When it comes to booze-infused good times, a bar can make or break your evening. The West End of Glasgow, with its wondrous bohemian vibe, is a failsafe stomping ground. Whether low key or bouncing with personality, discover our guide to the must-visit bars in the West End.
Òran Mór
Bar, Brasserie, Restaurant, Contemporary, British, $$$
A firm Glasgow favourite, Òran Mór is a drinking den ideal for having a sinfully good time. Situated within the old Kelvinside Parish Church, this sanctuary is renowned for its vibrant art and entertainment scene. Multifaceted and dynamic, the Victorian Bar, Whisky Bar (go wild with over 280 malts), live music space and nightclub make this a lucky dice of a place. One roll and away you go!
Just like the culinary delight, Bar Gumbo is no stranger to fun times and social gatherings. This firecracker offers a snippet of the American South to Glasgow through its offering of the ‘Holy Trinity’— great music, great food, and great drinks. From jazz and French hip hop to reggae and blues, the tunes are blazing and the energy magnetic.
Ubiquitous Chip, Glasgow | Courtesy Of Ubiquitous Chip
Those with a nose for fine wine will fit right in at Ubiquitous Chip. Then again, those who like any alcohol will take to it also! A mandatory West End bar pilgrimage, this absolute belter has it all — the lively atmosphere, appealing lighting, rooftop spot, striking décor and above all, killer drinks menu. With three bars to choose from — The Big Pub, Corner Bar and The Wee Pub — this place seduces every punter. Those in need of nibbles cannot pass on the exquisite Scottish dining experience.
A playground for students, yuppies, and vodka lovers alike, a pit stop at Vodka Wodka never ends in a dull night out. They have over 70 different vodkas, for crying out loud! If that doesn’t seal the deal, then the picturesque, covered beer garden and dangerously decadent cocktails will. This place is ideal for throwing all airs and graces out the window and having a ‘mad wae it’ time. Oh, and sports fans — they have a 60 inch TV.
Incomprehensibly cool, The Lane is a pro-vinyl bar with an electric atmosphere. Not only can you choose and listen to some cracking tunes on vinyl, but you can swap, buy and sell them too! Genius. The drinks list is all you could ever want, the food is mouth-watering and the prices are incredibly appealing. Brilliantly suited for a chilled gathering of like-minded individuals or pre-cinema tipple before hitting up the Grosvenor.
A must-visit hangout, the Hillhead Bookclub couldn’t possibly be more charming. From epic ping-pong matches and old school computer games to monthly bingo sessions and sporadic sewing gatherings, the list of fun things to do is infinite. What’s more, there are plenty of nooks and crannies dotted about for catch-ups, the eats are delicious, the music brilliant, and the drinks to die for. The kind of club you want to join.
Situated on Ashton Lane, Brel is flawless. This Belgian drinking den is home to an abundance of beer, food and particularly beautiful décor. The beer garden is the kind of place you could sit for hours, with understated yet hip details and perfectly positioned seats. Effortlessly gorgeous and picture perfect, the recent makeover only adds to the appeal. Ideal for getting lost in thought, conversation and fun times.
