Glaswegian hotels don’t get more central or with a history more glamorous than that of this historic 19th-century property attached to the city’s central station: the voco Grand Central Glasgow, an IHG Hotel.
Rarely have we checked into a hotel that has been so easy to get to. Just moments from alighting our train at Glasgow Central Station, we were through the doors of the voco Grand Central Glasgow, an IHG hotel. As such, the prime location of the voco Grand Central in the epicentre of this artsy Scottish city is hard to beat. But convenience, although a massive boon, is by no means the only plus point of this 138-year-old heritage hotel. Stepping into this urban sanctuary feels like uncovering a hidden gem. The voco Grand Central is a modern retreat that pays homage to Glasgow’s industrial heritage while offering a warm, welcoming escape.
Originally intended by the Caledonian Railway Company as their head office, they changed their minds mid-build and turned it into an illustrious station hotel instead. It swiftly became a Glasgow institution and has housed some rather famous people, including Mae West, John Lennon and Roy Rogers, whose trusty horse, Trigger, was even rumoured to have been given a room.
The yesteryear glamour continues today in the building’s renovated architecture which houses the ‘longest chandelier in western Europe’ and this sense of grandeur extended into our generously proportioned suite. All the accommodations at voco Grand Central are thoughtfully appointed, featuring plush bedding, sleek bathrooms, and contemporary amenities. The city views from the higher floors provide a captivating backdrop, offering a sense of connection to Glasgow’s dynamic energy.
| Perfect for | Fly into | Right on time |
| The Culturalist | GLA | GMT |
| While you’re Out There |
| Situated in the heart of Glasgow, voco Grand Central provides easy access to all the city’s iconic landmarks, vibrant local neighbourhoods, and cultural attractions. Whether exploring the bustling Merchant City, shopping at Princess Square, visiting the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (or perhaps taking in a gig at the O2 Academy, or The OVO Hydro), or strolling along the River Clyde and admiring the art nouveau architecture… you know you’ve never got far to go, or far to get ‘hame’ (home). |
The star attraction was the hotel’s champagne bar with another show-stopping sphere-shaped crystal chandelier… we found it difficult to tear ourselves away from the delicious champagne cocktails on offer here. And the voco Grand Central also has a distinct culinary offering. The hotel’s restaurant showcases Scotland’s culinary prowess with a modern twist. From locally sourced ingredients to innovative fusion-flavour combinations, each dish tells a story, that’s a celebration of the diverse city that it’s in.
However, no stay is without its nuances. The service is attentive and with the hotel being a member of the international hotel megabrand IHG, the team at voco Grand Central came across as competently trained and part of a well-oiled machine. But somehow, we felt the service lacked the level of personalisation and congeniality we would have hoped for. Unlike in the hotel’s heyday, there is no longer a concierge or butler service; and now with 230 rooms and suites, there were times when we felt the team seemed too busy to offer guests the time of day.
This said, for an OutThere explorer who wants a comfortable and solid base right in the thick of Glasgow’s exciting city centre, the voco Grand Central is hard to beat.
www.grandcentral.vocohotels.com
Photography courtesy of Voco
