Your All-Inclusive List of the Best Live Music Venues in Glasgow for Total Music Bliss
I recently attended a music festival, something I hadn’t done in over a year. Life got in the way—pandemic hangover, tighter budgets, and just not syncing with the social scene like I used to.
As soon as the music kicked in and the crowd lit up, I was right back in the zone, caught up in the energy. Live music has a way of bringing you into the moment, making you feel connected to everyone around you.
If you’re looking for that feeling in Glasgow, check out the best live music venues in Glasgow for a taste of pure euphoria.
The Ferry
– Media from theferryglasgow
Website: https://www.the-ferry.co.uk/
Address: 25 Anderston Quay
Phone: +44 169 836 0085
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
The Ferry, a restored passenger ferry, now serves as a unique venue with a kitchen, bar, and a glass atrium designed for live gigs. The venue regularly hosts a mix of tribute acts and local bands, with options to book pre-show meals alongside reserved seating.
I once attended a gig featuring The StereoBeats, a lively six-piece band with saxophone, keys, and female lead vocals. I loved how the free-standing tickets and optional two-course meal made it easy to enjoy great music with river views.
Pro Tip:
Activate a Gold Card Membership for £50 and enjoy dinner and a show for just £16 per person for up to 24 guests. Plus, take advantage of perks like free entry for yourself and half-price entry for your guests at all Gold Card events.
King Tuts Wah Wah Hut
– Media from glasgow_songwriter_round
Website: https://www.kingtuts.co.uk/
Address: 272A St Vincent St
Phone: +44 141 846 4034
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – open from 6 PM
- Friday – open from 4 PM
- Saturday – open from 2 PM
- Sunday – open from 4 PM
King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut has been a key part of Glasgow’s live music scene since 1990, hosting a wide variety of genres, from indie rock to metal and pop. The venue regularly features up-and-coming bands, with past acts like Oasis and Radiohead.
To find out what’s on, you can easily check the “What’s On” section of the website. Most gigs are for over 18s, though there are free, all-ages events like the Open Mic on Saturdays and Sunday Song Club.
Pro Tips:
- Dress comfortably, as the venue can get crowded and active. Football tops, shirts with offensive slogans, and masks like balaclavas are not allowed.
- If you’d like a drink cover, just ask at the bar for a stop top. If you’re heading outside after 10 PM, let staff know, and they’ll show you where to safely sit your drink.
The Howlin Wolf
– Media from howlinwolfglasgow
Website: https://www.thehowlinwolf.co.uk/
Address: 100 Bath Street
Phone: +44 141 332 3224
Operating Hours: Open daily – 12 PM to 3 AM
The Howlin’ Wolf is a popular venue for live blues music, with performances every night, including local talent and international acts. It’s known for its regular jams in the “Killing Floor,” a space where both musicians and guests can take part in spontaneous jam sessions.
I attended a live performance by Jamie Reilly, a musician who blends jazz, funk, rock ‘n’ roll, and world music. It was great not having to leave my seat for food. Table service was quick, and they served until 2 AM, even when it was busy.
Pro Tip:
Enjoy 20% off food by showing your Howlin’ Wolf’s event ticket when ordering, available until 10 PM every night.
Box Glasgow
– Media from box_glasgow
Website: https://boxglasgow.co.uk/
Address: 431 Sauchiehall St
Phone: +44 141 332 5431
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 6 PM to 3 AM
- Friday & Saturday – 5 PM to 3 AM
Box has been a part of Glasgow’s live music scene since 2006, offering something different every night. I’ve been to open mic sessions hosted by Ross Leighton from Fatherson, where upcoming artists share the stage with more experienced performers.
The mix of weekly jam sessions and resident DJs keeps it fresh every night, and I’ve caught surprise appearances from acts like Paolo Nutini and Lewis Capaldi. It’s the kind of spot where you never know what’s coming next, but it’s always worth sticking around.
Pro Tip:
For those who want to play at Box, a full backline and sound engineer are provided, but you’ll need to bring your own mic and notify them if you’re bringing a guitar amp. Drummers use the house kit, and changeovers take 30 minutes to allow for cleaning.
Avant Garde
– Media from avantgardemusicbar
Website: https://avantgardeglasgow.co.uk/
Address: 34-44 King St
Phone: +44 141 552 7123
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM
Avant Garde combines Mediterranean food with live music, offering a spacious venue that includes a bar, restaurant, and a function suite for events. The drinks menu is just as varied, with options ranging from beers to premium spirits.
I’ve been to a few live performances here, and I enjoyed how Dear Green Blue’s set had the crowd fully engaged. I like that the venue regularly hosts jazz and blues nights.
Pro Tip:
Catch free live music most days at the bar, like The Glasgow Jam on Thursdays or Merchant City Jazz on Saturdays. For something different, their Saturday night ceilidh is just £5.
