Glasgow pubs shut after fire partially destroys train station

Glasgow, UK - July 12 2025: Pedestrians walk past the impressive Victorian stone facade of the historic Glasgow Central Station on a busy city street under a clear blue sky
Temporarily closed: Five pubs on Glasgow's Hope Street have shut after a major broke out at the city's Grand Central train station (Getty Images)

Five pubs in Glasgow have temporarily closed after a major fire broke out at the city’s Grand Central train station.

The inferno is thought to have started in a vape shop on Glasgow’s Union Street on Sunday afternoon (8 March). Firefighters were called soon afterwards.

The blaze later engulfed the entire building and spread to Glasgow Central Station, causing the 19th century building to partially collapse.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said six crews were initially sent to tackle the fire.

A number of nearby businesses were impacted by the incident, including five pubs on the city’s Hope Street.

Joint statement

Denholm’s Bar, a traditional wet-led pub; Lafferty’s, which hosts regular live music; and 26 Hope Street, known for its karaoke offer, shared a joint statement on social media announcing they would be closed until further notice.

Alpen Lodge, which is part of Bow Taverns, is also thought to be shut for the time being, as well as family-run pub the Park Lane.

The statement explained the venues were following guidance from emergency services and would keep customers updated. It is not clear if any of the sites were damaged by the fire.

Shared to Facebook and Instagram, the joint post said: “All of us at 26, Denholm’s and Lafferty’s want to send out thoughts to the small businesses affected by the fire around Central Station.

Uncertain future

“At the moment, it’s unclear when the Hope Street side shops, bars and restaurants will reopen. Like everyone else, we will follow guidance from Police Scotland and Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.

“A huge thank you to all the emergency services for their efforts. We hope no further business are affected. We’ll keep everyone updated as we know more. Let Glasgow Flourish.”