THEY are some of Glasgow's best known pubs and have been enjoyed by generations of tipplers.

But few visitors will realise they are enjoying their pint or glass of wine in one of Scotland's important listed buildings.

Historic Scotland is highlighting six of Glasgow's favourites in a new postcard book called Pubs of Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Elizabeth McCrone, the organisation's head of listing and designed landscapes, said: "Pubs of Edinburgh and Glasgow showcases some of the best listed pubs to be found in our two biggest cities.

"Some are grand and extravagant, others understated and simple.

"All are distinctive in their own way and all are enjoyed by patrons today."

The Glasgow pubs featured in the new book are the Horse Shoe in Drury Street, the Portland Arms in Shettleston Road, the Old Toll Bar in Paisley Road West, the Scotia in Stockwell Street, the Laurieston Bar in Bridge Street and the Steps Bar in Glassford Street.

Ms McCrone summed up the reasons they were chosen to feature in the book.

She said: "The Horse Shoe is extraordinary and there is not another pub like it in the whole of the country.

"It is category 'A' listed because of its outstanding interior which has been little altered over the years."

The history of the pub goes back to 1846 when William Turnbull, a spirit dealer, occupied the premises.

In 1884, the licence was transferred to John Scouller who completely refurbished the premises and gave the bar its name.

Ms McCrone said: "The Horse Shoe is really special because almost everything inside is something to do with horses."

Camra, the Campaign for Real Ale, says of the Portland Arms: "This remarkable survivor has a splendid oval bar counter."

The Old Toll dates back to 1892 and has four huge advertisement mirrors on the dark wood panelled walls.

Ms McCrone said: "The Old Toll has a very decorative and sparking interior."

Describing the Laurieston Bar, Ms McCrone said it's "like walking into a film set with formica tables and a fantastic pie machine for heating pies".

Ms McCrone added: "The Steps Bar has lovely stained glass panels showing the Queen Mary."

The book featuring the pubs is on sale at Edinburgh and Stirling Castles but will be more widely available towards the end of the year.

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk