Katie's Bar Glasgow: Vibrant LGBTQ+ Nightlife in Merchant City
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.
A brief summary to Katie's Bar Glasgow
- 17 John St, Glasgow, G1 1HP, GB
- +441415486983
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 3 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 3 pm-12 am
- Thursday 3 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12:30 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Visit midweek for excellent drink deals on spirits like vodka, gin, and whisky, available for £3.75 per 50ml pour.
- Book a table in advance for groups up to 20, especially for special events or weekends, to secure your spot.
- Check the events calendar for live tribute shows, karaoke nights, and themed parties to catch unique entertainment.
- Enjoy the inclusive atmosphere that welcomes the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike for a friendly and fun night out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Katie's Bar Glasgow location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walter Scott Monument
0.2 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
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.4 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.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.4 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.5 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.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
0.6 km
Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
Barrowland Park
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Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
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Experience the rich cultural heritage of Glasgow at St Andrew's in the Square, a historic venue for art, community events, and weddings.
glasgow south side
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Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
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Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
La Pasionaria
0.7 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
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.
McLennan Arch
0.8 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.9 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glasgow City Chambers
0.1 km
Explore the historic Glasgow City Chambers, a stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant George Square.
Pavement
0.1 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
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
City Sightseeing Glasgow
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods with flexible hop-on hop-off bus tours featuring live guides and multilingual audio commentary.
George Square
0.2 km
George Square – Glasgow’s iconic civic heart, where history, architecture, and vibrant public life converge in the city centre.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.2 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
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.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.2 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
James Watt Statue
0.2 km
Discover the iconic James Watt Statue in Glasgow’s George Square, honoring the engineer who powered the Industrial Revolution with his steam engine innovation.
Tobacco Merchant's House
0.2 km
Glasgow’s last 18th-century tobacco merchant villa, a preserved Georgian gem and vivid reminder of the city’s mercantile and colonial past.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
0.2 km
A historic Glasgow landmark where imperial legacy meets playful rebellion, crowned by its famous traffic cone hat.
Royal Exchange Square
0.3 km
A grand neoclassical square in Glasgow blending historic commerce, iconic art, and vibrant city life at the heart of the city centre.
Merchant Square
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Gallery of Modern Art
0.3 km
Scotland’s premier modern art gallery in a grand neoclassical building, offering free entry to diverse contemporary artworks and vibrant cultural programs.
Essential places to dine
Saints of Ingram
0.0 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
0.1 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Browns Glasgow
0.1 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.2 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.2 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
La Vita
0.2 km
Authentic stone-baked Italian pizzas and classic dishes served in Glasgow’s vibrant city centre, open daily from early morning to late night.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Table Twenty Eight
0.3 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.3 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Dhabba
0.3 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Italian Kitchen
0.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Anchor Line
0.3 km
Historic grill and cocktail bar in a 1906 Edwardian shipping company headquarters with nautical charm.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Geek-aboo
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Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Fat Buddha Store
0.3 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Eurasia Crafts
0.3 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
0.3 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
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.
Primark
0.3 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.
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.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
The Shop Network
0.4 km
A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Wee scottish shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
Tartan House of Scotland
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
Social Recluse
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.5 km
Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
House of Fraser
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Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Speakeasy
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A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.1 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Bacchus Bar
0.1 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.1 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Steps Bar
0.1 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.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.2 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Bar 91
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Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.2 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Cairns Bar
0.3 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.
Home
0.3 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.
Wunderbar
0.4 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
0.4 km
Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Strathduie Bar
0.4 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Sloans
0.4 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
AXM Glasgow
0.1 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Delmonicas
0.1 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
Club X
0.1 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Riding Room
0.2 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Polo Lounge
0.2 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
La Cheetah Club
0.3 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
18 Candleriggs
0.3 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.5 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
0.6 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.6 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.6 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
0.6 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.6 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.6 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Sub Club
0.6 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
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- LGBT Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
