Barrowland Ballroom

There is no better venue in the UK, there just isn't. It's a feeling. It's the atmosphere. It's the connection of artists and crowd. It's the perfect shape of the room. It's 2000 happy souls giving the artist back everything they are giving and elevating the shared experience. It's the artists themselves being blown away. It's why many artists record live gigs there. I've been lucky to have seen some amazing gigs there since early 90s, just go. Amazing

First visit to this legendary venue. I have to say it is possibly the most well run I have ever visited. 1900 capacity, original building opened in 1934 , rebuilt after fire destroyed in 1958, reopened 1960. A venue of significant importance in my opinion and should be protected forever.

Bouncers and security were superlative. Water, eyes on the crowd, courteous and vigilant. Great bar staff. Iconic venue. Be safe. Be kind ns. Keep the Barras beautiful.

One of the best smaller venues I've been to. Easy to get a drink - plenty of staff and a great atmosphere

Went to see Leftfield here, absolutely amazing gig. Audio system quality, could eel my organs shaking, like a thousand defibs! 🙌 Been here a few times, it's a great venue! My only slight gripe is the cost of bevy, but i suppose this is becoming the norm now.

My brother always told me The Barrowland Ballroom is a fantastic venue and to be honest it is up there with Brixton Academy as one of my favourite venues. Drinks at a reasonable price and well worth the drive up from Middlesbrough.

Another fantastic St. Patrick's night with the one and only Still Little Fingers. Reasonably priced bar that does take contactless payment and not just cash as per website. Get there and enjoy the atmosphere.

Smashing venue, brilliantly loud even towards the back, plenty of space at the bars with top staff meaning you never wait long to be served. Good room for a boogie and fab lighting. Staff actually seemed to want to be there which is a rarity at most venues and we’re all brill. Easy spot to get to and loads of food nearby.

The Barrowlands is a legendary music venue - I've seen so many amazing gigs here over the years, stood on the stage and had the pleasure of skating in it during a roller disco! That fabulous neon frontage signifies a great night ahead! It's a reasonably large venue with capacity of 2100 yet manages to feel intimate and creates a great connection between band and audience. The acoustics are excellent and the atmosphere is rare to find elsewhere. A legacy of its original purpose as a dance hall is the sprung floor, making gigs that little bit bouncier! I quite like to perch at the sides where the little step up gives my short self a better view. There's a full bar on one side of the hall and a bottle/can bar tucked in the back corner. There's a bar on the first floor level too with seating (there's a small stage area here too but I've never seen it used) and there's sometimes the smell of burgers on this level too (though I've yet to figure out where it's coming from...) The venue is a little aged but that's all part of its character and charm. The ol' Barrowlands magic can't be beat.

Came here recently for the fantastic Blur gig and wanted to add a few things to my review. I'm very much still in love with the Barrowland Ballroom, nothing will ever change that. Please never take it away! I can never remember queuing to get in here. I've arrived at gigs early for support bands and just before the main bands come on and have always just walked in to get searched. You don't get that much these days. Maybe some other establishments could take a leaf out of their book? The bar queue is a bit of a nightmare sometimes, but I tend not to drink much at gigs so this doesn't bother me too much. The bar downstairs next to the cloakroom can sometimes be a little more quiet. Queues for the toilets can be long but always go down fast. Don't expect the Ritz here ladies, not much has changed decor-wise in this place and that includes the toilets. Merchandise is on this level too, with an old-skool hot food hatch next to it, The smell of fried onions always makes my mouth water. The Barras can't be beaten for atmosphere, bands and artists agree. Glasgow crowds are the best too, obviously, so it's a match made in heaven.

I love the Barras as a gig venue. I've been to my fair share of gigs here and it's my number one venue of choice. It's basic but the sound and atmosphere is like no where else I've ever been to. We popped in today for the Glasgow Doors Open Day and got a chance to look over the place when there were only a few people around (check out the pictures). It was great to see the back stage area including the "green room", changing / makeup area and back stairwell (which is full of amazing old gig posters). I have to admit I thought that backstage would be impressive, considering the top acts that have appeared there over the years, but I guess the acts get the same 'down to earth' feeling as the gig goers, it's basic [outdated?] but it does the job. As part of the doors Open Day they provided a guided tour, but we decided to do our own thing and bought the Barrowlands book which was available ahead of general release, which looks like it could be an interesting and informative read.

This my favourite venue in Glasgow. Great venue for seeing live music. FYI: there are a lot of stairs to get to the main hall.

If music was a religion then this would be my church!! If I could give it more stars I would, this place is my most favourite place in the whole world.. I'm a gig girl and I go to loads of gigs, but no place compares to the Barrowlands.. I've seen so many bands here.. I love it when bigger bands come to Glasgow who could fill a bigger venue but choose to do two nights here as they love playing it.. Lots of bands and singers have said it's their favourite place to play.. There is no better atmosphere at a gig than here, I love it when the crowd sings all the words and you just see the lead singer unable to hold back their smile.. So what makes it so special you might ask.. Well on arrival to the venue you are greated with the most amazing light show of signage ever.. As soon as you see this the excitement just builds and builds.. You go inside and it is run down and grungy but this adds to its appeal.. I've heard people say it needs a refurb, but I think if this happens it will lose its spark.. To be fair the toilets could do with a refurb.. But please no one touch the ballroom itself.. So you go into the ballroom and it is just perfect, as I'm small I always go to the front left as you get an excellent view, but room to move and most importantly dance.. The dance floor is sprung, so when the bouncing and jumping starts you feel like you're going to hit the roof.. The roof is something I also love all the squares and stars and most importantly the glitter ball.. If you've never been it's a must.. For a while most bands were playing at the academy but more recently bands are returning to the Barrowlands, much to my delight.. Best music venue EVER... Fact!!!!

The question is do you deserve an upgrade as well as and update. Last time I gave you 4 stars and I find myself stuck at the same spot. Now the weird thing is if you ask me my favourite music venue in Glasgow. I would tell you the Barras! So why do I struggle to give it that extra star? It's maybe the beer. It's awful in my opinion, poor options and over priced. However it is the best music venue in Glasgow.... But Is it that good for watching a band? I'm not convinced unless your right down the front. I went to see blur recently and had a good night, but was not blown away. Was it the band or the venue? Am I having an argument with myself? Yes I am. Ok **** it. If it's my favourite place to see music then it must be five stars. Add in the history and the atmosphere and you have a world famous venue. The Barras. The best venue in Glasgow to see live music.

Yelp Shame strikes again - I've never reviewed the Barrowlands?! Whut! Thankfully I was there last night, so it's nice and fresh in my mind. Glasgow's best gig venue, without a doubt. Care to challenge me? Send me a compliment to tell me where's better (or better still, write your own review and send me the link, haha). As you walk down the Gallowgate, you'll be greeted by the most epic signage in the whole world which just adds to the excitement of whatever band you're about to see. Inside, you head up a flight of stairs to the merch, bar and loos level, and then another level up is the main ballroom for gigs. It's a really gorgeous space in a way that can't really be described - it's old, it's classic, classy and charming. There's even an attendant in the loos! The main dancefloor is bouncy which is a load of fun, although my personal preference is to stand to the right of the stage on the wee step up as then you get a great view of the stage and can see over heads. In recent years there's also been a roller disco here on a couple of occasions, which apart from my OH&S concerns (e.g. wet floors, staff not wanting to give out water) is an experience I'll never forget. If there's a band playing at the Barrowlands and you're even a slight fan, you better grab tickets fast or it'll sell out. You won't regret it.

While I'm all too aware that the excellent atmosphere, character and heritage of this venue make it one of the best places you could possibly ever go for a gig, I do feel slightly that I got a bit of a bum deal with regards to the bands I saw here. Basement Jaxx provided a decent enough way to spend two hours, but they're hardly legends of rock, and I came to see hillbilly metal outfit Pantera when I was 16 more out of desire to witness unbridled chaos rather than for their frankly terrible music. The half bottle of high commisioner "whisky" I supped before going in means my only real memory of that one is insulting a ticket conductor on the train afterwards. Sometimes I miss being an arsehole.

The Barrowlands must be the best live music venue going. And it's been going for a while - largely unchanged for decades, the sprung dance floor and diamond-panelled ceiling of the main room has seen every notable band and singer perform over the years. Often played by acts who could easily fill venues many times larger, the atmosphere is legendary. My early gigs there were Orbital (of which I largely have no recollection) and The Stone Roses. More recently saw Frightened Rabbit rounded off their world tour here with me and the crowd loving every second. The exterior neon sign is a Glasgow landmark

I keep hearing rumours about this place closing down, and while on the outside that might look like a good idea (on the inside too actually, there are tiles seconds away from falling from the roof permanently) it is the home of a thousand warm memories for me. So many of my favourite bands have played in here, such as Sonic Youth, My Bloody Valentine and most recently, Alice in Chains (the best concert I have been to in years). The atmosphere in here is always electric and the bands I have spoken to who have played here have always commented on how much they love the venue. I will never forget seeing Nine Inch Nails in here soundcheck 5 songs before a gig, with just me and 9 other people in the place. Such an amazing moment. I love this place.

