Nestled in the heart of Great Western Road sits a church. Many people walk past it, not noticing the hive of activity slowly breathing new life into the building.

The building in question is Landsdowne Parish Church which was designed by Glaswegian architect John Honeyman in 1863, but now it has been lovingly transformed into the wonderful Websters Theatre & Bistro.

Being the high-flying history geeks that we are, we are lucky enough to hang round with the ever humble and hard working man in charge of Landsdowne’s transformation. David Robertson is the Director of Four Acres Charitable Trust, who has worked within the heritage sector for over thirty-three years. By the way, he’s the man who is responsible for Cottier’s Bar & Music Venue’s triumphant success story. He’d never admit it but he is a one of the most passionate, caring and knowledgeable men working to save Glasgow’s heritage. We’re saying that because he never would!

Anyway back to Websters. You maybe wondering where the ‘Webster’ name comes from and why the theatre is now called this. Situated within the church is a wide range of stained glass windows including two large windows (one is currently in storage) by  Glaswegian and Glasgow School of Art attendee, Alfred Alexander Webster (1883-1915). Although you cannot currently see the windows due to the black-box theatre set-up, take it from us they’re fantastic!

Although we are newbies on the ‘heritage scene’ we have been watching Wesbters slow transformation closely. Rachael and myself have visited the Bistro & Bar several times for work reasons and have managed to document the transformation from messy work-space with bare walls and no flooring to brand new shiny bar with bespoke stained glass windows by Cannon & MacInnes. So, it was all the more exciting when we attended the grand opening last week.

Although the opening night was ‘invite only’ (very hipster) the place was absolutely buzzing! There was music, food (the food is cracking) and of course drinks served in the beautifully decorated bar. Interesting fact, part of the bar is actually made from reclaimed parts from an old pharmacists (Boots) which used to be on Great Western Road. There you go, fun fact of the day.

With the food freely flowing, a warm fire to sit beside and a great selection of beers we can highly recommend a Sunday night, or any night for that matter being spent in this awesome pub. To have a swatch at the food menu just click here. Take it from us, you will not be disappointed.

P.S If you enjoy a quirky and very Glaswegian panto ( I know, Christmas is months away but I promised a shameless plug) why not book Snow White & the Seven Wee Muppets at Websters Theatre. To book tickets click here, or call the Box Office on 0141 357 4000.