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Glasgow: Poured, Pulled & Properly Explored
Over a few brilliant days in Glasgow, I explored a fantastic mix of traditional pubs, modern craft beer bars and breweries across the city. I made good use of the Subway, jumping on and off to discover places in the city centre, Merchant City, West End and beyond. Highlights included historic gems like The Laurieston and Old Toll Bar, alongside WEST, Drygate, Three Judges, Inn Deep and plenty more. There was a great mix of Scottish cask and keg beer along the way, with some really friendly welcomes too. I eventually rounded everything off at Grunting Growler after a fantastic few days exploring Glasgow.
Glasgow’s story stretches back to medieval times, growing around its cathedral and becoming an important Scottish burgh. By the 1700s, trade brought huge wealth to the city, particularly tobacco and sugar, much of it linked to enslaved labour on plantations in the Americas and Caribbean. The Industrial Revolution then transformed Glasgow, with engineering, manufacturing and shipbuilding along the River Clyde helping it become known as the “Second City of the Empire”. Heavy industry later declined, bringing difficult times for many communities, but Glasgow reinvented itself. Today, its grand buildings, old streets and industrial landmarks still tell the story of its remarkable past.
Glasgow Subway Ale Trail
CLICK HERE to check out the Glasgow Subway Ale Trail. The Glasgow Subway Ale Trail is a great way to explore the city while visiting a mixture of traditional pubs, modern bars and independent beer spots. Simply buy a Subway day ticket, choose where you want to begin and jump on and off at different stops around the circular route. With regular Subway services and many pubs only a short walk from the stations, it is an easy and enjoyable day out. You can follow the full trail, pick out a few favourite stops or create your own route and take the day at your own pace.
The Pot Still
I started my visit at The Pot Still. The Pot Still traces its roots back to 1835, when the building first opened as a spirit merchant’s premises. In 1870 it became a public house under William McCaul, beginning more than a century of family ownership that lasted until 1981. Over the years, the pub became known for colourful local characters and stories passed down through generations. A new chapter began in 1981 when John Waterson took over, developing The Pot Still into one of Scotland’s best-known whisky pubs, with an exceptional range of single malts. Today, it remains a true Glasgow institution, combining its rich history with the friendly atmosphere that has kept people coming back for generations.
Inside is everything you’d hope for from a classic Glasgow pub. The dark wooden bar is lined with shelves packed floor to ceiling with whisky bottles, while polished brass, carved timber and traditional fittings give it bags of character. Red leather bench seating wraps around the room, creating plenty of comfortable corners to settle into, and the walls are covered with awards, photographs and memorabilia that reflect the pub’s long-standing reputation. Decorative plasterwork, stained glass and soft lighting add to the welcoming feel, while the steady buzz of conversation makes it somewhere that feels friendly, relaxed and full of life.
A great selection of 3 cask ales on the bar all from Scottish brewers, alongside a brilliant keg selection, again showcasing mainly Scottish breweries. I went for Scurry Island by Brew Toon, a pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Raven
Next was a short walk to The Raven. The Raven opened on Renfield Street in the summer of 2014, giving a new lease of life to one of Glasgow city centre’s long-standing licensed premises. Before becoming The Raven, the building had several well-known names over the years, including Bay Horse, Café Cini, Scruples, Picador, McArthur Park and Targets Bar, reflecting the changing face of Glasgow’s pub scene. Today it’s part of the city’s modern pub scene, blending craft beer with a relaxed atmosphere while keeping the site’s long tradition of welcoming people for a drink. Just a short walk from both Central and Queen Street stations, it remains a popular stop for locals and visitors alike.
Inside has a warm, welcoming feel with a smart, modern layout spread across a series of split-level seating areas. Leather booth seating, polished wooden floors and timber panelling give it plenty of character, while the exposed stone wall by the front windows adds a more rustic touch. Framed vintage adverts, old photographs and memorabilia fill the walls without making the place feel cluttered, and the unusual wagon wheel-style light fitting catches the eye. Large front windows bring in plenty of natural light, while softer lighting keeps things cosy later in the day. It feels relaxed, comfortable and somewhere that’s easy to settle into for a while.