I've only ever been here for concerts rather than nightclub (if it is a nightclub any more), and it's a decent venue. Back in the 90's it was great for sound, but had horrific security staff who were the stereotypical alpha-male gorillas in shirts. Nowadays, they're superb and provide what they're supposed to - safety, security and assistance for concert-goers. Sound at the venue is usually pretty decent and the stage is large enough for a good stage show if the band so choose. Parking's easy as well. Touch wood, I've never had a problem parking on one of the nearby streets even for a sold-out concert.

Excellent sound system - I couldn't hear out of my right ear for days. Backlit panels and light show: B+ The inside is like an old high school gymnasium crossed with a blues venue; outside looks like run-down Chinese computer plaza. It's hilarious. Dance floor is spacious but not to the point of being cavernous. Having only one bar is a negative but speedy service more than made up for it. The food stand was also open on the night of my visit. This was my first time seeing Above & Beyond outside of the U.S. and Barrowland did me alright.

Now that I've finally been back for the first time in (not saying how many years, it's embarrassing) ages for an actual gig, I had to post an update. First, had to attend a pre gig meet n greet organised by the headliners, Halestorm. Organised to military precision (you'd expect nothing less from an American band, I expect) and ran as smooth as smooth can be. Everyone got their VIP merch, their meeting and photo opportunity with the band, who were not only super cool but genuinely happy to meet folk who admittedly paid extra for the privilege. After being given the option to rejoin the VIP queue and get in early to be at the front - I had to trek off and meet my mate who wasn't as big a fan of Lzzy Hale as I am - we pitched up in time for the first of the two support bands. Sound was a clear as a bell no matter where we stood for both of them. For the headline set, the sound was even more sharp. Halestorm are as professional a band as there is on the circuit at the moment, and their stage presence shows it. Somewhere like The Barras is ideal for a band that want to show off and put on a hell of a show. The lighting was impeccable, the sound crystal clear and the show was easily one of the best I've ever seen anywhere, let alone somewhere as legendary as the Barras. Plus, you know, it's where Lzzy Hale hugged me. Twice. We'll always have The Barras...

It's been a good while since somebody put 10p in the meter to illuminate the ol' Barrowlands sign. And what a shame. Newcomers to the city and tourists may deem the stuttering neon light show to be tacky, but for Glaswegians the sign is as much an icon of the city as George Square or the coat of arms. Of course, the Barrowlands means different things to different generations. Having opened in 1934, the oldies remember it as being a place for jigging and jiving. Indeed, it is genuinely astounding how often you encounter someone who met their husband/wife at one of the famous dance nights in the ballroom. Later generations know it as the best live music venue in the UK, and one of the best in Europe. This is not only my opinion, but the opinion of countless bands who have name-checked it in interviews. Its popularity stems from its design. With bars situated at the back of the main hall, revellers can continue to watch the band while they queue for a drink while the springs underneath the floorboards ensure the bouncing in Glasgow is that little bit higher than anywhere else. The whole place also exudes a throwback feel, from its shabby-chic decor to the enormous disco ball which hangs precariously above the crowd. Unfortunately the Barras struggles to compete with the O2 machine in terms of live music these days, but a handful of bands still insist on playing here, and here alone, when they visit. An essential Glaswegian experience.

I've been here for gigs a few times over the years, but never rated it highly as a music venue. Controversial opinion to have in these parts, but I just didn't get it. Until Basement Jaxx on Sunday. Sure, it's still manky (in desperate need of Kim And Aggie to tackle the toilets!), dark, dingy, falling apart and in desperate need of a huge refurb. But I totally got it. The gig was awesome, there was a great atmosphere, and I had a total blast! I think it maybe depends on what type of gig you see here? The bar is really limited - Belhaven Best was revolting, but the Tennents was passable.

