New bar and speakeasy opens on former Whistler on the Green site in Glasgow

The site of the former Whistler on the Green pub has been transformed into a new daytime venue and late night speakeasy.

McLennan's, named after Victorian Glasgow’s Baillie James McLennan, opened its doors on Thursday (November 5), celebrating its opening by projecting its name onto the Glasgow Green arch that bears its inspiration’s name.

McLennan's is the ninth venue from Glasgow hospitality group, Merchant Pubs & Bars. It opens just four months after the launch of anderson's pub + institute.

Ewan Angus, Group Bars Manager at Merchant Pubs & Bars, said: "It's been so exciting to create McLennan's from the ground up. I loved researching James McLennan and the old Saltmarket. There are so many incredible stories, and every drink on the menu has one behind it. Seeing his name lit up on the Arch last night, right outside our front door, was the perfect way to begin. I can't wait to share all our new creations with Glasgow. Pick your poison. Or don't."

By day (9am–6pm), it is a bright, welcoming pub with the curtains open, daylight pouring in and Radio Clyde playing throughout. Coffee and panettone are served for breakfast, with toasties, soup and chips available until 6pm. Dogs are most welcome. McLennan's holds one of Glasgow's rare old licences, so it can serve alcohol with food from 9am, seven days a week.

By night (6pm–midnight), the curtains close, the daylight goes, the cocktail shakers shake and the late night eclectic, electro playlist takes over. The kitchen closes and the speakeasy opens.

McLennan's takes over the well-known Whistler on the Green site. It is named after Bailie James McLennan J.P. (1838–1899), a Glasgow businessman, civic figure and philanthropist. In 1875 he became a partner in Alexander Bryce & Co., a leading wholesale wine and spirit merchant in the city. In 1884 he was elected Deacon Convener, one of the most prestigious civic roles in Glasgow's merchant society. In later life, as a Bailie and Justice of the Peace, he worked to preserve Glasgow's heritage and architecture. His best-known legacy is the arch that bears his name.

McLennan's is open now, 9am to midnight, seven days a week. 5 Greendyke St, Glasgow G1 5PU