Beer garden season has officially arrived, which means it’s only right to check out as many as you can. There is nothing quite like enjoying a refreshing drink alfresco, especially when the glorious sunshine decides to break through. To help you make the most of it, we’ve put together a round-up of the finest beer gardens in Glasgow where you can soak up every single ray.
The Kelvin
It only makes sense to kick off the list in the West End with The Kelvin Bar. Situated inside the former Lansdowne Church on Great Western Road, this venue features a delightful outdoor beer garden alongside a grand, regal interior. Visitors can take in the church’s rich history through its preserved original features while sipping on a creative cocktail or keeping things classic with a great pint.
Kong
When you’re looking for a great outdoor spot, a heated rooftop is always a winner, mostly because we all know that Glasgow summers can still bring all seasons in one day. Kong Roof Garden is a charming rooftop haven nestled in Royal Exchange Square, operating as part of a vibrant multi-room bar, restaurant, and nightclub. Enveloped by lush greenery and vibrant decor, it promises a fantastic time at what is dubbed “the ultimate botanical escape.”
Mackintosh at the Willow
Found on Sauchiehall Street, Mackintosh at the Willow is celebrated not just as a historic tea room designed by the legendary Charles Rennie Mackintosh, but also for its inviting rooftop terrace. Notably, this spot is one of just two south-facing rooftop terraces in all of Glasgow, making it the ultimate location to relax and catch some rays. Alongside a refreshing selection of drinks, visitors can snack on light bites, sharing boards, salads, and sandwiches, making it an ideal retreat from the bustling city centre.
Cottiers
Housed in another converted church, Cottiers easily earns its spot among Glasgow’s top beer gardens. This multi-faceted West End venue functions as a pub, garden, events space, and dining room, serving up tasty food alongside lovely views of the historic architecture. Thanks to the church’s impressive acoustics, Cottiers regularly plays host to club nights and live concerts, and it even features a charming attic space reached via a winding staircase. On a balmy day, guests can treat themselves to an extensive cocktail menu out on the beautiful terrace.
The Rum Shack
We can’t leave out Glasgow’s Southside, and The Rum Shack is a standout pick with more than 100 rums on offer at this Caribbean-themed venue. Beyond the drinks, you can feast on authentic Caribbean dishes like salt fish, goat curry, jerk chicken, and coconut king prawns. If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to try the Sweet Potato Sponge, a spiced sponge cake made with sweet potatoes, ginger, and coconut, drizzled with chocolate sauce and served with coconut ice cream.
The Finnieston
For those who appreciate both beer gardens AND a good gin, The Finnieston is absolute paradise. Even better, the bar features a lovely, plant-filled outdoor terrace that is ideal for catching up with friends on a sunny afternoon. Stocking over 60 different gin brands, the team prides itself on their deep expertise regarding each hand-selected distillery. If you get hungry, you can sample sustainably sourced Scottish seafood, with options ranging from quick snacks to full meals.
The newly refurbished SíSí Rooftop brings sunshine pop-up DJ sets this summer. One for rooftop beer garden fans in Glasgow, SíSí Rooftop has reopened in Merchant City after a refurbishment, featuring dining-height tables, sofa areas for groups, dedicated standing space and a DJ area. The venue plans surprise pop-up sets from resident DJs across the summer.
