The Islay Inn: Glasgow’s Vibrant Pub with Rich Whisky Heritage
Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.
Located on Argyle Street in Glasgow, The Islay Inn is a lively pub known for its extensive malt whisky selection, hearty Scottish pub fare, and welcoming atmosphere. With a reputation for friendly service and live music events, it offers a quintessential Glasgow experience blending traditional charm with a vibrant social scene.
A brief summary to The Islay Inn
- 1256-1260, Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8TJ, GB
- +441413347774
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Book a table in advance, especially on nights with live music or events, to secure your spot.
- Try the steak pie or the turkey dinner, which are among the pub’s most praised dishes.
- Explore the extensive malt whisky selection and ask staff for recommendations based on your taste.
- Bring your dog along, as the pub is known for being dog-friendly, but be mindful of other diners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Islay Inn location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The Islay Inn
A Storied Glasgow Pub with Whisky at Its Heart
The Islay Inn, situated on bustling Argyle Street, is a celebrated Glasgow pub famed for its impressive collection of malt whiskies, reflecting Scotland’s rich whisky heritage. Its name pays homage to the Isle of Islay, renowned worldwide for its distinctive peated whiskies. This connection is evident in the pub’s whisky offerings, which attract both locals and visitors eager to explore authentic Scottish spirits.Atmosphere and Social Vibe
Inside, The Islay Inn exudes a warm and lively ambiance, combining traditional pub elements with a welcoming social environment. The staff are known for their friendliness and attentiveness, creating a hospitable space where patrons feel at home. Live music events add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both casual drinks and special occasions.Menu Highlights and Culinary Appeal
The food menu features classic Scottish pub dishes with generous portions, including standout items like steak pie, fish and chips, and seasonal specialties such as turkey dinners. Starters like homemade mozzarella sticks and Malaysian cauliflower curry showcase the kitchen’s creative approach to pub cuisine. The Islay Inn balances hearty traditional fare with inventive touches, appealing to a broad range of tastes.Location and Setting
Located in Glasgow’s city center, The Islay Inn benefits from a lively urban setting with easy access from various parts of the city. Its position on Argyle Street places it amid a vibrant district known for shopping, entertainment, and nightlife. The pub’s exterior reflects classic Glasgow architectural styles, blending seamlessly into the historic streetscape.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond its role as a drinking and dining venue, The Islay Inn serves as a cultural hub for whisky enthusiasts and music lovers alike. The pub’s commitment to showcasing local talent through live performances and its extensive whisky range fosters a sense of community and celebration of Scottish traditions.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Visitors can expect a lively yet comfortable experience, with attentive service and a menu designed to satisfy both casual drinkers and food lovers. The pub accommodates dog owners, adding to its friendly and inclusive character. Open daily from noon until midnight, it offers a reliable destination for daytime meals and evening entertainment alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
0.9 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
1.1 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Caledonian Mansions
1.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
The Clyde Arc
1.1 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
The Sixty Steps
1.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
Govan Old Church
1.5 km
Explore the enchanting Govan Old Church, a historical landmark in Glasgow, rich with ancient relics, cultural heritage, and serene beauty.
The Govan Stones
1.5 km
Explore the captivating medieval Govan Stones museum in Glasgow, a hidden gem showcasing Scotland’s rich historical heritage.
Box Hub
1.6 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
The Glasgow School of Art
1.6 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
McLellan Galleries
1.7 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow
1.8 km
Explore endless fun and adventure at Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow, the ultimate indoor amusement center for children and families.
Statue of Light and Life
1.9 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
2.0 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
2.0 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
2.1 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stewart Memorial Fountain
0.4 km
A Victorian Gothic masterpiece in Kelvingrove Park honoring Glasgow’s water pioneer, Robert Stewart, and the gift of clean water.
Statue of Lord Kelvin
0.4 km
A distinguished bronze tribute in Kelvingrove Park honoring Lord Kelvin’s groundbreaking scientific legacy and Glasgow’s rich academic heritage.
Kelvingrove Bandstand
0.4 km
Glasgow's restored Art Deco bandstand hosting vibrant open-air performances in a Victorian park setting.
The wild pork statue
0.4 km
A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.
Kelvin Way
0.4 km
Kelvin Way connects Glasgow’s West End cultural landmarks, blending historic architecture with leafy parks and vibrant local life.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
0.4 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End setting.
Kelvingrove Park
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Kelvingrove Park — a vibrant Victorian green space with iconic art, serene river walks, and lively community spirit.
