“Fancy a pint where kings may have sought refuge from the cold?” That’s the kind of question that hangs in the air outside The Curler’s Rest. It is the oldest pub on Byres Road in Glasgow. Its story is etched into the very fabric of this building.
The Curler’s Rest has stood here in some form since the 17th century. Back then this area was still countryside. Byres Road got its name from the lands known as the Byres of Partick. The present pub is housed in an 18th-century cottage-type building.
Now let’s step back in time. Imagine a winter’s day long ago. Curlers are gathering at a nearby pond. They are ready to test their skills on the ice. The Curler’s Rest got its name from this curling pond. It was a popular spot until the end of the 19th century. The Partick Curling Club even had its pond here in 1848.
Legend has it that King Charles II was riding toward Glasgow one day. He spotted the inviting hostelry and stopped for refreshments. Finding it closed he demanded it be opened. The king then granted a Royal Charter. This gave the inn the right to open day and night. It included Sundays in perpetuity. No one has ever found the original charter. The Green family owned the pub for years. They boasted about the right to open on Sundays.
The Curler’s Rest has changed over the years. It has had many names. These include The Curlers, The Curlers Tavern and Sinclair’s Tavern. In 1858 James Sinclair owned the tavern. He was also a coach hirer and manufacturer. His wife took over the business when he died.
John Green took over the pub in 1910. The rent was £55 per year. The Green family owned it for 60 years. They sold it in 1970 for £160000. Tennents Caledonian Breweries bought Curlers in 1970. The interior was refurbished in 1972.
In the 1950s The Curlers Tavern had new additions. There was a Log Cabin lounge bar. A new dining room was added with seating for 100. The decor was bright with light grey patterned wallpaper. There was also a cocktail bar and lounge in Spanish style. Murals were painted by artists. These included scenes from Tam O’Shanter.
One curling stone rested in The Curler’s Rest until the 1950s. Its handle was a doorknob. Mr E Green presented it to the Canadian Curling Team. He discussed building a Canadian log cabin at the back of the pub.
The Curler’s Rest has seen many changes. It was a Scream pub geared towards students from 1999 to 2010. It was then refurbished and rebranded.
Today The Curler’s Rest is a popular spot. It’s known for quality pub food and a great selection of beers. It is a place where history and hospitality meet. As you step inside The Curler’s Rest remember the stories within these walls. Think of kings curlers and the generations who have gathered here. Enjoy the atmosphere of this Glasgow institution.