Brunswick Merchant City Hotel is a good answer for visitors who want to sleep in the part of Glasgow that comes alive after dark. The Merchant City is the grid of Georgian and Victorian streets east of George Square, built on tobacco and sugar fortunes and now home to some of the city's best restaurants, cocktail bars, independent shops and galleries. The hotel sits on Brunswick Street in the middle of this district, which means dinner, a drink and a late walk home are all measured in minutes rather than taxi fares. The look inside is contemporary and fairly minimal, a deliberate contrast to the grand stone buildings outside, and the rooms are designed for a night or two of good sleep rather than long days spent indoors. It is a smart choice for couples, friends on a weekend away and anyone who likes a hotel with a little personality that does not cost as much as a big-name five-star.
Location and getting around
The Merchant City is the most walkable part of Glasgow. George Square, the City Chambers and Queen Street Station are a short stroll to the west, Buchanan Street shopping is a few minutes beyond, and the Gallery of Modern Art stands on Royal Exchange Square close by.
Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis lie to the north-east and can be reached on foot in around twenty minutes, uphill for the last stretch. Glasgow Central Station and the St Enoch Subway stop are a reasonable walk away, and taxis are easy to find on the surrounding streets.
Check the exact walking time from your arrival station when you book. Rooms and who it suits: the rooms are compact and stylish rather than large, with comfortable beds, good lighting and a modern bathroom. Request a higher floor or a room away from the street if you are a light sleeper, because the Merchant City is lively on Friday and Saturday nights. The hotel suits couples, solo travellers and small groups of friends who plan to spend their days out in the city and want a smart place to return to.
Families with young children may prefer a hotel with larger rooms, such as the chain options elsewhere in this guide.Eating and drinking nearby: this is the strongest reason to stay here. Within a few streets you will find Scottish restaurants, Italian and Indian kitchens, wine bars, craft beer pubs and plenty of cafes for a slow breakfast.
Check whether breakfast is included in your rate or sold as an extra, since this varies, and look at the dining options on the surrounding streets if you prefer to eat out in the morning as well as the evening.
Good to know
Glasgow charges a visitor levy on many overnight stays, so factor that into your budget alongside the room rate. Parking in the Merchant City is limited and can be expensive, so arriving by train is far easier. Check-in and check-out times, parking and breakfast details should be confirmed when you book. For a bigger, more traditional luxury stay, look at the Kimpton or Hotel du Vin instead; for the lowest price, Motel One and Premier Inn are the practical alternatives.
Why stay here
- ✓Merchant City location
- ✓Walk to George Square
- ✓Near Buchanan Street shopping
- ✓Restaurants and bars nearby
- ✓Walk to the Gallery of Modern Art
- ✓Design-led boutique feel
- ✓Good for couples and friends
- ✓Rail and Subway within walking distance
Good questions
Where is Brunswick Merchant City Hotel?+
On Brunswick Street in the Merchant City, a short walk east of George Square and Buchanan Street.
Is it good for eating out?+
Yes, the Merchant City has many of Glasgow's best restaurants and bars within a few streets, so you can eat and drink without leaving the neighbourhood.
Is it noisy at night?+
The area is lively at weekends, so ask for a higher floor or a quieter room when you book if you are a light sleeper.
