Updated on:August 31, 2024
by
Ciaran Connolly
Ciaran Connolly
Glasgow is a city entire of life, culture, and great West Glasgow pubs. When visiting Glasgow, you may notice they have a vast range of pubs and bars for you to enjoy but also that the weather isn’t always ideal. Rainy days in Glasgow can still be great fun, running from shop to shop and heading to a pub for a warmer winter. This article will inspire you to visit the West Glasgow pubs and the tourist attractions in Glasgow’s west end.
Table of Contents
What are the Best West Glasgow Pubs for a Rainy Day?
Dram
Located on Woodlands Road, Dram! is a pub that embodies the essence of Glasgow’s West End with its laid-back atmosphere and warm, welcoming vibe. The name suggests a celebration of Scottish whisky, and this pub certainly doesn’t disappoint. However, it’s more than just a whisky bar: Dram! Offers a wide selection of beers, ales, and ciders that cater to all tastes.
The Atmosphere
When the rain begins to pitter-patter on the pavement outside, there’s something incredibly inviting about the soft glow of the lights inside Dram! The pub is spacious yet feels intimate, with mismatched furniture and eclectic décor that give it a quirky charm. The large windows allow you to watch the rain pour down while you remain snug and dry inside, pint in hand.
The Drinks
While whisky is a highlight here, Dram! is also known for its rotating selection of craft beers. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or something in between, you’ll find a beer that suits your mood. For those who prefer something more substantial, the extensive whisky menu features well-known brands and lesser-known gems from Scotland’s finest distilleries.
The Food
If you’re feeling peckish, the pub’s menu offers a range of hearty options, from classic pub grub like burgers and fish and chips to more refined dishes. Their Sunday roast is particularly popular, making it an ideal spot for a lazy Sunday afternoon when the weather is less inviting.
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Sunday | 12 pm–12 am |
Inn Deep
Nestled beneath Kelvinbridge on Great Western Road, Inn Deep is a riverside pub that combines great beer with a unique setting. The pub is part of the Williams Bros. Brewing Co., so you can expect an impressive selection of craft beers brewed locally in Scotland.
The Atmosphere
Inn Deep’s location under the bridge gives it a sheltered, almost hidden feel, perfect for escaping a rainy day. The interior is rustic and cosy, with wooden beams, exposed brick, and a laid-back vibe. If the weather permits, you can also take advantage of the riverside seating, where you can sip your pint while watching the River Kelvin flow by.
The Drinks
As you’d expect from a pub associated with Williams Bros., the beer selection is top-notch. With a focus on craft beer, you’ll find a range of offerings that span from their creations to guest beers from other local breweries. For those who prefer something different, the bar also offers a good selection of wines and spirits.
The Food
Inn Deep is known for its delicious food, burgers, and hot dogs. The menu is packed with comfort food that pairs perfectly with a pint, making it an ideal spot to hunker down when the rain is pouring outside. They also cater to vegetarians and vegans, so there’s something for everyone.
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Sunday | 12–11 pm |
Stravaigin
Stravaigin, located on Gibson Street, is a pub that embodies the phrase “think global, eat local.” Focusing on using fresh, local ingredients to create dishes inspired by flavours from around the world, Stravaigin offers something a little different from the usual pub fare.
The Atmosphere
The interior of Stravaigin is warm and inviting, with a rustic charm that makes it perfect for a rainy day. The wooden furnishings and soft lighting create a cosy ambience, while the friendly staff ensure you feel right at home. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pint at the bar or settling in for a meal, Stravaigin’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an excellent choice.
The Drinks
Stravaigin’s drinks menu is just as eclectic as its food. The bar offers a wide range of craft beers, wines, and spirits, with an emphasis on quality and variety. Whether you’re in the mood for a locally brewed ale or a cocktail, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste.
The Food
Stravaigin’s menu is where it truly shines. The pub is renowned for its inventive dishes that blend Scottish ingredients with global influences. From haggis to Thai-inspired curries, the menu offers something for everyone. If you’re looking for a pub that combines great drinks with outstanding food, Stravaigin is a must-visit.
