Cosy pubs in Glasgow

Òran Mór

Housed in the former Kelvinside Parish Church, the Whisky Bar at Òran Mór is a welcoming pit stop in the heart of the city’s bustling west end. Enjoy something to drink or eat in this charming space and keep an eye out for the Robert Burns inspired paintings by Scottish artist Nichol Wheatley. Book a table at Òran Mór’s website.

Babbity Bowster

6 or more people seated together at a table in a bar setting. Some are playing live instruments

Built on the site of an old monastery and tucked away down a lane in Glasgow's Merchant City, Babbity Bowster is a laid back, friendly bar and restaurant where you can enjoy your own company or a conversation with fellow visitors and locals in its cosy surroundings. Check out babbitybowster.com to find out more.

Chinaski’s

A snug, candle-lit bar named after writer Charles Bukowski, Chinaski’s has a trendy feel. Found at Charing Cross, which is roughly halfway between the city centre and west end, Chinaski’s serves some tasty food and has a beer garden complete with a canopy and patio heaters to enjoy crisp, winter evenings alfresco. Book a table at chinaskis.co.uk.

The Belle

The Belle is a welcome haven in a quiet stretch of Great Western Road. The roaring fire and dog friendly attitude make for a relaxing place to enjoy a pint. A cosy little bar with bags of character, it has the feel of a village country pub. Follow The Belle on Instagram to find out more.

Cottiers

A unique Scottish bar and restaurant housed within a renovated church, Cottiers is known for its laid-back vibe, character and good food. Its unusual setting and cosy open fire make it the perfect place to spend a chilly afternoon. The adjoining Cottiers Theatre also offers an intimate venue for live music, theatre and a variety of events. Visit Cottier’s website to book a table.

Kelvingrove Cafe

The turn-of-the-Century period details in Kelvingrove Cafe have been kept giving the place a feel of yesteryear. With exposed brickwork and an open fire, the west end bar is a cosy spot for cocktails. Visit kelvingrovecafe.com.

The Lismore Bar

A lovely spot to spend an evening with friends, The Lismore has become an institution of the Partick area in Glasgow’s west end. With regular toe-tapping live music sessions and traditional Scottish décor, The Lismore has a village pub feel despite its city surroundings. Follow The Lismore Bar on Twitter to keep up-to-date.

Waxy O’Connors

With cosy fires, beautiful wooden décor and traditional music every Sunday, Waxy O’Connor’s is an Irish bar in the city centre with lots of charm. Inside is often referred to as a maze with 6 bars to choose from over 3 floors. Book a table on Waxy O’Connor’s website.

Rab Ha’s

2 friends sit at a table talking with a dog by their side. A fireplace on a wooden panelled wall is behind them. Low level lighting and the fire lights the room.

Robert Hall, ‘The Glasgow Glutton’, was a resident of Glasgow’s Merchant city in the 19th century and as his nickname suggests, was a man who loved food. Rab Ha’s restaurant keeps his spirit alive with a Scottish menu while the cosy bar serves a range of beers from around the world. Book a table at rabhas.co.uk.

226 Gallowgate

Sharing its name with its address, 226 Gallowgate is in the east end, right next door to the renowned music venue, the Barrowland Ballroom. Having undergone an extensive restoration and opened in 2019, the venue contains some unique original features, offering cosiness and charm. Find out more on the 226 Gallowgate website.

WEST on the Green

Found in the iconic Templeton Building on Glasgow Green, WEST on the Green is a beer hall-style bar and restaurant which successfully combines German and Scottish beer and cuisine, alongside its very own working brewery. Head to westbeer.com for more info.

The Bungo Bar & Kitchen

The Bungo Bar & Kitchen is a gem of a pub found in Strathbungo on the southside. It has a welcoming neighbourhood feel and is dog friendly too. Find out more at thebungo.co.uk.

Article last updated: February 2023

Cosy pubs