"Making Merry on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane This charming cobblestoned back street, lined with restaurants and bars, is the place for lively nightlife in Glasgow’s West End. When darkness falls, festive strings of lights twinkle overhead, and the sounds of live music and laughter drift from pubs and cafes—some of which have been here for decades. The legendary Ubiquitous Chip has served up the finest Scottish produce in a magical courtyard dining room for over 40 years. There’s also the historic Grosvenor Cinema, which has screened films on the lane since 1921—and just underwent a multi-million-pound renovation. When was the last time you visited a movie theater with quirky double sofas for seats, and ordered a beer or glass of wine? For more information about the places and people who make Glasgow special, visit peoplemakeglasgow.us Sponsored by Glasgow City Marketing Bureau"

"Nice n Sleazy Does It A Glasgow institution, "Sleazy's" as the locals call it, is your one stop shop for arts, music, and cheap White Russians. Check the calendar for live music shows and make it a dinner stop, too -- a menu of gourmet burgers, sandwiches and salads shows of the "Nice" side of Sleazy's. Photo: Karen Gardiner"

"West End Sips at Hillhead Bookclub This west end bar is an absolute must for lovers of good drink and architecture alike. Situated in a former cinema, the awe-inspiring space spills out over a number of levels, with the central atrium visible from all regions so you can always keep an eye on your planned snog of the night. While owned by central Scotland’s biggest pub chain, you’d never guess this given it’s robust personality with quirks aplenty. Old school video games and a ping pong table will keep the antsy busy, while the cocktails selection should please most. Libations include Beer and Loathing (Four Roses bourbon with basil, honey and some IPA) and the Bookclub Punch, featuring a mix and mash of whatever’s good for the eve. When I was there, the couple next to me was getting completely sauced off a fancy cocktail served in — naturally — an ancient gramophone. When in Glasgow ..."

"It's exceptionally difficult to recommend just one bar in pub-rich Glasgow, but the Horseshoe wins for friendliness, atmosphere, location and history. This establishment is one of the last remaining "palace pubs" of the early 20th century. The gaslights and televisions are considered "new," but little else has changed. A good range of cask ales and other beers are on tap behind the longest continuous bar (shaped like a horseshoe, of course) in Europe."

"Eclectic Playlists and a Lively Atmosphere There's a bit of something for everyone at Variety Bar. Although its is a bit too trendy to fully satisfy old-school punters, the friendly vibe means there's a good set of colourful regulars. Located near some of the city's best music venues, it is a popular pre-or-post gig watering hole and the varied soundtrack makes it hugely appealing for music nuts."

"Step Back in Time at Sloan's Claiming to be Glasgow's oldest bar, Sloan's traces its history back to the end of the 18th Century. There's certainly a sense of history at the watering hole with its round bar and faded facade. Thankfully the drinks selection has moved with the times and there's a good selection of ales and beers on tap."

"A Folk Music Favourite The atmosphere is reliably lively at the Ben Nevis Bar, but it comes to life even more during one of the regular traditional folk music sessions held here. Grab a spot at the attractive bar, order one of the many ales on tap or a nip of whisky and watch as the talented patrons bring the house down."

"Begbie's Favourite Bar One of the most memorable scenes in Danny Boyle's classic movie Trainspotting was filmed in Crosslands, a classic Glasgow bar in the city's west end. It was here that psychotic Frank Begbie, played by actor Robert Carlyle threw a pint glass from the balcony sparking scenes of mayhem. The atmosphere isn't as frightening as that, but it is unmistakably of the old-school variety."