Byres Road

Even from the outside, the Oran Mor is stunning. An old converted church, this venue offers patrons regular music events and their weekly “Play, Pie and a Pint”. Its chilled-out atmosphere is perfect whether you’re taking refuge from a wet Glasgow winter or wanting to soak up the rare sunny days in the beer garden.

Hillhead Book Club, Byres Road

If cocktails in mason jars and vintage video games are your thing, then Hillhead Book Club will be your new favorite watering hole. Located just off the trendy Byres Road, Book Club always has drink deals like £3 strawberry mojitos during the week.

Ashton Lane, Byres Road

With its cobbles, reams of overhead fairy lights and its sheer variety of bars, it’s no wonder that Ashton Lane has become a West End institution. Vodka Wodka has cheap ‘n’ cheerful cocktails, Brel boasts continental beers, Jinty McGinty’s with its French/Belgian cuisine is the resident Irish pub and of course, the famed Ubiquitous Chip for all your high-end wining and dining needs. 

The Corinthian Club, George Square

Now one of the city’s most stylish venues, The Corinthian Club used to be the Glasgow and Ship Bank. Spread over 5 floors, it includes bars, restaurants and even a casino combined to dazzle guests with stunning plaster work, vaulted ceilings and crystal chandlers. For a taste of high class glamour, this is the only choice.

Waxy O’Connor’s, West George Street

From the outside, this Irish pub might not look like much but step inside and this sprawling, 3-floor, 6-bar venue is a sight to behold. Like an enchanted church, it’s made up in rich, dark woods with stunning feats of carpentry and stained glass. This cozy den is perfect for a bite and  a pint, watching the football with friends, and, of course, a good old-fashioned knees up. 

Hummingbird, Bath Street

There is only one word to describe Bath Street’s Hummingbird: cool. Start the evening with gourmet burgers and a few cocktails before heading down stairs to the Diskoteka for a heady mix of disco, soul, RnB and techno music. 

The only way to get to know Glasgow is to experience it. If “People make Glasgow”, then now’s the time to get out there, mingle, and find out what all the fuss is about!