Easily my favourite gig venue in Glasgow (and maybe Scotland!). I love it! I've been to the Barrowlands a lot over the years to see some of my favourite bands play ( Killswitch Engage, Trivium, In Flames to name a few) and I honestly don't have a bad word to say about this place. The sound quality is spot on, it's a good size and drinks are well priced. What more do you need?!! Queuing up outside for a gig, you are bound to find something to entertain you and I've pretty seen it all (including a guy diving head first into a skip to see what goodies he could find) but it's Glasgow...nothing surprises us anymore! Standing under the iconic, brightly lit sigh the adrenalin starts to kick in and you just KNOW it's going to be a good night! The ballroom is a great size and I've always managed to get a really good view of the stage. The gigs I go to tend to be overrun with mosh pits so I've learned the best spots to stand, haha! Oh and I've always managed to miss any high flying um...pints?! But whether that happens at every single gig, I've no idea. As long as I've got space to head bang I'm pretty happy! I always get excited when I band I love announce they are playing at the Barrowlands because it's by far the best venue. I would it rate it higher if I could! Staff have always been friendly and on the ball. Never had any problems.

The barrowland ballrooms is a glasgow instituation ... famous or infamous depending on what way your looking at it. I love the signage outside ... its pretty special when all lit up at night and i hope they never change it. It kind of reminds me of old glasgow and really fits in with the area. Ive been to a few events here now and always had fun. If you ignore the metal detectors on the way in you will be fine. The dancefloor is huge and has a little ledge most of the way around next to the pillars and this is where i stand as i suffer with short girl syndrome! Gives you a great view of the stage. The downside is the place is a little run down. The queues for the female toilets is a joke. They really need to sort this out. Randomly there was a food stall last time i was there selling hotdogs and such. Despite this i love the barrowlands and i hope this place is here for many many more years.

Striking illuminations from outside lead way to some really faded glamour inside. There is nothing beautiful about the 'Barras' except the sound. Man, it is glorious. It is because of a gig here in 2008 that I committed to moving to Glasgow, I now live nearby and am always on the hunt for another chance to get back in here.

There's a lot of mythology surrounding the Barrowlands but I have to say, it doesn't half live up to its reputation. I've been coming here since the 80's and despite the number of gigs I've attended here tailing off a bit during the last decade thanks to the rise of the Carling / O2 venues, I'm happy to say there are a few more bands I like playing at the Barrowlands again now and I was here last week for the immense Defenders of the Faith tour headlined by Amon Amarth. I'd always rather come here than go anywhere else in Glasgow for a number of reasons. Mainly, it's just a brilliant hall. Wider than it is deep, you can pretty much get a good view from anywhere. And if you're 5'4" then a good view isn't always easy at a gig. The crowd always seem to be jumping, bands always seem to have a brilliant time and I always go away with my ears ringing and my feet hurting (although that may have something to do with my choice of noisy metal bands). It's big enough that you can get a really good crowd in but it doesn't feel impersonal like the SECC. For atmosphere and sound quality, you just can't beat it. The bar is small but the service is quick and prices aren't too terrible - I think we were £5.50 for two bottles of beer the other night. I like that they have a separate soft drink bit so if you're not drinking you don't have to queue at the bar. The ladies toilet is surprisingly decent for such an old venue - large and clean (Glasgow Garage, take note). From walking up the Gallowgate towards the flashing neon sign, to exiting out the back stairs with their generations of old gig posters lining the walls, there's nothing I don't like about the Barrowlands.

The Barras, wot can you say that's not been said before?? Best venue in the UK? I think so! OK, I'm maybe biased as one of my first if not first gigs was here in 89 and every gig I've been to has not disappointed. Most recently seen Airbourne and you just cant beat a Rock gig in The Barrowlands! I just hope they never change the decor or anything in my lifetime, the only thing that has changed is the lack of smoke and pint glasses which is fine. I've also seen the Prodigy there and it's equally as good for dance nights and the like. The atmosphere is awesome! Keep it old school, love it! It's wot a gig should be like.

Aaaahhh the good ol' Barras. I have lost track of how many wonderful bands I have seen here, We Are Scientists, Athlete, You Me At Six, Cold War Kids. But I recently made the trip through to go see Frank Turner. Man, was it brilliant!! I love love love going to see a band here, it is literally the perfect size. Not too small that it is unlikely you will get a ticket, but not too big that it kinda loses the atmosphere. AND if there is one thing this place has it is atmosphere by the truck load! The acoustics are second to none, every single band I have seen here may not be massive stadium filling bands but when you see them here it darn well feels like they could be, the crowd always go wild. Then again, it is scotland, that is what we do! Drinks are reasonably priced, and you don't have to wait for hours! Yes, the floor gets a bit sticky, yes you get a bit sweaty, yes you will inevitably get someone else's beer in your hair, yes you may get a little cramped (depending on how hardcore you are)............BUT that is what makes the Barras so unbelievably great and by far one of my favourite venues ever. Fact.

