Clayton Hotel Glasgow City

The service was very friendly. I arrived in the morning, and after self-checking in at the machine, I was allowed an early check-in, which was much appreciated as it's quite rare in the UK where you usually can't check in until the afternoon. When checking in at the machine, be mindful that your room number flashes by quickly, so you'll need to jot it down fast. There's a pen and a card sleeve next to the machine, which is helpful! If you really can't remember, you can ask the front desk or check your email. Emails are very commonly used in the UK, and this hotel also offers online check-out (they'll send an email on the check-out day), or you can simply check out at the front desk. As I hadn't booked breakfast, I went to inquire at the front desk. The staff warmly and politely explained that if you pay at the front desk the day before, breakfast is £14 per person per day. However, if you just walk into the restaurant and pay on the day itself, it's £28. So, a heads-up to everyone: remember to book breakfast in advance if you want to save money! The room came with two complimentary bottles of water, Walkers shortbread biscuits, an electric kettle, and tea sachets. Plus, there was daily housekeeping (which is quite rare in the UK), and they replenished the water and biscuits every day. As is standard practice in UK hotels, there are no complimentary toothpaste, toothbrushes, or slippers, so remember to bring your own. The location is very convenient. Please note that it's close to Central Station. For my trips to and from Glasgow, trains always stopped at Queen Street Station, so don't get them mixed up. However, the walk from the hotel takes you through the busiest part of the city center, which feels quite safe. The hotel is housed in a former customs office building, so it consists of old and new wings, which are interconnected. The old wing houses the front desk and a comfortable lounge/reading area (complete with charging and co-working spaces). The way to the rooms (located in the new wing) is a bit winding at first, but easy once you get familiar with it. Both the elevator entrance and the elevator itself require key card access, which adds to the security. It seems there are quite a few business/conference guests and tour groups staying here, so breakfast tends to get quite busy around 8 AM. Overall, the hotel offers excellent value for money. While there are other hotels closer to the train station, their reviews weren't great, and this hotel truly lives up to its positive reputation.

The hotel itself is fantastic, featuring beautiful architecture and vintage-style yet immaculately clean decor. While the rooms aren't large, their layout is incredibly practical and cozy. The restaurant is also a highlight; the staff provided exceptional service, and the food was delicious. We had an excellent two-night stay. The hotel is within walking distance of the city center, with two large supermarkets right outside the entrance. KFC, McDonald's, and the train station are all reachable within a 10-minute walk. The university quarter is also just a 10-minute bus ride away. Both Glasgow University and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (right opposite) are fantastic, and the university area boasts many authentic Chinese restaurants.