Merchant Square, Glasgow's Vibrant Dining and Entertainment Hub
Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City hub for dining, events, and lively social gatherings in a stylish covered courtyard setting.
Merchant Square is a lively events venue located in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City at 71 Albion Street. Known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and a covered courtyard, it offers a vibrant atmosphere for dining, socializing, and entertainment. The venue hosts regular craft fairs, live sports screenings, and seasonal markets, making it a popular 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
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 explore the craft and design fairs featuring local artisans and unique handmade products.
- Check the events calendar for live sports screenings and special seasonal festivities like the Christmas market and Hogmanay party.
- Enjoy the covered courtyard seating for a relaxed atmosphere perfect for people-watching and enjoying a drink.
- Use nearby public transport hubs like Glasgow Queen Street or Buchanan Bus Station for convenient access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Train
Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Argyle Street stations are the closest train stations, each about a 10-15 minute walk from Merchant Square. Trains connect from surrounding areas and central Scotland, with ticket prices typically ranging from £3 to £15 depending on distance.
-
Bus
Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow's largest bus terminal, is under a 10-minute walk from Merchant Square. Frequent bus services link the city centre to suburbs and regional destinations. Single fares usually cost between £1.80 and £3.50.
-
Car
Merchant Square is accessible by car via Glasgow’s extensive motorway network, including the M8 and M74. On-street parking meters and several nearby car parks are available, with typical parking charges around £2-£4 per hour. Note that city centre traffic can be busy during peak times.
-
Walking
From central shopping areas such as Buchanan Street, Merchant Square is a pleasant 5-10 minute walk over mostly flat terrain, suitable for all mobility levels.
Merchant Square location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Merchant Square
A Dynamic Heart of Merchant City
Merchant Square sits prominently in Glasgow’s historic Merchant City district, an area celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant urban life. The square occupies the site of the former fruit market, blending the old with the new to create a dynamic social hub. Its central location on Albion Street places it within easy reach of major shopping streets like Buchanan and Argyle, making it a natural gathering place for locals and tourists.Eclectic Dining and Social Scene
The venue boasts an impressive array of bars and restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines from casual coffee and brunch options to contemporary dining and lively cocktail bars. Visitors can enjoy everything from Scottish and Irish fare to Mexican dishes, all within a stylish setting. The covered courtyard, with its cobbled floor and seating areas, provides a welcoming space for people-watching, relaxing, or enjoying live entertainment.Year-Round Events and Festivities
Merchant Square pulses with activity throughout the year. It hosts regular craft and design fairs every weekend, showcasing handmade goods from local artisans, including jewellery, baked goods, and artwork. Seasonal events such as Christmas markets and Hogmanay parties add to its festive charm. The venue also features live sports broadcasts on its large indoor TV screen, ceilidhs, and music performances, ensuring there is always something happening to engage visitors.Architectural and Cultural Character
The architecture of Merchant Square retains elements of its industrial past while embracing modern design. The covered courtyard is a distinctive feature, combining rustic cobblestones with contemporary seating and lighting. This blend of historic and modern aesthetics reflects the broader character of Merchant City, known for its heritage buildings and cultural vibrancy.Accessibility and Amenities
Located in the city centre, Merchant Square is easily accessible by public transport, with Glasgow Queen Street and Argyle Street stations nearby, as well as Buchanan Bus Station within walking distance. The venue offers level access and accessible facilities, making it welcoming to all visitors. Nearby parking options and a range of amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and information boards enhance the visitor experience.A Hub for Social and Cultural Experiences
Beyond dining and shopping, Merchant Square serves as a cultural hub, hosting events that celebrate Glasgow’s artistic and social life. From comedy nights and music performances to family-friendly activities and festive celebrations, it is a place where community and culture intersect. Its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a key destination for experiencing the spirit of Glasgow’s Merchant City.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
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- 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
