Jurys Inn Glasgow

At 321 rooms, when this Jurys Inn opened in 2003 it became the largest hotel in Glasgow -- a distinction the property still holds. It occupies a huge slab of towering modern architecture which extends up to a total of 12 stories. Stepping inside, however, the low-ceilinged lobby is surprisingly small in comparison, though with a little more in the way of style that your average mid-range chain hotel. Low, moody lighting, dark-wood paneling, and sharp contemporary furnishings give this reception area an ambience bordering on chic largely unexpected from the brand. The lobby extends to a similarly styled bar and restaurant while a trio of elevators ferry guests to floors and hallways that too are low-lit and finished with smart modern styling. Although very popular with business guests, the hotel also attracts a fair share of leisure tourists in town for a weekend break. 

The hotel is located on a busy junction overlooking the River Clyde two blocks south of Glasgow Central train station. Its central location means most of the city's many bars, restaurants, and shops are well within walking distance -- St Enoch Shopping Center is just across the road while the main shopping area of Buchanan Street is just half a mile away. Its position also means it's just a three-minute train ride to the SECC and SSE Hydro exhibition and entertainment venues via Argyle station five minutes' walk away. 

The rooms at Jurys Inn Glasgow are relatively spacious and decorated in smart contemporary tones with simple modern furnishings and carpeted floors. In-room amenities include flat-screen TVs (Freeview channels, not cable), electric kettles, and Wi-Fi -- though while Wi-Fi is free, you have to pay to upgrade to a decent speed. Bathrooms are also fairly roomy, if a little dated, and provide high-end Gilchrist & Soames products. Higher-level rooms have the bonus of offering some impressive views over the surrounds -- rooms overlooking the railway however can be noisy. There have also been reports of rooms being cold as well as poor sound insulation. 

For a hotel of this size there are surprisingly few facilities. The Grill Bar restaurant does provide an extensive hot and cold buffet breakfast service each morning, though it's not included in the rate and has been known to get overwhelmed by sheer number of guests. The restaurant also offers lunch and dinner which includes Scottish favorites and a menu for kids. A Costa Coffee Bar is open all day for hot drinks and snacks where guests can also surf the Wi-Fi for free (though is on the slow side without a paid upgrade).