Best pubs in Glasgow with fireplaces and cosy corners
The average temperature of Glasgow on a winter’s night is 0-1°C.
At this time of year, the best pubs in Glasgow have logs on the fire before the temperature drops. The standard-issue drizzle is just part of life in the largest city in Scotland, so there’s bound to be a night out where you need to seek shelter.
What about a pub with a fire? If you’ve booked tickets to Stuart Mitchell’s Comedy Club, start somewhere warm, watch the weather, then end the evening in a packed room full of laughter.
1. Rab Ha’s
Rab Ha’s on Hutcheson Street in Merchant City (just a four-minute walk from our comedy club) is about as cosy as it gets. With stripped stone walls and a roaring, open fire, patrons of Rab Ha’s can get the true country pub experience in the city.
They’ve got plenty of beers, bottles, wine and cocktails, plus an international menu with plenty of traditional Scottish dishes mixed in. Lose a few hours just staring into the flames (pint in hand) and then make your way to the show.
2. Babbity Bowster
For 40 years, Babbity Bowster (located on Blackfriars Street) has been the laid-back bar every busy street needs.
It’s well-regarded for its traditional, classic pub atmosphere, and there’s even a fire that makes the main bar feel especially cosy on colder nights. Wander in on a rainy day, and you might catch musicians jamming in the corner.
It’s 150 metres from Blackfriars of Bell Street at 36 Bell Street to Babbity’s on Blackfriars Street, so if you’re motivated to take a one-minute wander before or after the show, they’re open from 12pm-12am.
3. Sloans
Sloans, Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant, has been serving up first-rate food and cocktails as far back as 1797. Previously known as ‘Sloans Arcade Café’, the charming pub is tucked away on Argyle Street (a 10-minute walk away).
Step inside, and the bar’s interior is thoroughly Victorian: you’ll find a ceramic tiled entrance, rich woodwork in the bar’s several dining rooms, a cocktail bar and the Grand Ballroom: packed with ornate details from another time.
If you want the cosy corner atmosphere (but still with the sense of occasion), head for the Snug bar: it’s the best spot for a quieter drink, great if you’re on a date and want a relaxing pre-show chat next to a roaring fire.
4. Waxy O’Connor’s
Meeting friends off the train at Queen Street? Waxy O’Connor’s is the obvious choice. But be warned: Waxy’s Glasgow is made up of 9 areas and 6 bars spread over 3 floors, with regulars describing it as a treehouse for adults.
In this maze (which you can find on George Street, a 13-minute walk from Stuart Mitchell’s Comedy Club), you’ll find a sprawling, multi-level labyrinth of timber, stained-glass, and hidden staircases (with a cosy, gothic fire in most corners).
Settle down in this gothic-style pub for a pint before showtime. Just be sure you can find your way out in time!
5. The Duke’s Umbrella
For gastropub polish, you’ll find The Duke’s Umbrella at 363 Argyle Street (G2 8LT).
Described as a city-centre favourite doing pub classics with a fine-dining level of care, it’s here you can experience creative takes on Sunday Roasts, Scottish dishes like Haggis, Neeps and Tatties and seasonal pies.
Casual diners will love the bar’s dark wood panelling and dim lighting: it’s atmospheric, one of the best spots for comedy lovers who want to eat well before laughing hard.
Now that you’re warmed up and fed, it’s time for the main event!
While these pubs are brilliant for a warm-up, the real heat is happening just down the road at 36 Bell Street.
You could be continuing the night after a crawl through the Merchant City or heading straight to us – in either case, you’re in for a treat! If you haven’t booked yet, see what’s on and grab your tickets (and if you’re planning a night out for someone else, gift vouchers are available).
Remember, if you didn’t manage to grab a bite at the other spots, Blackfriars serves up some of the best pub grub in the city right upstairs before the doors open.
