Oldest Pubs in Glasgow
The Travel Pages finds the oldest pubs in Glasgow, dating back to the 16th century, from traditional bars in the city centre to historic pubs by the River Clyde.
Oldest Pubs in Glasgow
Here’s a detailed look at ten of Glasgow’s oldest and most historic pubs, each with its own fascinating story:
The Scotia Bar (1792)
Glasgow’s second-oldest pub has been a Merchant City institution for over 230 years. A favorite haunt of shipbuilders, artists and musicians (Billy Connolly was a regular when he still lived in Glasgow), its Victorian interior features original mahogany panels, a horseshoe bar, and walls lined with music memorabilia. The pub still hosts live folk music sessions today.
Address: 112 Stockwell St, Glasgow G1 4LW
Phone: +44 141 552 8681
Website: belhaven.co.uk
The Clutha Bar (1819)
This historic pub on the Clyde’s banks gained tragic fame after a 2013 helicopter crash, but its history stretches back to Glasgow’s industrial heyday. The name refers to the River Clyde’s ancient name (“Clutha”), and its traditional interior remains largely unchanged from the 19th century.
Address: 167 Stockwell St, Glasgow G1 4LS
Phone: +44 141 553 1446
Website: facebook.com
The Horseshoe Bar (1846)
Built during Glasgow’s Victorian boom, this iconic pub is famed for its magnificent curved bar – the longest in Britain at 104 feet. The original brass fittings, tiled floors, and ornate mirrors have been preserved, while its upstairs dining room was once a bank teller’s office.
Address: 17-19 Drury St, Glasgow G2 5AE
Phone: +44 141 248 6368
Website: thehorseshoebarglasgow.co.uk
The Pot Still (1850s)
A whisky lover’s paradise near George Square, this Victorian pub boasts over 700 malt whiskies. The beautiful original mahogany bar, leaded glass, and antique whisky memorabilia create an authentic old-Glasgow atmosphere. The pub occupies what was once part of the historic Saracen’s Head Inn.
Address: 154 Hope St, Glasgow G2 2TH
Phone: +44 141 333 0980
Website: thepotstill.co.uk
The Arlington Bar (1870)
This traditional Tollcross pub is one of Glasgow’s last remaining “dram shops” – pubs that originally sold whisky by the dram. Its stunning Victorian interior features an island bar, etched mirrors, and the original 19th-century cashiers’ booth where workers would collect their wages.
Address: 130 Woodlands Rd, Glasgow G3 6NG
Phone: +44 141 572 5921
Website: facebook.com
The Drum & Monkey (1870s)
The Drum & Monkey is a beautifully preserved Victorian pub in Glasgow’s city center, established in the 1870s. Known for its stunning original features—including intricate mahogany woodwork, period tiled floors, and a grand curved bar—it offers a traditional Scottish pub experience with an excellent selection of whiskies and cask ales. The pub maintains its historic charm while serving classic pub food and catering to both after-work crowds and whisky enthusiasts.
Address: 91 St Vincent St, Glasgow G2 5TF
Phone: +44 141 221 6636
Website: nicholsonspubs.co.uk
The Laurieston Bar (1904)
A perfectly preserved Edwardian pub near the Clyde, the Laurieston looks frozen in time with its original ceramic tiling, ornate ceiling, and wooden phone booth. The pub’s famous “cradle bar” (a curved corner where patrons can comfortably lean) is a masterpiece of pub design.
Address: 58 Bridgegate, Glasgow G1 5HR
Phone: +44 141 429 2009
Website: facebook.com
The Ben Nevis (1843)
While the current pub dates to the 1990s, it occupies the site of one of Glasgow’s oldest licensed premises in Finnieston. The cozy, folk-music focused bar maintains traditional Scottish pub character with its whisky selection and regular ceilidh nights.
Address: 1147 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8TB
Phone: +44 141 576 5204
Website: thebennevisbar.com
The State Bar (1901)
This is a cherished Edwardian-era pub in Glasgow’s city center, renowned for its stunning original features like stained glass windows, an iconic oval bar, and private “snugs.” Originally opened as a temperance bar, it now boasts one of Glasgow’s finest whisky selections with over 100 malts. The pub retains its historic charm while hosting live folk music, offering an authentic blend of tradition and vibrant local culture.
Address: 148 Holland St, Glasgow G2 4NG
Phone: +44 141 332 2159
Website: facebook.com
The Griffin Bar (1865)
One of Glasgow’s most unchanged Victorian pubs, the Griffin features an incredible original island bar with intricate woodwork, etched mirrors, and antique cash drawers. The “snug” – a small private drinking area – offers a glimpse into traditional pub culture.
Address: 266 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4JP
Phone: +44 141 332 0756
Website: thegriffinglasgow.co.uk
Each of these pubs (just some of the oldest pubs in Glasgow) offers a unique window into Glasgow’s rich social history – from medieval taverns to Victorian gin palaces. Many still serve traditional Scottish ales and an impressive selection of whiskies, making them perfect for a historical pub tour.
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