Best Rooftop Bars and Terraces in Glasgow

When the sun decides to grace Glasgow with its presence, you have to make the most of it. And what better way to soak up those rare rays than with a cold drink in hand, looking out over the city? Glasgow might not be famous for its skyscrapers, but it has a growing number of fantastic rooftop bars and terraces that offer a unique perspective on the city's architecture and a cracking atmosphere to boot. From chic cocktail spots to sprawling beer gardens, there’s a rooftop experience for every occasion. So, whether you're a local looking for a new favourite spot or a visitor wanting to see the city from a different angle, this guide to the best rooftop bars in Glasgow has you covered.

Radisson RED Sky Bar

Perched atop the Radisson RED hotel, the Sky Bar offers some of the most impressive panoramic views of Glasgow. You can see the River Clyde, the Finnieston Crane, and the SSE Hydro all from the comfort of your seat. The vibe is modern and stylish, with a great selection of cocktails and a food menu that’s perfect for sharing.

Address: 25 Tunnel St, Glasgow G3 8HL
Best for: Sunset cocktails with a view.
Personal tip: Book in advance, especially on a sunny day, as this place gets very busy. The Clydeside Spritz is a must-try!

Chaophraya

For a touch of Thai glamour, head to Chaophraya. This rooftop restaurant and bar is a feast for the senses, with its opulent decor and stunning views over Buchanan Street. The food is some of the best Thai cuisine in the city, and the cocktails are just as impressive. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic evening.

Address: The Townhouse, 20 Nelson Mandela Pl, Glasgow G1 2LL
Best for: A sophisticated dinner with a view.
Personal tip: The outdoor terrace is heated, so you can enjoy it even on a cooler evening. Try the ‘From the Bar’ section of the menu for some unique Thai-inspired cocktails.

The Spiritualist

Located in the heart of the city centre, The Spiritualist is a stylish and sophisticated bar with a hidden rooftop terrace. It’s a real sun trap, and the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city below. The cocktail menu is extensive, with a focus on gin and other spirits. They also have a great selection of small plates and sharing boards.

Address: 62 Miller St, Glasgow G1 1DT
Best for: After-work drinks in the sun.
Personal tip: The entrance to the rooftop terrace is a bit hidden, so you might have to ask for directions. It’s worth it when you find it though!

Gin71

As the name suggests, Gin71 is a gin lover’s paradise. With over 71 different gins to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favourite. The rooftop terrace is a hidden gem, with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. It’s a great place to catch up with friends over a G&T.

Address: 71 Renfield St, Glasgow G2 1LP
Best for: Gin lovers and a relaxed atmosphere.
Personal tip: The staff are incredibly knowledgeable about gin, so don’t be afraid to ask for a recommendation. They also do a great gin tasting experience.

SWG3 Galvanizers Yard

SWG3 is one of Glasgow’s most exciting and versatile venues, and the Galvanizers Yard is its outdoor heart. This sprawling space hosts everything from food festivals and outdoor gigs to art installations and markets. It’s not a traditional rooftop bar, but it’s a fantastic outdoor space to enjoy a drink and soak up the creative atmosphere.

Address: 100 Eastvale Pl, Glasgow G3 8QG
Best for: A lively and creative atmosphere.
Personal tip: Check the SWG3 website to see what’s on before you go. There’s always something new and exciting happening in the Galvanizers Yard.

The Raven

The Raven is a proper pub with a great selection of craft beers and a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. The rooftop terrace is a real bonus, offering a great spot to enjoy a pint in the sun. They also do some of the best pub food in the city, with a focus on smoked meats and barbecue.

Address: 81-85 Renfield St, Glasgow G2 1LP
Best for: Craft beer and a proper pub atmosphere.
Personal tip: The food portions are generous, so come hungry! The pulled pork is a must-try.

DogHouse Merchant City

BrewDog’s DogHouse hotel is a beer lover’s dream, and the rooftop bar is the cherry on top. With a hot tub, a fire pit, and a great selection of BrewDog beers on tap, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. The views over the Merchant City are pretty special too.

Address: 99 Hutcheson St, Glasgow G1 1SN
Best for: Beer lovers and a unique hotel experience.
Personal tip: You don’t have to be a hotel guest to visit the rooftop bar, but it’s worth booking in advance. The hot tub is a real treat, especially on a cold day.

Brel

Located in the heart of the West End, Brel is a Glasgow institution. The beer garden is one of the best in the city, with a fire pit, a fondue shed, and a great selection of Belgian beers. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon with friends.

Address: 37-43 Ashton Ln, Glasgow G12 8SJ
Best for: A relaxed and friendly atmosphere in the West End.
Personal tip: The moules frites are a must-try. They also do a great selection of sharing platters.

Cottiers

Cottiers is a stunning converted church in the West End, with a beautiful beer garden and a great selection of food and drink. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. They also have a theatre and a regular programme of events.

Address: 93-95 Hyndland St, Glasgow G11 5PU
Best for: A unique and beautiful setting.
Personal tip: The beer garden is a real sun trap, so it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Check out their website to see what’s on in the theatre.

Best Beer Gardens in Glasgow

While rooftop bars are great for views, sometimes you just want a classic beer garden experience. Glasgow has some fantastic options, from traditional pubs to modern bars. As well as Brel and Cottiers, which we’ve already mentioned, here are a few more of our favourites:

• WEST on the Green: A German-style beer hall and brewery with a huge beer garden overlooking Glasgow Green.
• The Ark: A popular student spot with a massive beer garden and a great selection of cheap drinks.
• The Finnieston: A stylish bar with a hidden beer garden and a great selection of seafood.

Rooftop Cocktails

If you’re looking for a more sophisticated rooftop experience, Glasgow has plenty of options for cocktail lovers. As well as the best rooftop bars in Glasgow that we’ve already mentioned, here are a few more of our favourites:

• The Kelvingrove Café: A classic cocktail bar with a great selection of drinks and a stylish, old-school atmosphere.
• The Finnieston: As well as its beer garden, The Finnieston also has a great selection of cocktails and a stylish indoor bar.
• The Anchor Line: A beautiful bar and restaurant in a former shipping company headquarters, with a great selection of classic cocktails.

Sunny Day Spots

When the sun is shining, you want to make the most of it. Here are a few more of our favourite sunny day spots in Glasgow:

• Kelvingrove Park: One of Glasgow’s most beautiful parks, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sun.
• The Botanic Gardens: A beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
• The Necropolis: A stunning Victorian cemetery with incredible views over the city.

A Final Word

So there you have it, our guide to the best rooftop bars in Glasgow. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated cocktail spot or a relaxed beer garden, there’s a rooftop experience for every occasion. So next time the sun is shining, be sure to check out one of these fantastic venues. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our other guides, including the best wine bars in Glasgow and the best brunch spots in Glasgow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best rooftop bar in Glasgow?

That’s a tough question, as it really depends on what you’re looking for. For stunning views, it’s hard to beat the Radisson RED Sky Bar. For a sophisticated dinner, Chaophraya is a great choice. And for a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with Brel.

Where can I find a beer garden in Glasgow?

Glasgow has some fantastic beer gardens, from traditional pubs to modern bars. Some of our favourites include Brel, Cottiers, WEST on the Green, and The Ark.

What are the best rooftop cocktails in Glasgow?

If you’re looking for a great cocktail with a view, you’re in luck. Glasgow has plenty of options, including The Spiritualist, Gin71, and The Kelvingrove Café.

Are there any free things to do in Glasgow on a sunny day?

Absolutely! Glasgow has some beautiful parks and green spaces, including Kelvingrove Park, the Botanic Gardens, and the Necropolis. You can also check out our guide to the best free things to do in Glasgow for more ideas.