Every city has their musical institution: New York has CBGB, Minneapolis has First Avenue (remember Purple Rain?) and LA has the Whiskey a-Gogo. Glasgow has its place and it might be bigger and best suited for music than all of the aforementioned combined. Everyone knows about the outdoor market that sells dodgy CD's and other unmentionable items, but this review is for the ballroom, which hosts some of the best musical acts of all time. The place still retains some of its old charms which reminds me a lot of CBGB and First Avenue. It was first a formal ballroom then somehow it found its way to host acts like Oasis and the Kaiser Chiefs (who I've seen plenty of times). I'm not going to say the place is tiny but it certainly is not an arena. It's intimately big. I love the high ceilings and the disco balls. And something about this place makes the music sound much better. I plan on making an update to this review when I see two acts here before I die. One is the Fratellis, who I've seen in Vegas and in LA. And the other act that I must see before I die and it has to be at the Barrowlands is none other than Charlie and the Bhoys. It has to be after a Celtic match and I have to be drunk and I have to get into a fight and go to jail for no reason at all. They're playing there this coming April.

"The Spiritual Home", as my friend described it. From the drab toilets, to the labyrinthine cloakroom and starry ceiling, the bouncy floor and the overcrowded bar, there truly is no better place in Glasgow for a gig!

The barrowland holds a lot of history for me, its where my grandpa and grandma meet they both work there, the first gig I ever saw was here standing at the side of stage age four with my dad Ever great gig I've ever seen in Glasgow has been here, I love it as a venue, I aware that they said it closing and I hope it doesn't the secc has nothing on this place

I can only echo the previous reviewers by saying that the Barrowland has to be the best gig venue in Glasgow, I've been here a total of three times and each time better than the other. I also had my first sip of Jack Daniels here and my friends and I thought we were very rebellious as it was a big step up from the usual Bacardi Breezers. This place has so much character, great acoustics, intimate setting and it's a fabulous experience, I'd definitely recommend going to a gig here!

This could be the shortest review in history: The best concert venue in Glasgow. This really doesn't do anyone any good though, so I'll expand on why. In terms of everything you want in a venue it's perfect: the sound is excellent, sight-lines are good, it never feels overly cramped, and while it doesn't sell the best beer in the world the queues are never horrendously long (I'm not much of a drinker at gigs, so this doesn't bother me at all). The sprung floor makes for a good bounce if you're caught in a mosh, and it's got a great layout, with bits to the side if you want to get away from the main crowd. It also hasn't changed at all. I've been going to gigs here for more than 20 years (I have the tinnitus to prove it), and it doesn't feel like it's had a lick of paint in that time. In many ways it's a time capsule of live music in Glasgow, with all of the old gig posters lining the walls of the back exit, and it's the sort of place that Glasgow should cherish. There are definitely fewer gigs there now that the O2's exist, but the bands in the know always seem to want to come here, and that's testament to the experience that both bands and punters get when they come here. If you've been to loads of gigs here, I'd recommend you check out Nuala Naughton's book "Barrowland: A Glasgow Experience". It isn't perfect, but it has a list of pretty much all of the concerts played there since Simple Minds kick started using it as a concert space - and it's great fun ticking off the ones you were at.

It's hard to say much about the Barrowlands that hasn't already been said. It is famous, legendary and deservingly so. I was here, as were several other Yelpers as it turned out, to see Basement Jaxx deliver yet another fantastic gig! It's been a few years since I was last here for Arcade Fire but it hasn't changed a bit. The smell is the same, the bar is the same, the toilets are the same, in fact the only thing I noticed that was different was the security but these are the times we live in. The atmosphere was, as always, bouncing! The layout helps remove the chatter as there is a distinct area near the bar for the people who want to go to a gig to talk and drink (nope, I don't understand why either) but for the rest of us there is plenty of room to start... er... throwing some shapes, or whatever it is the kids are doing these days. One day this place will change. It will be repainted, they'll update the bar, and the ticket prices will rocket. People will complain so my advice to you is to get here before that happens. Barrowlands is very much a venue of its time, big enough to still host some big names, but small enough to feel intimate and connected. It's the perfect gig venue.

The Barrowland Ballroom is a legendary gig venue located just east of Merchant City in the city's Gallowgate area. It's easy walking distance to the city centre. The venue itself is up a number of steps, so not great if you're not able to move very easily. Also there is no seating due to the size and shape of the hall itself (it really is a ballroom!) which is probably a good thing for the atmosphere but again not great if you can't stand for long periods. Always a good atmosphere and the bands themselves seem to love playing here, which leads to good gigs. No interesting beers sold however!

