Crowne Plaza Glasgow

Housed in a soaring and shimmering mirrored tower that dwarfs the surrounding buildings, this landmark hotel has become a symbol for the regeneration of the Clydeside region. The hotel opened in 1989, after two years of construction and an investment exceeding £22 million, but it didn't become a Crowne Plaza until 2005. An extensive refurbishment project is earmarked for 2015. 

The spacious, high-ceilinged lobby is decked out with rust-effect panels, contemporary furnishings, and metallic sculptures, all illuminated by ceiling spotlights and hanging light boxes. The overall effect is arty and modern, if incongruous with the chain hotel's signature pink branding. The clientele are evenly split between business guests -- in town for nearby meetings or conferences -- and visitors with tickets for shows at the music venue next door. 

The hotel is located on the north bank of the River Clyde in the Finnieston area of western Glasgow. Over the last 10 years or so, the area has gone through a huge regeneration and now features a number of venues, including the SSE Hydro arena and the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre (SECC), both of which are right next door to the hotel. Media companies including the BBC, Film City Glasgow, and STV are also within walking distance, just across the river. While not particularly convenient for exploring Glasgow city center, the nearby Exhibition Centre train station connects to Glasgow Central in about 10 minutes and the airport takes just over 10 minutes to reach by car.

The hotel's 332 rooms and suites are spread over 16 floors, many of which have benefitted from an ongoing level-by-level renovation project. Yet-to-be revamped rooms still feel fairly modern, and have contemporary furnishings reminiscent of West Elm with bold burgundy accents (though some bathrooms look tired). Updated rooms are more on-trend, with a softer color palette of neutral bedding and a hint of midcentury style. Amenities standard to all rooms include air-conditioning, kettles, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and waffle-comb bathrobes. The 15 suites have separate living rooms and bedrooms along with panoramic views. The hotel's 34 Club Bedrooms are located on 15th and 16th floors and many have superb views over the city, as well as high-end toiletries, free mineral water, and Tunnock's teacakes. 

The hotel's star facility is its health club with a gym, a steam room, a sauna, and an indoor heated swimming pool with a separate whirlpool. The ground floor Mariner Restaurant provides an extensive buffet breakfast with hot and cold items (not included in most room rates) as well as lunch and dinner, though the quality of food is reportedly inconsistent and it can get busy. The bar can also get a little crowded after shows at the nearby concert arena. Guests staying in one of the Club Bedrooms on the 15th and 16th floor also have access to the Club Lounge, with panoramic views of the River Clyde and free drinks and snacks. There's also on-site parking -- which is increasingly rare in Glasgow -- and though it's not free, the rates are reasonable. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, for a fee.