About The Hug and Pint
The Hug and Pint is a cosy independent grassroots music venue, vegan bar and pizzeria located at 171 Great Western Road in Glasgow’s West End (tickets-scotland.com) (www.thehugandpint.com). It opened in June 2015 and celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025 (www.thehugandpint.com) (www.cutoutandkeep.net). With a fully vegan Pan-Asian menu and craft beers focused on local producers (www.whatsonglasgow.co.uk) (www.cutoutandkeep.net), the venue stands out as a community space that blends Asian-inspired comfort food with live music. The name comes from Glasgow indie band Arab Strap’s album *Monday at the Hug & Pint* – the band even gave their blessing and bassist Aidan Moffat designed the venue’s logo (foodanddrink.scotsman.com) (www.thehugandpint.com). Upstairs is a friendly pub-and-restaurant area (with about 50 seats and casual half-high tables) while downstairs is the intimate live-music room (capacity roughly 100–120) with a small stage (www.tagvenue.com) (foodanddrink.scotsman.com). The Hug and Pint has become a beloved West End landmark, known for its £5 margarita deal and inclusive atmosphere (www.thehugandpint.com) (foodanddrink.scotsman.com).
Events and Programming
The Hug and Pint hosts music events most nights, with a mix of genres from folk and jazz to indie and electronic. Since opening in 2015, the venue has built a strong live programme, featuring both up-and-coming local acts and touring international artists (www.thehugandpint.com). Acts like Mitski, Big Thief, Black Midi, Japanese Breakfast, Lankum, and Lucy Dacus have all played here (www.thehugandpint.com). Local bands and singer-songwriters also frequently headline, and the calendar often includes DJ sets and all-ages matinee shows (for example, Gaelic singer Màiri Morrison performed a Sunday afternoon concert in 2025 (www.thehugandpint.com)). The venue even participates in city-wide festivals – for instance, 432 Presents brought soul/jazz outfit Smoove & Turrell to play at The Hug and Pint during Glasgow Jazz Festival 2025. Show start times are typically around 7:30pm (tickets-scotland.com) (though afternoon matinees begin earlier), with most gigs wrapping up by 11pm (tickets-scotland.com). Ticket prices vary by event but generally range from under £10 for local bands to around £15–£20 for bigger acts (matinees and smaller gigs can be £10–£12, while headline shows might charge up to £20 or more) (tickets-scotland.com) (www.thehugandpint.com). Recurring events may include special fundraisers or themed nights (for example, the venue hosts occasional benefit gigs with 20% of proceeds or themed Olympic “Great Western” festival days). The Hug and Pint’s programming aims for variety – the Scotsman notes its line-up is “a nice mix of dance music, folkies, DJ sets and guitar bands” and that it has become a “small but important addition” to Glasgow’s music scene (foodanddrink.scotsman.com).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are sold primarily online via the venue’s event pages or promoters (e.g. 432 Presents/SeeTickets links) rather than through a traditional box office. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s advisable to book early or join the mailing list for advance notice of new tickets. Tickets for many events do go on sale weeks or even months in advance. Some smaller gigs may allow limited tickets at the door on the night if not sold out, but there is no guarantee of door sales. Prices generally depend on the act: a typical local band gig might be £5–£10, while higher-profile touring artists or festivals cost around £15–£20. For example, a 2025 matinee concert by Màiri Morrison and Alasdair Roberts was £15 (www.thehugandpint.com). When you arrive, bring your printed or digital ticket and valid photo ID – the staff will check IDs at entry, and in one review every table member was ID’d upon sitting down (www.tripadvisor.ca). Follow The Hug and Pint’s social media or newsletter and the 432 Presents events page to catch ticket launches; for very popular shows, snatching pre-sale links can be key to securing a spot.
