Since the start of 2025, the Glasgow pub scene has seen a wave of closures, leaving patrons and locals saddened by the loss of some iconic drinking establishments. From beloved spots like The Baby Grand to neighborhood favorites like The Thornwood, these closures have left Glasgow with fewer places to gather, unwind, and create memories. Let’s take a closer look at the four pubs and bars that have shut down since the beginning of the year, each with its unique story and impact on the community.
The Strathduie Bar: A Sudden Farewell to History
One of Glasgow’s oldest pubs, The Strathduie Bar, located on Blackfriars Street in the Merchant City, announced its sudden closure on February 10. The news came as a shock to many loyal patrons who had frequented the establishment over the years. In a heartfelt Facebook post, the bar cited unresolved issues with the building, specifically untreated wet rot on its foundations, as the reason for its immediate closure. Despite efforts to address the safety concerns, it was deemed that the bar could no longer operate in its current state, leading to its closure. The loss of The Strathduie Bar marks the end of an era for many in Glasgow who have fond memories of this historic watering hole.
Gallagher’s Bar: A Celtic Legacy
Another notable closure in the Glasgow pub scene is Gallagher’s Bar, a beloved Celtic pub located on Howard Street in the city center. After only two and a half years of operation, Gallagher’s Bar bid farewell to its patrons on January 25. The closure was met with sadness from many loyal customers who had enjoyed the pub’s warm atmosphere and Celtic spirit. The owners of Gallagher’s Bar shared a poignant message, explaining that a short-term lease arrangement at another venue led to the landlord’s decision not to renew the lease at the Howard Street location. Despite the closure, the owners expressed their intentions to find a new venue in the city center to continue serving their dedicated customer base. The legacy of Gallagher’s Bar lives on in the hearts of its patrons, many of whom are eagerly awaiting its return in a new location.
The Baby Grand: A Melody of Memories
For over 40 years, The Baby Grand, a piano bar and restaurant in Charing Cross, had been a city center institution, known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment. However, on January 30, the iconic venue closed its doors for the last time, signaling the end of an era for Glasgow nightlife. The closure was a result of the building being slated for demolition to make way for student housing, a bittersweet reminder of the city’s ever-changing landscape. Patrons of The Baby Grand were left reminiscing about the good times shared at the venue, from celebratory nights to quiet moments of reflection. The loss of The Baby Grand serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of our favorite haunts and the memories we create within their walls.
As Glasgow bids farewell to these beloved pubs and bars, the community mourns the loss of these cultural touchstones that have shaped the city’s social fabric. While the closures represent the end of an era for many, they also pave the way for new beginnings and opportunities for growth and reinvention in the local nightlife scene. As the city continues to evolve, one thing remains certain—Glasgow’s spirit and sense of community will endure, finding new expressions and gathering places to call home.
