The best pubs in Glasgow are a masterclass in character and charm, effortlessly blending tradition with modern drinks lists and contemporary menus. Whether you’re seeking a Sunday roast that could rival your gran’s, a snug corner to while away the afternoon with a perfectly poured pint, or a lively spot to end up singing along to folk tunes, the city delivers in spades. From wood-panelled institutions that feel unchanged for decades to vibrant new haunts led by inventive mixologists, each pub has its own story to tell (and often, its own loyal crowd). There’s a palpable sense of community running through them all, where visitors are welcomed like regulars and conversations flow as easily as the drinks. Whether you’re starting a night out, planning a weekend session, or simply looking for the perfect place to rest your feet and refuel, these Glasgow pubs more than fit the bill.
The Clarence
This cosy two-floor pub bears all the hallmarks of an ideal Sunday session. A great beer selection, comfortable seating and a stand-out roast dinner. Other days of the week hold their own merits too, with a roster of regular reasons to visit that includes a pub quiz on a Monday with a lovely atmosphere, questions that aren’t Mensa level and generous prizes. There are also regular ‘oyster happy hours’ and cheap drinks midweek too, with pints coming in at £3 during certain times. If you’re looking to settle in for more than a couple of drinks (there are very good cocktails and a decent wine list, too), there’s also a great all-day menu that includes grills that range from bone-in steaks to beautiful pieces of fish.
Address: 168 Hyndland Road, G12 9HZ
Website: theclarenceglasgow.co.uk
Phillies of Shawlands
The southside of Glasgow is no stranger to trendy haunts (it’s one of the reasons we crowned it Scotland’s best foodie neighbourhood), with everything from jam-packed brunch spots to some of Glasgow’s best restaurants. It’s also home to a fair few pubs, with Phillies of Shawlands being one of the locals’ favourites. It’s an expansive room that is broken down into neat rows of tables, booths and intimate little lounge spaces. It’s a cool young crowd here, who fill it every night of the week with a lively chatter. Aside from popping in for a drink, there’s also the pull of some of the city’s best fried chicken with a residency by Birds Fried Chicken, which specialises in perfectly seasoned, juicy pieces of chicken in an addictive coating. The brand is a sister to El Perro Negro, an award-winning burger joint, so it's no surprise that the chicken burgers are top drawer. Inventive toppings include a Caesar combo with shredded lettuce and a punchy, Parmesan-rich sauce. Loaded fries, a whole spectrum of dips and sides like mac and cheese, allow you to build your own perfect spread alongside your choice of tenders, burgers or salads (or some of everything).
Address: 1179 Pollokshaws Road, G41 3YH
Website: philliesbar.co.uk
The Thornwood
The Thornwood’s secret sauce lies in a trifecta of things: its classic, old-world interiors; its distinctly local vibe; and its warmly welcomed table service style. There’s no queuing at the bar here, but instead a civilised system that allows you to get comfy while the team rustle up your chosen serves. There’s an honesty beef fridge for those who do like a little bit of DIY, and while the cocktails might not be the best you’ll find in the city, they’re of a decent level and pair well with a good old bag of crisps and a game of cards. If things tumble on longer than expected, there’s also a suitably pubbish menu to keep hunger pangs at bay.
Address: 724 Dumbarton Road, G11 6RB
Website: thethornwoodglasgow.com
The Doublet
Different kinds of pubs serve different kinds of purposes, and The Doublet serves as a reliable olde worlde experience where you can sit side-by-side with locals and enjoy feeling like you’re getting insight into a true slice of Glasgow life. This isn’t big or fancy, and there’s no food either, but what it lacks in frills it more than makes up for in its slightly rough-around-the-edges charm. It’s also very happily positioned within a few metres of The Glasgow Comedy Stand, so is perfect for a pre-show pint.
Address: 74 Park Road, G4 9JF
Website: instagram.com
The Gate
The Gate manages to fulfil two top spots in the city, being both one of the best pubs and one of the best bars in Glasgow. The frontage is so unassuming it’s easy to miss, but once you’re through the door, the space opens up into a pub proper, with a central bar and comfortable banquettes. The team are part of the draw here, with a line-up of fairly passionate drinks-sorts who come up with seasonal menus of inventive cocktails that really are top-tier. Despite what might sound like lofty creations from the mixologists, the vibe is completely unpretentious, so if you just want a lager and some crisps, that’s cool too. Food-wise, there’s a small selection of cheese toasties as well as snacks like olives, pickles and nuts.
Address: 251 Gallowgate, G4 0TP
Website: thegateglasgow.com
The Ben Nevis
Many come to Glasgow searching for a sense of connection through music, and The Ben Nevis delivers that in spades. This much-loved West End institution is a true haven for lovers of traditional Scottish tunes, with live sessions filling the air three nights a week. Tin whistles, fiddles and guitars blend with the chatter of locals, creating an atmosphere that’s warm, communal and thoroughly authentic. The bar itself is cosy and wood-panelled, with an excellent selection of whiskies to sip as you soak it all in. It’s a quintessential Glasgow experience: intimate, spirited and steeped in tradition.
Address: 1147 Argyle Street, G3 8TB
Website: thebennevisbar.com
Kelvingrove Cafe
Kelvingrove Cafe occupies a prime spot on Argyle Street, and it has long been one of Glasgow’s most stylish watering holes. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building, it combines old-school elegance with contemporary flair. The bar is known for its exceptional cocktails, crafted with precision and often featuring inventive twists on classics, as well as a carefully curated drinks list that keeps regulars coming back. It’s a versatile spot too: ideal for a leisurely afternoon drink, a pre-dinner aperitif, or a full evening perched at the bar. With its sophisticated yet approachable vibe, it’s a West End gem.
Address: 1161 Argyle Street, G3 8TB
Website: kelvingrovecafe.com
The Old Toll Bar
There’s something absolutely irresistible about a pub that’s been sympathetically restored, and in being so has become the ideal blend of old and new. The old here at one of Glasgow’s oldest pubs manifests itself as a polished dark wood bar and an old piano, while the new is a spritely team of bartenders who treat everyone like regulars, regardless of official status. Aside from the every day draw, The Old Toll Bar is also the location for one of the best pub quizzes in Glasgow, so is ideal for a friendly competitive evening of displaying your general knowledge prowess (or complete lack of it).
Address: 1 Paisley Road W, G51 1LF
Website: oldtollbarglasgow.com