2 cask ales to choose from on the bar along with a variety of keg options. Even more choices available in bottles and cans behind the bar. I went for Jack Back by Stewart Brewing, a session IPA with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
The Griffin
My next visit in Glasgow was to The Griffin. The Griffin has been a familiar sight on Bath Street since 1903, when the current building was constructed opposite the King’s Theatre as part of the same development. Originally called the King’s Arms, it was renamed The Griffin in 1969 after long-serving publican William Griffin, who ran the pub during the 1960s and 70s. Despite changes over the years, it has kept much of its Edwardian character and remains a Category B listed building. Generations of theatre-goers, office workers and locals have called in for a pint before or after a show, helping make The Griffin one of Glasgow’s best-loved traditional pubs.
Inside is full of traditional character and feels every bit the classic Glasgow pub. The long polished wooden bar runs through the heart of the room, backed by dark timber, mirrors and shelves of bottles, while ornate plasterwork and decorative columns add plenty of period charm. Large front windows with beautiful etched glass bring in plenty of natural light while still giving the pub a cosy feel, and the leather banquettes beneath them make inviting places to sit. Patterned tiled floors, warm lighting and the colourful stained glass in the internal screens complete the look, creating a relaxed, welcoming pub that’s easy to settle into and enjoy.
On the bar a great selection of 4 cask ales from Isle of Skye Brewing Company alongside a range of keg beers. I went for Skye Gold by Isle of Skye Brewing Company, a golden ale with light citrus flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
The Bon Accord
Another walk brought me into The Bon Accord. The Bon Accord has been a favourite with Glasgow drinkers since opening in 1971, when publican Peter Gallagher turned the building into one of the city’s first pubs to champion real ale at a time when it was hard to find in Glasgow. Housed in a handsome Victorian building on North Street, just a short walk from the Mitchell Library, it quickly earned a reputation for quality beer and a warm welcome. Over the years it also became one of Scotland’s best-known whisky pubs, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond. More than 50 years later, the Bon Accord remains one of Glasgow’s classic pubs.
Inside is full of traditional charm, with several different rooms that each have their own character. Dark wood panelling, polished floors and classic seating create a warm, welcoming feel throughout, while leather armchairs, high-backed booths and quiet corners make it easy to settle in. Large front windows bring plenty of natural light into the lounge, contrasting nicely with the cosy spaces deeper inside, where a fireplace adds to the atmosphere. Behind the bar, shelves packed with whisky bottles provide a real focal point, while the well-kept timber, period-style lighting and historic features make this a pub that’s easy to relax in and enjoy.
A great line up of 7 cask ales, a still cider and a selection of keg options. I went for Lost In Mosaic by Loch Lomond Brewery, an American pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
Ben Nevis
Walking around 10 minutes brought me next to The Ben Nevis Bar. Ben Nevis has been part of Finnieston’s pub scene since around 1884, when this stretch of Argyle Street was still known as Dumbarton Road. In its early years it traded as the Corunna Vaults before eventually becoming the Ben Nevis. The pub took on its distinctive Highland-inspired look in 1999, with stone, timber and reclaimed materials giving it a cosy, rustic feel that has barely changed since. Over the years it has built a strong reputation for its whisky selection and regular traditional music sessions, making it a favourite with both locals and visitors looking for an authentic Glasgow pub experience.
Inside has a warm, intimate feel that makes it easy to settle in. The dark wooden bar is backed by shelves packed with an impressive collection of whisky bottles, creating a real focal point as you walk in. Timber posts, stonework and earthy green walls give the pub plenty of Highland character, while soft lighting and leather booth seating add to the cosy atmosphere. High stools line the bar, with a mix of tables and quieter corners beyond, making it just as suited to a relaxed chat as an evening spent enjoying the surroundings. Outside, tables wrap around the corner of the building, providing a great spot to sit with a drink and watch Glasgow pass by.
