Whisky in the city
Whisky bars
In Glasgow, you can sample whisky from all around Scotland at traditional bars and pubs. Friendly staff and locals are always on hand to help you choose your dram.
Must-visits include The Pot Still in the city centre. It stocks over 600 whiskies and often tops TripAdvisor's list of Glasgow's best bars. Also in the city centre is The Piper Whisky Bar, which is known for its entertainment.
The neighbourhoods are also home to excellent whisky bars with large collections. Finnieston has a number of Highland bothy bars, such as The Ben Nevis and Islay Inn. Further towards the west end is the beautiful arts venue and restaurant Òran Mór. Given its name, The Dram was always going to have a great selection of drams. And don't miss the small but mighty bar that is The Wee Whisky Bar at the Ubiquitous Chip.
The southside is also well-served. Heraghty’s Bar and The Allison Arms are 2 of the city’s oldest and most popular bars.
For more information on each of these amazing haunts, visit The Pot Still, The Piper Whisky Bar, The Ben Nevis, Islay Inn, Òran Mór, The Dram, The Wee Whisky Bar at the Ubiquitous Chip, Heraghty’s Bar, and The Allison Arms.
For additional recommendations, visit our traditional pubs page and our bars with free live music page.
Whisky distilleries
Find out how the 'water of life' is created with a whisky distillery tour - a unique Scottish experience.
On the banks of the River Clyde in the city centre is the Clydeside Distillery. This is the first dedicated single malt distillery in Glasgow in over 100 years. A visitor centre and tour celebrate the city and the country’s whisky heritage. Check out the tours on offer at Clydeside Distillery.
Just a short distance from the city are Auchentoshan Distillery and Glengoyne Distillery. Both distilleries offer tasting classes, tours, and are set in picturesque locations. For further details, visit Auchentoshan Distillery and Glengoyne Distillery.
A short train journey from Glasgow is Jackton Distillery. This female-led distillery offers tours and tasting opportunities. You can stay on-site in 1 of their 12 cottages for a full lowlands experience. Visit RAER to find out more.
A great way to fit in more is to book onto the Rabbie's 'Whisky and Loch Lomond' guided bus tour. The tour takes in Clydeside Distillery and Glengoyne Distillery, as well as views of Loch Lomond. Find out tour times at Rabbie's.
Whisky walking tours
Take a journey through some of the best 'off the beaten track' bars available in Glasgow with Once Upon a Whisky. You'll visit quirky venues with great food and whisky and hear fascinating stories. Book a place on a Once Upon a Whisky west end tour.
Head out on a guided pub crawl with Scottish Rogue. In each pub you visit you will sample a dram and learn about the production of malt whisky. There will also be stories about the city’s connection with Scotland’s national drink. Find out more at Scottish Rogue.
Short on time in Glasgow? Look no further than A Wee Walk and a Whisky Tour. The first part of the tour takes in the history and culture of the city, taking in key sights. The tour ends with a premium whisky tasting in a local pub. Book a space at A Wee Walk and a Whisky Tour.
Tasting experiences
A great way to sample different whiskies is by ordering a whisky flight. This gives you a chance to try small portions of different types of whisky. Take a visit to The Citizen, found in the city centre, to try out a whisky flight.
Wanting to pair whisky with food? Book a table at Mharsanta and try out whisky alongside a meal, cheeseboard or sharing platter. Or book into Glaschu and enjoy Scottish food with whisky cocktails. For something different, how about whisky-infused tea? Give it a try at Mackintosh at the Willow.
If you have a sweet tooth? Then the Clydeside Distillery's Chocolate and Whisky tour is for you. Sample 5 single malt whiskies alongside artisan chocolates.
Not sure where to begin? Let an expert guide you by booking onto Once Upon a Whisky’s food and whisky pairing experience. The tours cover stories from Glasgow's past, as well as the art of making whisky and food match.
Whisky gifts to take home
Don't leave empty-handed. Take home a Scottish gift to treasure or for a loved one.
Visit Clydeside Distillery’s online shop and choose from a range of lowland whiskies. Explore a selection of gift sets from The Glasgow Distillery Co.
One of Glasgow’s top museums, The Burrell Collection, has its own 8-year-old malt whisky. This can be purchased at the museum’s gift shop or by visiting Glasgow Life’s online shop.
Article last updated: October 2025
