Beer garden season is in full swing, so it’s only fitting to sample as many as possible. We love a good tipple outdoors, especially when glorious sunshine is out for everyone to enjoy. So, we’ve compiled a list of Glasgow’s best beer gardens where you can soak up all the sun.
1. Secession Bar
The list has to be started with one of Glasgow’s newest additions in the West End, Secession Bar. Located in the former Lansdowne Church on Great Western Road, the bar boasts a sweet beer garden outside and a regal décor indoors. Guests can bask in the history of the church with original features present throughout, enjoy an original cocktail list or just go for a good ol’ pint.
2. Cranside Kitchen
Cranside Kitchen is a lockdown baby that stayed for good, making it one of the biggest beer gardens in town with plenty of corners to catch some rays. The spot comfortably sits by the River Clyde, which should prove popular among locals and visitors alike for outdoor dining, drinking and entertainment. On top of all your favourite drinks, enjoy some culinary favourites such as pizza or pasta, a wide selection of curries, sushi, gyoza or tempura.
3. Mackintosh at the Willow
Located on Sauchiehall Street, Mackintosh at the Willow is not only a tea room of historic significance as it was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, but also a welcoming rooftop terrace. The terrace is, in fact, one of only two south-facing rooftop terraces in the whole of Glasgow and is the perfect spot to unwind soaking up the rays. On top of refreshing drink options, guests can also enjoy nibbles, sharing boards, salads and sandwiches, offering the perfect escape from the busy streets.
4. Cottiers
Another former church, Cottiers deserves a firm spot on our beer gardens in Glasgow list. The venue is a pub, a garden, an events space and a dining room, offering delicious food and pretty views of the historic building. Cottiers hosts club nights and various concerts as the church acoustics are enviable, and the space also boasts an attic space located up some winding charming stairs. Guests can indulge in an extensive cocktail menu on the gorgeous outdoor terrace, making it the go-to destination in Glasgow’s West End on a warm day.
5. Platform
Platform on Argyle Street is known for its epic nights hosting events, such as the famous candlelight concerts took place there in the past, as well as serving food and drink under the iconic railway arches. What is more, the lane behind the venue is a beer garden, filled with fairy lights and colourful tables. Visitors can enjoy a drink or two, along with their signature burgers enjoying all the vibes that Platform provides.
6. The Rum Shack
We couldn’t leave Glasgow’s Southside behind, so The Rum Shack seems to be an obvious choice with over 100 rums available at the Caribbean-inspired spot. On top of rum, enjoy Caribbean food, such as salt fish, goat curry, jerk chicken and coconut king prawns. And for dessert, opt for the Sweet Potato Sponge, which is a sponge cake with sweet potatoes, spices, ginger and coconut, topped with chocolate sauce and coconut ice cream.
7. The Finnieston
We do love a gin, and The Finnieston is the place to be for gin lovers. What is more, the bar boasts an adorable outdoor terrace filled with plants, perfect for a hang out with pals on a warm day. The Finnieston holds over 60 brands of gin, priding themselves in the knowledge of each hand-picked distillery. Guests can also try sustainably sourced Scottish seafood when feeling peckish, with both snacks and full-on meals available. While the wee garden is currently closed, gin lovers should keep their eyes peeled on the official opening date that should be very soon.