Seating and Layout
The venue’s layout is split over two floors. Upstairs is the restaurant/pub area with tables and a bar; it can seat about 50 people and is more relaxed (great for dining or quiet conversation) (www.tagvenue.com). Downstairs is the live room – a small concert space with standing room for roughly 100–120 people (foodanddrink.scotsman.com) (www.tagvenue.com). When a gig is on, the concert area is mostly open floor (general admission); there are no fixed rows of seats in front of the stage. For seated performances (occasional acoustic sets or less-crowded shows), some folding chairs may be set up by the back wall, but most gigs encourage standing. The best views of the stage are at the front, although it can get crowded during peaks – if you arrive late or prefer a bit of legroom, the side near the small upstairs bar or back corners can be easier. The soundstage is intimate, so even those at the back are quite close. Acoustics can be lively, and the venue is equipped with a full PA system and stage lights (www.tagvenue.com), so lyrics and instruments carry well (but it does get loud on enthusiastic nights). By contrast, the upstairs dining area is much quieter and well-suited to chatting and dining without music interference.
Getting There and Parking
The Hug and Pint’s address is 171 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G4 9AH – on a busy stretch of the city’s West End. It is very close (about 250 yards) to St. George’s Cross subway station, so the easiest route is to take the Glasgow Subway (the “Clockwork Orange” line) to St. George’s and walk a couple of minutes along Great Western Road (tickets-scotland.com). Several frequent bus routes run along Great Western Road, including the First Bus 6 and 6A, which stop right outside or very near the venue (tickets-scotland.com). If driving, be aware that Great Western Road has pay-and-display parking with time limits. On weekdays there is a 3-hour maximum and parking costs about £0.80 for every 15 minutes (www.parkme.com). The street-parking enforcement is strict (especially morning and afternoon), so plan accordingly. For longer stays, a convenient option is Kelvinbridge Subway Park & Ride, a covered car park with some 150 spaces located roughly 0.3 miles west on Woodside Road – it charges around £3.10 for 2 hours (en.parkopedia.co.uk). Other nearby city car parks (e.g. at Kelvinbridge or in the city centre) are a short walk but can be expensive or full on event nights. Taxis and rideshares can drop guests on Great Western Road directly outside the venue entrance. Cyclists will find racks a short distance away, but note the walk down stairs (carrying a bike) as the concert room is below street level. The street is also a designated pick-up/drop-off point – official taxi ranks or Uber waiting areas are not far (Kelvingrove Art Gallery is around a 5-minute walk away). In summary, public transit is the most straightforward: a quick subway hop or bus ride from the city centre and a short stroll past Kelvin Hall will bring you to the door.
Inside the Venue
On entering, you’ll pass the upstairs bar and dining area. Staff will check your tickets/IDs – since the venue serves alcohol every customer is asked for ID upon entry or seating (www.tripadvisor.ca). The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with the warmth and decor of a neighbourhood pub. The upstairs restaurant serves the vegan menu until 9pm (www.thehugandpint.com), so you can often grab dinner (pizzas, noodles, salads, curries) before the show. There is no formal cloakroom, so guests usually keep coats and bags at their tables or by the walls. Dress is casual (jeans, tees, sneakers are fine) – a small Belfast-style cash-only stand isn’t needed because both bar and restaurant accept cards, but keeping some change for drinks is handy. Security is minimal (just an ID check and occasional bag inspection if needed); the vibe is community-minded rather than nightclub strict. The main bar serves a wide range of craft beers, ciders and spirits, with usually a small downstairs bar open during gigs for quick drinks (offering draught beer, cider and basic mixed drinks (www.tagvenue.com)). Restrooms are split by gender: downstairs there is one facility with a stall and urinals and a second with four unisex stalls (www.tagvenue.com). Sound system and lighting are modern enough for pro-quality shows – the venue provides a professional PA and can arrange a sound engineer for larger acts (www.tagvenue.com). Note that the space below is only reachable by stairs from the street or restaurant floor, so there are no elevators (unfortunately making wheelchair access impossible) (www.thehugandpint.com). Overall, expect a cosy pub atmosphere inside, punctuated by energetic live performances in the basement area. The staff are known to be “shiny happy folk” with friendly beards and cheerful attitudes (foodanddrink.scotsman.com), and many of them are musicians or DJs themselves, so the playlist upstairs often reflects a diverse taste (anything from hip-hop to death metal might be playing before a show) (www.cutoutandkeep.net). Most visitors note the service as very welcoming and helpful during shows.
