
Glasgow/The Lighthouse Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Rising proudly by the river, the Lighthouse isn’t just a beacon—it’s a time capsule. With its weathered stone and sweeping views, this 100-year-old tower has guided ships through fog and now guides souls through reflection. Every step up its spiral stairs echoes with the rhythm of Glasgow’s past.















Everything you need to know about The Lighthouse
Near The Lighthouse in Glasgow, Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre is a top choice, just a 10-minute walk from the landmark. This modern hotel offers free Wi-Fi, well-appointed rooms, and excellent access to nearby attractions like Glasgow Central Library and Buchanan Street Shopping Area. Convenient metro connections make it easy to explore the city.
For a more luxurious experience, consider The Grand Hotel & Spa, a historic building with elegant interiors and a premium spa. Its central location allows guests to enjoy both cultural immersion at The Lighthouse and relaxation in a refined setting—perfect for travelers seeking comfort and charm in Glasgow.
Yes, Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre is ideal for families, offering spacious family rooms with amenities like cribs, play areas, and child-friendly activities. Located just a 10-minute walk from The Lighthouse, it’s perfect for parents and kids exploring architecture and design together.
Nearby attractions such as Glasgow Science Centre and riverside parks provide safe, engaging spaces for children. The hotel also provides 24-hour front desk service and offers a "City Explorer Package" including guided tickets and souvenirs—great for creating lasting memories during your family trip to Glasgow.
From The Lighthouse, it takes just 5 minutes to reach Glasgow Queen Street Station on foot. From there, taking the Subway (underground) to the city center takes only 8–12 minutes, with trains running every 5 minutes—making it the fastest option.
Alternatively, bus routes such as 37, 39, and 51 serve the area and connect directly to George Square, West End, and Buchanan Street shopping district. For convenience and savings, use the Glasgow Smartcard or a mobile ticketing app to purchase passes instantly and avoid queues.
The Lighthouse hosts regular exhibitions on architecture, graphic design, and digital art, plus interactive workshops. Don’t miss the monthly Night Walks, which offer a captivating after-dark tour showcasing the building’s innovative lighting and structural details.
Nearby, the Design Exchange features pop-up markets and designer talks, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind local crafts. Photography enthusiasts can join Lighthouse Photography Tours, guided sessions focused on capturing architectural textures and skyline views. These experiences deepen visitors’ appreciation of Glasgow’s vibrant design culture and inspire creative engagement with the city.
Near The Lighthouse in Glasgow, Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre is a top choice, just a 5-minute walk away. This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour front desk service. Its central location provides easy access to the Glasgow Museum, Royal Scottish Concert Hall, and shopping districts like Buchanan Street. Conveniently located near a subway station, it’s ideal for travelers exploring the city or visiting nearby attractions. Guests can also attend weekend design exhibitions and art talks hosted at The Lighthouse, immersing themselves in Glasgow’s vibrant creative scene.
The easiest way to reach The Lighthouse from Glasgow city center is by taking the subway to Glasgow Queen Street Station, then walking about 10 minutes. Alternatively, bus routes 101 or 107 stop directly at "The Lighthouse" with a journey time of around 15 minutes. Cyclists will appreciate the safe bike lanes leading to the site—perfect for eco-friendly travel. Use the official apps from Glasgow Subway or First Bus for real-time schedules and route planning. For convenience, taxis take approximately 8 minutes and cost £10–£15, making them ideal for those with luggage or seeking a direct ride.
The Lighthouse hosts rotating exhibitions showcasing international design, including industrial design, graphic arts, and interactive media. Every autumn, it becomes the hub of Glasgow Design Week, drawing creatives and visitors worldwide. Nearby, the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) frequently features thematic shows blending historical context with contemporary expression. After touring, enjoy traditional afternoon tea at Café Lighthouse, savoring locally baked treats amid a stylish, artistic setting. Guided tours are often available during exhibitions, offering deep insights into the stories behind each piece and the evolution of modern design.
Holiday Inn Glasgow City Centre serves a daily buffet breakfast featuring fresh pastries, continental sausages, local cheeses, and hot dishes, with options for vegetarians and allergen-sensitive guests. For authentic flavors, head to The Gilded Owl, a hidden gem café known for its expertly roasted coffee and inventive brunch menu—try their smoked salmon toast and avocado parfait. Another option is Buchanan Street Food Market, offering diverse street food ranging from Thai curries to Scottish nut pies. All venues accept cash and digital payments, catering to varied traveler preferences.
The Lighthouse is highly family-friendly, offering a dedicated children’s trail kit with interactive games and design challenges that spark curiosity in architecture and creativity. Wide corridors and elevators accommodate strollers easily. Just a 15-minute walk away, Glasgow Children's Museum hosts science experiments and parent-child workshops. Nearby Kelvingrove Park features expansive lawns and playgrounds, perfect for relaxation and outdoor play. The area is safe, well-maintained, and rich in educational value, making it an ideal destination for family trips.
Yes, you can rent bikes through Glasgow Cycle Hire at locations near Buchanan Street and Kelvingrove Park entrance. A recommended route starts at The Lighthouse, follows the scenic River Clyde Greenway southward past Glasgow Science Centre, then heads back via Buchanan Street, covering about 6 km—ideal for beginners. Enjoy riverside views and city skyline vistas along the way, with a pit stop at The Lighthouse Café for refreshments. Rental options range from 1 hour to 24 hours, priced between £2 and £10, with mobile HopeGoo and instant pickup for maximum flexibility.
See what other travelers say about The Lighthouse

I'm a big fan of Virgin Hotels and have stayed at both the Glasgow and Edinburgh locations. While Glasgow's property feels more modern in terms of structure, the room design still stands out as uniquely clever—some of the smartest layouts I've seen in any hotel right now. The entire stay was enjoyable from start to finish, with great attention to detail and a welcoming atmosphere. I truly hope Virgin continues expanding across Europe—London would be an obvious next step, and even warmer destinations like Barcelona could be a fantastic fit. I didn’t get a chance to try the restaurant in Glasgow this time, but I did enjoy the Commons Club in Edinburgh—it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re there.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Centre was an absolute highlight during my visit to the SEC Convention Centre. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk away—perfect for attendees who want to avoid traffic or last-minute rush. I loved how quiet and well-located the property was, with easy access to public transit and city attractions. The room was spotless, with clean linens, modern fixtures, and excellent air conditioning. Breakfast was fantastic—plenty of options including fresh pastries, hot eggs, bacon, fruit, and even local Scottish specialties. Everything felt fresh and thoughtfully prepared. It's rare to find such a great balance between comfort, cleanliness, and convenience. Highly recommend this hotel for business travelers or tourists visiting Glasgow.

The room was absolutely lovely—spacious, clean, and well-appointed with modern comforts. The facilities truly stood out: the indoor pool, fitness center, and spa area were all top-notch and made our stay even more relaxing. We appreciated the convenient location, especially since we arrived by car—ample parking was available right on-site, which was a huge plus. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a family trip, this hotel offers great value and a welcoming atmosphere. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at the Courtyard Glasgow SEC was an excellent experience overall—definitely a hotel I’d recommend. What stood out most was the exceptional cleanliness. Every surface in the room, from the bed linens to the bathroom fixtures and floor, was spotless with no dust or stains. The sheets were crisp and fresh, giving the room a really clean, calming feel. The room layout is smart and spacious enough not to feel cramped—perfect for unpacking and moving around comfortably. Furniture and amenities were well-maintained and functional. Breakfast was another highlight: a wide variety of fresh, high-quality options, especially the freshly prepared hot dishes which tasted great and made for a satisfying start to the day. That said, the price was on the higher side—this was during the peak season when filming for the Spider-Man movie was happening locally, so demand drove up rates. While I understand seasonal pricing, it did make the value-for-money feel less impressive. Still, if you can book during a quieter time at a more reasonable rate, this hotel would be even better. In short, top-notch cleanliness, comfortable space, and delicious breakfast make this a strong choice for business travelers or tourists who prioritize comfort and quality.

Had an absolutely wonderful stay at Carlton George Hotel! The value for money was outstanding—our rate included a mini-bar and access to the Executive Lounge, which made our experience even more enjoyable. We were thrilled to be able to check in slightly early, and the process was smooth and hassle-free. The staff were incredibly polite, helpful, and friendly throughout our visit. From arrival to departure, every interaction felt warm and professional. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-appointed, with a great location just a short walk from the city center. I’d definitely come back and recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Glasgow.

The property shows a few signs of age in certain areas, but overall it's an outstanding choice. I was thoroughly impressed with the comfort and convenience of Fraser Suites Glasgow. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit, making it easy to explore Glasgow without hassle. The apartment-style rooms are spacious, well-equipped, and offer a home-like atmosphere, perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Cleanliness, staff friendliness, and attention to detail all contribute to a top-tier experience. Even though some furnishings feel dated, the value and quality of service easily make up for it. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at Hampton by Hilton Glasgow Central was an absolute delight! The room was spotless, comfortable, and well-appointed—immediately made me feel at home. What truly stood out was the location: right outside the train station, making it super easy to explore Glasgow and nearby attractions without any hassle. I asked the front desk for recommendations on how to get to a few key sights, and they went above and beyond—checked multiple routes, suggested the most efficient options, even gave me timing tips. Their friendly and proactive service made a big difference. It’s rare to find such a well-located, clean, and thoughtfully run hotel in a busy city. Highly recommend this gem for both business and leisure travelers.

Staying at Moxy Glasgow Sec was a great experience! The hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the train station, making it super convenient for travelers arriving by rail. Public transportation options are nearby, so getting around the city is easy and hassle-free. While there aren’t many dining spots right outside—just one McDonald’s—it’s not a big issue since most of us don’t spend much time in the immediate area anyway. What really stood out was the front desk staff—they were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with local tips or travel advice. The room itself was clean, modern, and well-equipped with everything we needed. The bed was comfortable, and the amenities were thoughtfully provided. Overall, it’s a smart choice for a fun, no-frills stay in Glasgow with excellent value for money. I’d definitely book here again.

Staying at the Ibis Glasgow City Centre - Sauchiehall Street was a great experience overall. The hotel is modern, clean, and quiet, located on a slight incline which adds a bit of character to the location. It's very convenient for getting around—just a short 10-minute ride from the train station, or about 15 minutes by foot via the airport express bus stop. While walking up and down the slope with luggage can be tiring, the route is well-marked and passes through a lively part of the city. The room itself was comfortable, spacious, and equipped with everything you’d need for a relaxing stay. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the value for money was excellent. Despite the minor effort required to reach the hotel on foot, the overall experience was outstanding. I’d definitely recommend this hotel for anyone visiting Glasgow.

We stayed overnight in Glasgow before catching our flight back home, and it was the perfect choice. The hotel is centrally located—walking distance to the subway, making travel to the airport or to Celtic Park super convenient. Guests get access to a limited parking zone, which worked out well for us. The on-site restaurant served both breakfast and dinner with great quality and a cozy atmosphere. But what truly stood out was the staff. From the friendly check-in guy to Harry, who served our breakfast the next morning, everyone was warm, attentive, and genuinely helpful. Harry even gave us some thoughtful recommendations for things to see along the way to the stadium and airport—so much appreciated! The whole experience felt personal and welcoming. If we ever return to Glasgow, this would be our first pick again.

I absolutely loved my stay at the Grasshopper Hotel Glasgow! The location is unbeatable—right next to the train station, just a 3-minute walk away. No need to worry about rain or carrying luggage, everything is so convenient. The hotel itself is spotlessly clean and well-maintained, with a warm, welcoming vibe from the moment you step in. What really stood out was the complimentary sweet treat—they were deliciously sweet and perfectly delightful. Starting the morning with a fresh cup of coffee made the whole experience even better. The staff were friendly and genuinely helpful, making me feel right at home. I ended up staying two nights because I didn’t want to leave! If you’re visiting Glasgow, this hotel is a must-book—it’s a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and charm. Highly recommended!

I was pleasantly surprised by the Holiday Inn Glasgow - City Ctr Theatreland—right in the heart of the city and incredibly convenient for exploring. I stayed here with a colleague during a work trip, and since our original hotel was fully booked, we were redirected to this one through the platform. The location is fantastic—steps away from theatres, restaurants, and public transit. The room was clean, spacious, and comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and helpful, offering local tips upon check-in. It’s rare to find such a well-located, high-quality hotel at this price point. I’d definitely recommend it—and will be booking again on my next visit to Glasgow.
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