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 11 am–12 am |
| Sunday | 11 am–12 am |
Curlers Rest
Curlers Rest, located on Byres Road, is one of the oldest pubs in Glasgow, with a history dating back over 300 years. Despite its age, Curlers Rest has managed to maintain its charm while also embracing modern comforts, making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
The Atmosphere
The pub’s historic character is evident from the moment you step inside. The dark wood panelling, traditional furnishings, and open fireplaces create a cosy, old-world atmosphere that’s perfect for a rainy day. Curlers Rest manages to strike the perfect balance between being a lively pub and a relaxing retreat, making it a versatile spot for any occasion.
The Drinks
Curlers Rest offers a wide selection of drinks, with a focus on quality ales and craft beers. The pub prides itself on its rotating selection of local and international brews, so there’s always something new to try. For those who prefer something stronger, the whisky and gin menus are equally impressive.
The Food
The food at Curlers Rest is hearty and satisfying, with a menu that focuses on classic pub dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional pie, a gourmet burger, or a Sunday roast, the pub’s menu has you covered. They also offer a great selection of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring everyone is catered for.
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Sunday | 12 pm–12 am |
FF
Just a short walk from Dram is FF, short for the Finsbay Flatiron, a steak restaurant and bar with fun architecture, comfy chairs, and warm lighting. They even have music videos playing on projector screens to add some interesting visuals. These big screens also show live sports, so why not head over for some football and fantastic pints on a rainy Glasgow day? With the World Cup being in winter this year, it’s a great place to get warm and support your team.
Address: 160 Woodlands Rd, Glasgow G3 6LF
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Sunday | 12 pm–12 am |
Hillhead Bookclub
Hillhead Bookclub, located on Vinicombe Street, is a quirky and eclectic pub perfect for those looking for something different. The pub is known for its unique décor, creative cocktails, and lively atmosphere, making it a favourite spot for students and locals.
The Atmosphere
Hillhead Bookclub’s interior is a feast for the eyes, with vintage furniture, retro décor, and an overall vibe that’s both nostalgic and modern. The space is large and open, yet it manages to feel cosy and intimate, making it a great spot to escape the rain. The pub also hosts various events, from DJ nights to vintage fairs, so there’s always something happening.
The Drinks
The drinks menu at Hillhead Bookclub is as eclectic as the décor. The bar offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits, but the cocktails stand out. Known for their creativity, the bartenders here mix up a range of concoctions that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy. If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, this is the place to be.
The Food
The food at Hillhead Book Club is just as creative as the drinks. The menu offers a range of dishes, from classic pub fare to more inventive options, all made with fresh, local ingredients. You’ll find it here whether you’re in the mood for a burger, a salad, or something more adventurous. The pub also caters to vegetarians and vegans, with plenty of options.
Opening Hours:
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 11 am–12 am |
| Sunday | 11 am–12 am |
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
The Belle
The Belle, located on Great Western Road, is a small, cosy pub that’s perfect for a quiet pint on a rainy day. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and excellent selection of drinks, The Belle is a hidden gem in the West End.
The Atmosphere
The Belle’s charm lies in its simplicity. The pub is small and intimate, with a traditional feel that makes it a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The wood panelling, dim lighting, and roaring fireplace create a cosy environment perfect for settling in with a pint on a rainy day.
The Drinks
The Belle may be small, but it offers an impressive selection of drinks. The bar focuses on quality over quantity, with a well-curated selection of beers, ales, and spirits. Whether you’re in the mood for a pint of real ale or a dram of whisky, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
The Food
While The Belle doesn’t have a full kitchen, it offers a selection of bar snacks perfect for pairing with your drink. If you’re looking for something more substantial, the pub’s location on Great Western Road means you’re just a stone’s throw away from some of the West End’s best restaurants.
Address: 617 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 8HX
Opening Hours:
| Monday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Tuesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Wednesday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm–12 am |
| Sunday | 12 pm–12 am |
Things to do in the West End of Glasgow
- Go shopping on Great Western Road
- Visit the University Campus & Hunterian Museum
- Visit Kelvingrove Museum & Art Gallery
- Go for a walk in Kelvingrove Park
Glasgow is a bustling and friendly city, well worth the visit. If you visit, make sure to see the West end of the city, just a short 5-minute tube stop from the city centre. Enjoy the shops, restaurants, museums, and, of course, the West Glasgow pubs.