Ivory Blacks
– Media from absolva
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IvoryBlacksGlasgow
Address: 56 Oswald St
Phone: +44 7471 186899
Ivory Blacks is a 300-capacity venue that hosts live music across a range of genres, including rock, metal, goth, and industrial.
Here, I saw Outside the Original, a prog rock band, and enjoyed the fast bar service. The £13 entrance fee was reasonable, and I’m looking forward to returning for more live shows.
Pro Tip:
Ivory Blacks doesn’t accept cash payments, so be sure to bring a credit or debit card, or use NFC mobile payments.
Kelvingrove Bandstand
– Media from lorraine_mcbride
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KelvingroveBandstand/
Address: Kelvin Way
Phone: +44 141 287 4350
The Kelvingrove Bandstand is a versatile venue that hosts a wide range of outdoor performances, from festivals to concerts. Its restored design and large capacity of over 2,000 people make it a popular choice for both local and international events.
I’ve had the chance to catch a Jon Ritchie Band performance there, and they played a fantastic set of swing music. With a 17-piece live band and three vocalists, their performance added a vibrant energy to the afternoon.
Pro Tip:
The Bandstand is conveniently located between Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the University of Glasgow, making it easy to explore both before and after a performance. Plan your visit to enjoy the nearby attractions alongside the live music.
Glasgow’s Grand Ole Opry
– Media from benshires
Website: https://glasgowsgrandoleopry.co.uk/wp/
Address: 2-4 Govan Rd
Phone: +44 141 429 5396
The Grand Ole Opry in Glasgow is a lively venue that offers a mix of line dancing, 50s jive, and regular country-themed events. It’s a great spot to catch local gigs or just enjoy a night out with its saloon bar, eatery, and bingo nights.
They host weekly events like the Gun Club on the 1st and 3rd Mondays and line dance classes on Thursdays. Fridays and Saturdays offer live music with a club night vibe, and Sundays sometimes have special events, making it a solid choice for an evening out.
Pro Tip:
For a budget-friendly stay near the Opry, consider the Travelodge or Ibis Hotel, both just a short distance away.
City Halls
– Media from minfidler
Website: https://www.facebook.com/glasgowcityhalls/
Address: 100 Candleriggs
Phone: +44 141 353 8000
Glasgow’s City Halls has been a music venue since 1841, known for its great acoustics and traditional auditorium. It hosts a range of performances, from classical to contemporary music.
I watched a classical music competition there, where four young Scottish musicians performed with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra. The performance, conducted by Martyn Brabbins, was a great display of talent in the City Halls.
Pro Tip:
City Halls offers free public Wi-Fi. Just register with the City Halls Public Wi-Fi, and the network should appear in your browser. Once connected, you’ll only need your password for future use.
McChuills Bar Glasgow
– Media from tenementtrail
Website: https://www.mcchuillsbar.com/
Address: 80 High St
Phone: +44 141 237 5936
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 12 PM to 12 AM
McChuills has been a part of the live music scene for over 30 years, offering a welcoming space for both new and experienced musicians. Alongside its live music, the bar has a great selection of drinks, including rotating guest taps and a range of whiskies, gins, and rums.
Each week, the bar hosts a range of events, from the free pool table on Tournament Tuesday to DJ sessions on weekends. On Sundays, they also have a leftfield dance club with Bosco, Hanz & Harrison.
Pro Tip:
On the 1st Saturday of each month, Andrew Divine brings a mix of beats to the bar. DJ Nicky Wright plays Balearic, funk, soul, and disco on the last Friday, and Paul Molloy & Steven Watt spin funk and soul on the last Saturday.
Òran Mór
– Media from oranmorglasgow
Website: https://oran-mor.co.uk/weddings/
Address: Byres Rd
Phone: +44 141 357 6220
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 2 AM
- Thursday to Sunday – 11 AM to 3 AM
Óran Mór is a versatile venue housed in a beautifully restored church, featuring two bars, two restaurants, a nightclub, and a stunning auditorium. It’s a great spot for both a relaxed evening and lively events, with live music, theatre, and DJ nights.
I’ve been to a few live performances there, and the atmosphere is always lively, with the acoustics of the old church adding a special touch. The variety of music, from intimate sessions to more energetic shows, makes it a fantastic place to discover new acts.
Pro Tip:
At Óran Mór, their Brasserie Restaurant offers delicious Scottish dishes, a great choice before enjoying live music or theatre. For whisky lovers, their Whisky Bar inside has an impressive selection of over 250 malts to try.
Platform
– Media from platform_gla
Website: https://platformgla.co.uk/
Address: 253 Argyle St
Phone: +44 345 241 6253
Operating Hours:
- Thursday – 4 PM to 11 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Platform is a lively venue with a street food restaurant, beer hall, and microbrewery, perfect for food, drinks, and socialising. It hosts live music and theatre shows and can be rented for events like corporate meetings or weddings.
