During my time living in Glasgow’s West End, one of my favourite places to go for a drink was Òran Mór. The pub is located in an old church, which stands at the top of Byres Road. Òran Mór provides visitors a wonderful historical atmosphere as well as a great selection of local food and drink… including an array of Scotch whiskies. It’s a great place to go for either an afternoon pint, a nice dinner or an evening out for entertainment!
The History of Òran Mór
Òran Mór (which translates to “Big Song” in Scottish Gaelic) was opened as a pub in 2004, but the history of the building dates back much further. The building was initially constructed in 1862 and first opened as Kelvinside Parish Church, as part of the Free Church in Glasgow. There are lots of interesting features of the building, including the Italian Gothic Pyramid spire, which is believed to be the first to show a foreign architectural influence in the city. You’ll also find 11 carved heads that represent leading figures of the Church.
The building remained a church until 1978, after which it was left derelict. It wasn’t until 2002 that restoration works began and Òran Mór officially opened to the public in 2004.
Visiting Òran Mór Today
Today, Òran Mór is both a fantastic pub as well as an entertainment venue. The inside of the building still feels like a church and provides a great atmosphere for visitors. The venue consists of both the Victorian Bar and the Whisky Bar, as well as dining areas, the Auditorium and a Nightclub. It’s also a great live music venue that welcomes musicians from all over.
If you’re looking for somewhere to try Scotch whisky, Òran Mór is a great place to do so. When I lived there, they normally had a “Malt of the Month” special on and I’ve tried some premium Scotch whiskies for a great price!
Another cool thing Òran Mór offers is, “A Play, a Pie and a Pint“… which is exactly as it sounds! This theatrical performance takes place over lunchtime and for £15-£16, you’ll receive entrance to the show, as well as a pie and drink (a beer, wine or soft drink).
Key Information for Visiting Òran Mór, Glasgow
1. How do you get to Òran Mór in Glasgow?
Òran Mór is located in Glasgow’s West End, not far from the University of Glasgow. The easiest way to get there is to take the Glasgow Subway to Hillhead Station and walk about 5 minutes north on Byres Road.
2. What are the opening times?
Generally, Òran Mór is open from 11am-2am, but I would suggest visiting their website to double check up to date information before visiting.
3. When is live music on at Òran Mór?
Òran Mór often has live events on and you can check out the calendar here to see what live music is on during your visit.
4. What is recommended to eat at Òran Mór?
You can’t really go wrong with a dish selection here, but I always recommend trying local dishes at these kinds of pubs and restaurants. I would recommend something like the Cullen skink (a traditional Scottish fish soup) or fish & chips (another local favourite).
5. What other historical things are there to do near Òran Mór?
Located just down the road from Òran Mór is the Curler’s Rest, another historic Glasgow pub. You’re also only a few minutes from Ashton Lane, a picturesque cobblestone street which consists of a number of great bars and restaurants. If in the area, it’s also worth a walk through the grounds of the University of Glasgow, which consists of some stunning historic buildings. For more of the city’s history, check out 10 Historical Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland.
This article’s information was last updated in October 2022.