Katie's Bar Glasgow, Glasgow Travel Guide

Free Guide: Glasgow’s vibrant underground LGBTQ+ bar with live music, themed nights, and affordable drinks in the heart of Merchant City.

A brief summary of Katie's Bar Glasgow

Glasgow’s vibrant underground LGBTQ+ bar with live music, themed nights, and affordable drinks in the heart of Merchant City.

Katie's Bar, located at 17 John Street in Glasgow's Merchant City, is a lively underground cocktail bar and live music venue celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and strong ties to the LGBTQ+ community. Since opening in 2013, it has become a popular spot for great drinks, live entertainment, and themed events, offering affordable prices and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.

1–4 hrsTime to spend
$Budget
IndoorSetting
5 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.3 Very good · 476 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon3 pm–12 am
  • Tue3 pm–12 am
  • Wed3 pm–12 am
  • Thu3 pm–12 am
  • Fri12 pm–1 am
  • Sat12 pm–1 am
  • Sun12:30 pm–1 am

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
17 John St, Glasgow G1 1HP
Phone
Website

Getting there

Train

From Glasgow Queen Street Train Station, it is a 5 to 10-minute walk to Katie's Bar. The terrain is flat and suitable for all mobility levels, with no transport cost involved.

Bus

Multiple city bus routes serve Merchant City, with stops within a 5-minute walk of 17 John Street. Services run frequently throughout the day, and a single fare costs approximately £1.80–£2.50.

Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available in Glasgow city center. A ride from central locations typically takes 5–15 minutes, costing around £5–£10 depending on traffic.

Discover more about Katie's Bar Glasgow

A Hub of Glasgow's Merchant City Nightlife

Nestled in the bustling Merchant City district, Katie's Bar has been a cornerstone of Glasgow's nightlife since its opening in July 2013. Situated underground at 17 John Street, the venue boasts a cozy yet energetic ambiance that draws a diverse crowd. Its location places it within walking distance of major city landmarks and transport hubs, making it accessible while retaining an intimate feel. Over the years, Katie's Bar has established itself as a beloved local haunt, known for its spirited vibe and community focus.

Dedicated LGBTQ+ Venue with Inclusive Spirit

Katie's Bar proudly serves Glasgow's LGBTQ+ community, offering a safe and welcoming space where patrons can express themselves freely. The bar’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its lively events calendar, featuring karaoke nights, tribute shows, and themed parties that celebrate queer culture and diversity. This dedication has fostered a loyal following and made Katie's a symbol of acceptance and celebration within the city.

Dynamic Entertainment and Events

The venue hosts a broad range of live entertainment, from energetic karaoke sessions held three nights a week to tribute performances honoring iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Celine Dion, and Girls Aloud. Special events such as the popular Bender Bingo Pride Party add to the bar’s reputation for fun and engaging experiences. With DJs, drag shows, and themed parties regularly scheduled, there is always something happening to keep the atmosphere vibrant and exciting.

Affordable Drinks and Social Atmosphere

Katie's Bar offers a well-curated drinks menu featuring cocktails, spirits, and beers at budget-friendly prices. Midweek promotions include £3.75 pours of popular spirits like Smirnoff Vodka, Gordon’s Gin, and Famous Grouse Whisky, encouraging guests to enjoy quality drinks without overspending. The bar's social atmosphere is enhanced by comfortable seating and booths ideal for groups, making it a perfect spot for casual meetups or celebrations.

Community and Private Events

Beyond nightly entertainment, Katie's Bar accommodates private functions such as birthdays, weddings, engagements, and other special occasions. Offering hot and cold buffet options tailored to various budgets, the venue supports memorable celebrations within a vibrant setting. This flexibility adds to its appeal as both a nightlife destination and an event venue.

Atmosphere and Accessibility

The underground setting creates an intimate and lively environment filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie. The bar’s opening hours vary throughout the week, with later closing times on weekends to accommodate night owls. Its central location ensures easy access, including proximity to Glasgow Queen Street Train Station, enhancing convenience for visitors. Katie’s Bar embodies the spirit of Glasgow’s nightlife with its blend of inclusivity, entertainment, and affordability.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · at 1am or at 7am or at 8am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 67% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 67% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 78% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 78% of the busiest month
  5. May: 89% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 89% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 89% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 89% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 78% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 78% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 20% of the busiest hour
  2. 1am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 7am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 8am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  5. 9am: 20% of the busiest hour
  6. 10am: 30% of the busiest hour
  7. 11am: 40% of the busiest hour
  8. 12pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  9. 1pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  10. 2pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  11. 3pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  12. 4pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  13. 5pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  14. 6pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  15. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  16. 8pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  17. 9pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  18. 10pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  19. 11pm: 70% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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