Introduction
If you’re looking for a place to drink in Glasgow, you’re in luck. Unless you’re a teetotaler, in which case, you’re still in luck because there are plenty of places to pretend you’re drinking. Glasgow’s bar scene is a wild mix of hidden speakeasies, rooftop views that make you forget Brexit exists, and pubs so cozy they’ll make you question why you ever lived anywhere else. Let’s dive into the best bars Glasgow has to offer—because life’s too short for bad cocktails and worse ambiance.
The Gresham: Where Live Music Meets Liquid Courage
Address: 120 Gorbals Rd, Glasgow G5 8TB
Why it’s great: The Gresham isn’t just a bar—it’s a *portal to the 80s*. Think neon lights, retro vibes, and a menu that features a “Gresham Slam” (whiskey, ginger beer, lime) that’s suspiciously good. Live music here isn’t just background noise; it’s the *main event*. If you want to dance like no one’s watching (and trust us, no one is), this is your spot. Pro tip: Order the “Big Gresh” (whiskey + ginger beer) and try not to shout the lyrics to “Sweet Caroline” at the top of your lungs.
The Double GP: The Bar That Hid Behind a Door
Address: 44-46 Queen’s Dr, Glasgow G3 8EU
Why it’s great: This bar is the real-life version of a “hidden door” in a video game. Walk through a nondescript door, and you’re instantly transported to a world of velvet booths, dim lighting, and drinks that taste like they cost £50 (but don’t). The Double GP is *the* place to go if you want to impress someone with your “casual” knowledge of craft gins. Bonus: The bartenders here know your order by your third visit. That’s either creepy or a sign of exceptional customer service. You decide.
Clowns Bar: Rooftop Vibe, Zero Regrets
Address: 154 Bothwell St, Glasgow G2 7QX
Why it’s great: Clowns Bar is the kind of place where you order a Negroni and suddenly you’re in a Bond movie. The rooftop terrace here offers views of the city that make you forget how bad your Tinder date was last week. The menu? A mix of classic cocktails and “we’re not sure what this is but it’s delicious” experimental drinks. If you’re here after 10 PM, the DJ drops a banger, and suddenly everyone’s dancing like they’re in a rom-com. Just don’t ask for a “Clowns Special”—they don’t know what that is, and they’ll judge you.
The Barony: Pub Perfection, No Fancy Sh*t
Address: 124 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3JD
Why it’s great: The Barony is the OG of Glasgow pubs. Picture a room full of locals, a dartboard that’s seen more action than your dating life, and pints of lager so cold they’ll make your lips go numb. This is where you go if you want to be part of the “regulars” club (even if you’re not). The bar snacks? Just enough to justify your third pint. And if you’re lucky, the barman will let you in on the secret of how to order a “Barony Double” (it’s just whiskey and Coke, but you’ll never admit that out loud).
The Witch of Glasgow: Speakeasy Sorcery
Address: 30 St Vincent St, Glasgow G1 1RD
Why it’s great: This bar is like if Hogwarts opened a pop-up venue. The entrance is behind a bookshelf in a restaurant, and the lighting is so dim you’ll need to use your phone flashlight to read the menu. The drinks here are *art*. Think “Smoking Old Fashioned” (literally on fire, not metaphorically) and “The Witch’s Brew” (a magical elixir of rum, bitters, and things your grandmother would have used in her garden). If you want to flirt, just ask the bartender for a “Witch’s Kiss”—no spell required.
5 Tips for Surviving Glasgow’s Bar Scene Like a Local
- Don’t be a tourist. Glasgow locals won’t tolerate fake accents or bad puns. Unless your pun is about whiskey. Then you’re golden.
- Order something with a funny name. Bars love to name drinks after local landmarks or jokes. “The Glasgow Kiss”? It’s just gin and tonic. But it sounds fancy.
- Use cash. Many bars still operate on paper money. And if you’re paying with a card, be prepared to explain why your account is in a foreign currency.
- Never leave a tip. It’s not expected in Scotland. Unless you’re at a fine-dining bar. Then maybe. Just don’t overdo it.
- Walk, don’t Uber. Glasgow’s streets are like a maze. You’ll get lost, find a better bar, and meet someone who’s already had three pints.
FAQs: Answers to Your Burning Questions
Q: What’s the best time to visit these bars?
A: Weeknights are your best bet. Weekends are chaos, unless you enjoy being shoulder-to-shoulder with people who can’t stop talking about their exes.
Q: Do these bars have dress codes?
A: Only if you wear socks with sandals. Glasgowites are forgiving, but that’s one line you shouldn’t cross.
Q: Can I make my own cocktail at home?
A: Absolutely! Check out Strategies.beer’s guide to making your own beer. Spoiler: It involves less whiskey and more creativity.
Q: How do I get my bar on the list?
A: Keep your whiskey neat, your jokes punny, and your lights dim. We’ll help you grow your bar business—no magic required.
Conclusion: Cheers to Glasgow
Glasgow’s bar scene is a masterpiece of chaos, charm, and cocktails that make you question your life choices. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these bars will make you fall in love with the city all over again. So go ahead, toast to the bartender, the city, and the fact that you’re one drink away from forgetting that thing that’s been bothering you.
Need more tips? Contact us for insider secrets on how to make your own bar a legend. And if you’re ready to sell your craft beer online, Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer—because the world deserves your masterpiece.
