Great British Pubs… The Counting House (Glasgow)

Exclusive Interview by Karen Beishuizen
Photos courtesy of David Webb

The Counting House in Glasgow was built as a branch for the Bank of Scotland between 1867 and 1870. After it was converted into a pub it became part of Wetherspoon in 1996. Scottish cask ales and whiskey are favorite drinks among the visitors, together with fish and chips as favorite food. As you enter The Counting House, the first thing you’ll notice is the sheer scale of the former banking hall. High ceilings, grand columns and an impressive glass dome create a striking first impression. Whether you are interested in Glasgow’s heritage, Scottish food and drinks, or simply by experiencing one of the most impressive pub interiors in the UK, The Counting House in well worth a visit.

KB: Since when does the pub building exist and when did it become a Wetherspoon pub?

The iconic Counting House building in Glasgow’s George Square was constructed between 1867 and 1870 by architect J.T. Rochead. It was originally built as a grand branch for the Bank of Scotland, which inspired the pub’s name. The building was officially converted into a pub and opened 20th December 1996

Key milestones include:

• 1867–1870: Designed and built in the Italian Renaissance style, setting the architectural tone for the west end of George Square.

• 1998: The former bank building was sensitively transformed into a large public house by JD Wetherspoon.

Today, the venue still retains many of its original Victorian features, including the opulent ceiling dome, grand statues, and the old bank vaults

KB: What is a fun fact about the pub not many people know?

Its spectacular central bar sits under an ornate glazed dome supported by 16 caryatids (sculpted female figures), while seating stretches into the bank’s original steel vaults.

Glasgow was the main setting for the “Batgirl” movie, though it was famously cancelled by Warner Bros. Some of the scenes for this movie were shot from inside the pub.

Some scenes from “World War Z” starring Brad Pitt were shot outside the pub in George Square and you can see the pub building in some scenes. It was also placed 3rd in the list of pubs around the UK people love to go to which was created by Google Maps. It became one of the first non-smoking pubs in the UK in 2005.

KB: What drink is a favorite and should people try?

For visitors looking for a true Scottish experience, we recommend trying one of the Scottish cask ales available from our 18 hand pumps. We also offer an extensive whiskey selection, giving customers the chance to sample some of Scotlands finest spirits in a unique historic setting.

KB: What dish on the menu is a favorite and people must try?

Our fish and chips remain one of the most popular dishes with customers. It’s a classic British pub favorite and consistently one of our bestselling meals. Many visitors also enjoy our Scottish breakfast that you can also add haggis and black pudding to.

KB: Which famous people have visited the pub over the years?

Unknown but the pub features wall tributes, portraits and histories of notable Glaswegians.

KB: I step inside your pub. What do I see? Walk me through it.

As you enter The Counting House, the first thing you’ll notice is the sheer scale of the former banking hall. High ceilings, grand columns and an impressive glass dome create a striking first impression. The historic architecture immediately transports you back to Victorian Glasgow, while the warm atmosphere, busy bar and welcoming dining areas remind you that this is now one of the city’s most popular pubs, looking around you’ll spot original banking features, ornate stonework and details that tell the story of the building’s past.

KB: Why should people visit your pub?

The Counting House offers something that few pubs can match: the chance to enjoy food and drink inside one of Glasgow’s most spectacular historic buildings. Located in the heart of the city it combines architecture, history, great value and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are interested in Glasgow’s heritage, Scottish food and drinks, or simply by experiencing one of the most impressive pub interiors in the UK, The Counting House in well worth a visit.

For more information, check out The Counting House’s website: HERE

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