While weegies love a good drink at the pub and sure know how to party, sometimes we either just don’t fancy a drink, or just stop drinking altogether. For example, for those doing dry January and Sober October, the list of things to do that don’t involve going to the pub can quickly run out. Fear not, for we have gathered a list of alcohol-free things to do in Glasgow to help you live your best life.
1. Solve mysteries at an escape room
Check out some of the best escape rooms in Glasgow to challenge you and your teammates. The Surgery escape room is located at Locked In, and it only has a 66% completion rate — most likely due to the creepy and disturbing scenes which can push some players to their limits. As such, this room is not for children and is restricted to players 16 years of age and older. However, nobody has made it out alive in under thirty minutes.
You can book your spot here.
2. Try Fat Hippo’s vegan specials
Next time anyone tells you vegan food is boring, just bring them straight to Fat Hippo. However, they have a whole load of vegan dishes as well as a special burger available throughout January and beyond, so the signature gluten-filled goodness can be enjoyed by everyone. This Veganuary, try the Miami Spice with plant-based Southern-fried chkn, glazed in a sweet-and-spicy togarashi maple sauce, gochujang BBQ, crunchy Asian slaw, katsu mayo and sandwiched in a toasted buttered milk loaf bun. Guests can also enjoy Katsu Fries with gochujang BBQ sauce, topped with crunchy Asian ‘slaw and creamy katsu mayo.
Inspired by vegan superstar Pamela Anderson, the burger joint has brought on the “Parm-ela Anderson” burger with crispy plant-based Southern fried chkn, creamy tomato vodka sauce, grilled vegan mozzarella, tangy garlic pesto mayo, strutting its stuff alongside a rocket, basil, red onion and balsamic salad in an Italian garlic buttered brioche, served with Garlic Butter Fries. Oh, and did we mention Fat Hippo also has a whopping five vegan burgers on their permanent menu?
3. Attend a stunning Candlelight concert
Music lovers are invited to a brand new series of Candlelight concerts, where the soft glow of a sea of flickering lights sets the stage for a truly intimate musical experience. Hear tributes to your favourite artists like never before, attend a Jazz Club or enjoy beloved film scores performed live by talented musicians at Glasgow’s favourite iconic venues like Òran Mór, Merchants House Glasgow and Arta.
You can check out the full Candlelight concert programme and book tickets on Fever.
4. Give Glasgow Witchy Bazaar a visit
Secrets long forgotten can still be uncovered at Glasgow Witchy Bazaar, where people from the spiritual community can get together for a good ol’ time. The next market will be popping up at The Haberdashery on Sauchiehall Street on February 9 from 12pm until 4pm, where you can top up your crystal collection, attend various talks, get a tarot card reading, a holistic treatment such as reiki healing, buy your first tarot deck or even join a coven. And to further get into the witchy spirit, treat yourself to handmade magical jewellery, art from local artists or hand-poured candles. What is more, the market happens regularly, so don’t worry if you miss the next one.
5. Discover all the best parks around Glasgow
Whether it’s Pollok Country Park or Rouken Glen Park, a wee day out to the park is always a good idea. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge, spot some wildlife (and Highland coos, of course) or just to clear one’s mind in the fresh air. So, grab a coffee to go, and check out our full list of the very best parks in Glasgow.
6. Go to a live show at the OVO Hydro Arena
Nothing beats a live show. Whether it’s a concert or stand-up comedy, OVO Hydro has got some absolute treats for us this season, and we cannot wait. Bullet For My Valentine & Trivium is coming to wow Glasgow on January 28, Cyndi Lauper is storming the arena on February 8, and Disney on Ice is there between February 26 and March 2. With a noteworthy line-up of much-anticipated shows, there is something for everyone at OVO Hydro for alcohol-free things to do this season.
You can check out what’s on and book tickets here.
7. Discover Glasgow’s best restaurants
We love Glasgow, and we are obsessed with the food it has to offer. From locally sourced Scottish dishes made with seasonal produce to almost any cuisine from all around the world, the UK’s friendliest city has it all. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Glasgow and discover all the eateries you never knew you needed.
8. Enjoy afternoon tea on a red vintage bus
While this one includes an option for alcohol, the default option is for traditional afternoon tea aboard a red vintage Routemaster bus, making it one of the most unique alcohol-free things to do in Glasgow. On the big red bus (while remembering the catchy nursery rhyme), guests are treated to a classic afternoon tea, as well as unlimited cups of tea and coffee for a wee mid-afternoon pick-me-up. You can book your tickets on Fever.
9. Try axe throwing, play crazier golf or AR darts at this venue
Boom Battle Bar, found on the upper mall of St Enoch Shopping Centre, is overflowing with all the competitive socialising one could wish for. As to the gaming experiences available at The Battleground, you’ll have the choice of augmented reality darts booths, Crazier NOLF (that’s crazy golf, by the way), axe throwing lanes, beer pong tables, American pool, and shuffleboard. The fun runs rampant here, and to go axe-throwing, no alcohol consumption is allowed before or during anyway, making it one of the most convenient alcohol-free things to do on the list. Plus, they offer street food bites and mocktails for that well-needed refill in between games.
10. Check out the latest movies at this cinema with couches
Going to the cinema could be considered one of the more obvious alcohol-free things to do out there. However, at Everyman Cinema, you can make your dream of hanging out on the couch and having a professional cinematic experience come to life. There’s also great food to take into the screening room as you’re catching all the current films, along with older classics. By the way, their décor is actually what I want my house to look like, except with fewer couches. Check out their full list of movies here.
And if you’re a fan of independent cinemas, check out our list of the best independent cinemas in Glasgow.
Who said you need alcohol to have fun with all the alcohol-free things to do in Glasgow!