Glasgow is experiencing a hotel boom ahead of COP27 and Courtyard by Marriott is one of the new hotels being built just ahead of the famous 2021 climate conference. The hotel attracts many business customers due to its location next to the SEC, but the popularity of Glasgow's OVO Hydro, where world-famous musicians such as The Killers and Simple Minds perform, makes it This hotel is also popular with leisure travelers.
Hotel
The hotel is conveniently located within 5 minutes' drive of Glasgow Central Station and 12 minutes' drive from Glasgow Airport. At first glance, you might think there's nothing around the hotel other than meeting spaces and concert venues, but the trendy Finnieston area, home to the coolest bars and the city's hottest restaurants, is just a short walk away. It's in the distance.
The reception area is clean and business-friendly, unlike the boutique feel of its neighboring sister hotel, the Moxy Glasgow SEC. But it's equally welcoming, with open shelving displaying potted plants and beautiful artwork. The color combination of navy blue and gray adds a sense of luxury to the hotel. If you have time to visit both hotels, you'll notice that each hotel in the Marriott group has its own unique flavor. Stepping through the revolving door feels like coming home.
room
The majority of the 216 rooms are king (178, 22 twin and 16 family), and nearly all offer iconic views of OVO Hydro and Finnieston Crane. As with the reception area, the color scheme is upscale with a mix of blues and grays, with occasional nods to famous neighbors in the form of guitar print artwork on the walls.
Rooms range from 21sqm for the entry level to 29sqm for the family room. We've got all the modern features you need, from Chromecast TV to super-fast wireless internet and countless charging points for tons of the latest devices. There is a 24-hour marketplace next to the hotel reception selling snacks and drinks, but the complimentary bottled water is especially appreciated. I also loved that Nirvae Botanicals' shower gel, shampoo, and body lotion come in large eco-friendly refillable bottles.
Eating and drinking
The hotel's restaurant, Hopscotch, serves international cuisine with a Scottish accent. You won't be surprised to see haggis bon bons and locally sourced ribs topped with a variety of sauces, from homemade smoky barbecue sauce to honey and soy sauce. Vegetarians can also enjoy corn ribs and seafood bowls with vegetable spring rolls.
If you want to enjoy an aperitif beforehand, check out Glaswegin. Created in 2018, this local gin is bottled and distilled within walking distance of the hotel. Their botanicals include local milk thistle, which creates a wonderful gin and tonic concoction. Its popularity has also increased significantly in recent years, with the introduction of flavored gins such as raspberry and rhubarb.
things to do
A short walk from the hotel is Mother India, one of Glasgow's most famous Indian restaurants. Decorated in a retro colonial style, the restaurant stands out in a crowded market. But it's the food that attracts people. By sourcing the highest quality ingredients and combining traditional home cooking, they have gone from strength to strength and now have four other locations. Don't be surprised if super fresh local seafood such as monkfish or shrimp appears in your curry dishes.
Nearby is the iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This stunning structure rivals London's best museums, including a showpiece organ that plays every day at 1pm. There's Rembrandt and Dallis, but keep an eye out for the work of local artists, especially the Glasgow Boys.
Other facilities to visit in Glasgow include the university's cafe, which serves homemade Italian ice cream as an 'oyster'. Willow Tea Room is a must for afternoon tea. This room is filled with designer pieces courtesy of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and is often linked to his Glasgow boys. Finally, if you want to understand the Glaswegian spirit, be sure to take a tour of Tennent's brewery. After all, Tennent is his second most popular drink in Scotland after Irnbru.
directions
Those who prefer trains to planes, especially for environmental reasons, can consider traveling from London to Glasgow on the Caledonian Sleeper. This night train transports guests to Scotland's largest cities and some rural destinations every night except Saturday.
Club rooms have private bathrooms with showers and are fitted with Glencraft mattresses and plush bedding. Earplugs and eye masks are also provided to help you get a good night's sleep. Club Car serves hearty Scottish dishes such as haggis and tatties. We recently opened a guest lounge in Euston to ensure your journey starts on the right foot.
In a nutshell
Glasgow isn't often talked about as a great place for a weekend getaway, but with hotels like Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow SEC and plenty of activities to do in the city, it's an option to consider .
fact box
Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow SEC offers rooms from £109 per night.
address: 16 Stobcross Rd, Glasgow G3 8GS
phone: +44 141-4738748
Website: marriott.com
