The secret village that lies beneath a Glasgow Wetherspoons

Just a stone’s throw from Glasgow Central is one of many local pubs to wet the whistle before the last train home – or a trip to the cab rank because you’ve missed it.

It’s sometimes a last resort, it’s not a very inventive choice, but it never lets you down. “Shall we just go Spoons?”

But just because you’re drinking or eating in a pub chain does not mean you cannot soak up a slice of history.

(Image: Colin Mearns) The Sir John Moore on Argyle Street is named after a Glasgow soldier who played a monumental role in a battle against Napoleon – “the only general worthy to contend with me”, so the pint-sized leader once said.

He was planning his takeover of Spain, but Sir John Moore’s ‘last stand’ against the French in city of Coruna in 1809 put a spanner in the works and helped his own men escape back to England.

READ MORE: This Glasgow Wetherspoons pub has had an incredible makeover

It was at the moment of victory that he was killed, and his legacy has been immortalised as the first statue on George Square – and the name behind a city pub.

The Sir John Moore consists of several city centre shops blended together and transformed into one large room. Like many Wetherspoons pubs, it has many areas to explore.

Like many of its counterparts, you can eat, drink and learn an insight into local history all at the same time.

(Image: Colin Mearns) Have a look at the walls and learn more about the exploits of Sir John Moore, tales about Glasgow Central station, the history of Argyle Street and the secret village that lies ‘beneath’ the pub.

A map dating to 1782 marks the area around the pub as the site of a village named Grahamston, with an entire street of shops and homes lying underneath it and Central station.

The part of Argyle Street was once called Anderston Walk, as it led from the city to a village, originally called Anderson’s Town.

READ MORE: Two Wetherspoons named among the 106 'best' Glasgow pubs and clubs

It was home to a community of weavers and the famous Delftfield and Verreville potteries, of which inventor James Watt was an early employee.

Guests can dive into a hearty Spoons breakfast just minutes after spending a night on the sleeper train. They can enjoy a few drinks – approved by the Good Beer Guide no less – tucked away in one of the bar’s many booths, alcoves and nooks.

(Image: Colin Mearns) Or take part in the iconic Wetherspoons game where you upload your location and table number to a Facebook group - if you dare to let strangers place orders for you.

One such participant was US TV host Adam Richman. The Man vs Food legend recently visited the Sir John Moore with some of his crew, and once he told his followers where he was, all hell broke loose.

Peas and milk and haggis with chocolate sauce arrived at the table, and somehow, the competitive eater enjoyed them.

Adam Richman at the Sir John Moore (Image: Instagram) Celebrating the pub in equal parts past and present, the Sir John Moore has continued to improve to make the experience the best it can be for customers going forward.

READ MORE: TV star Adam Richman spotted at Glasgow city centre pub

It was one of 106 pubs, bars and clubs named in the city’s Best Bar None awards which celebrate establishments that actively promote safety for customers and reduce crime and nuisance.

Along with its Wetherspoons sister, the Crystal Place, the Sir John Moore was recognised for its efforts in these fields.

(Image: Instagram) The pub also got a fresh new look last year with a swish £1.4 million makeover, including an upgrade to its busy bar.

Highlights of its décor include Rennie Mackintosh-inspired glass windows, a cosy fireplace with exposed brick and hidden booths with library bookshelves.

Have you visited the giant pub chain with a tiny slice of Glasgow history?