Where to go for craft beer in Glasgow

Located inside an eye-catching Art Deco building, and opened in 2016, the Shilling Brewing Company was the first bar in Glasgow to serve beer directly from tanks. All the beer is brewed in-house, guaranteeing a super fresh pint. Aiming to be as ‘inclusive as possible’, the company houses the largest amount of vegan beer options in Glasgow, as well as an extensive range of alcohol free and gluten free beers. The expert staff are always on hand to talk you through the extensive craft beer list, and they can also help you put together beer flights, tastings, and brewery tours.

Inn Deep is synonymous with great-tasting beer — after all, its motto reads ‘craft beer, not crap beer’. Here, it’s all about quality and variety. The independently run team source their beers from a range of different suppliers, and directly from local breweries too. There’s 19 guest kegs lines, three guest casks, and over 100 bottled beers to choose from. To keep things interesting, they also have exclusives, beers of the week, monthly tap takeovers, and rare kegs imported from around the world. Wow! Alongside the tasty tipples, you’ll find yummy food (freshly prepared nachos; buttermilk fried chicken burgers), and smaller sharing plates, perfect for large groups. A classic for good reason: if you’re into craft beer, Inn Deep is a must-visit.

If you’re looking for something a bit different than your usual pub, head to The 78 – a vegetarian/vegan restaurant and bar located in trendy Finnieston. The beer selection is extensive, sourced from William Bros, Sam Smith’s, and Scottish brewery Black Isle. As you might expect, there’s also a large selection of vegan beers, as well as some gluten free and organic ones to boot. The atmosphere here is always on point, with DJs each Friday and Saturday evening, and jazz sessions on Sundays. The inside feels cosy and relaxed, with a beautiful open fire and big, chunky wooden tables. We promise you won’t miss the meat if you decide to try a dish or two — from cauliflower wings to churros with cinnamon sugar, no one will leave hungry.

WEST describes itself as an establishment with a ‘Glaswegian heart’ and a ‘German Head’. Sat inside the beautiful Templeton Carpet factory building (one of Glasgow’s most protected buildings), positioned on Glasgow Green, is a beer hall and restaurant like no other. WEST is the only UK brewery to produce all its artisan lagers and wheat beers in strict accordance with the Reinheitsgebot; that is: the German purity law of 1516. The law prescribes the use of water, malt, hops, and yeast only, assuring a pure and high-quality result. In keeping with the Germanic way of making beer, the food menu at WEST blends Glaswegian and German fare perfectly. There’s currywurst, served with pickles, crispy onions and fries, chicken schnitzel with slaw, and a very hearty Bavarian goulash. If you can, leave room for dessert, and sample the homemade apple strudel and vanilla ice cream (washed down with a craft beer, of course).

The East End Fox distinguishes itself with a focus on rare and unique brews, providing an intimate setting for beer enthusiasts. It’s a place where the love of craft beer is evident in every selection, from smoky porters to fruity sours. The pub’s ambiance blends traditional and contemporary elements, offering a warm, inviting space for exploration and enjoyment. If you’re hungry, the pub also offers tasty comfort food all made with excellent ingredients: think wagyu beef burgers, roast scallops served with black pudding, and homemade sticky toffee pudding.

Inspired by the cult classic film, Lebowskis has earned its reputation in Glasgow for its extensive range of craft beers and signature cocktails. Beer lovers will appreciate the diverse menu, featuring everything from a floral IPA to a caramel-toned red ale. The venue’s laid-back vibe, complemented by its quirky, film-themed decor, makes it the perfect place to unwind. Whether you’re in for the beer, the burgers, or the Big Lebowski references, this pub delivers a memorable experience.

The Scallion, a sleek, contemporary bar, has quickly become a staple in Glasgow for global beer enthusiasts. It stands apart for its selection of international craft beers, including a refreshing Belgian witbier characterised by its subtle spice and citrus undertones, and a classic German pilsner known for its clean, crisp finish. The Scallion’s minimalist design and focus on exceptional beers from around the world offer a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere for those seeking to broaden their beer horizons!