Shantel
Key Takeaways:
- Virgin Hotels Glasgow is the brand’s second European location.
- Situated on the iconic River Clyde, the hotel incorporates local culture and modern amenities.
- Virgin Hotels Glasgow offers a range of dining options, including Commons Club and Highyard.
- Artwork from local Scottish creators adorns the walls, celebrating Glasgow’s rich cultural heritage.
- Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Hotels team aim to create an unparalleled experience for both visitors and locals.
About Virgin Hotels Glasgow
Virgin Hotels Glasgow is the newest addition to the luxury lifestyle hospitality brand, Virgin Hotels. Developed by Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, this Glasgow hotel is the brand’s second European venture. Located near the Central Station and set upon the River Clyde’s banks, Virgin Hotels Glasgow is an epitome of design, hospitality, and local Scottish flavor. With a total of 240 meticulously designed Chambers, several dining and drinking outlets, and state-of-the-art event spaces, the hotel is setting a new standard for luxury and innovation in Glasgow.
An Architectural Marvel with a Nautical Twist
Teddy Mayer, Virgin Hotels’ creative director and vice president of design, worked closely with Silk Property Group to incorporate Glasgow’s vibrant history and the local shipping industry into the hotel’s architecture and design. On entering, visitors are greeted with vaulted ceilings, antiquated glass, and a grand staircase that opens up the space and sparks the desire to explore further.
“Every detail has been curated to reflect the dynamic and diverse essence of Glasgow,” says James Bermingham, Virgin Hotels Collection CEO.
The Chambers: Where Comfort Meets Sophistication
The 240 Chambers are designed to flood with natural light, optimized for space and privacy. Unique wood-sliding doors separate the sleep and relaxation lounge from the dressing area, equipped with a stand-alone vanity unit and an illuminated mirror. Each room also features Virgin Hotels’ patented ergonomic bed, a Hypnos™ mattress, and a red SMEG® mini-fridge stocked with local products.
A Culinary Journey: Commons Club and Highyard
Commons Club is the hotel’s flagship restaurant led by Executive Chef Jean-Paul Giraud. It offers an eclectic menu sourced from local ingredients and infused with global inspirations. Highyard, located on Commons Club’s mezzanine level, boasts a retractable roof and two living walls, offering an urban oasis overlooking the River Clyde.
“We aimed to capture Glasgow’s unique spirit, offering visitors and locals an unparalleled experience,” says Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson.
A Tribute to Local Art and Culture
In collaboration with Visto Art, Virgin Hotels Glasgow is adorned with bespoke artwork created by local Scottish illustrators, painters, and photographers. From murals by local street artists to abstract friezes, each piece is a tribute to Glasgow’s rich heritage.
More Than Just a Hotel: A Community Hub
Future expansions of the hotel will include additional dining and drinking spaces, such as the Funny Library Coffee Shop and Rocks on Fox Street, a luxurious whisky bar. Furthermore, the hotel provides dynamic meeting and event spaces like Bonnie and Clyde meeting rooms and the intimate Shag Room, making it an ideal environment for both social and corporate gatherings.
Virgin Red Loyalty Program
To add more value to your stay, the Virgin Red and Virgin Hotels’ The Know loyalty programs are integrated, allowing members to earn Virgin Points directly when booking their stay at any of Virgin Hotels’ luxurious locations, including Glasgow.
In Conclusion
Virgin Hotels Glasgow is not just a hotel; it’s a lifestyle experience aiming to set new hospitality standards. It is an embodiment of luxury, culture, and the spirit of Glasgow. Offering a range of services from exquisite rooms to culinary delights and local art, Virgin Hotels Glasgow promises an experience like no other in the heart of Scotland’s most vibrant city.
For reservations and more information, you can visit their official website or follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
“Well done to the team for creating magic, yet again,” Sir Richard Branson sums it up perfectly. Indeed, the hotel is more than just an addition to Glasgow’s skyline; it’s an experience waiting to be explored.