Nearby Amenities
The Hug and Pint is in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant West End. Directly around it on Great Western Road and neighbouring Kelvinbridge/Byres Road you’ll find dozens of restaurants, cafés and bars for pre- or post-show outings. For dining, consider places like Number 16, The 13th Note Café, or The Lexington for casual meals, or healthier spots like Cresswell Lane Kitchen a few minutes away. A short walk east brings you to popular spots on Byres Road – The Ubiquitous Chip or Cail Bruich for a more upscale meal, or plenty of pubs and coffee shops such as Malones, Dirty Dicks, and Kelvingrove Café. If you need a hotel, numerous options are within ~1 km: for example, the Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre (Finnieston) and Travelodge Finnieston are under 10 minutes’ drive, or several boutique B&Bs and guesthouses sit in the West End (Kelvinhaugh Street and Dunard Street areas). Nearby attractions include Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum and the Botanic Gardens (roughly 15–20 minutes on foot), ideal for strolling before an evening out. Plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before an early show to allow time for dinner and getting settled; on-seshows some people come right at opening time to queue and grab a front spot. Late-night transport: the Subway last trains run around midnight, and night buses or taxis serve Great Western Road if you stay late. In case of rain, the venue is fully indoor, so just wear something weather-appropriate for getting there. Finally, the venue itself serves food until 9pm (so arriving early means you can enjoy the menu on site), and downstairs the room tends to get warm during packs – light layers and comfortable shoes are advised.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Hug and Pint’s unique character comes from its blend of passions: it’s deeply rooted in Glasgow’s music and food scenes while taking a progressive, community-minded stance. It was among the first fully vegan bars in the city, with acclaimed vegetarian Asian-influenced dishes (critics call the food “fundamentally exciting and original” (www.whatsonglasgow.co.uk)). At the same time, it champions grassroots music: the owners built it as a place for “people to play awesome music together” (www.thehugandpint.com). The venue’s origins tie it to local culture – its name derives from Arab Strap lore (foodanddrink.scotsman.com), and Arab Strap themselves endorsed the project with logo art (www.thehugandpint.com). This backstory gives it a special place in Glasgow lore, a pub born out of indie music myth. Visitors and reviewers often highlight the atmosphere: staff are “shiny happy folk” with warm smiles (foodanddrink.scotsman.com), and the clientele is a friendly cross-section of college students, artists and local families. The commitment to inclusivity is clear: The Hug and Pint openly supports LGBTQ+ rights and local causes (staff note they have raised tens of thousands for charities like Palestinian medical aid (www.thehugandpint.com)). Unlike corporate venues, it feels like a true social hub: regulars mingle at live shows with drinks and pizza, knowing most others around them are fellow community supporters. Historic moments at the venue might include early appearances by now-famous bands (Big Thief in a tiny crowd, for example) or local benefit concerts. Its dual life as a bar and performance space also makes it versatile – you can dine with vegan comfort food, then simply walk downstairs for a gig. All these factors (award-winning food, $5 cocktails (www.thehugandpint.com), original décor, and the sense of being part of something grassroots) combine to make The Hug and Pint more than just “another bar.” Musicians love it for its authenticity and built-in audience; fans love it for its warmth and vibe. In short, it embodies Glasgow’s DIY spirit and penchant for good tunes and good food, all under one roof.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is **not wheelchair accessible**, as entry and the gig room are reached by stairs only (www.thehugandpint.com). (If mobility is an issue, it is regrettably not suitable.) There is no coat check, so keep bags small and coats folded at your feet or on a nearby rack. Service is relaxed but ID is required for anyone ordering alcohol (even water – essentially every adult is ID’d) (www.tripadvisor.ca). Most events are 18+ unless otherwise noted on the ticket (a few special shows allow 14+ entry (www.thehugandpint.com)). If you have questions about an event (age limits, special rules), check the official listing or contact the organiser ahead of time – children and pets are not allowed at standard concerts.
What to Bring: A valid photo ID and your ticket (printed or on your phone) are key. Cash is handy but not strictly needed, as cards are accepted everywhere. Dress casually and comfortably – layers are wise since the downstairs can get warm on a packed night. If you want good views, arrive early to grab a front spot (especially in standing-room gigs). You might also bring earplugs if you’re sensitive; it can get loud. There’s free Wi-Fi in the restaurant area (ask staff for the password), but spotty in the basement during shows. Feel free to take photos or videos for personal use, but flash photography is discouraged out of respect for performers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: The biggest is showing up too late. By 7:30pm concerts often start, so arriving at least 15 minutes early is best. Don’t assume there will be room unless you purchase tickets first. Also, don’t wear outdoor shoes with spiky heels or boots that could scuff the wooden floors. And since it’s small inside, avoid carrying large backpacks or luggage.
