Looking for things to do in Glasgow city centre this weekend that go beyond the usual options? The Last Bookstore on Hope Street is one of the most distinctive venues the city has to offer. It combines literary-inspired cocktails, Mediterranean small plates, and a setting built entirely around books. Furthermore, it suits everything from a weekend lunch to a long, leisurely evening out.
Whether you are a Glasgow local or visiting for the weekend, The Last Bookstore is the kind of place that makes an ordinary Saturday or Sunday feel like something worth remembering.
A Venue Unlike Anything Else in Glasgow City Centre
The Last Bookstore earns its reputation through its setting as much as its food and drink. The centrepiece is the iconic book tunnel, an arch of hundreds of vintage books that runs through the heart of the venue. Additionally, cosy book nooks are tucked throughout the space, giving you somewhere private and atmospheric to settle into for the afternoon or evening.
The grand bar anchors the room and creates an energy that keeps things lively without ever becoming overwhelming. In other words, it works equally well for a quiet afternoon drink or a full evening out with friends. Browse the gallery to see the space, or read our full guide to The Last Bookstore before you visit.
Start the Weekend with a Long Lunch
The Last Bookstore opens from 12pm at weekends, making it an ideal spot for a long, unhurried Saturday or Sunday lunch. The food menu is built around Mediterranean small plates made with locally sourced Scottish produce. Consequently, the sharing format suits a relaxed weekend pace perfectly.
Bar snacks are a great way to start. Truffle fries with black garlic aioli and manchego come in at £7. The toasted sesame hummus with salsa matcha and fried chickpeas is £7.50. The cheese plate with chilli jam and crostini is £10. These are ideal alongside the first drinks of the afternoon.
Small plates go further. Highlights include gin and vodka cured salmon with beetroot and dill creme fraiche at £12, seabass ceviche cured with tiger milk and served with avocado mousse at £13.50, and the duck fat potatoes, pork and prawn croquette with sauce gribiche at £12. Check the full food and drinks menu for the complete picture.
Literary Cocktails to Make the Weekend Special
The cocktail list is one of the best reasons to visit The Last Bookstore this weekend. Every signature serve is named after a famous author, giving each drink a story of its own. Moreover, the quality of the ingredients and the skill behind the bar make these some of the most interesting cocktails in Glasgow city centre.
The Fleming is a standout, combining Grey Goose, Bombay Premier Cru, Lillet Blanc and lemon oil in a clean, elegant martini. The Poe takes a richer route with Amontillado sherry, Pedro Ximenez, sweet vermouth, amaro and baking spices. Similarly, the Hemingway brings cachaca, Pisco, St Germain elderflower, grapefruit and lime together for something lighter and citrus-led.
For something warming and bold, the Behan uses Slane Irish Whisky with Guinness and espresso reduction and a finish of spiced chocolate. Additionally, the Steinbeck combines Diplomatico Exclusiva, Calvados, apple, lemon, pear and pomegranate for a fruit-forward rum serve. The full cocktail and drinks menu is available online.
The Perfect Weekend Date Night Venue
The Last Bookstore is one of the most popular date night choices in Glasgow city centre, and it is easy to see why. The book nooks create an intimate setting away from the main bar, making an evening there feel genuinely special. Furthermore, the combination of literary cocktails and sharing plates encourages a relaxed, unhurried approach to the evening.
For more inspiration, read our date night guide to The Last Bookstore. If cocktails are the main draw, our guide to The Last Bookstore as a cocktail bar covers the full drinks offering in detail.
Great for Groups and Celebrations
The Last Bookstore works just as well for a group weekend out as it does for a couple. The main bar area has enough energy and space to make a group evening feel like an occasion. Additionally, the small plates menu suits a group approach to ordering, with everyone choosing a few dishes and sharing across the table.
The venue accepts reservations for up to 8 people. For larger groups, the team can accommodate bigger bookings by arrangement. You can get in touch directly to discuss options for larger parties or special occasions.
How to Get There and When to Visit
The Last Bookstore is at 157 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 2UQ. It is a short walk from Glasgow Central Station and Queen Street Station, which makes it easy to reach from anywhere in the city or beyond. As a result, it is a natural choice if you are planning a day or evening in Glasgow city centre. Our guide to restaurants near Glasgow Central Station has more on getting there.
At weekends the venue opens at 12pm. It stays open until midnight on Sundays and until 1am on Saturdays. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings. You can book a table online in just a couple of minutes.
Gift Vouchers for a Weekend Visit
If you want to give someone a weekend experience to look forward to, gift vouchers are available from £25 and valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. They make a genuinely thoughtful gift for food lovers, cocktail fans, and anyone looking for something a little different to do in Glasgow city centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Glasgow city centre this weekend?
The Last Bookstore on Hope Street is one of the most distinctive things to do in Glasgow city centre. It combines literary cocktails, Mediterranean small plates, and a unique book-filled interior.
Is The Last Bookstore worth visiting in Glasgow?
Yes. The iconic book tunnel, cosy book nooks, literary cocktail menu, and Mediterranean small plates make it a genuinely memorable visit.
What is there to do at The Last Bookstore Glasgow?
You can enjoy signature literary cocktails, Mediterranean small plates, and a unique atmosphere built around books. The venue includes an iconic book tunnel and intimate book nooks throughout.
Is The Last Bookstore good for a weekend lunch in Glasgow?
Yes. The Last Bookstore opens from 12pm at weekends and serves Mediterranean small plates throughout the day. The Express Lunch Deal is available Monday to Friday from 12pm to 4pm.
What time does The Last Bookstore Glasgow open at weekends?
The Last Bookstore opens at 12pm on Saturdays and Sundays. It stays open until midnight on Sundays and until 1am on Saturdays.
Do I need to book at The Last Bookstore Glasgow at the weekend?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended at weekends. You can book a table online. Drinks-only bookings are not accepted.
Where is The Last Bookstore in Glasgow city centre?
The Last Bookstore is at 157 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 2UQ. It is a short walk from Glasgow Central Station and Queen Street Station.
Can I buy a gift voucher for The Last Bookstore Glasgow?
Gift vouchers start from £25 and are valid for 12 months. They are available to purchase directly through the website.