I've always loved gigs at the Barrowlands. Ever since I was 14, this has been the venue that I've hoped and prayed my favourite, moderately mainstream, bands would play gigs at. It's a moderately sized venue, pretty large by Glasgow's standards, and usually hosts bands that will soon go on to play the SECC if all goes well for them. I have fond memories of pulling up with eager eyes after a long day at school to see bands such as Franz Ferdinand, Alkaline Trio, and the Mars Volta. It's an excellent size, with a capacity of about 2000 I believe, which is moderate but not enormous. The stage is pretty wide, giving you plenty of opportunity to make it to the front barrier, or at least close to the front. The standing area is also wide enough that there are no major obstructions. It's one of Glasgow's most beloved venues, and rightly so. The acoustics are good and even if you end up right up against the speakers you won't have to deal with that awful tinniness that some venues make you suffer. The atmosphere is amazing, too, especially for homegrown bands like Biffy Clyro. The downside to all of this is the disproportionate number of beers you'll probably be showered in. It depends where you stand, and the band that's playing, but when my friend dragged me along to see Babyshambles I left looking like a drowned rat and stinking of yeast. Not exactly the most pleasant or classy way to hit the town after a gig. Overall though, the venue is amazing and the bands tend to know what it's all about, which contributes further still to the great atmosphere. Love it.

The Barrowland ballroom has iconic status in Glasgow and has a well deserved reputation as The place to go for a good gig . Acoustics are great and it has a sprung floor which is fun. Outside has to be the largest signage ever , you definitely couldn't,t miss it . It is rumoured to be the largest of its kind in the UK . The ballroom is spacious ,however is standing room only .There is a bar in the ball room , in addition to the other on the lower level . Drinks are served in plastic glasses only and sadly the beer isn,t great either. Security is quite tight on admission , most concert goers however are accepting of such these days . In the past have I have seen the great and the good here , Deacon Blue , Van Morrison etc . Tonight The Lumineers were playing, being a progressive folk/ rock group from Denver , Colorado . Their live performance was awesome , with great participation from the audience , who seemed to know all their songs . I did remember to look at the ceiling which is quite a work of art in itself. If you are petite it could be hard to see over the heads of the audience so I would recommend standing to the side for better visuals . Awesome place.

My first ever gig, Avril Lavigne (ahem), was here in the great Glasgow Barrowlands Ballroom. I LOVE this music venue. Having been there now on many occassions, I couldn't want a better venue. The best band I ever saw here is a tie between Biffy Clyro, and Jimmy Eat World, both of whom blew me away. Not just because of their music, but because there is no atmosphere like the atmosphere in the Barrowlands. The old time feel of the place, the glitterball, the stars on the roof.... it all adds to the place, as do the staff - Reeny, my favourite, is the woman behind the burger/hot dog stand. She is a living legend, having worked there for near on 50 years. What a gem. No crowd is a bad crowd at the Barrowlands, so everyone adds their own something to the magic. Seriously. Watching a band at the Barrowlands is a rite of passage. Everyone needs to do it, so if you haven't done so, do it... now - it's the best venue in Scotland!

Flippin well the best gig venue of this size in Glasgow, bar none, not even one, nope, no, shhhh. If you have the opportunity to go here for a gig then its a chance that should not be missed. I was fortunate to see Bob Dylan here a number of years ago and it was quite possibly the most wondrous night i've had for a long time....it helps that we also made it out in time to watch England being dumped out of the Euro Championships on penalties to Portugal...bliss. The Barrowlands has been around for a number of years, starting out its life as, well a ballroom. In recent times though, its been one of the most renowned venues in the UK. Get to the Barrowlands for a gig, it is not to be missed.

The Barrowlands truly is a ballroom from a bygone time, and it almost feels like its musical history can still be heard reverberating off the walls. The bright, Blackpool type lights twinkling outside instantly draw you in with their magnetic, illuminating appeal. From the bouncy, springboard wooden flooring to the gregarious and charming coloured stars plastered over the ceiling, it is haunted by a magic that sings of Glasgow's past. It has been a ballroom and seen many jiving clubs in its time, and is now presently a gig venue. In terms of acoustics, it's great for gigs - you don't seem to get too much feedback or muffled bass in here. In terms of space, it's long but intimate enough so you feel as though you're witnessing something special as bands usually come here when they're climbing the fame ladder. Sometimes bands acclaimed steadily with a cult status play in the Barrowlands, and I've seen loads of punk and rock bands gig in these four walls during my time. It's the best place to see Reel Big Fish since you can feel the spring in your step when you're frantically dancing. There's something smoky and atmospheric about the Barrowlands that is a dinstinct throwback to the 70s and 80s days of the Glaswegian music scene. For older generations there is something somewhat reminiscent of the days of the famed Apollo, and the Barrowlands is certainly more like that old style of music hall than a shiny, faceless corporate venue owned by a company completely unrelated to music. No one could accuse the Barrowlands of lacking personality, and it holds a special place in my heart not just for my own good times here, or my gran's dancing days spent on the springy floor, but for carrying on the feisty Glasgow spirit into the 21st century.