Getting Meals: If you want dinner here, plan to be done by 9pm when the kitchen closes (www.thehugandpint.com). Popular plates include the sweet-hot tempeh, black pepper aubergine, or kimchi curry (www.cutoutandkeep.net). The bar is known for a £5 Margarita special and decent craft beer selection (www.thehugandpint.com). Grab a table upstairs if you’re dining; food isn’t served in the concert room.
LGBTQ and Community: The venue is explicitly friendly and supportive of LGBTQ+ guests (www.thehugandpint.com) and local causes, so expect an inclusive vibe. Many visitors report the crowd as laid-back and accepting.
When to Arrive: For a gig, arriving 30–60 minutes before doors is wise (especially weekends). For just a drink or meal, note that opening hours are 5pm–midnight (Mon–Thu) and 3pm–midnight (Fri–Sun) (www.thehugandpint.com). And because it’s such a community spot, talking to the bartenders or staff gets you the best recommendations on table spots or even free show updates. Following the venue’s social pages will keep you in the loop on any lineup changes or special events. Overall, relax and enjoy – most people leave with little more than a happy memory and perhaps a freshly signed setlist or sticker!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Hug and Pint?
The venue holds roughly 100–120 people for live shows. The restaurant/bar area upstairs seats about 50, while the downstairs music floor can accommodate up to around 120 standing (foodanddrink.scotsman.com) (www.tagvenue.com). It’s a very intimate space – once tickets are gone, door sales usually stop.
How do I buy tickets and what are the prices?
Tickets are sold online, either through the venue’s own site or partner promoters (like 432Presents/SeeTickets). There’s no regular box office; if any remain, you might buy at the door. Prices vary by performer – local bands around £5–£10, bigger acts £15–£20. For example, a 2025 show by Màiri Morrison was £15 (www.thehugandpint.com). Check the specific event listing for exact price and book early for popular gigs.
What are the seating arrangements?
Most shows at The Hug and Pint are general admission standing room. The main concert room downstairs has no fixed seats (except occasional folding chairs for acoustic gigs). If a gig is seated, it will be clearly advertised. Upstairs in the pub there are regular tables and bar stools, but live performances happen downstairs so parked upstairs seating is separate from the stage. The best views to watch a show are up front near the stage, or along the sides by the bar if you want a little more space.
What time do shows usually start, and how long do they last?
Most evening concerts start at 7:30pm (tickets-scotland.com). Doors often open around 7pm. Morning or afternoon matinees (rare) start earlier (for example a 1:30pm Sunday show (www.thehugandpint.com)). Acts usually play for 1–2 hours, with the night’s events typically finishing by 10:30pm–11pm (tickets-scotland.com). Plan to arrive 15–30 minutes early to get a good spot if it’s general admission.
Is The Hug and Pint wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, no. The only way into the concert room is down a staircase at the rear of the building (www.thehugandpint.com). There is no elevator or ramp. This means wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers can’t access the music venue. Staff have noted with regret that they are still seeking a solution. The upstairs restaurant is also accessed by stairs (no lift), so mobility access is very limited.
Are children allowed at The Hug and Pint?
Age restrictions depend on the event. Most shows (especially evening gigs) are 18+ and heavily ID’d at the door (www.tripadvisor.ca). The venue does host a few special all-ages or 14+ matinee concerts – in those cases it’s clearly advertised on the ticket (for example a daytime show by Màiri Morrison allowed 14+ entry (www.thehugandpint.com)). Kids are welcome in the restaurant/bar area until around 9pm (when the music starts and alcohol service remains). In general, if you plan to bring under-18s to a show, check the event details carefully first and be prepared to provide IDs if required.
What are the parking options?
Street parking is available along Great Western Road, but it is paid and time-limited. During the day on weekdays (Mon–Sat 9:30–4:00) there is a 3-hour maximum and rates are about £0.80 per 15 minutes (www.parkme.com). Evenings and Sundays have looser restrictions. If you need longer-term parking, the Kelvinbridge Subway car park is about a 5-minute walk (South Woodside Road) and has ~150 spaces; typical cost is about £3 for 2 hours (en.parkopedia.co.uk). Other West End car parks (e.g. at the Botanic Gardens or Park & Ride facilities at St. George’s or Shields Road subway) are a short drive but can fill early. Taking public transport is often easier – St George’s Cross Subway station is just down the road, and several bus stops are right outside (tickets-scotland.com).
Is there food served during shows?
Food is only served upstairs in the restaurant area, with the kitchen closing at 9pm (or when the night’s food service ends) (www.thehugandpint.com). You won’t get food downstairs during a show. That said, the bar remains open all night for drinks. Many concertgoers eat before coming or dine upstairs before going down to watch the music. The menu is fully vegetarian/vegan (pan-Asian fusion style) – favourites include items like the kimchi and sweet-hot tempeh dishes, black pepper aubergine and guacamole pizzas (www.cutoutandkeep.net). You won’t be asked to move for performance – you can finish a pizza upstairs.If you plan to have dinner at the venue before a show, arrive early to order food well before 9pm.
Do I need to buy tickets online or can I get them at the door?
It’s safest to buy tickets in advance online. Many shows do sell out. If there are unsold tickets remaining, the venue may sell a limited number at the door, but this is not guaranteed. There is no separate box office on site other than the door when the event opens. For very popular gigs, try to secure tickets ahead of time via the official website or promoter. If you do arrive early on a quiet night, sometimes a few remaining tickets might be available – but don’t count on it.
Are cameras or recording allowed?
Casual photography and video (with phones or point-and-shoot cameras) for personal use is generally allowed. Guests often take photos of the stage or their friends. However, try not to use flash during performances, as it can distract artists and other patrons. Tripods or professional-looking cameras might be discouraged, so leave bulky gear at home. There is no official ban, but out of courtesy most people film only straight ahead and don’t obstruct others. Verify with the staff if you have doubts before snapping off your camera.
How much do drinks typically cost at The Hug and Pint?
Drinks prices are in line with other indie music bars in Glasgow. A pint of local craft beer or cider is usually around £4–£5, and cocktails are typically £5–£7 (the venue famously always has a £5 margarita special (www.thehugandpint.com)). Spirits by the glass are similar. You can pay at the bar by card or cash. Food combos (like a pizza) start around £5–£10. During special gig nights, there are no extra surcharges on drinks — just the normal menu prices.
Is there a coat check or locker at The Hug and Pint?
No, there is no coat check service. The space is too small to accommodate checking coats. Most people simply hang coats on the back of their chairs (upstairs only) or drape them over a wall rack if one is available. During busy shows, it’s easiest to wear a light jacket or foldable coat that you can keep at your feet. Thieves are extremely rare here, but as always keep valuables on you or in sight.
What is the food menu like?
The Hug and Pint’s menu is fully vegetarian (mostly vegan) and draws from Asian comfort food. Signature dishes include kimchi curry, savoury-pan pizzas, tofu-and-noodle dishes, and the popular “sweet and hot” tempeh (www.cutoutandkeep.net). The chefs change the menu regularly, but guests often rave about the gluten-free vegan pizza and black pepper aubergine. All the food is made fresh on-site. For drinks, they offer a rotating selection of craft beers & ciders and a wine list, plus classic cocktails (like the £5 margarita special) (www.thehugandpint.com). The food was even described by critics as “delicious and healthy” and “critically acclaimed” (www.whatsonglasgow.co.uk) (foodanddrink.scotsman.com). You can eat before 9pm upstairs but no food service during the live show downstairs.
When should I arrive for a show and are tickets ever sold at the door?
Aim to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before the advertised start time, or even earlier if you want a front-row spot. Doors typically open around 7pm for a 7:30 show (tickets-scotland.com). Some people come up to an hour early to eat, queue, or mingle. If the gig is popular, tickets can sell out well in advance, so buying ahead is best. On quieter nights, you may get tickets at the door with no booking fee. If you’re running late, it’s risky: many shows are standing room only and may restrict entry once capacity is reached. In short, earlier is better – and if it’s advertised as “Sold Out,” door tickets likely won’t be available.