Glasgow nightlife has everything, from traditional pubs to quirky late-night party hotspots. Whatever mood you’re in, whether you want craft beer or a fun exotic cocktail, Glasgow has a drinking spot that’ll promise you good times. Music is a huge part of the Glaswegian culture, so be prepared for incredible DJ talent and buzzing club nights. Here we’ve listed some of the best places in the city to party. To find out more about Glasgow see The Highlights.
Kelvingrove Cafe
This atmospheric bar and restaurant on Argyle Street has the feel of a European grand café. It’s chic and stylish, despite its original, shabby exterior. With Chesterfield sofas, exposed brickwork, brass fittings and Scottish and Parisian artwork on the walls it’s trendy but laid-back. The seasonal cocktails are unique and sophisticated, based on wines sourced from local vineyards, as well as Amaro, a herbal liqueur.
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Flat 0/1
This quirky party bar adds character to Bath Street bringing a unique house party feel. The kitschy and quirky decor give it a granny’s apartment vibe, and there are even bathtubs hanging from the ceiling to swing on. There’s a fun drinks menu including cheap supermarket cider, house party classic, Lambrini as well as more sophisticated cocktails. DJs play a mix of dance, techno and electronic.
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Lebowskis
This fun movie-themed bar on Argyle Street is based on The Big Lebowski, and its main character The Dude. The bowling-inspired decor combined with exposed brick walls and comfy leather booths make it somewhere both fans and non-fans can enjoy. There’s a huge gourmet burger menu with tons of flavours, but even bigger is the White Russian list, with over 30 varieties each named after a character in the film.
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Nice ‘N’ Sleazy
This popular independent bar on Sauchiehall Street has dive-bar vibes and a buzzing ground-floor cafe-bar. It has a stylish interior with colourful murals, leather booths and quirky lamps. The bar has a long history of music, with an atmospheric gig venue downstairs and a rock club at the weekend. There are also plenty of drinks deals, especially the White and Black Russians.
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Brel
This summertime hotspot on Ashton Lane is one of the friendliest pubs in the West End. The main attraction is the enchanting beer garden with twinkling fairy lights and canopy of trees. Inside it’s cosy with a charming, rustic interior and welcoming bar staff, making this a great location all year round. They import tasty Belgian beers and Belgian-inspired dishes.
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Hillhead Bookclub
This trendy West End bar is a cool hangout set in an old cinema. Leather Chesterfields, fairy lights, a ping-pong table and even a retro video games corner tend to attract a younger crowd. The cocktails are just as quirky and individual, served in different glasses, jars and even out of a gramophone. Guest acts perform here, and there are in-house DJs to play both retro classics and the latest hits.
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Maggie Mays
One of the East End’s most popular bars, this rock bar is dedicated to all things music. There are all kinds of rock memorabilia scattered around, and even a resident band, Glasgow’s Meat Men who perform live music upstairs, while gigs are held in the basement. The cocktails are named after songs, and it’s home to some of the best DJs hosting indie and rock club nights.
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The Social Glasgow
Nestled in the Royal Exchange Square, this relaxed bar is both a day and nighttime spot. During the day, enjoy a wide selection of food, coffee and cocktails on the pavement cafe. At night, party under a canopy of fairy lights from street-side tables listening to everything from soulful house to funk and chart toppers. You can even head back the next day for a delicious breakfast.
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The Garage
This is Glasgow’s biggest nightclub, found on Sauchiehall Street. It’s well known and has something for everyone with six different rooms including Indie, Rock, Hip Hop, Pop and much more. It’s open seven days a week, has cheap drinks and always has something fun or interesting happening, including the Thursday night bouncy castle and even some huge events and gigs.
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Chinaskis
This secret speakeasy on North Street is named after writer and lover of alcohol, Charles Bukowski’s alter ego. It’s reminiscent of a Los Angeles dive bar, but classier with dark wood interiors and decadent green leather. With a nod to bourbon, there are over 80 varieties of whiskey to try plus a wide range of wines, spirits and cocktails alongside an American food menu.
