Babbity Bowsters

Babbity Bowsters Overview

You know what caught me off guard about Babbity Bowsters? The name sounds like something from a Harry Potter book, but this place is actually one of Glasgow‘s most charming secrets tucked away on Blackfriars Street. I mean, I’ve walked past that narrow Victorian building dozens of times without really noticing it – which is exactly the point, honestly. It’s not trying to scream “luxury hotel” at you from the street.

The moment you step inside, you realize this isn’t your typical boutique spot (they don’t even bother with star ratings, which I kind of love). The whole place feels like someone’s eccentric Scottish aunt decided to open a hotel in her beautifully restored 1850s townhouse. The rooms have this wonderful mix of original features – I’m talking proper high ceilings and those gorgeous period windows – alongside modern touches that actually make sense. What really impressed me was how quiet it stays, even though you’re literally in the heart of Central Glasgow. The thick stone walls do their job well, though you’ll still catch the occasional snippet of conversation from the pub downstairs, which adds to the authentic atmosphere rather than detracting from it.

Here’s the thing that makes Babbity Bowsters special – it’s got this lived-in authenticity that so many boutique places try to manufacture but never quite nail. The staff genuinely know the neighborhood (ask them about the best route to avoid the crowds heading to Merchant City), and they’ll point you toward spots that aren’t plastered all over Instagram yet. The location is honestly perfect if you want to explore Glasgow properly – you can walk to the cathedral in about eight minutes, hit the galleries on Wilson Street without breaking a sweat, and there’s a proper Scottish pub right downstairs if you want to ease into the local scene gradually. Parking‘s a bit of a dance around here, like anywhere in central Glasgow, but there’s a decent car park about two streets over that won’t completely destroy your budget. That 8.9 rating it’s got? Yeah, that feels about right – it’s the kind of place that gets better the longer you stay, as you start noticing all those little thoughtful details that someone clearly spent time getting just right.

Travelers should reserve a hotel in Glasgow at least two months ahead for major events like music festivals and Highland games, ensuring the best rates and prime locations near popular cultural sites.

Babbity Bowsters Accommodations

Reviews of Babbity Bowsters

• Lovely little Hotel – Jackie from United Kingdom – September 3, 2025 (9/10)

  Friendly staff, delicious food, clean & tidy Room
  Good ambience
  
  What could be improved: It was quite a trek upstairs, especially with luggage!!

• Wonderful – Jean from United States – September 3, 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent staff, friendly helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was good

• A wonderful B & B & B (Bed Bath and Bar) Experience! – Todd from United States – September 2, 2025 (10/10)

  I fun property with great service and great employees. The rooms above the pub were nice and had everything you needed. About 1 mile away from lots of shopping. Drink and good food available below where you sleep. No noise from bar.
  
  What could be improved: Parking was very tight, but in a safe area right next to the property. And the staff helped with parking as needed.

• Beautiful central Hotel with Pub – Marius from Germany – August 31, 2025 (9/10)

  Very central location, 10min walk to buchanan st.
  Nevertheless, private parking included
  Pub on the ground floor, not noisy when going to bed early
  
  What could be improved: Waterpressure in the shower could be stronger, especially for people with lots of hair.

• Wonderful – Jason from United Kingdom – August 22, 2025 (9/10)

  Location and food at the pub
  
  What could be improved: Unable to find entrance door when coming back at night. No light working or on when entering the building

• Wonderful – Maja from Montenegro – August 21, 2025 (9/10)

  It’s a cool place, with pub and restaurant, and terrace below. Interesting and fun. Good location. Staff is very polite and friendly, and breakfast was excellent

• Exceptional – Joanne from United Kingdom – August 18, 2025 (10/10)

  The friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Exceptional – Ellen from United States – August 9, 2025 (10/10)

  Cozy clean & comfy. Staff was wonderful. Lots of restaurants & bars in the area.

• Brilliant hotel, good location, great value for money – Hannah from United Kingdom – August 8, 2025 (10/10)

  Really nice comfy room, spotlessly clean, Smart TV, nice breakfast, nothing not to like!

• Great stay – Sharon from Canada – August 6, 2025 (9/10)

  Great service and quality! Great quality with the facilities i.e., towels, bedding, shower, etc. Very friendly and helpful staff. Wish I could have stayed longer.
  
  What could be improved: State that the parking is right beside the hotel/restaurant.

Surroundings