I’ve seen live performances here, including a ceilidh band during a conference after-party. The acoustics are solid, and it’s easy to get a good view, whether you’re near the stage or enjoying a drink at the bar.
Pro Tip:
Head to Platform on the last Sunday of each month for a fun family pizza-making session. For just £10 per child, your bairns will enjoy making their own pizza, ice cream, and face painting in a relaxed, friendly environment.
Waxy O’Connor’s
– Media from waxysglasgow
Website: https://waxyoconnorsglasgow.co.uk/
Address: 44 W George St
Phone: +44 141 354 5154
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 11 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Waxy O’Connor’s is a large pub spread over three floors, with six bars and nine areas, all decorated with woodwork, stained glass and lanterns. It offers classic Irish and Scottish dishes and caters to both casual diners and party-goers.
I’ve enjoyed several live performances at Waxy’s, where local acts take the stage daily at the Church Bar. The variety of music, from traditional Irish bands to cover bands, creates a vibrant experience, and the fact that it’s all free makes it even better.
Pro Tip:
Waxy’s holds an annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration, so be sure to book your time off in advance. Enjoy live music, sports events, and plenty of Guinness throughout the week leading up to the big day.
BAaD – Barras Art & Design
– Media from baadglasgow
Website: https://www.baadglasgow.com/weddings-glasgow
Address: 54 Calton Entry
Phone: +44 141 552 4931
Operating Hours:
- Thursday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Friday – 12 PM to 12 AM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 12 AM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Barras Art and Design (BAaD) is a vibrant venue with a variety of spaces, including a tropical courtyard, a floating restaurant, and a container yard. It offers a mix of seasonal food, craft beers, cocktails, and an ever-changing lineup of events and activities.
I’ve enjoyed the live music at BAaD, especially Soul on Sunday, which features a range of soul, disco, RnB, and hip-hop tracks. The event draws a diverse crowd, and the DJs, including Paul Njie and Martin Carron, keep the energy high throughout the day.
Pro Tips:
- Explore the market at BAaD, where you can find local Scottish businesses selling unique crafts and goods. It’s a great way to support small creators and pick up something special.
- Grab a coffee or a bite at the on-site café, Scran n Swally, for a relaxed spot to people-watch or take a break.
- If you’re in the mood for something different, enjoy a meal at the floating restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience with views of the courtyard.
Box Hub
Website: https://boxhub.uk/
Address: Glasgow
Phone: Contact them via their website
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Our experience at Box Hub as a music venue was fantastic. From the moment we walked in, we were impressed by the venue’s intimate yet vibrant atmosphere. The space is well-designed, with great acoustics and an excellent layout that allows for an immersive live music experience. Whether you’re close to the stage or further back, the sound quality is top-notch, and the energy of the crowd really adds to the experience. The venue’s lighting and decor perfectly complement the music, creating a dynamic environment that enhances the overall mood of the performance.
The staff at Box Hub were incredibly friendly and efficient. From ticketing to entry, everything was organized smoothly, and they made sure we felt welcome. The venue also offers a good selection of food and drinks, which added to the overall enjoyment of the night. The bar staff were quick and courteous, and the prices were reasonable for a venue of this caliber. We were especially impressed by how well the venue handled the crowd, ensuring a comfortable yet lively atmosphere throughout the event.
The variety of events at Box Hub is another reason we highly recommend it. Whether it’s live music, DJ sets, or even smaller acoustic performances, there’s always something exciting happening. The venue’s ability to host a range of genres ensures that there’s something for everyone, making it a go-to spot for music lovers in the area. The diverse lineup of performers also ensures that every visit offers something fresh and engaging.
Overall, we had a great time at Box Hub and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable night out. The combination of great acoustics, a lively atmosphere, and friendly staff makes it a standout music venue. If you’re in the mood for live music, Box Hub is the place to be!
Pro Tips:
- Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid missing the opening acts.
- Check the venue’s schedule ahead of time to make sure you’re aware of any special events or promotions.
- Dress comfortably for standing or dancing, as most music venues can get crowded and lively.
The Hug and Pint
– Media from thehugandpint
Website: https://www.thehugandpint.com/
Address: 171 Great Western Rd
Phone: +44 141 258 2882
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 5 PM to 12 AM
- Friday to Sunday – 3 PM to 12 AM
The Hug and Pint is a two-level venue with a capacity of over 100 people, offering a mix of lively spaces for live music. The upstairs area has a colourful, contemporary art feel, while the basement bar has a grungy, underground vibe, perfect for live performances.
I’ve seen a few great gigs here, and the atmosphere always feels welcoming and lively. The sound system is solid, and the energy from the crowd makes every performance lively.
Pro Tips:
- Pizza is served until 9 PM daily, so make sure to grab a slice before it’s too late.
- Check out Dough & Dub on Mondays for reggae, dub, and ska music. Get two Hug pizzas and two pints of craft lager for just £20!