Glasgow wasn’t named a UNESCO Creative City for nothing. The city was officially recognised for its incredible live music scene in 2008 but it’s not just music that Glasgow thrives on. It’s an inherently creative city with the arts at its beating heart and we think any visit to Scotland is not complete without a dip into the vibrancy of Glasgow. Glasgow has its fair share of luxury hotels and we happen to know the best ones. Here are our favourite 4-star hotels to stay at in the city.
Radisson RED Glasgow (4 Star)
Radisson RED Glasgow is conveniently located at Finnieston Quay in the west end of the city and is within easy access of some of the city’s most popular attractions including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow Science Centre, and an array of independent shops, bars and restaurants in the vibrant West End. A brand known for its modern design and tech-lead approach, Radisson RED Glasgow lives up to expectations across its 174 modern and minimalistic rooms, three event and games studios, and a fitness studio. There is also onsite car parking spaces – often a rare commodity in a city. The vibrant 4-star hotel is also home to Glasgow’s first rooftop bar which offers panoramic views of both the city and the River Clyde. The food and drinks scene is a casual affair with all-day dining and creative cocktails being the order of the day.
The Address Glasgow (4 Star)
The Address Glasgow, a new 95-bed boutique hotel by the family-owned Irish hospitality group The Address Collective, has opened its doors in the heart of Glasgow on Renfield Street, marking its first venture outside Ireland. The six-storey hotel, housed in a meticulously renovated classical building dating back to the 1890s, includes a restaurant, a fully equipped gym, and a wellness suite with a unique Himalayan rock salt sauna and plunge pool. The opening of this luxury hotel, which invested over £9 million in renovations, has not only brought an elevated sense of luxury and Scottish heritage to Glasgow but also enhanced the city’s hospitality scene. North, a 70-seater restaurant and bar within the hotel, focuses on casual dining with contemporary dishes and sustainable produce. The hotel is an urban retreat and a perfect reflection of Glasgow’s rich culture.
AC Hotel by Marriott Glasgow (4 Star)
Once the city’s Parish Hall, this AC Hotel is embedded in Glasgow’s historic quarter. It’s found beside the emblematic George Square, close to mainline train stations, major attractions and the major players in the business world. While rooms are minimal and sleek, elements of the building’s period nature are spotted in aspects such as curved windows and ornate ceiling detailing. There’s a wealth of excellent restaurants and cafes on the doorstep, but you can also dine in-house at the Hazel Restaurant (which takes its name from the tree branch seen in the city crest) and in the AC Lounge.
Dakota Glasgow (4 Star)
Situated in the old Work & Pensions building in the city centre, Dakota Glasgow offers the best in affordable luxury and top-quality cuisine. On a quiet street just steps from Sauchiehall Street, you couldn’t be closer to the city centre pubs, restaurants, clubs and theatres. The interior of the hotel is as striking as its painted black exterior, with lots of exposed brickwork mixed with luxe furnishings and fittings – all very effortlessly stylish! The 83 rooms and suites are light and spacious with full-length windows which wouldn’t look out of place in an NYC loft and walls and soft furnishings dressed in the trademark dark grey tones that run throughout. The olive-tiled bathrooms are also a delight and add to the calming and peaceful ambience. In terms of food, the Dakota offers an in-house Bar & grill helmed by a head chef who trained under Rick Stein, and their impressive Champagne Bar is perfect for private dining or special occasions!
Hilton Glasgow (4 Star)
Around the world, Hilton hotels are known for their high-quality furnishings and business-friendly amenities, and the Hilton Glasgow is no exception to the rule. Conveniently located in the heart of the financial district, the Hilton is popular with business travellers in Scotland. Perks of being a guest include access to the business centre, the executive lounge, a fitness facility and an indoor pool. If you are looking for a traditional Scottish dining or drinking experience, you can get it onsite at the Ti Tea Lounge, Morblas Seafood and Grill or the Connich Bar.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow (4 Star)
The Radisson Blu hotel has become one of Glasgow’s most iconic and recognisable hotels in the city, thanks to its incredible copper facade and design created by award-winning architects Murray and Dunlop. Located just on the edge of the Financial District and literally steps from Central railway station, the Radisson Blu is ideal for those who want to see, be seen and stay connected while in Glasgow. Expect exceptional cuisine, attentive staff and contemporary decor at the Radisson Blu.
Malmaison Glasgow (4 Star)
Believe it or not, this boutique hotel was once an Episcopal Church, which lends culture and heritage to the beautiful space. It may have once been a church, but Malmaison is anything but austere. The crowd tends to be young and hip, and each of the rooms are lush and contemporary. Dine at the onsite brasserie for fusion fare or head to the Malbar for an upbeat vibe and wild cocktails that sets the tone for a night of excitement.
Hotel du Vin Glasgow (4 Star)
Located on a tree-lined street in Glasgow’s West End, away from the hustle and bustle, the Victorian One Devonshire Gardens is a luxury boutique hotel with a class that is part of the Hotel du Vin family. Peaceful and classic, this hotel is a nod to the culture and elegance of centuries past. There are just 49 rooms and suites in the five adjoining townhouses that make up the hotel, and guests can enjoy unparalleled service from some of the world’s best hotel staff.
ABode Glasgow (4 Star)
Located in a three-storey Edwardian townhouse just west of the city centre, Abode Glasgow is the Scottish offering from the brand awarded as AA Hotel Group of the year 2017/18. Formerly the home of Scottish-born Prime Minister Sir Henry Campbell Bannerman, Abode Glasgow offers a hotel bursting in contemporary style whilst also protecting the beautiful original features of the building. Rooms are spacious and decorated using a calming colour palette of heathers, blues and zesty greens reminiscent of the Highland countryside. The hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the bars, restaurants and shops of the city centre as well as most of the main transport links. Dining options include their Brasserie Abode, a relaxed but sophisticated space serving up comforting classics (they also do a cracking Sunday lunch), or Pie & Brew, the more hipster basement bar cum restaurant which has craft beers on tap, delicious pies for sustenance, and live music most nights.
Clayton Hotel Glasgow City (4 Star)
Overlooking the River Clyde, the Clayton Hotel Glasgow City is a family-friendly 4-star hotel close to the city’s main shopping streets, art galleries, bars & restaurants, and transport links. The hotel comprises over 300 spacious and modern rooms ranging from deluxe to suites – all with the amenities a discerning traveller expects, including access to the fitness suite. Lunch, dinner, and informal drinks are all served in the hotel’s Custom House Restaurant and bar, where a relaxed vibe and quality menu can be enjoyed.
Apex City of Glasgow Hotel (4 Star)
This modern boutique hotel, wedged between traditional tenement buildings in Glasgow’s city centre, is a welcome retreat in the busy city. Only steps away from some of the best shopping, theatre, art galleries and museums in Scotland, it’s the perfect place to sojourn. With 104 rooms, there is something for all budgets and needs. From standard twin and double rooms to superior twin and double rooms through to family rooms. But it’s the duplex suites that flex the Apex’s luxury muscles. Each of their five duplex suites are split over two floors, with open mezzanine levels overlooking some of the best views of the city. Take some time to gaze at the beautiful skyline.
citizenM Glasgow hotel (4 Star)
Luxury doesn’t have to break the bank. This beautiful and modern luxury hotel is as stylish as it is affordable. Designed by Dutch Design Agency Concrete, citizenM Glasgow showcases the best in modern design, colour and fun. Feel like sleeping in a red room? Purple more your style? Change the mood lighting with their innovative tablet MoodPad. It’s an easy-to-use control for your tv, air con, window blinds and of course, mood lighting. Though they don’t have a kettle, twin beds or cots, every room does come standard with XL King-sized beds, luxury bed and bath linen, wall-to-wall windows, rain shower, free movies and wi-fi throughout. Don’t forget to head down to canteenM for a bit of lounging around. Order a cocktail at the bar, grab a snack and take a seat on one of the ultra-cool sofas or chairs. Who said the budget wasn’t luxurious! Read our expert review here.
Hotel Indigo Glasgow, an IHG Hotel (4 Star)
This beautiful hotel in the heart of the city centre was once one of Glasgow’s very first power stations. Showing off the opulence in architecture both on the outside and in, the hotel mixes the beauty and composition of the original designs, like high ceilings and original brown brick, with modern splendour and comforts. With a business centre available on-site, business travellers will find everything they need to keep them on track. To wind down after a hard day at the office or sightseeing, spend some time at their on-site fitness centre or surf the web with their wi-fi available in all areas. More than just a place to rest, it’s an essential part of Glasgow’s mercantile history and a key to its transformation into the industrial city it has become. Don’t forget to take a walk around the neighbourhood and look up to see the architectural beauty that surrounds.
voco Grand Central Glasgow, an IHG Hotel (4 Star)
Deep in the heart of Glasgow’s city centre, adjacent to Glasgow’s Central Station, The Grand Central Hotel shines a light on beauty, opulence and luxury. After its £20 million refurbishment and transformation, it is one of Glasgow’s most stylish hotels and winner of 4 Scottish Hotel Awards in 2015, including the Gold Laurel Award. Whether you choose a Deluxe Double, Standard Twin, a Junior Suite or one of their three Executive Suites, your stay will include exquisitely furnishings, large plasma screen tv, fluffy robes and free wi-fi throughout the hotel. More than just the hotel, don’t miss the chance to dine at one of Glasgow’s top restaurants and sip champagne and cocktails at their award-winning Champagne Central. Read our expert review here.
Glasgow Grosvenor Hotel (4 Star)
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, this beautiful listed building is at the beating heart of the West End, across from the Botanic Gardens. Perfect for boutique shoppers, foodies, art and music aficionados and tourists alike, it’s a great place to take in the sights and sounds of Glasgow. With easy access to transport, this west-end location isn’t an impediment to access attractions. In fact, it’s a great way to see another side to this multi-faceted city. Don’t forget to spend some time relaxing at the hotel, enjoying beautiful garden views, marble bathrooms, as well as luxurious king-sized beds. For a bit more space, their suites offer separate sitting or dining areas, making your stay feel more relaxed.