Social Recluse
Discover quirky gifts, retro posters, and indie clothing in the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City—a treasure trove for unique souvenirs and stylish finds.
Tucked away on King Street in Glasgow's Merchant City, Social Recluse is a charming gift shop, clothing store, and poster specialist offering unique, quirky finds for the discerning shopper. Specializing in retro-inspired posters, indie clothing, and thoughtful gifts, it captures the creative spirit of Glasgow with its eclectic selection and inviting vibe. Perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs amid the historic surroundings. Open weekdays from 10am, weekends slightly later, with a cozy atmosphere that draws locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Social Recluse
- 46 King St, Glasgow, G1 5QT, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the poster wall for limited-edition prints of Glasgow gigs and icons—perfect for affordable art.
- Browse clothing racks mid-week for the best selection before weekend crowds.
- Look for gift bundles combining posters and accessories for thoughtful presents.
- Visit on Saturdays for extended hours up to 5:30pm to maximize your shopping time.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
Social Recluse location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Social Recluse
Quirky Treasures in Merchant City
Nestled on bustling King Street, Social Recluse embodies the vibrant, independent retail scene of Glasgow's Merchant City. This compact shop specializes in gifts that spark joy, from handpicked novelties to artisanal items reflecting local creativity. The exterior blends seamlessly with the Georgian architecture, inviting passersby into a world of curated oddities and essentials. Inside, shelves brim with personality-driven products, making it a haven for those seeking distinctive pieces away from chain stores.Posters with a Retro Edge
A standout section showcases an extensive collection of posters, drawing from vintage designs, gig art, and bold graphic prints. These wall-ready artworks celebrate music legends, cinematic icons, and cultural motifs, appealing to collectors and decorators alike. The variety spans decades, offering nostalgic reproductions alongside contemporary twists that echo Glasgow's rich artistic heritage. Each poster tells a story, transforming blank walls into conversation starters.Clothing for Individual Style
Beyond posters, the clothing racks feature indie labels and unique apparel that prioritize comfort and character. Think soft tees with witty slogans, cozy hoodies, and accessories infused with urban flair. The selection caters to everyday wear with an edge, perfect for Glasgow's dynamic street style. Fabrics feel premium, colors pop against the shop's warm lighting, creating an immersive browsing experience.Gifts That Capture Glasgow's Spirit
Gift seekers find plenty here: from quirky homewares and stationery to personalized trinkets ideal for last-minute buys or special occasions. The assortment emphasizes sustainability where possible, with many items sourced from small makers. It's the kind of place where you uncover something unexpected, like a locally inspired mug or enamel pin. This focus on thoughtful curation sets Social Recluse apart in a city famed for its makers.Atmosphere and Daily Rhythm
The shop's intimate size fosters a relaxed, unhurried vibe, with soft lighting and eclectic displays encouraging leisurely exploration. Weekday mornings bring a quiet hum, while afternoons see a mix of locals popping in. Saturdays extend slightly later, aligning with weekend shoppers weaving through Merchant City's lanes. It's a spot that feels authentically Glaswegian—welcoming, creative, and full of hidden gems.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.3 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.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.5 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.5 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Walter Scott Monument
0.6 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
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
La Pasionaria
0.6 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.6 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
o2 accadamy
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's music scene at O2 Academy, where iconic performances and vibrant nightlife come alive in a unique setting.
The Lighthouse
0.7 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.7 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.
People's Palace
0.8 km
Explore Glasgow's social history at the People's Palace, where captivating exhibits and stunning architecture tell the story of the city's vibrant past.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.8 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
0.8 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Provand's Lordship
0.9 km
Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trongate
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.1 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
0.1 km
Celebrate Glasgow’s beloved comedian Billy Connolly through this vibrant mural on Osborne Street, a highlight of the city’s renowned Mural Trail.
Murial of a man
0.1 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.3 km
An exquisite Georgian-era former church transformed into Glasgow’s premier cultural and event venue, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
0.3 km
Explore Clutha & Victoria Bar in Glasgow, a lively pub offering live music, delicious pizza, and a warm Scottish atmosphere.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.3 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Merchant Square
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
McLennan Arch
0.3 km
Historic sandstone archway marking the grand entrance to Glasgow Green, a timeless symbol of Glasgow’s architectural heritage.
Old Police Post
0.3 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Pavement
0.3 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
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.
Essential places to dine
Mono
0.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
The Dhabba
0.2 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.3 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
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.
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.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
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.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Saints of Ingram
0.4 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Italian Kitchen
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.4 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
0.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
0.1 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.1 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
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.
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.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.4 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.
Primark
0.4 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.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Eurasia Crafts
0.5 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
0.5 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
The Clydeside Collective
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
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.
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.
The Vintage Scene Glasgow
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style at The Vintage Scene, Glasgow’s premier vintage clothing shop in St Enoch Square.
House of Fraser
0.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.0 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
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.
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.
Bar 91
0.3 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.
Steps Bar
0.3 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.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.4 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Strathduie Bar
0.4 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
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.
Bacchus Bar
0.4 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
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.
Speakeasy
0.4 km
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
0.5 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Sloans
0.5 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.
Wunderbar
0.6 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.2 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Polo Lounge
0.3 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
0.4 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
0.4 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
0.4 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
AXM Glasgow
0.4 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
La Cheetah Club
0.5 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Sub Club
0.7 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
0.7 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.7 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.8 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.8 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
0.9 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
142B Lounge
1.0 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.0 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly