This map was first published in November 2015. It is currently being updated. Email your bar stop suggestions to hello@glasgowist.com
The Clockwork Orange. The Glasgow Subway trains in their distinctive tangerine livery have been circling below the city since 1896, the third oldest underground metro system in the world. While the older Budapest and London systems have expanded across their cities, Glasgow’s trains remain resolutely running in their original loops on the north and south of the River Clyde.
We’ve reimagined the Glasgow Subway map as a Glasgow Pubway map revealing a picture of the city in all its different guises.
Those attempting a Subcrawl may wish to visit all fifteen bars for a journey of contrasts revealing a myriad of local peculiarities. There will be differing allegiances, drinking styles, musical tastes and company along the way…
In many ways this map tells you a lot more about Glasgow than most others.
What’s your favourite stop?
Inn Deep (Kelvinbridge)
Your nearest stop for craft ale at the Kelvinbridge station, this popular pub has a terrace and American influenced pub menu. Operated by Williams Brothers brewery, it is a great place to start, or finish, the night.
Munro’s (St George’s Cross)
More craft ale (they’ve a pumpkin brew for autumn), sports, pizza and cocktails on Great Western Road.
The Station Bar (Cowcaddens)
A bustling traditional after-work bar on Port Dundas Road, this family run pub is your archetypal local for a pie and a pint.
Palm Sugar (Buchanan Street)
Something of an oddity on this list. Palm Sugar is the cocktail lounge of Chaophraya and a well-appointed spot to sling your shopping bags amidst the fashion chains of Buchanan Street. Order an espresso martini before returning to the fray.
Times Square (St. Enoch)
The nearest bar to the St. Enoch stop, Times Square is a lot less grand than the name suggests, suited to a lunchtime pint of a karaoke session if you are brave enough.
The Laurieston (Bridge Street)
Take a step back in time in a classic Glasgow bar, beloved by ageing locals and lively students alike. They’ve embraced the whole guest cask thing with cool beers like Vital Spark and Avalanche part of the rotating roster of available brews.
Brazen Head (West Street)
A bit of a walk from the station but we’re in something of a bar no-man’s land on West Street. Brazen Head is a rough and ready Glasgow bar on the border of the Gorbals favoured by the green side of the city. Expect Celtic songs and Guinness.
Grand Ole Opry (Shields Road)
We’re deep into the south inner city and on our way to a curious Glasgow landmark. A bingo hall and country music venue, grab a pint or sign up for some line dancing classes.
The Bellrock (Kinning Park)
A pubcrawl stalwart, The Bellrock is the most acceptable bar close to the Kinning Park station. Just off Paisley Road West, the bar staff give a warm welcome to folk who arrive from the underground station. There’s often live music in the bar at weekends.
The Kensington (Cessnock)
Another nae nonsense Glasgow southside boozer. They do not have a cocktail menu.
Louden Tavern (Ibrox)
The blue room is blue. As Rangers a pub as you are likely to find, this is the place for a pint if you get off at Ibrox.
Brechin (Govan)
Last stop before the Subway burrows under the River Clyde towards the northside. Make your way down Govan Road to the old red stone building and order a hawf and a hawf.
UPDATE: Velvet Elvis is now Six Degrees North Craft Brewery
Velvet Elvis (Partick)
One of the best places in Partick for casual food, pints and a laugh. Velvet Elvis is home to an eclectic, bohemian bunch. They’ll have a drink waiting for you as you make your way from the station.
Three Judges (Kelvinhall)
One of Glasgow’s grand old bars, Three Judges is the penultimate stop on our Pubway map. You’ll find up to nine cask ales available of every shade and colour.
Curlers Rest (Hillhead)
Time for a rest directly beside Hillhead station. Join the students and West Enders on Byres Road for a pint as you make it to the end of your journey as the Subway train continues on its way.
The Glasgow Subway Pub Map was designed by Oliver Adams for Glasgowist, from an original design by Strathclyde Partnership for Transport.