Rumours of this venue's closure are premature. It is the local market that is under threat. I have seen bands play here just before they disappeared into SECC fame (and artistic decline). The Flaming Lips at the peak of their power and popularity- before they become boring old hippies with an agenda to match- put on a show of rock and fluffy costumes. Sigur Ros conjured up Iceland. Ice Cube rocked the city in an early solo show, while MBV broke sound restraints to generate a psychedelic experience through noise and melody. Then I saw Paul Weller, who still has the energy. It is no accident that big names like Dylan do special gigs here: the atmosphere is unique. Even the decor feels like a classic rock gig. Somehow, every gig feels like a legendary event.

Great venue that has been highly regarded since its early days as a dance hall and is now one of the internationally known venues. Lots of character (a bit tatty and smelly) but great sound and a sprung dancefloor. In a bit of a dodgy area where I wouldn't walk alone at night so be safe kids.

The Barrowlands is a Scottish institution, from beginnings as a ballroom, to its current place at the forefront of the live music scene I am always glad to see a good gig here! Everyone must go at least once! Ess

There are many many places to see bands in glasgow, but none of them have the nostalgic value of the barras. Its small, cramped, busy, but its home!

The best live music venue in the UK bar none! I get excited as soon as I see the famous flashing 'Barrowlands' sign outside, and then the walk up the stairs to the actual ballroom, ahhh you can't beat it! As others have said, it is a bit run down, but that only adds to the character of the place! Video link: http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=7aIvFIBAUYE

If you enjoy going to concerts, you will have heard of the Barrowlands, if you get the chance to see your band here. You must. The atmosphere is like no other venue I have been in. Whether its the Scottish fans I dont know, it might be the whole atmosphere and setting. AN old ballroom, dark and spacious, it just works. Go go go

I love the Barrowland. I have been to so many gigs there I lost count years ago. It is not the most fancy of places but this does not matter at all as the atmosphere and the acoustics more than make up for it. I can honestly say I have never been to a bad gig there. There is also the floor, still a proper sprung ballroom floor, when everone gets moving you can realy feel the bounce. I belive bands love it too, just ask Irish band SLF who play there every St Patricks day and have done for years. Looking forward to my next gig and roll on 17th March

Barrowlands has an attractive outside with bright flashing lights saying ' barrowlands' I have seen many bands perform here , not a bad venue. I feels like a good size , not to small or not to big. This is for standing concerts, Artists such as All American Rejects , Good Charlotte to name a few bands that go there. Your bags get checked at this one , so hide your camera !

The best thing about the Barrowlands is the floorboards- they physically bounce with the crowd. It's incredible! Last time I was here I watched Biffy Clyro play an awesome homecoming set. Best venue in Scotland, maybe Britain. "Here we, here we, here we f***ing go!"

I've always wanted to visit the Barrowland Ballroom or as the locals call it here "The Barras". There were so many times I would walk past the front of the building but the lights from the famous sign were never on and I have always been so curious about how it would be to attend a rad concert in this world famous venue. Unfortunately, every time I am on an extended stay here in Glasgow I can never find a show I want to go to, well not until this week! :) My boyfriend who's a local in Glasgow, surprised me with two Franz Ferdinand tickets for Tuesday night's show and I was ecstatic! Seeing a band play not only in the Barrowlands, finally, but a band that is from Glasgow...definitely was excited about that! We got to the venue about 30 min before opening and I could see the bright lights of the front sign, this was definitely a great picture opportunity since not many people were there yet. After a few photos we lined up and were let in not too long after. It was cool because walking up the stairs as you enter, the walls are filled with posters from past shows, which build anticipation leading to the ballroom. After getting a drink we went straight in and it was an awesome view. I've been to a lot of indoor standing venues in the US but this one was the largest one I have seen in the UK. Super spacious dance floor and high ceilings didn't make you feel hot or claustrophobic like most indoor dancehalls do. While the place was filling up gradually the opening act "The Eagles", a grungy rock band, started playing. Not my kind of music, didn't even do sound check so my ears were bleeding. After a short intermission Franz Ferdinand came on and that's when you could really see how the ballroom compliments bands playing in the venue. The lights and sounds were awesome and the band really got the crowd involved. I like how the venue creates a more intimate connection with the crowd and the band, unlike big arena shows which are very impersonal. I never felt too hot, up until the very end encore of the show, which is VERY rare for a indoor standing venue. After the show was over it was very easy to exit, didn't feel like we were walking to a cow slaughter like most small venues. After the show I took a few more photos with the sign since it was late in the evening and the colors popped more. Defo a great night and I would for sure go see another show at "the Barras".

