On those rare days when the sun decides to poke its head out? This city's alfresco bars and beer gardens quickly become abuzz with punters looking to lap up all the rays while sinking a brew or two. Luckily for you, we've prepared a list of the best places for outdoor drinking in Glasgow, so you can get ahead of the crowds when those blue skies arrive.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
These dons of craft beer are pouring draught brews and quirky pints from their Ashton Lane outpost. Settle into one of Innis & Gunn's streetside benches to enjoy fruity IPAs, unusual lagers and barrel-aged ales, or simply choose a tipple from the cocktail and wine list.
Come rain or shine, beer will always be in abundance at WEST On The Green - although it really is at its best during those blue sky days. Venture over to the former factory with mates then spend the afternoon sampling pints brewed on-site and taking in the views of Glasgow Green.
A staple when it comes to alfresco drinking in Glasgow, Brel is the cream of the crop for nights out in the city. Not only is its beer garden one of the prettiest in town, but the West End bar is consistently buzzing come rain or shine. Its drinks menu features a long list of brews from Belgium alongside wines and spirits, and its food offering isn't too shabby either. We'll take the mussels, please.
Shimmy on over to Buchanan Street, where Chaophraya and its pretty line of streetside tables await. While you get that much-welcomed dose of vitamin D, get to know the Asian-inspired cocktail list - the lychee and raspberry spritz is sure to cool you off on balmy afternoons.
Summer days and nights are sure to be memorable this year, thanks to Moskito Cocktail Bar & Restaurant's snazzy outdoor terrace in Glasgow. Hit up this quirky drinking den for a range of tantalising tipples, not to mention beautifully prepared East Asian-inspired brunches and dinners.
Boasting an idyllic garden with pebble stones, luscious plants and snazzy parasols, Bothy is making sure that you take advantage of the rare sunny days we lot have. Swing by this West End haunt for slick, signature cocktails and refreshing draught beers, alongside Scottish fare like Highland venison loin, pan-seared seabass or a porcini and chestnut roast.
Offering regular happy hours and mouthwatering munch, All Bar One's beaut alfresco terrace should be your go-to for outdoor drinks in Glasgow. Come here for after-work tipples, weekend brunches or a tasty meal that won't disappoint.
Boasting a fabulous outdoor garden space, BrewDog Merchant City is an ideal haunt for those alfresco moments. Be sure to head outside, where you'll be met with low-key vibes all while you explore the expansive array of craft beers and cocktails.
While predominantly known for its scrumptious menu of Spanish delights, Cubatas also sports a pretty garden that really catches the sun. Make yourself at home in the cool space and order a few signature cocktails, jugs of sangria or crisp glasses of wine.
The Ark is a fun sports bar fronting an epic beer garden adorned with luscious foliage. A no-brainer for game day screenings, this North Frederick Street watering hole is sure to be filled with fans watching all the action across its various outdoor TVs.
Looking for a historical place that's rich in atmosphere and tipples? Sloans is your pub. Located on Argyle Street and established in 1797, the boozer is one of the oldest in the city and to this day still sees a healthy number of people flock through its doors for some good old fashioned entertainment paired with a pint. On the drinks list, you'll find whiskies, gins and classic cocktails like margaritas to quench your thirst, along side a selection of authentic bar snacks. Pakora, anyone?
Bar Soba's Merchant City bar has an impressive terrace that's perfect for summertime sips. Head here for your fill of East Asian-inspired bites and refreshing cocktails, all while you soak up the sun. One of the best bars for outdoor drinks in Merchant City? Without a doubt.
Sometimes, nothing beats sinking a couple of pints in a sunny beer garden in Glasgow city centre. And when that moment strikes? Venture over to O'Neill's Grand Central, where you'll find a top selection of tipples, not to mention live music come the weekend.
Windows Restaurant offers a dazzling rooftop terrace in Glasgow, which might just boast the best views of the city. Ascend to this lofty legend's sky-high space and relax over a glass of wine or two. And if your stomach starts to rumble? There are afternoon teas and succulent steaks up for grabs.
Take your drinking outdoors into the sunshine over at The Bank Cafe Bar. Found on the outskirts of the city, this bustling boozer always has a warm, welcoming vibe, which extends to the alfresco area. Head over for refreshing draught pints, killer cocktails and tasty grub.
Pints, pies and plenty of sun? That's what you'll find over at The Horseshoe Bar, which boasts patio seating that's ideal for warmer days. On top of that, the cocktails pack a punch and the wine list always has you coming back for more.
Few places in the West End are as buzzing as Hillhead Bookclub come summertime. Round up your squad or the other half and get to know this joint's creative array of unique cocktails while at the streetside tables. You can even pair it with a load of affordable grub too.
Radisson RED is a rooftop bar in Glasgow boasting some of the best views in the biz. Mosey on over for sips under the sun, sharing plates and buzzing vibes from dusk 'til dawn. And at the weekend, killer DJs take over the decks, thumping banging beats late into the night.
It doesn't get much better than Inn Deep, where the beers are affordable and the riverside views are beaut. During the summertime, expect this place to be brimming with trendy groups grabbing a few bevvies while making the most of the weather.
Cracking stouts, raucous live music nights and comforting food are all up for grabs at this Irish bar. Something of an institution among locals and tourists alike, Jinty McGuinty's also has a great heated beer garden out back, meaning the fun doesn't have to stop when the sun goes down.
A basement party palace and an outdoor suntrap, Republic Bier Halle is delivering mighty steins, German grub and steaming slices of pizza to the Glaswegian masses. Whether you're here for an afternoon drink with pals or a bite to eat, this city centre haunt has got just the thing.
If you're looking for the best places to drink outside in Glasgow, Ubiquitous Chip offers the ultimate sunshine and foliage-filled experience. Pop over to the beautiful urban rainforest for classic cocktails, real ales and a dram or two of whisky.
Chinaskis is a sultry speakeasy that's home to one of Glasgow's best beer gardens. The outdoor terrace is fantastic for tipping back heady sips late into the evening with friends, as well as sunset cocktails and romantic date night drinks.
Record Factory has a menu of refreshing drinks, tapas-style bites and burgers at fair prices. Add in one of the best beer gardens in Glasgow West End, and it's easy to see why this is a serious hotspot for laid-back summer date nights.
A must-visit for craft beer lovers, Drygate is coming up trumps for outside drinking in Glasgow. Not only does the East End spot promise some of the best independently brewed IPAs and lagers from its 24 taps, but its raised outdoor terrace makes for a charming summer hangout.
While SWG3 can always be counted on to bring the party, it's also a fabulous find for outside drinks. Grab a sun-soaked table on the mega alfresco terrace with your amigos, then enjoy quality beers and a late-night boogie.
Argyle Street has plenty to say for itself when it comes to bars with outdoor seating in Glasgow. And for those of you looking to top up your tan, The Finnieston is a great shout, as it showcases fresh seafood, stellar cocktails and a cute garden area embellished with hanging plants.