2 cask ales to choose from on the bar, along with a variety of keg options. I went for Warrior Queen by Loch Leven Brewery, a blonde ale with light citrus flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
Babbity Bowster
I jumped on the train over to the Merchant City area for my next few visits, starting at Babbity Bowster. Babbity Bowster occupies one of the Merchant City’s most distinctive historic buildings. Built in the 1790s as an elegant townhouse, the property has been attributed to the Adam brothers and later served commercial uses as the area changed around it. By the early 1980s it had fallen into serious disrepair and was almost lost before being carefully restored. It reopened as Babbity Bowster in 1985, bringing new life to Blackfriars Street while keeping much of the building’s original character, including its striking Roman Doric doorway. Named after a traditional Scottish dance, it has become one of Glasgow’s best-loved pubs and a real Merchant City landmark.
Inside has a bright, welcoming feel that blends traditional character with a relaxed atmosphere. High ceilings and large sash windows flood the rooms with natural light, while wooden floors, dark furniture and soft lighting keep everything feeling cosy. The long bar is the heart of the pub, with a mix of tables, booths and quieter corners making it easy to settle in whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet pint. Artwork, historic touches and the carved Babbity Bowster sign add plenty of personality. Outside, the spacious courtyard offers plenty of seating beneath large parasols and strings of lights, creating a relaxed space that’s ideal for making the most of warmer days and evenings.
A line up on the bar of 3 cask ales, alongside a variety of keg options to choose between. I went for Warrior Queen by Loch Leven Brewery, a blonde ale with light citrus flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
Next was onto Blackfriars of Bell Street. Blackfriars has been part of Glasgow’s Merchant City since opening under its current name in 1995. The building has an interesting recent history, having previously traded as Bell Geordie, which opened in 1978 in a former butcher’s shop. The pub was named after George “Bell Geordie” Gibson, an 18th-century Glasgow bell ringer and local character, with décor celebrating the city’s history. In 1983, it was transformed into Rockwells, a 1950s and 1960s American-themed bar, before becoming Blackfriars twelve years later. Today, it remains one of Merchant City’s best-known independent pubs, combining traditional hospitality with live music, comedy and well-kept cask ale.
Inside has a welcoming feel that blends the building’s historic character with a comfortable modern pub atmosphere. The long wooden bar naturally draws your eye, while exposed brickwork, stone walls and timber features give the space plenty of warmth and personality. Seating is spread across a mix of tables, booths and quieter corners, making it just as good for a catch-up with friends as a relaxed pint. Shelves, framed pictures and thoughtful decorative touches add interest without feeling overdone. Soft lighting and the different seating areas create a cosy atmosphere that’s easy to settle into and enjoy for a while.
A great line up on the bar featuring 2 cask ales and a wide variety of keg options to select from. I went for Silkie Stout by Loch Lomond Brewery, a stout with rich roasted malt, chocolate and coffee flavours and a smooth finish.
Rab Ha’s
Rab Ha’s was my next visit. Rab Ha’s has become one of Merchant City’s best-known pubs, taking its name from Robert Hall, better known as “Rab Ha”, a colourful 19th-century Glasgow character nicknamed “The Glesga Glutton” for his legendary appetite. His love of good food inspired the pub’s name and remains part of its identity today. The pub occupies a traditional city-centre building on Hutcheson Street and has long been a favourite with locals and visitors looking for hearty Scottish food and a proper pint. In 2017, the venue was refurbished under new owners, helping secure its place as one of Merchant City’s welcoming traditional pubs.
Inside blends traditional pub character with a bright, comfortable feel. The polished wooden bar, complete with its classic columns and dark timber panelling, is the natural heart of the room, while wooden floors and warm lighting make it easy to settle in. Exposed stone walls around the windows add a reminder of the building’s age, and a mix of tables, chairs and cosy leather booths gives plenty of choice whether you’re eating or just calling in for a drink. Framed artwork and tasteful décor add a modern touch without taking away from the pub’s welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
A single cask ale on the bar, alongside a wide selection of keg options to choose from. I went for Jarl by Fyne Ales, a blonde ale with bright citrus and grapefruit flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
The Steps Bar
My final visit in the Merchant City area was to The Steps Bar. Steps Bar has been part of Glasgow’s pub scene since around 1930 and is one of the city’s best-preserved Art Deco pubs. Although the building itself dates back to around 1790, the pub was completely remodelled in 1938, creating the distinctive look that’s still there today. Its unusual name comes simply from the two small steps leading into the entrance. Family-owned for decades, Steps has changed very little over the years, making it a real survivor among Glasgow’s city centre pubs. Today, it remains a favourite with locals and visitors alike, offering a glimpse of what a classic Glasgow pub looked like nearly 90 years ago.
