Glasgow in the 80s was a dire decade for many as the city struggled under Thatcher’s Britain - but that’s not to say the Glaswegians didn’t still have a good time.
Many Glaswegians of a certain vintage will remember saving up their pennies all week to get on it at these many fine establishments across the city, or chancing their luck underage at the doors of less-reputable venues.
For more 80s retro content check out our article: The life and times of Glaswegians in the 1980’s in 80 pictures
Or if you want to see some of the most fondly remembered venues of the 90s, read our article: 22 bars, restaurants, cafes and nightclubs that remind Glaswegians of the 90s
While many are lost to time, you might be surprised to hear that a few are still operating under the same name. So join us as we explore 15 of the very best pubs, clubs, and nightclubs of Glasgow in the 1980s, as reccomended by our readers.
13. The Mars Bar
The Mars Bar was Glasgow’s most well-known punk pub, and proved to be more popular than Paisley’s Bungalow Bar or the Silver Thread Hotel for its city centre location. Just off St Enoch Square, the Mars Bar opened in 1977 and weegie punks claimed the pub as their own. Simple Minds played there in their early days, and became a regular feature at the Mars Bar, playing every Sunday night. | Laurie Evans
14. Tiffany's
Tiffany's on Sauchiehall Street was the venue for some of the biggest bands like the Undertones in its day. | Contributed
15. Kings Cafe
After an incredible 117 years in operation, the landmark Kings Café on Elmbank Street shut its doors in 2015. Established in 1898 when Queen Victoria was nearing the end of her long reign, it was the oldest-surviving café in the city, and forged close links to the nearby King’s Theatre when it opened in 1904. Theatregoers initially provided the bulk of its custom, but a 4am closing time in recent years saw the Kings Café become a regular stop for famished clubbers on the hunt for some affordable, late night nourishment. | Contributed