The Horse Shoe Bar
17-19 Drury Street
Glasgow
What is it? Long a Glasgow institution, it began trading in 1846 before a fellow called John Scouller took it over and renamed it The Horse Shoe Bar in 1884. Tucked away from the bustle of the city centre it is now embedded in Glasgow pub culture. The interior has changed slightly over the years but it is still a shrine to the Victorian style that has slowly disappeared in other pubs. Etched glass, elaborate cornicing, dark wood panelling, old spirit casks and the famous bar, once the longest in Europe.
Interesting fact In 1988, the bar was classified by Historic Scotland as a Category A building of historic importance, safeguarding both the external and interior from the ravages of so-called modernisation. In 2007, the present owners, Mitchells & Butlers, attempted to change the age-old tradition of a pie and a pint, by introducing a standard pub menu and doing away with the pies. Little did they realise how out of touch they were. A web petition raised 65,000 hits from all over the world in the space of a week, 90% in favour of the return of the humble pie. It was big news with national and local television and newspaper coverage. Eventually Mitchells & Butlers reversed their decision.
Verdict I used to come here as a 19-year-old for the three-course meal, which even now is only £4.25, and is only available in the upstairs lounge. I loved all the different types of punters from all sectors of society. I know it's a cliche, but it is "proper" Glasgow. Times have changed though, and the regulars and managers seem to be hanging on for dear life to maintain the originality which made this pub famous. The beautiful stained glass behind the main front windows was removed and has left huge, plain characterless windows to the street, spoiling the rich heritage created by John Young Whyte, who took over the pub in 1923. Its a real shame and I hope the regulars and management can keep this institution as it should be.
Signature drink Decent selection of whiskies. I had a Macallan 10-year-old fine oak for £2.10
Food I had to go for the three-course menu. Soup, steak pie and ice cream for £4.25 – can't say fairer than that.
Price The pub chain has brought with them good prices, pint lager £2.75, small wine £1.99
Children Allowed upstairs if eating.
Toilets Clean but could benefit from a bit of updating.
Alfresco Just out on the Drury Street cobbles.
Avoid if you don't want a large dose of Glasgow pub culture.
Perfect for admiring Victorian decor.
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