Drum & Monkey, Glasgow

Built in 1924, this Nicholsons pub is centrally located and was converted from what was originally the Savings Bank of Glasgow. The exterior features some classic bank architecture with a fine sculpted coat of arms over the main door and some award winning floral displays. Internally, the main bar has raised sections to the side and front and an unusually shaped central bar that juts out into the centre of the floor. There is an admrble ornate ceiling but the centrepiece is a magnificent large fireplace in the left hand wall flanked by marble pillars with a drum and monkey perched overhead. At the rear, and easily overlooked, is a small richly paneled room labeled the Bankers Office a cosy section tucked away from the main body of the pub and available for private functions.. Nicholsons ale range doesn’t seem as extensive in Scotland as I am used to in London and just the 4 were avaialbele on my visit - St Austell Tribute, Sharps Doom Bar, Caledonian Deuchars and the more interesting Mahseer IPA (Nicholsons were doing an IPA festival at the time). Another pump was unclipped. The quality was fine and the prices seemed a little cheaper than the other Nicholsons pubs that I encountered in town. Food ranged from Salads starting at around £6.50 to top end steaks at £13. The service was fine albeit my visit wasn’t anywhere near the peak hours and the atmosphere seemed very laid back and civilized. It might not have the best beer selection in town but it is certainly a decent enough pub and well worth a visit even if it’s just to have an ogle at the interior.