Enjoy spectacular views of Glasgow from these rooftop bars.
Alice Lorenzato-Lloyd - Staff Writer •
With the sun occasionally creeping out and Scottish Summer time now here, a drink at one of the rooftop bars in Glasgow is definitely overdue after the bitterly cold winter – and we’ve got to make the most of the warm weather. Here are some of the best rooftop bars in Glasgow for you to visit and take in insane views of the city. Warning: we can’t guarantee good weather so you may need to bring a coat or blanket because the cold Glasgow weather is not going to stop us from having a drink and a good catch-up with friends.
1. Red Sky Bar
With all that time indoors over the past few months, you might as well treat yourself to some views that aren’t from your window. The Red Sky Bar is situated on the top floor of the Radisson Red hotel, and is one of the only rooftop bars in Glasgow where you can experience amazing views of the River Clyde. You’ll witness the iconic Clydeside shipyards as well as the SEC Armadillo, which is hands down impressive, especially as the sun sets. Add an extensive menu of drinks to choose from, including a selection of wines and some co*cktails named after Glasgow locations such as Red Sky, Glas-Vegas Fizz and Clydeside Spritz, followed by some small plates and sharing boards or afternoon tea, it’ll be a pretty special post-lockdown experience.
25 Tunnel Street, G3 8HL
2. The Corinthian Club
Described as “a jewel in Glasgow’s crown”, The Corinthian Club is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, mainly thanks to its 26 foot glass dome. This bar and brasserie in the Merchant City not only offers stylish drinking and dining indoors but also a lovely roof terrace to enjoy a post-lockdown tipple or two overlooking some of the city. The Corinthian Club was previously the Glasgow & Ship Bank and subsequently the city’s judiciary courts, before being restored to the impressive venue it is today. You can also enjoy brunch, afternoon tea, co*cktail masterclasses and more at this stunning venue.
191 Ingram Street, Merchant City, G1 1DA
3. October
This rooftop bar is an Instagrammer’s haven. From flower feature walls to a pink bathtub, it’s the perfect setting if you’re after that a photo opportunity with all of your mates. Plus, the drinks menu screams fun and fabulous with three different types of p*rnstar Martini to choose from- and you can even enjoy it frozen. At October, you’ll feel as though you’ve gone to the fair but on a sugar rush with their candyfloss co*cktails and cupcake ferris wheel featured on their menu. Plus, this Glasgow roof terrace is one to try if you’re looking for a boozybrunch date.
The Rooftop, Princes Square, Buchanan Street, G1 3JN
4. Ubiquitous Chip
This bar and restaurant is a must-visit if you find yourself on Ashton Lane. Serving incredible Scottish cuisine, Ubiquitous Chip is a firm favourite with both locals and tourists, but add a rooftop terrace to go with that venison haggis or pint and you’ve got quite the set up. As you sit out on their rooftop with flower-clad railings you can take a little peek out at the passers-by on the West End lane, plus it’s quite the suntrap.
12 Ashton Lane, G12 8SJ
5. Windows
Another Merchant City favourite, this fancy hotel rooftop is an absolute suntrap come summer time. Windows restaurant on the seventh floor of the Carlton George Hotel doesn’t just serve up beautiful views of Glasgow, but it also has an array of drinks that are great for both dates and nights out with your friends, with a lengthy menu featuring a little something for everyone. Here you can enjoy a lavish afternoon tea as well as take in views of the St George’s Tron Church and beyond.
44 West George Street, G2 1DH
6. VEGA
VEGA is another hotel rooftop bar, restaurant and space-themed bowling alley on the rooftop bars list in Glasgow. Located atop of YOTEL Glasgow on Argyle Street, the sky-high spot is not just great for a drinks and catching up with friends, VEGA also hosts regular themed boozy brunches, networking events, speed dating events and more. So, play a game of bowling, catch up with your friends and indulge in the abundant co*cktail menu with rooftop views over central Glasgow.
7. Kong Roof Garden
Kong is a swanky heated rooftop spot in Merchant City, inviting visitors to experience the best the city has to offer no matter the season. Located on Royal Exchange Square, Kong Glasgow is a multi-room bar, restaurant and nightclub and is now quite popular among locals and tourists alike. The heated Roof Garden offers trendy vibes, with music and DJs, with craft co*cktails and indulgent amounts of food. Plus, the drinks are just £5 on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays!
Read more: This Mackintosh-Designed Building Has A Rooftop Terrace Great For A Drink In The Sun
