The Riding Room
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Nestled in Glasgow's vibrant Merchant City on Virginia Street, The Riding Room is a cabaret club and gay bar famed for its exotic cocktails, cheeky entertainment, and lively atmosphere. This fancy show bar hosts burlesque, cabaret, and magic performances amid upbeat music, drawing a diverse crowd to its intimate space in the heart of the gay triangle.
A brief summary to Riding Room
- 58 Virginia St, Glasgow, G1 1TX, GB
- +441415596592
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 pm-2 am
- Tuesday 9 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 9 pm-3 am
- Thursday 9 pm-2 am
- Friday 7 pm-3 am
- Saturday 7 pm-3 am
- Sunday 9 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Opt for a kettle cocktail for a fun, theatrical drink presentation that matches the cabaret vibe.
- Visit on Fridays or Saturdays for the fullest entertainment lineup with burlesque and magic shows.
- Arrive early on weekends to snag prime seating near the stage for the best views of performances.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Riding Room location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Riding Room
Cabaret Heart of Merchant City
Tucked away on Virginia Street in Glasgow's historic Merchant City, The Riding Room pulses with the energy of a classic cabaret venue. Its exterior blends seamlessly into the surrounding Georgian architecture, but step inside and you're transported to a world of glamour and mischief. Known locally as the Joint on the Corner, this spot has carved out a niche as a cornerstone of the city's nightlife, particularly within the gay triangle—a lively cluster of venues where inclusivity reigns. The interior evokes a sense of theatrical intimacy, with dim lighting casting dramatic shadows over plush seating and a stage primed for spectacle. Exotic cocktails take center stage, served with flair that matches the venue's playful spirit. From kettle-infused drinks to colorful concoctions, the bar menu emphasizes creativity and fun, perfectly complementing the evening's diversions.Exotic Cocktails and Bar Flair
The Riding Room's bar stands out for its inventive libations, where bartenders craft drinks that are as much performance as refreshment. Signature cocktails often arrive in unconventional vessels, like steaming kettles that add a theatrical puff of steam to the reveal. These beverages draw on global flavors, blending sweet, sour, and spicy notes to create memorable sips that linger long after the night ends. Beyond the drinks, the bar's ambiance hums with cheeky humor from the staff, whose warm smiles and witty banter set the tone for an unpretentious evening. Whether you're sipping solo or with friends, the service feels personal, fostering connections in this compact yet vibrant space.Showtime Spectacles
Evenings at The Riding Room revolve around its entertainment lineup, featuring burlesque dancers, cabaret performers, and even magic shows that surprise and delight. These acts unfold on a central stage, pulling audiences into a whirlwind of feathers, sequins, and sleight-of-hand. The performances vary by night, ensuring repeat visits uncover fresh thrills. The venue's cabaret roots shine through in its commitment to storytelling through song and dance, often infused with queer perspectives that celebrate diversity. Upbeat music fills the air between sets, encouraging mingling and movement, transforming the room into a shared stage for the night's revelers.Nightly Rhythm in Glasgow's Gay Scene
Opening its doors from 7pm on weekends to later on weekdays, The Riding Room caters to those seeking a late-night escape. Fridays and Saturdays buzz with peak energy, as crowds gather for the full show experience. The venue's location in the gay-friendly Merchant City makes it an accessible hub, steps from other nightlife gems. This cabaret club embodies Glasgow's reputation for welcoming, high-spirited nightlife, where strangers become fast friends amid the glow of stage lights and clinking glasses. It's a place where the ordinary evening elevates into something extraordinary.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
0.3 km
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.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.4 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.
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.
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.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.6 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Glasgow at St Andrew's in the Square, a historic venue for art, community events, and weddings.
Barrowland Park
0.6 km
Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
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.
glasgow south side
0.6 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
0.6 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
McLennan Arch
0.7 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.8 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.8 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
0.9 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
Old Police Post
0.1 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Pavement
0.1 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Tobacco Merchant's House
0.1 km
Glasgow’s last 18th-century tobacco merchant villa, a preserved Georgian gem and vivid reminder of the city’s mercantile and colonial past.
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.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
0.2 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.
Royal Exchange Square
0.2 km
A grand neoclassical square in Glasgow blending historic commerce, iconic art, and vibrant city life at the heart of the city centre.
Street Art from The rebel bear
0.2 km
Explore the compelling street art of The Rebel Bear, Glasgow’s mysterious muralist blending social commentary with vibrant urban creativity.
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.
Glasgow City Chambers
0.2 km
Explore the historic Glasgow City Chambers, a stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant George Square.
Gallery of Modern Art
0.2 km
Scotland’s premier modern art gallery in a grand neoclassical building, offering free entry to diverse contemporary artworks and vibrant cultural programs.
George Square
0.2 km
George Square – Glasgow’s iconic civic heart, where history, architecture, and vibrant public life converge in the city centre.
Murial of a man
0.2 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
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.
55 Argyll Arcade
0.3 km
Scotland’s oldest covered arcade, Argyll Arcade dazzles with historic charm and a premier collection of jewellers in Glasgow’s heart.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.3 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Essential places to dine
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.1 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.1 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
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.
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.
Browns Glasgow
0.2 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
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.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant 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.
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.
Glaschu Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Elegant modern Scottish dining in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Royal Exchange Square with a stylish atmosphere and locally inspired cuisine.
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.
The Anchor Line
0.3 km
Historic grill and cocktail bar in a 1906 Edwardian shipping company headquarters with nautical charm.
Ralph & Finns
0.3 km
Elegant modern Scottish dining and creative cocktails in a historic Glasgow Merchant City setting.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.1 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Eurasia Crafts
0.2 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
0.2 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Geek-aboo
0.2 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Primark
0.2 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
0.2 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Pride of Glasgow
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.3 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.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
The Clydeside Collective
0.3 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Social Recluse
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
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.
Taste of Scotland
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and rare whiskies in the heart of Glasgow at Taste of Scotland, your gateway to Scotland’s rich heritage.
Wee scottish shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.1 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
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.
Cairns Bar
0.2 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 Piper Whisky Bar
0.2 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Speakeasy
0.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Bar 91
0.2 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.
Wunderbar
0.3 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Sloans
0.3 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.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
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.
Home
0.4 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.
TABAC
0.4 km
Retro Parisian cocktail bar on hidden Mitchell Lane, blending masterful mixes, street food bites, and lively vibes in Glasgow's heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Riding Room
0.0 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
0.0 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Polo Lounge
0.0 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Delmonicas
0.0 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
AXM Glasgow
0.1 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
0.2 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.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.5 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
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.
Classic Grand
0.5 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.5 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.5 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- LGBT Friendly
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly