The Laurieston Bar in Glasgow has been named one of the best pubs in the UK by Time Out, earning the accolade not for craft cocktails or a stylish interior, but for its refusal to change. The pub, located on the corner of Bridge Street and Nelson Street in the Gorbals, has remained largely untouched since the 1960s, with Formica-topped tables, a horseshoe-shaped bar, and a vintage McGhee's pie warmer.
Time Out Ranking
Time Out ranked The Laurieston eighth out of 22 on its list of the UK's finest pubs. The publication noted: "Make it a rule: when in Glasgow, drop in to the Laurieston. Last time we ranked the UK's finest pubs back in 2024, the Laurieston took top spot - and the Glaswegian bar remains somewhere everyone should have a pint at least once in their lives."
Time Out added: "Everything about it – from the Formica-topped tables to the horseshoe-shaped bar - has remained unchanged since the 1960s. The Laurieston Bar is a proper drinking den and a living, breathing embodiment of the sort of cultural curios and historic spaces that cookie-cutter pub chains are robbing us of."
Traditional Atmosphere and Famous Guinness
The pub's old-school atmosphere focuses on good conversation, traditional pub vibes, and well-kept pints. Its Guinness is a major draw, with regulars claiming it's among the best in Glasgow. During a recent visit, a pint of Guinness and a pint of Tennent's cost £10.45, and the bar only accepts cash. The pint was rich, creamy, and perfectly poured.
The atmosphere stood out, with conversations echoing around the bar as regulars caught up. One woman arrived with her elderly dog, and within minutes, many in the pub had been introduced to her companion. Others enjoyed the pub's famous pie and peas, served from the original vintage McGhee's hot pie cabinet. A pie costs £2, with an additional £1 for peas and gravy.
Rich History
The Laurieston's history dates back to 1836. After being run by local businessman Alexander Wiseman for around 30 years, the pub was taken over by the Graham family in 1865. The Grahams remained in charge until the 1930s, when ownership passed to the Alexander family. The Clancy family took over in 1982, beginning a four-decade spell that cemented the pub's reputation.
In 2023, brothers John and James Clancy put the business up for sale after more than 40 years to spend more time with their families. The sale was completed in 2024, with the pub remaining in private ownership. The new owners have kept the interior and classic atmosphere that punters know and love.
Famous Faces and Film Appearances
The Laurieston's original interior has made it a favourite with filmmakers, appearing in films such as Young Adam starring Ewan McGregor and Wild Rose featuring Jessie Buckley. The pub has also welcomed famous faces, including actors Saoirse Ronan and Jack Lowden, musician Grian Chatten, comedian Frankie Boyle, and Primal Scream frontman Bobby Gillespie.
Scottish crime writer Ian Rankin is also a fan, occasionally visiting to write his novels. After a previous visit, he shared a snap on social media with the caption: "Absolute belter of a pub, by the way. More characters than a computer keyboard…"
Standing the Test of Time
Nearly 190 years after it first opened its doors, The Laurieston remains a rare slice of old Glasgow, staying true to itself despite a few name changes and new owners.
