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Traditional pubs in Glasgow

Customers relax inside The Pot Still, chatting or using phones in a warmly lit pub with red leather seating, framed decor, and whisky glasses on tables.
The Pot Still
You can’t visit Glasgow without popping into a traditional pub. The staff are friendly and happy to help you pick a whisky. Locals love to chat, so you'll hear plenty of Glaswegian banter.

City centre

Bartender selects whisky bottles from a large, ornate shelf at The Pot Still, a traditional Glasgow whisky bar with a vast selection.

West end

Exterior of The Ben Nevis pub on a corner street, warmly lit with wooden doors, hanging plants, and outdoor seating on the pavement.

Southside

A warm, dimly lit traditional pub interior with a dark wood bar, bottles, glasses, and a Scottish flag display.

East end

Exterior view of a traditional, historic pub called "The Tolbooth Bar est. 1906" on a street corner, with a striking black and red facade.

City centre

The Pot Still

Established in 1867, The Pot Still is a family-run pub with over 1000 whiskies and numerous cask ales to choose from. The friendly staff pride themselves on finding every customer their perfect dram of whisky. Find out more by visiting The Pot Still.

The Clutha

Named after the Gaelic word for the River Clyde, The Clutha is a Glasgow institution with over 200 years of history. They have live music every night and famous fans include the likes of Billy Connolly, Jimmy Reid, Spike Milligan, and Frank Zappa. The exterior is also known for a series of murals. Follow The Clutha on Facebook to see what’s on.

The Scotia

Across the road from The Clutha is The Scotia, which was established in 1792 and is one of several pubs that claim to be the oldest in the city. The Scotia has a history of radical politics and live music (Billy Connolly, Gerry Rafferty and Tom Walker have performed here). Visit The Scotia for more information.

Bartender selects whisky bottles from a large, ornate shelf at The Pot Still, a traditional Glasgow whisky bar with a vast selection.
The Pot Still

Bon Accord

This ale drinker’s mecca opened its doors in 1971. Selling around 800 different real ales per year and with over 400 malt whiskies, the award-winning bar also offers a menu full of tasty pub grub. Head to Bon Accord to check it out.

Sloans

Sloans is a hidden gem tucked away down a lane that can be reached from Argyle or Buchanan Street in the city centre. Head inside and enjoy many original features of the Grade A listed building, including the ceramic tiled entrance and grand mahogany staircase. Or sit outside in the heated and covered courtyard, complete with twinkly fairy lights. Find out more by visiting Sloans.

The Admiral Woods

The Admiral Woods has great music and a delicious menu, including their much-loved stone-baked pizzas, handmade burgers and macaroni cheese. To find out more, visit The Admiral Woods.

Groups of people chat and relax under fairy lights outside Sloans, a historic bar with a cosy atmosphere, during a lively evening.
Sloans

West end

The Ben Nevis Bar

Opened in 1999, step into The Ben Nevis Bar and feel as if you’re in a Highland bothy with the exposed stone walls, reclaimed materials, and a cosy fire. Enjoy traditional music sessions every Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 8pm onwards. Find out more by visiting The Ben Nevis Bar.

The Ben Nevis Bar is one of 4 traditional pubs in the Finnieston area, known for their Highlands and Islands vibe. The others are The Snaffle Bit, The Park Bar and The Islay Inn. Each is renowned for its live folk music, fine whisky selections and great craic!

Exterior of The Ben Nevis pub on a corner street, warmly lit with wooden doors, hanging plants, and outdoor seating on the pavement.
The Ben Nevis

The Arlington

Rumoured to be the home of the real Stone of Destiny, The Arlington can be found in the city’s west end and is popular with students, locals and visitors. To find out more, follow The Arlington on Instagram.

The Drake

The Drake is a small independent bar in the west end with a cosy feel. Expect exposed stone walls, Harris Tweed seating, a coal fire, a heated rear garden, and a well-stocked bar. They also serve a tasty roast dinner every Sunday. Check out The Drake to see for yourself.

Two plates of roast dinner with meat, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and vegetables on a wooden table by a fireplace, accompanied by red wine, Sol beer, and a cocktail with a lemon garnish.
The Drake

Southside

The Laurieston

Feel like you’re stepping back into the 1960s in this traditional bar, near Bridge Street subway station. Enjoy a pint of local beer and admire the authentic décor, photographs, and memorabilia on the walls. Follow The Laurieston on Facebook to find out more.

The Allison Arms

Opened in 1884, find the Allison Arms in Strathbungo. It’s a dog-friendly, traditional neighbourhood pub where you can enjoy a great selection of ales and malts. Not to mention the banter with the locals. Check out the Allison Arms on Facebook.

The Rose Reilly

Previously the Hampden Bar, The Rose Reilly pub is a cosy spot to enjoy a relaxing drink or two. Named after Scottish footballer Rose Reilly, who played for Italy and scored 13 goals for the team. To find out more, follow The Rose Reilly on Instagram.

Heraghty's

One of Glasgow’s oldest bars, Heraghty's is a family-run Irish pub in the heart of Strathbungo. They stock over 100 malt whiskies as well as a variety of gins, bourbons, rums, and liqueurs. And, the venue is open until midnight every night of the week, including Hogmanay. For more information, visit Heraghty's.

A warm, dimly lit traditional pub interior with a dark wood bar, bottles, glasses, and a Scottish flag display.
The Rose Reilly

East end

Whistler on the Green

A cosy, dog-friendly pub beside Glasgow Green. Enjoy craft beers, Scottish comfort food, and a relaxed welcome after a walk in the park. Friendly staff and a great location make this a favourite spot for locals and visitors. Check out Whistler on the Green for menus.

The Heilan’ Jessie

A historic pub on the Gallowgate, dating back to 1771. Famous for Scottish whiskies, hearty classics, and a lively local crowd. Popular with music fans and Barras visitors. Visit The Heilan' Jessie to find out more.

The Tolbooth Bar

Glasgow's oldest Irish bar in the Saltmarket area. Known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and live traditional music, it’s a favourite with locals and visitors. Enjoy a great pint and soak up the buzz before a match or night out. No food, but plenty of nearby options. Follow The Tolbooth Bar on Instagram for more info.

Exterior view of a traditional, historic pub called "The Tolbooth Bar est. 1906" on a street corner, with a striking black and red facade.
The Tolbooth

Article last updated: October 2025

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