The Arches

Set in the labyrinth of tunnels beneath Central station, The Arches is quite literally an underground haven of cool. It plays host to gigs, club nights, exhibitions and performance – and all under one roof. Despite being Scotland's original superclub, The Arches has not been fussily decorated; instead internationally renowned DJs play against a back drop of stone walls and concrete floors, while the venue lets the music do the talking with club nights and gigs most nights of the week. There's still oom for tomfoolery, of course: on Wednesday nights, Octopussy sees a student-heavy crowd getting married by Elvis and playing on the resident bouncy castle. Fun, if that's your bag.

The Arches also host a range of gigs in the smaller... erm, arches, as well as contemporary theatre performances and workshops. It's a regular venue for the city's arts festivals, such as Celtic Connections and Glasgay, and still encourages fresh talent with the annual Arches Live; a theatre showcase where anyone can apply to perform.