If the latest series of The Traitors has inspired a Scottish getaway, a stunning five-star retreat in the heart of Glasgow offers a uniquely luxurious experience, complete with a spa feature found nowhere else in the country.
A Grand Welcome in Blythswood Square
Located just a ten-minute stroll from Glasgow Central Station, the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel occupies a serene spot amidst Georgian townhouses. Guests are greeted by a cheerful doorman before stepping into a grand foyer adorned with ornate pillars, plush seating, and a multi-storey glittering chandelier, setting a tone of elegant glamour.
The accommodation continues the theme of spacious comfort. The Premier King room reviewed featured an original fireplace and a freestanding bath positioned to overlook the bedroom. Thoughtful touches included complimentary soft drinks in the minibar and little bottles of locally sourced Glaswegian gin and tonic presented on ice.
Unique Amenities and Culinary Highlights
The hotel distinguishes itself with services designed to create a home-away-from-home feel. They provide forgotten essentials like toothbrushes and phone chargers, and offer a complimentary handbag rental from the prestigious Scottish leather brand, Strathberry. A newer 'Stay Well' programme allows guests to borrow advanced wellness technology, including LED masks and Therabody muscle recovery devices.
Dining is a major draw at the hotel's restaurant, iasg (Gaelic for 'fish'). The menu specialises in seafood, with the BBQ monkfish coming highly recommended and the fish and chips noted for their exceptional size and perfect cooking. Breakfast offers a comprehensive continental buffet alongside hearty hot options, including a full Scottish breakfast.
For ventures outside the hotel, local recommendations included Ardnamurchan for refined Scottish classics, the bustling pasta restaurant Sugo, and the authentic Italian cafe Sarti for excellent coffee and service.
Exploring Glasgow and the Groundbreaking Spa
First-time visitors to Glasgow are encouraged to explore its streets, renowned for striking architecture and a colourful mural trail, before visiting the imposing Gothic Necropolis. The city's cinematic appeal is well-known; it was recently used as a filming location for the latest Spider-Man movie starring Tom Holland.
The true standout, however, is the hotel's spa. It houses various thermal rooms and pools, including two particularly unique features: Scotland's first snow room and a cave-like dark pool illuminated solely by tiny LED lights in the ceiling. During a visit, a therapist provided a skilled massage using products from Scottish brand Ishga, expertly accommodating a guest who was five months pregnant.
Rooms at the Kimpton Blythswood Square start from £190 per night. This article contains affiliate links.