Inside is full of Art Deco character, with dark wood panelling, curved corners and polished timber giving the room a timeless feel. The long wooden bar runs along one side, framed by rounded columns and original metal rails that hint at the pub’s past. Comfortable leather booths and padded chairs provide plenty of places to sit, while globe lights and cream ceiling panels keep the room feeling bright without losing its cosy atmosphere. The distinctive swing doors, etched glass and well-preserved original features make it feel like a genuine piece of old Glasgow that’s still very much enjoyed by locals today.
A great selection of keg beers, focussing on a number from Scottish Breweries. I went for Gladeye IPA by Drygate, an American IPA with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a crisp, bitter finish.
WEST Beer
I headed out next in a taxi to WEST Beer. WEST Beer has been part of Glasgow Green since 2006, when it opened inside the beautifully restored Templeton Building. The striking red-brick building was originally built as the Templeton Carpet Factory, opening in 1892 and becoming one of Glasgow’s best-known landmarks thanks to its design, inspired by Venice’s Doge’s Palace. After the factory closed, the building was transformed into a mixed-use development in 2005, creating space for homes, businesses and WEST Brewery. Today, it combines a working brewery with a welcoming beer hall and restaurant, bringing new life to one of Glasgow’s most historic buildings while celebrating both Scottish and German brewing traditions.
Inside is bright, spacious and much more relaxed than you might expect from its size. Large industrial-style windows flood the room with natural light, while high ceilings, exposed steelwork and warm timber finishes give the space plenty of character. The long bar is backed by shelves of bottles and an impressive row of taps, with a mix of tables, benches and higher seating spread throughout the open-plan layout. It feels comfortable whether you’re calling in for a quick drink or a meal. Outside, there’s a large seating area with picnic benches, making it a great place to enjoy a pint when the Glasgow weather plays along.
A fantastic line up of keg beers on the bar all brewed on site, with a fantastic selection of both lagers and ale styles. I went for Hazy Pale by WEST Brewery, a hazy pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a soft, refreshing finish.
Drygate
My next visit was to Drygate. Drygate has brought brewing back to one of Glasgow’s most historic beer-making areas. It opened in 2014 as a joint venture between Williams Bros. Brewing Co. and Tennent’s owner C&C Group, transforming a former box factory and print works beside the famous Wellpark Brewery into a modern brewery, bar and restaurant. The building itself dates from 1964, but the site sits next to the historic Tennent’s brewery, where commercial brewing has taken place since 1740. Today, Drygate combines working brewery, taproom and events space under one roof, while keeping a strong link to Glasgow’s long brewing tradition and industrial past.
It has a modern industrial feel while still being warm and welcoming. The spacious main bar is filled with long wooden tables, high seating and comfortable booths, giving you plenty of choice whether you’re visiting with friends or finding a quieter corner. Large windows into the brewery let you watch the brewing equipment at work, reminding you that the beer is made just a few metres away. Exposed steelwork, timber finishes and polished floors add plenty of character without feeling overdone. Outside, there’s a covered courtyard with picnic benches, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink whatever the Glasgow weather decides to do.
A fantastic wide range of keg options, ranging massively in style and strength and offer something for everyone. I went for Cloud City Hazy IPA by Drygate, a hazy IPA with juicy citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a soft, refreshing finish.
The Laurieston Bar
My next visit was to The Laurieston Bar. Laurieston Bar has been welcoming drinkers on Bridge Street since 1836, making it one of Glasgow’s oldest surviving pubs. While the exterior is modest, the real treasure is inside, where a major refurbishment around 1960 created the striking interior that remains largely unchanged today. Its rare mid-century design is now Category C listed, helping preserve a genuine piece of Glasgow pub history. Over the years it has become a favourite with locals, visitors and film crews alike, but despite its reputation, it has always stayed true to its roots as a proper local pub where good conversation matters just as much as what’s in your glass.