You can practically taste the sweat, alcohol and sex in this place. Such an amazing, grimy atmosphere. I saw Errors/Mogwai here on 22nd December and what a fantastic xmas present it was. With good company and decent drinks (served by friendly and funny staff), it was pretty much a perfect night. I love Glasgow, and the Barrowland Ballroom is definitely in my top five places to visit whilst here. Awesome.

this is a CLASSIC venue that still somehow leaves the hi-tech modern state-of-the-art ones behind in the dust. why? because it is the "real deal"! it not only has been a dance and gig venue since way back in the days of swing and rock n roll, or was the hunting ground of "bible john" the suspected 60s serial killer, but has continued in some form since those days. much like the electric ballroom in camden, london, it used tyo host some of the stalls for the glasgow barrows market, and i remember buying 78rpm 10" singles there from little richard, to bill halaey, and this in the 1980s! gig-wise i've seen everything from calssic punk rock to full on psychedelic techno/trance/acid. from the ramones, to the fall, frokm underworld to orbital! in the mid 90s the famous calssic edinburgh techno/house club once they got their sea legs for top end promotio9n and event organization safe enough for 1000's of "hads", The Pure, launched a series of quarterly parties there from around 94-ish till the late 90s with bills including psychick warriors of gaia, dave clark, david mills, orbital, underworld, with regulars twitch and brainstorm, and dribbler and bill. the barras was the perfect regular vebue foir them easily playing host to coach loads from all over the UK. with staffing who like cool calm clockwork kept everything including all kinds of queues smooth and easy. the decor is a beautifully faded take on a soprt of circus art-deco, with a bar along one whole side, and a second bar downstairs which doubled perfectly as the cill-out for relevent events. "bouncers" were pretty strict, but very fair, with few complaints from patrons. i would recommend heading along to this venue for any kind of live acts as it seems to blend large venue with small venue intimacy somehow. and it always seemed to encapsulate the feel of the classic gig, with none of the xfactor sterility. toilets basic, but functional (we were there fo9r the music, and somehow the cruddy bogs just seemed to fit perfectly) so the toilets were merely there to bhe toilets, and no doubt still are. do grab a chance to get to a gig there. especially if it is one of the o0lder punk, or rock n roll bands! it makes them feel in context to their sound.

Good venue to see gigs, it seems a lot of bands go here. But as a venue I dont think it`s that fantastic. It's not that I didn't have a good time.. I think people just like it because of their fond memories of seeing favourite bands!

I've been coming to see bands play for years and have always had a great time. It's a fantastic size to see a band play, I'd say the best size of venue. Very handy for plenty of bars and takeaways. Much prefered to the O2, just feels more open and grander. Bands always tend to get a great atmosphere going here. thouroughly recommend.

I've seen a few performances here. l was always advised to stand at the rear as people throw their plastic glasses with contents at the people in front. If you are peckish near the end there is an elderly lady that sells burgers near the toilets, l found her by accident. This venue has a large dance floor i'm not sure haw many people can get in but it will be a lot. High ceilings l did notice someone glued a can of beer to the ceiling. The drinks are expensive here a can of fosters near it's sell by date £4.50.

The gorgeous nostalgia that mists around this place really is magical. As soon as you walk in, you can imagine your Granny or Grandad waltzing around, having a great time with their pals. It is now one of Glasgow's leading venues, and is a firm favourite with everyone who visits. I have never heard anyone say a bad word about it. I have been here a good few times, and each time the atmosphere has been awesome and second to none. The acoustics are brilliant, far, far superior to the tinny shed that is the SECC. The only thing about it that I can grumble about is the exterior. When it is closed it looks like a derelict building. Although for a girl like me who loves the tack of Blackpool, I still kinda like it. Fantastic.