The 7 best Glasgow pubs for World Cup from Scotland fan zone experience to shadow of Hampden (original) (raw)

It's the first time the nation are on the global stage since 1998, so why not enjoy the big moment?

It's been a World Cup that has already been hampered by visa issues and high travel costs - so how can you support Scotland from home?

Luckily the Tartan Army cheering on from afar don't have any shortage of places to watch the game with pubs across Glasgow and beyond gearing up for a month-long party.

Scotland's real capital isn't short of places for a pint at the worst of times but for the late nights at the World Cup you won't have to look far for a cracking boozer or beer garden in which to cheer on Steve Clarke and his troops.

Whether you're after the full fan zone experience, something a bit more low key, or anything in between, there's somewhere for you to sit, stand, or hide behind a chair and take it all in as the Scots go out to make history in North America.

If you're not jetting across the globe, Glasgow is the place to be, and here are some of the best places you can watch the tournament from the comfort and safety of the pub.

Felsons (City Centre)

If you're after the full sports bar experience then you won't get much better than Felsons. It's one of the newer bars in the city centre, located near the opular Walkabout (another good option). They'll be showing the games on countless TVs and have almost as many pool tables - ideal for a couple of frames with your mates as Mexico take on South Africa in the background. You can book a table here.

Granary (Southside)

Located on Kilmarnock Road in Shawlands, the Granary is one of the most spacious yet cozy pubs the Southside has to offer. Historically a hub for the old Glasgow tram system until 1962, it leans into its roots, and it's right next to Queen's Park, one of the nicest settings you'll find in Glasgow outside of the West End. It's also dog friendly if you're fancying a pint with your pup. If you're booking in advance, you can have drinks packages waiting for your arrival.

Cooper's Bar (West End)

A vibrant West End spot just across the water from Kelvinbridge Station, Coopers is known for its open-air feel and high ceilings, with food served until 10pm. It's one of Glasgow's many Belhaven Pubs and is as football-friendly as it gets, with two floors, every seat within view of one of its 14 4k HD TVs. They promise to show every game at the Euros, though if you're booking ahead, a £5 deposit is required on the days Scotland are playing. Walk-ins are welcomed, but as with any pub when the World Cup is on, you're not guaranteed a seat!

Merchant Square fan zone (Merchant City)

Not quite sure where you want to watch the game and keep to keep your options open? The Merchant Square fan zone might have just what you're after. The 300 capacity courtyard is surrounded by pubs and restaurants, whether you fancy a pint at O'Neill's, cocktails at Metropolitan, or one of the Tap Yard's array of draught choices.

The fan zone runs throughout the night and it's completely free with no bookings for the central courtyard - so the only way to guarantee a seat is to get down early.

Clockwork (Southside)

This one is so close to Hampden that Kenny McLean could dink the ball into the beer garden from the halfway line - Mount Florida's Clockwork. It's one of the go-to pubs for Scotland fans on matchdays and in the shadow of the national stadium, it's likely to be full to the brim of feverish punters - on the days Scotland are playing, and otherwise. It's an adopted Tartan Army stronghold and you can watch the football either indoors or from the beer garden. Food is served until 8pm, and the outdoor seating is first come, first served. You can book online for a table indoors.

Drygate Brewery (East End)

Drygate Brewery are giving football fans who can't make the trip to America a taste of the traditional match day experience with a pie and a pint. They're also taking bookings specifically for the World Cup, which will be shown both indoors and on the upstairs terrace. They also offer taster paddles for those unsure which of their beers to order - a favourite of the more restless and adventurous drinkers among us. Book here!

The Old Schoolhouse (West End)

Expect this spot to be jam-packed for the action - with plenty of screens so you don't miss a minute. Despite being the official fan hub for the Glasgow Warriors, rugby will take a back seat as the punters looks to catch a glimpse of Steve Clarke's heroes in North America.