Inside feels like a genuine step back in time, with much of its mid-century character still proudly intact. The distinctive oval bar sits at the heart of the room, surrounded by wood panelling, red upholstered seating and well-worn timber details that give the pub a warm, lived-in feel. Large frosted windows let plenty of natural light filter in, while globe and pendant lights add a soft glow. Every wall is covered with photographs, artwork and local memorabilia, giving you something new to spot wherever you look. With cosy booths, quiet corners and a separate lounge, it feels welcoming, unpretentious and full of Glasgow character.
Drinks wise a selection of 2 cask ales alongside a range of keg options to choose from. I went for Hurricane Jack by Fyne Ales, a pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
The Three Judges
Back on the subway to Kelvinhall where I had 2 pubs to visit, the first being The Three Judges. Three Judges has been a familiar sight on Dumbarton Road in Partick for well over a century, serving locals through generations as the area grew around it. While its early history is that of a traditional Glasgow corner pub, it became especially well known from the early 1990s onwards for championing quality cask ale at a time when few pubs in the city did. That commitment earned it decades of entries in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide and many local awards, making it a destination for beer lovers from across Scotland. Despite its reputation, it has never lost the friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere of a proper local.
Inside is bright, welcoming and full of character. The long polished wooden bar is the heart of the pub, backed by dark timber shelving and brass details, while dozens of colourful pump clips hanging from the ceiling above and behind the bar create one of its most distinctive features. Large windows wrap around one side of the pub, filling the front seating area with natural light and giving great views out onto the street. A mix of booths, stools, tables and raised seating areas gives you plenty of choice, while warm lighting, wood panelling and brewery memorabilia complete the relaxed atmosphere of this much-loved Glasgow pub.
A fantastic line up of 9 cask ales on the bar to choose from, along with a variety of keg options. I went for New Shoots by Strangers Brewing Co., a pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Lismore
The opposite side of the Subway station at Kelvinhall was The Lismore. Lismore has been a favourite in Partick since opening in 1996, transforming the former Mullen’s Bar into a pub with a distinctive Highland character. The name comes from the Hebridean island of Lismore, and that Scottish theme runs throughout, from the Gaelic signage to the stained-glass windows that reflect Highland history. Over the years it has built a loyal following for its welcoming atmosphere, traditional music sessions and impressive whisky selection. While plenty has changed around Partick Cross, the Lismore has stayed true to its character, becoming one of Glasgow’s best-known independent pubs and a place that feels loved by locals and visitors alike.
Inside is full of traditional Scottish character, with exposed stone walls, dark timber and a beautifully panelled ceiling creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The stained-glass windows are a real highlight, depicting Scottish scenes and filling the pub with colour and personality. A polished wooden bar curves through the main room, while leather booths, stools and small tables provide plenty of comfortable places to settle in. Mirrors, old-style lighting and whisky casks used as tabletops add to the pub’s charm without feeling overdone. Outside, there’s also a large enclosed seating area overlooking the green, making it a great spot to enjoy a drink on warmer days.
The bar offers a range of 2 cask ales, alongside a choice of keg beers to choose from. I went for Bold Bitter by Shiny Brewery, a traditional bitter with malty flavours and a smooth, balanced finish.
Òran Mór
Back onto the Subway one stop down to Hillhead. A short walk brought me to Òran Mór . Òran Mór stands proudly at the top of Byres Road in one of Glasgow’s most recognisable buildings. It began life as Kelvinside Free Church, with the foundation stone laid in 1862, and later became Kelvinside Parish Church. After closing in 1978, the building stood empty for several years before being carefully restored and reopened as Òran Mór in 2004. Today it blends its historic architecture with a lively mix of food, drink, live music and theatre, including the much-loved A Play, A Pie and A Pint lunchtime performances. It’s a brilliant example of an old Glasgow landmark finding a new lease of life.
Inside beautifully blends its church heritage with the feel of a welcoming pub. Exposed stone walls, stained glass windows and decorative painted ceilings give the building plenty of character, while dark timber, polished wood and warm lighting keep it feeling cosy and relaxed. The long central bar is surrounded by a mix of stools, tables, booths and comfortable bench seating, with different rooms offering quieter corners and stylish dining spaces. Original features sit naturally alongside modern touches, creating a space that’s full of personality without feeling formal. Outside, there’s a spacious courtyard with picnic benches and tables, making it a great place to enjoy a drink when the weather’s kind.
