Kelvinhall

One of the nicer (i.e. safer) parts of 'the Toon'. Takes its name from the River Kelvin and er…something else (a hall, perhaps?). Busy area.

The Dolphin is a fairly small bar, with a wood floor and a couple of tables. Always a good lively atmosphere in here, and it tends to be busy so expect to stand. Not much more to add except for the stain glass windows that cast a green, white and gold light into the pub during the day. Yes folks, it's a Celtic-supporting pub. Although not as blatant in its footballing affiliations as some of the watering-holes in Kinning Park, its decor displays distinct Parkhead-ish leanings (and pictures of, er, dolphins). Still, it does provide an opportunity to balance things up with any "Tims" in your party who are still shell-shocked from The Grapes.
	Dolphin Bar (157 Dumbarton Road, G11 6PT. Tel. 0141 339 1519)
There is a small room at the back of the pub, a 'snug' maybe, that is ideal for sub parties of a dozen or less. Check that it is empty and then ask behind the bar if you can use it. The great thing about it is that one end opens onto the bar and it is very easy to get a round in. Only problem is that you are periodically interrupted by people trying to use the payphone just outside the door. They come in because they assume it's going to be quieter than in the main bar. Usually they give up after about ten seconds. On first sight the Three Judges is just another Glasgow pub - however on second sight what a wee treasure this proves to be. The range of drinks is gobsmacking, with real ale on tap and an excellent range of bottled beer in the fridge. Clientele is drawn from from the student body and jacket-wearing class. Slate and wood floor and an open light-filled room (at least when it's sunny). So impressed were we on our recent visit that we thought we might even come back for a(n) (non-subcrawl) afternoon! *Other pubs:* The Partick Tavern (163 Dumbarton Rd., G11 6AA. Tel. 0141 339 7571) is a barn-like bar on the other corner and it's crap (dull as dishwater and, as we recall, v. expensive); nowadays we go to the Dolphin or Three Judges every time. A couple of correspondents have sung the praises of the Dowanhill (16 Dowanhill Street, G11. Tel. 0141 341 1071), although we've never tried it. Meanwhile, Alasdair recommends The Lismore as ideal for those "who talk very seriously about ale and whisky".
	Three Judges 141 Dumbarton Rd G11 6TR Tel. 0141 337 3055)

Did You Know . . . the Kelvinhall stop was originally called Partick Cross?

Despite the presence of Celtic-related paraphenalia, after 11 pubs it can be easy to forget that the Dolphin is a Celtic pub. However, as long as you remember this and don't start singing any songs that begin with the words "Hello, hello" (so no Gary Glitter, then), you should be alright.

In theory, this would seem to be an ideal stop to get some grub; however for some strange reason, we've never done so, so can't provide any advice on local nosheries.