Pirn Inn, Glasgow

The Pirn’s claim to be “The Best Bar In Balfron” isn’t a particularly substantial one since there are only two, but it does have a valid claim to being the best pub in the whole area. It’s a quaintly attractive, traditional style bar with a real fire and lots of nooks and crannies, which looks as if it hasn’t changed much for decades. Tucked away in the back alleys of Balfron, it’s not easy to find, unfortunately, despite signs around the village giving directions to it. An old sepia photograph on the wall reveals that the building was originally the Balfron branch of the British Linen Bank (hence the address in Banker's Brae). Prices were very reasonable, with Tennent’s lager at £2.80 a pint. Tennent’s Ember Ale, Stella Artois, Williams Joker IPA and Guinness are also on draught, as are four real ales, on a rotating basis. A real ale festival is advertised for 17 to 19 October 2014. The Pirn is well worth seeking out if you’re in the area and, as a well known and long established pub, locals should be able to direct you to it if you can‘t find it yourself.