Merchant Square, Glasgow's Vibrant Dining and Entertainment Hub
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Located in the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, Merchant Square is a lively dining and entertainment venue featuring a variety of bars, restaurants, and event spaces. Known for its covered cobbled courtyard, it offers a unique atmosphere blending the historic charm of a former fruit market with contemporary culture. With regular craft fairs, live sports, and social events, it’s a dynamic spot for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Merchant Square
- 71 Albion St, Glasgow, G1 1NY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8:30 am-12 am
- Tuesday 8:30 am-12 am
- Wednesday 8:30 am-12 am
- Thursday 8:30 am-12 am
- Friday 8:30 am-3 am
- Saturday 8:30 am-3 am
- Sunday 8:30 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on weekends to enjoy the craft and design fairs showcasing local handmade goods.
- Explore the variety of bars and restaurants offering diverse cuisines from casual to fine dining.
- Check out live sports screenings and entertainment events for a lively night out.
- Use nearby train stations like Glasgow Queen Street or Argyle Street for easy public transport access.
- The covered cobbled courtyard is perfect for people-watching and relaxing regardless of weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Argyle Street stations are the closest to Merchant Square, each about a 10-15 minute walk. Trains connect from across the region, with ticket prices typically ranging from £3 to £10 depending on origin.
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Bus
Buchanan Bus Station is under 10 minutes’ walk away, served by numerous city and regional bus routes. Single fares within Glasgow usually cost around £1.80 to £2.50.
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Car
Several nearby car parks and on-street parking meters surround Merchant Square. Parking fees vary by location but expect approximately £2-£4 per hour. Glasgow’s city centre can be busy during peak times.
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Walking
Located centrally in Merchant City, Merchant Square is easily reached on foot from major shopping streets like Buchanan Street and Argyle Street within 10-15 minutes. The terrain is flat and accessible.
Merchant Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Merchant Square
A Historic Heartbeat in Merchant City
Merchant Square sits at 71 Albion Street, nestled within Glasgow’s Merchant City, an area renowned for its rich trading history and vibrant cultural scene. Originally the site of a bustling fruit market, the Square has been transformed into a modern hub that retains the character of its past through its cobbled courtyard and architectural details. This blend of old and new creates a distinctive atmosphere where tradition meets contemporary urban life.A Culinary and Social Epicenter
The Square hosts an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants offering everything from casual coffee and brunch to sophisticated dining and cocktails. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines including Scottish, Irish, Mexican, and more, catering to diverse tastes. The covered courtyard provides a sheltered space for people-watching and relaxing, making it a popular social gathering spot throughout the day and into the night.Events and Entertainment for Every Occasion
Merchant Square is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a vibrant events venue. Every weekend, craft and design fairs showcase handmade goods and local artistry, adding a creative flair to the space. The venue also hosts live sports screenings, ceilidhs, festivals, and private events, making it a dynamic destination for entertainment and community gatherings.Accessibility and Urban Connectivity
Situated within walking distance of major city landmarks like Buchanan Street and Argyle Street, Merchant Square is easily accessible by foot, public transport, and car. Glasgow Queen Street and Argyle Street train stations are nearby, and several bus routes serve the area. On-street parking meters and nearby car parks provide options for drivers. The venue offers level access and accessible toilets, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The ambiance at Merchant Square is lively yet inviting, with a mix of casual and boutique vibes. The covered courtyard’s cobblestones and seating areas create a relaxed setting, while the surrounding bars and restaurants contribute to a fun-filled and entertaining environment. Whether you’re seeking a quiet coffee or a night out with live music and dancing, the Square adapts to your mood.Community and Cultural Significance
Merchant Square plays a key role in Glasgow’s cultural heritage by supporting local artisans and hosting community events. Its position in Merchant City ties it to the city’s trading legacy, while its contemporary uses reflect Glasgow’s ongoing evolution as a vibrant urban center. The venue’s commitment to showcasing local talent and providing diverse entertainment options makes it a cornerstone of the city’s social life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.1 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.2 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Walter Scott Monument
0.4 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Barras Market
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant Barras Market in Glasgow, a cultural gem filled with unique treasures, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow's heart through the captivating Bronze 3D Map of City Centre, a stunning sculpture and guide to the city's rich heritage.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.7 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Provand's Lordship
0.7 km
Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
The Lighthouse
0.7 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.7 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.7 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.7 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
La Pasionaria
0.8 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
0.8 km
Discover the historic Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground, a tranquil oasis filled with centuries-old gravestones and rich stories in the heart of Glasgow.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.8 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glasgow Police Museum
0.0 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.1 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.1 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Trongate
0.2 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
Tron Theatre
0.2 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.2 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.2 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
Britannia Panopticon
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
Pavement
0.2 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Old Police Post
0.2 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Merchant City
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
High St
0.3 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's nightlife at Katie's Bar – a vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue welcoming everyone to enjoy great drinks and entertainment.
Murial of a man
0.3 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Essential places to dine
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.0 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.0 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.1 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
The Dhabba
0.1 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Italian Kitchen
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Saints of Ingram
0.2 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Mono
0.3 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.4 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Browns Glasgow
0.4 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
0.3 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Pride of Glasgow
0.3 km
Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Frida and Coco
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Eurasia Crafts
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
0.4 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Geek-aboo
0.5 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Primark
0.5 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Fat Buddha Store
0.5 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.5 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Shop Small in Glasgow’s iconic St Enoch Centre, where historic charm meets modern shopping under Europe’s largest glass roof.
The Clydeside Collective
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Argyll Arcade
0.6 km
Explore the historical beauty and unique shopping experience of Argyll Arcade in Glasgow, where vintage meets contemporary in a stunning architectural setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Home
0.1 km
Glasgow's go-to pub for live sports, craft cocktails, and hearty sharing plates in the vibrant Merchant City – where every visit feels like home turf.
Bar 91
0.1 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Strathduie Bar
0.2 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.2 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Steps Bar
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
Bacchus Bar
0.2 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Speakeasy
0.3 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.3 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.4 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Cairns Bar
0.4 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Wunderbar
0.6 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Sloans
0.6 km
Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
