Whisky Tasting in Glasgow: The Friendly City Guide (2026)

Edinburgh might be the capital of tourism, but Glasgow is the capital of culture.

Known as the “Friendly City,” Glasgow offers a drinking experience that is unpretentious, lively, and deeply historical.

A whisky tasting in Glasgow feels different. You aren’t just sipping a spirit; you are joining a conversation.

For decades, Glasgow was a “blending city,” famous for producing the grain whisky that fueled brands like Johnnie Walker. But in 2026, it has undergone a Single Malt renaissance. With new distilleries opening on the banks of the River Clyde and some of the world’s most awarded whisky bars in the city center, it is a must-visit destination.

In this guide, we will take you on a tour of the best pubs, the newest stills, and the hidden gems of Glasgow.

1. The Pot Still: The Holy Grail

If you only visit one bar in Scotland, make it The Pot Still on Hope Street.

Founded in 1867, this Victorian pub is an institution. It stocks over 700 whiskies. The bottles are stacked on shelves so high that the bartenders have to use ladders to reach them.

The Experience:

It is busy, noisy, and welcoming. Despite the crowd, the staff are experts. You can tell them “I usually drink Bourbon,” and they will find a Scotch aged in virgin oak that perfectly matches your palate.

It is the definitive place for a whisky tasting in Glasgow. Make sure to order one of their famous meat pies to go with your dram.

Not sure what to order?
Use our Tasting Guide to articulate what you want.

2. The Clydeside Distillery: The New Icon

For over a century, the docks of the River Clyde were used to export whisky to the world, but not to make it.

That changed with The Clydeside Distillery.

Located in the old Pump House (built in 1877), this stunning glass-and-brick distillery brought Single Malt production back to the city center.

The Tour:

It is modern and slick. You can see the copper stills through the glass walls. Their signature malt, “Stobcross,” is a classic Lowland style: light, grassy, and floral. It is the perfect whisky tasting in Glasgow for beginners who want to see the science of distillation up close.

Why is the spirit so light?
Read our guide on Lowland Whisky to understand the style.

3. The Bon Accord: The Ale & Malt King

If The Pot Still is the heart of Glasgow whisky, The Bon Accord is the brain.

Located near Charing Cross, this pub is famous for two things: Real Ale and Old Whisky.

They specialize in high-value, rare bottlings. It is the home of the local “Malt Whisky Club.” If you want to taste a 40-year-old Glenfarclas or a dusty bottle from a closed distillery (Ghost Distillery) without paying hotel prices, this is the spot.

The Vibe: It is quieter and more relaxed than the city center bars. It is where you go to sit, sip, and think.

Interested in rare bottles?
Read our guide on Investing in Ghost Distilleries.

4. Auchentoshan: The Lowland Legend

Just a 20-minute taxi ride from the city center lies Auchentoshan.

This is Glasgow’s “Malt.” It is unique in Scotland because it practices Triple Distillation for every single drop (most Scotch is distilled twice).

The Science:

The third distillation strips out all the heavy oils and “funk.” It creates a spirit that is incredibly clean, citrusy, and high-proof (coming off the still at 81% ABV).

Because the spirit is so clean, it is the perfect canvas for wood. Their “Three Wood” expression (aged in Bourbon, Oloroso, and Pedro Ximénez casks) is a masterpiece of cask management.

What does triple distilled mean?
Compare it to Irish Whiskey in our guide here.

5. Oran Mor: Whisky in a Church

For pure atmosphere, you cannot beat Oran Mor.

Located in the West End, this venue is a converted church. The “Whisky Bar” is located where the crypt used to be.

It stocks over 250 malts. Drinking a dram of Highland Park while surrounded by stained glass windows and stone arches is a spiritual experience (pun intended).

It is also a great spot for food. Pair your whisky tasting in Glasgow with Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties for the full Scottish experience.

6. Summary: Your Glasgow Itinerary

Glasgow offers a whisky experience that is authentic and accessible.

The Ideal Weekend:

1. Start the day at Auchentoshan for a technical tour.

2. Head to the Clydeside for a modern tasting with a view of the river.

3. Spend the evening at The Pot Still trying independent bottlings.

4. Finish at The Bon Accord for a rare nightcap.

The motto of the city is “People Make Glasgow.” You will find that the people here are always happy to share a dram and a story.