The Lion and Unicorn Staircase
0.6 km
A dramatic Gothic Revival staircase guarded by stone lions and unicorns in the heart of the University of Glasgow’s West Quadrangle.
Park Terrace
0.6 km
Elegant Georgian terrace blending historic charm with modern city living in the heart of Glasgow.
The Suffragette Oak
0.6 km
A powerful living symbol in Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Park honoring the women’s suffrage movement and the fight for voting rights.
Hunterian Zoology Museum
0.6 km
Discover the fascinating diversity of the animal kingdom at the University of Glasgow's historic Hunterian Zoology Museum.
The Clydeside Distillery
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s whisky heritage revived at The Clydeside Distillery, where history, craft, and riverside charm blend into a unique tasting experience.
University of Glasgow
0.7 km
Explore centuries of history, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant culture at the University of Glasgow’s iconic West End campus.
Railway Arches Murals
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
Scottish Event Campus
0.7 km
Scotland’s largest integrated venue for world-class exhibitions, concerts, and conferences on Glasgow’s vibrant River Clyde waterfront.
Essential places to dine
Ox and Finch
0.3 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
The Gannet
0.3 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
0.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
0.3 km
Cozy Finnieston basement bar serving top-tier pub grub, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly vibes in a shabby-chic haven with summer beer garden bliss.
Porter & Rye
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
The Finnieston
0.4 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Fanny Trollopes
0.4 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Fallachan Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
Eighty Eight
0.7 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Number 16 Restaurant
0.8 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
Stravaigin
0.8 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Chillies West End
0.9 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine in Glasgow’s West End with fresh flavors, a lively atmosphere, and friendly BYOB dining at Chillies West End.
Ubiquitous Chip
1.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s iconic Scottish dining landmark blending tradition, innovation, and lush ambiance in Ashton Lane’s historic heart.
Celino's
1.0 km
A lively Italian restaurant and deli in Partick offering authentic flavors and a bustling atmosphere with moderate prices.
Bothy Glasgow
1.1 km
Experience creative Scottish cuisine with a modern twist in Glasgow’s vibrant West End at Bothy Glasgow.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VELVET MOON
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Gallus Alice
0.5 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
Oliver Bonas
1.0 km
Discover joyful style at Oliver Bonas on Byres Road: eclectic fashion, sparkling jewellery, chic homewares, and gifts that brighten everyday life in Glasgow's creative West End.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
1.1 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Decadent Riot
1.1 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Downstair Design Co.
1.1 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
West Vintage
1.2 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
Amaryllis Westend
1.2 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Papyrus
1.2 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
McLay's Gift Shop
1.4 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
Cut Price Gift Shop
1.5 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
Ae Fond Kiss
1.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s ethical gift and art studio blending fair trade treasures with local creativity in a welcoming boutique setting.
Braw Wee Emporium
1.7 km
Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Islay Inn
0.0 km
Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.
The Park Bar
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.
Dukes Bar
0.2 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Ben Nevis
0.3 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
The Dirty Duchess
0.5 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
EightySix
0.7 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
0.8 km
A West End bar with dive‑bar energy, a large beer garden and DJs that keep the party rolling late into the night.
The Aragon Bar
0.9 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom
0.9 km
Tank-fresh brews and a rotating craft tap list in a warm, industrial-chic taproom tucked on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.
Vodka Wodka
0.9 km
Quirky West End cocktail bar with an all-weather, multi-level beer garden and a colossal vodka list — casual, lively and unpretentious.
Red Sky Bar
1.0 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
Curlers Rest Glasgow
1.0 km
Historic Byres Road pub pouring 25 draught beers amid exposed brick charm and open-kitchen Scottish fare in Glasgow's West End.
Kitty O'Shea's West End
1.1 km
Authentic Irish pub in Glasgow's West End: frothy Guinness, live tunes, and hearty grub fuel lively nights until 2am.
The Bon Accord
1.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s Bon Accord, a legendary pub boasting over 900 beers and an award-winning whisky bar in a vibrant, historic setting.
Smiddy Bar
1.1 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
1.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
1.4 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
1.7 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Buff Club
1.8 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
The Plug Glasgow
1.8 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
The Savoy
1.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
142B Lounge
2.0 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
2.0 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
2.0 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Club Tropicana & Venga
2.1 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
2.1 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
2.1 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Cathouse Rock Club
2.2 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
2.2 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
2.2 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly