
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

Staying at Hotel Indigo Glasgow was an absolute delight, especially given how convenient the location is. Just a 2-minute walk from the airport bus stop made my arrival stress-free—perfect for early departures or late-night arrivals. I was assigned a vibrant red-themed room, which stood out with its bold and creative design—definitely one of the most memorable stays I’ve had. The only minor hiccup was with the lighting in the room, but staff responded incredibly quickly, replacing it within ten minutes. That kind of prompt service really shows their commitment to guest comfort. Since I was rushing to catch my bus, they offered me a takeaway box without hesitation and even prepared my breakfast in advance—such a thoughtful touch. The breakfast itself was simple but satisfying: fresh bread, jams, and basic staples that kept me going. Overall, the hotel delivered on every front—great location, stylish rooms, and exceptional service. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value convenience and a unique vibe. I’ll definitely be back.

This stay at Number 10 Hotel in Glasgow was hands down one of the best travel experiences I’ve had in my 20 years of exploring. From the moment we arrived, the staff—especially the receptionist that day—was warm, attentive, and genuinely made us feel welcome. The hotel itself is beautifully designed, spotless, and oozes charm with a touch of sophistication. It’s not just a 5-star experience—it exceeds it. If you’re ever in Glasgow, don’t miss this gem. Trust me, you’ll want to come back.

Staying at VKM Apartments in Glasgow was an absolutely fantastic experience. The staff went above and beyond—welcoming us even though we arrived earlier than check-in time, which made our trip so much smoother. The apartment itself was spotless, cozy, and well-equipped with everything we needed. What really stood out was their thoughtful touch: they messaged us with recommendations for nearby restaurants and grocery stores, making it super easy to navigate the area. Any questions we had were answered promptly and politely. It felt like staying in a home away from home. I’d happily book here again without hesitation—highly recommend for anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at Riverview Apartments was an absolute delight. The spacious apartment offered breathtaking views of the river, and the natural light flooding in made the space feel even more inviting. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better—just a short walk to all the best restaurants, bars, and shopping areas. The place was immaculately clean and incredibly comfortable, with everything you’d need for a relaxing stay. Special shoutout to Lindsay, who went above and beyond—she allowed us to store our luggage well before check-in and even accommodated a late checkout without any hassle. Her friendliness and professionalism made a huge difference. This place truly delivers on every front, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at Embassy Apartments was a wonderful experience, especially since we were looking for a place with a private kitchen—perfect for our trip. The location couldn’t be better, just steps away from the Botanic Garden, offering peaceful views of lush trees and a scenic riverside path that’s ideal for morning walks. The staff at reception were incredibly friendly and helpful—our first contact was a lovely lady who answered all our questions with patience and warmth. Her kindness made a big difference in how welcoming the stay felt. From the comfort of the apartment to the thoughtful details around the property, this place truly stands out. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

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.

The Albion Hotel exceeded all our expectations! Located just a 15-minute walk from the University of Glasgow, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring the city on foot through quiet, scenic streets. The room was spacious, spotlessly clean, and incredibly comfortable—ideal for a relaxing stay. Even though we arrived after 10 PM, the staff were warm, welcoming, and went out of their way to assist us with no hesitation. Parking was a major plus: free parking right outside the hotel from 6 PM to 8 AM, and then just £7.90 for a full day at Kelvinbridge Station, including a return metro ride. That’s an unbeatable deal. Everything about this hotel—from the location to the service and value—was outstanding. We couldn’t have picked a better place to stay. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Glasgow!

Located right in the heart of Glasgow, Kelvingrove Hotel is super convenient for exploring the city on foot or via subway. However, it’s important to note that there’s no parking available on-site. We parked on the street initially—free at first, but after 8 PM, the rates kicked in and the pay machines didn’t accept credit cards, making it frustrating and expensive. We later tried a lot near the museum, but that parking was also pricey. Parking in Glasgow really isn’t cheap, so if you’re driving, be prepared for high costs. Another downside: no elevator, which made carrying heavy luggage up to the rooms quite challenging, especially for higher floors. On the bright side, breakfast was actually quite good—offering both hot and cold options. At first, we thought it was just bread and cereal, but soon a staff member came by to ask what hot meal we’d like. The variety was nice, and service was attentive. Overall, despite the parking hassle and lack of elevator, the location and breakfast make it a decent choice for travelers who prioritize convenience over car access.

Staying at Ambassador Hotel in Glasgow was an absolute delight! The room was spacious and immaculately clean—so much better than I expected. The staff were incredibly friendly and went out of their way to help, even carrying our luggage right into the room. That small gesture made such a big difference. What really stood out was how quiet the area was—perfect for a restful night’s sleep without any noise from traffic or nearby nightlife. It’s also well-connected to the city center via public transit, making it easy to explore all the attractions. From the warm welcome to the peaceful surroundings, this hotel offers great value and comfort. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Acorn Hotel is a gem tucked away in a peaceful yet convenient part of Glasgow. It’s far enough from the city center to enjoy quiet evenings without any noise, but close enough to explore all the highlights on foot or by public transit. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—exactly what you’d expect from a hotel that delivers on its promise. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere felt welcoming and relaxed. I appreciated the thoughtful touches like good lighting and a cozy bed, which made for a truly restful night’s sleep. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, this place offers great value and a nice break from the hustle. Would definitely stay again and recommend it to anyone visiting Glasgow.

Staying at The Belhaven Hotel was a really positive experience overall. The location is excellent—just a short walk from the university, making it super convenient for students or travelers exploring Glasgow. The staff at reception were incredibly friendly and helpful, always going the extra mile to ensure everything was smooth. While the room isn’t perfectly soundproof—some noise from neighboring rooms could be heard—the comfort and cleanliness more than made up for it. The interior is well-maintained, modern, and practical, with all essentials provided. It’s a great choice if you're looking for a comfortable, no-frills stay in a central spot. I’d definitely recommend this hotel and would stay here again on my next visit to Glasgow.

Upon arrival, we found a sofa blocking the entrance and obstructing access to our door, with general clutter scattered around. We were told the property was undergoing renovations, but the air inside smelled stale, musty, and strongly of paint thinner—quite unpleasant. We opened the windows and stepped out for dinner. When we returned, we discovered a garbage bag hanging from our door, containing towels, crackers, and an almost empty jug of milk. The furnishings were worn and torn, the carpet was filthy and stained, and overall, the condition was far below expectations. Honestly, if we had been able to find another option at that late hour, we would’ve left immediately. This stay was disappointing and not worth the price. A poorly managed property with no regard for guest comfort.
Explore more amazing destinations