A cask ale on the bar along with a very interesting range of keg options, featuring lots of Scottish breweries. I went for Gladeye IPA by Drygate, an American IPA with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a crisp, bitter finish.
Inn Deep
Kelvinbridge was my next Subway stop, with 2 to visit here (1 being later on). Inn Deep was my calling point. Inn Deep has been part of Glasgow’s West End since 2012, when it opened beneath the arches beside the River Kelvin, just a few steps from Kelvinbridge Subway station. Before that, the site was home to The Big Blue, and for many years before that it traded as O’Henry’s. The bar quickly built a reputation as one of the city’s leading independent craft beer pubs, with its unusual riverside setting helping it stand out from the crowd. An extension in 2017 created more indoor seating while keeping its relaxed character. Today, Inn Deep remains a favourite stop for locals, visitors and walkers exploring the Kelvin walkway.
Inside makes the most of its unique setting in the old railway arches, with huge curved stone ceilings giving it bags of character. Exposed masonry, timber benches and chunky wooden tables create a relaxed, informal feel, while colourful lighting adds a modern touch without taking away from the historic surroundings. Different spaces each have their own atmosphere, from the brighter main bar with framed local photographs to the atmospheric vaulted rooms tucked further inside. Outside, there are two seating areas, including a larger terrace overlooking the River Kelvin and a smaller covered space beneath the arch, making it just as inviting outdoors as it is inside.
A fantastic warm welcome from all the team working when I arrived and it was fantastic chatting. A brilliant line up of keg options showcasing Scottish breweries as well as those from further afield. I went for Pacific Ale by Stone & Wood, an Australian pale ale with tropical fruit and citrus flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Dram!
Jumping back on the Subway I headed to St George’s Cross to visit Dram!. Dram! has been welcoming drinkers to Woodlands Road for many years, although the building’s pub history goes back much further. There has been a pub on this site since at least 1905, and over the years it has traded under several names, including the 3 in 1 Bar and later Uisge Beatha, which became well known for its on-site microbrewery in the 1990s. After the brewery closed, the pub continued to evolve before becoming Dram!, a popular West End local. Today it remains a favourite with students, locals and visitors, while keeping alive more than a century of pub history on the same corner.
It has a warm, welcoming feel with plenty of character spread across its different seating areas. The long wooden bar is lined with shelves of bottles and traditional handpulls, while exposed stone, timber panelling and reclaimed wood add a rustic touch throughout. Large windows at the front bring in lots of natural light, contrasting nicely with the cosy lighting and quirky lanterns hanging from the ceiling. Comfortable booths, high tables, long shared benches and quieter corners mean there’s somewhere to suit every visit. Framed artwork, mounted antlers and whisky-inspired décor give the pub plenty of personality without feeling over the top.
A single cask ale on the bar along with a variety of keg options and even more choice available in the shelves full of cans to choose from. I went for Sappho by Otherworld Brewing, a pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The State Bar
Onto Cowcaddens to walk to The State Bar. State Bar has been welcoming drinkers on Holland Street since the early 1900s, with the current building dating from around 1902–1905. It was established by publican Philip MacSorley, who secured the licence for the new premises in 1905, and it has remained a pub ever since. Over the years it has also traded as Lymburn’s and His Nibs, but today it’s simply known as the State Bar. While the area around it has changed dramatically, the pub has stayed true to its traditional character, earning a loyal following for its well-kept cask ales and friendly atmosphere.
Inside is full of traditional character, with a striking oval wooden bar taking centre stage beneath an impressive old map of Glasgow that stretches across the ceiling above. Rich dark wood panelling, carved details and etched glass give the pub a timeless feel, while large front windows fill the space with natural light and look out towards Saint Andrew’s West Parish Church. Red leather banquettes, window seating and cosy tables provide plenty of places to settle in, while walls covered with historic photographs, theatre posters, artwork and memorabilia ensure there’s always something interesting to catch your eye. It’s warm, welcoming and every bit the classic Glasgow pub.
A fantastic line up of 6 cask beers on the bar to choose from, alongside a variety of keg beers. I went for Hit The Lip by Cromarty Brewing Co, an American pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Shilling Brewing Company
Next was onto Buchanan Street to visit Shilling Brewing Company. Shilling Brewing Company opened in 2016, bringing one of Glasgow city centre’s first modern brewpubs to the impressive former Commercial Bank of Scotland building on West George Street. The Grade B-listed Art Deco building was designed by renowned architect James Miller and dates from 1930, with many of its original features carefully restored during the conversion. The name “Shilling” is a nod both to the old British coin and the traditional Scottish beer strength system. Today, the brewery produces its own beers on site while continuing the building’s long history as a place where people come together in the heart of the city.
It makes the most of its impressive former bank building. High ceilings, huge windows and elegant Art Deco details give the space a bright, open feel, while the working brewery sits proudly behind glass with gleaming stainless steel tanks on display. Seating ranges from long shared tables and high stools to smaller tables and comfortable booths, so there’s plenty of choice whether you’re with friends or enjoying a quieter visit. A striking mural, marble-fronted bar and warm lighting add plenty of character, while even the old bank vault has found a new purpose as the toilets, giving the whole place a memorable twist.
A fantastic line up of keg beers to choose from, with a vast variety of styles to choose from including 3 of their own beers brewed on the premises. I went for Glasgow Red by Shilling Brewing Co, a red ale with rich malt flavours, gentle caramel notes and a smooth, balanced finish.
Sloans Bar & Restaurant
St Enoch was my next calling point on the Subway to visit Sloans Bar & Restaurant. Sloans traces its story back to 1797, when it first opened as a coffee house in Morrison’s Court, just off Argyle Street. In the early 1900s it was taken over by David Sloan, who renamed it the Sloans Arcade Café, giving the venue the name it still carries today. Hidden behind the entrance to Argyll Arcade, it has welcomed generations of Glaswegians and visitors alike. The beautiful Grand Ballroom, added during the 1900 refurbishment, remains one of the city’s best-loved historic spaces. Today, Sloans blends over two centuries of history with a lively pub, restaurant and events venue, making it one of Glasgow’s true institutions.
Sloans is spread across three floors, with each space offering something a little different while retaining plenty of historic character. Rich dark wood panelling, etched glass, polished timber floors and decorative ceilings give the building a timeless feel, while the central bar is surrounded by booths, tables and comfortable seating. Quiet corners, cosy snugs and elegant rooms provide plenty of places to settle in, and the beautifully restored Grand Ballroom is the standout feature, with its ornate plasterwork and impressive sense of space. Outside, a large courtyard offers plenty of additional seating, making Sloans just as inviting outdoors as it is inside.
A single cask ale is available on the bar along with a large choice of keg options to pick from. I went for Plateau by Burning Sky Brewery, a pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a crisp, refreshing finish.
The Doublet
Heading back onto the Subway and back to Kelvinbridge to call into The Doublet. The Doublet has been part of Glasgow’s Woodlands area since 1961–62, when it was created by converting what had previously been a fish and chip shop. It was opened by Ossie Prosser and Alexander Don, with Alexander’s son, Alistair, taking over in 1974 and becoming a well-known figure in Scotland’s pub trade. The pub stayed in the Don family for more than 50 years before changing hands in 2016, with its character carefully preserved. It was also one of the first pubs in Glasgow to serve real ale, helping it become a favourite with generations of locals, students and visitors alike.
Inside, The Doublet feels cosy, traditional and full of character. Dark timber beams, wood panelling and well-worn floors give the pub a warm, lived-in look, while the glowing vintage-style lights add plenty of atmosphere. The bar is packed with bottles, signs and handwritten boards, creating an eye-catching backdrop without feeling too polished. Seating includes wooden tables, stools and comfortable buttoned benches, with a separate lounge area offering quieter corners to settle into. Framed pictures, old plates and posters cover the walls, adding personality throughout. It feels relaxed, welcoming and unmistakably like a proper Glasgow pub.
A line up on the bar of 3 cask ales to choose between, along with a varied selection of keg options. I went for Red MacGregor by Orkney Brewery, a ruby ale with rich malt flavours, gentle fruit notes and a smooth, balanced finish.
The Old Toll Bar
Next was near Shields Road Subway station to The Old Toll Bar. Old Toll Bar has been part of Paisley Road West since the late Victorian period, opening in 1893 after the corner building was remodelled from an earlier tenement dating to around 1860. It takes its name from the nearby Paisley Road Toll, where travellers once paid to use the road into Glasgow. The pub is one of the city’s finest surviving Victorian bars, with much of its original interior still intact, earning national recognition for its historic importance. After closing for a couple of years, it reopened in 2016 following a careful restoration, allowing a new generation to enjoy this remarkable Glasgow local.
Inside, the Old Toll Bar is packed with character, and it’s easy to see why it’s regarded as one of Glasgow’s great historic pubs. The magnificent dark timber back bar is the standout feature, complete with carved detailing, old barrels, a stag’s head and an original clock. Around the room, beautifully etched and stained glass, decorative wood panelling and historic mirrors have all been carefully preserved, while the glowing red pendant lights add a warm touch. A mix of small tables, bench seating and bar stools creates plenty of cosy spots to settle in. Outside, there’s also a small seating area tucked away at the side of the pub.
A single cask ale is available on the bar, alongside a varied selection of keg beers. Even more choices available in cans and bottles from the fridge. I went for Mosaic Gluten-Free Pale Ale by Arbor Ales, a gluten-free pale ale with citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
Koelschip Yard
I headed to visit Koelschip Yard. Koelschip Yard opened in 2017, transforming the former Kelly’s Bar on Pollokshaws Road into one of Glasgow’s best-known independent craft beer pubs. The change brought a fresh look to the building while keeping it as a welcoming local for the community. Its unusual name comes from a Dutch brewing vessel used during the production of traditional sour beers, giving a nod to its love of brewing heritage. Over the years, Koelschip Yard has built a strong reputation with locals and visitors alike, becoming a popular stop for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed drink in friendly surroundings.
Inside, Koelschip Yard feels cosy, quirky and packed with character. Dark wood panelling runs around much of the room, covered with a colourful collection of brewery stickers and pump clips, while red bench seating adds a splash of colour. The main bar sits towards the front, with stools alongside and chalkboards hanging above. Wooden flooring, old-style wall lights, framed pictures and plenty of greenery all add to the relaxed feel. There are several little seating areas to choose from, including tables tucked away towards the back. Large windows bring in plenty of daylight, while bottles displayed around the walls add another interesting touch.
2 cask ales alongside a large selection of craft keg options showcasing a variety of styles and strengths. I went for Glittering Sun by Burnt Mill Brewery, a pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit flavours and a clean, refreshing finish.
The Grunting Growler
My final stop was to Grunting Growler. Grunting Growler has become one of Yorkhill’s best-known destinations for craft beer since opening in 2016. The independent bottle shop and taproom brought new life to a premises that had previously traded as an off-licence for many years. During refurbishment, original tiled floors, ornate plasterwork and other historic features were uncovered, with signs suggesting the building may once have been a fishmonger’s or butcher’s shop. Today, those restored details sit alongside a relaxed drinking space, giving the venue plenty of character while celebrating both the building’s past and Glasgow’s thriving independent beer scene.
Inside, Grunting Growler has a relaxed, modern feel while still keeping plenty of character. Colourful tiled walls, exposed pipework and industrial-style lighting give the place a distinctive look, while old wooden panels and decorative ceiling details add a little contrast. Seating is a mix of small tables, chairs and a long padded bench, with the tall front windows bringing plenty of natural light into the room. One wall is lined with large fridges packed with cans and bottles, with even more colourful cans displayed above. The Grunting Growler artwork and merchandise dotted around add a fun, personal touch.
A fantastic choice of keg beers on the bar, alongside the huge choice of cans and bottles in the fridges. I went for Tilquin Fruit Extravaganza 2026 – Riesling Tilquin by Gueuzerie Tilquin, a lambic made with Riesling grapes, giving it fresh grape flavours and a dry, tart finish. I also went for Mourvèdre Tilquin, made with Mourvèdre grapes, bringing richer red fruit flavours with a dry, sour finish.
