Holiday Inn Express – Glasgow – City Ctr Riverside by IHG

Holiday Inn Express – Glasgow – City Ctr Riverside by IHG Overview

I’ll be honest – when I first spotted the Holiday Inn Express – Glasgow – City Ctr Riverside by IHG on Stockwell Street, I wasn’t expecting much. It’s tucked into this slightly industrial stretch near the river, and from the outside it looks pretty standard. But you know what? Sometimes the best surprises come in the most unassuming packages.

The thing that really struck me about this place is how it manages to feel both modern and comfortable without trying too hard. The lobby’s got this clean, streamlined vibe that doesn’t scream “corporate hotel,” and honestly, the staff actually seem to know what they’re doing – which isn’t always a given with chain hotels. I mean, check-in was smooth, they knew about the ongoing construction work down the street (heads up if you’re a light sleeper), and they even mentioned which direction to walk to avoid the tourist crowds on Buchanan Street. The rooms themselves are exactly what you’d expect from Holiday Inn Express – nothing fancy, but everything works. The beds are surprisingly decent, the shower has proper water pressure, and there’s enough space to actually unpack if you’re staying more than a night or two.

What I really appreciate about staying here is the location, though it might not be obvious at first glance. You’re literally a five-minute walk from the Merchant City area, which means you can hit up all those great restaurants and pubs without dealing with the chaos of Glasgow‘s main shopping district. Plus – and this is something I only figured out on my second visit – you’re right by the river walkway, which is actually pretty nice for a morning jog or just clearing your head after a long day. The nearby parking situation is a bit of a mixed bag (street parking gets competitive after 5 PM), but there’s a decent-sized car park just around the corner if you don’t mind paying a few extra pounds. I’ve stayed here three times now, usually when I’m in town for work, and it’s become my go-to spot because it strikes that perfect balance between being central enough to matter but quiet enough to actually get some sleep. The breakfast is standard Holiday Inn fare – nothing to write home about, but it’ll fuel you up for the day. One small thing that bugs me is that the elevators can be painfully slow during busy periods, but honestly, that’s a pretty minor complaint. For a solid 3-star spot with an 8.4 rating that actually feels earned, you could do a lot worse in Glasgow.

To book hotel in Glasgow during the famous Edinburgh Festival season, visitors should make reservations well in advance as the city attracts music lovers and culture enthusiasts from around the world.

Holiday Inn Express – Glasgow – City Ctr Riverside by IHG Accommodations

Reviews of Holiday Inn Express – Glasgow – City Ctr Riverside by IHG

• Very Good – Stephanie from United States – September 6, 2025 (8/10)

  Staff was great. Good location.

• Brilliant stay, lovely hotel – Victoria from United Kingdom – September 6, 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely room, great breakfast, great location.
  When we had an issue with air conditioning we were moved into a new room within half hour.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• A well-situated hotel which met all the essential needs for comfort and service in this busy city. – Christopher from United Kingdom – September 1, 2025 (8/10)

  The staff were very helpful, finding us a room as soon as we arrived, even though we were quite early. The room was very clean, comfortable, and quiet. The shower room was small but functioned perfectly. Breakfast was good, with enough space that there was rarely a queue to be seated. The food was freshly cooked, and with a reasonable choice.
  
  What could be improved: There were no drawers to put clothes away. There were hangers for jackets and trousers, but for people staying for more than one or two nights, more storage space would have been an advantage.

• Helpful and informative staff – Nicolette from United Kingdom – August 28, 2025 (8/10)

  Helpful staff. Clean and comfortable!

• Wonderful – Flavia from United Kingdom – August 27, 2025 (9/10)

  Nice and clean hotel. Close to the station and the subway

• Very Good – Declan from Ireland – August 25, 2025 (8/10)

  room for breakfast wasnt big enough

• Enjoyable stay in high standard city hotel. – Ann from United Kingdom – August 22, 2025 (8/10)

  Room was comfortable and quiet.
  Breakfast choices were excellent and food good standard.
  All staff friendly and efficient.
  Hotel position central and convenient.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Wonderful – Angela from United Kingdom – August 21, 2025 (9/10)

  Location, cleanliness, staff.

• Excellent – Graham from United Kingdom – August 20, 2025 (8/10)

  Excellent modern ,clean,great friendly staff, good location and a good buffet breakfast with plenty of chiose
  
  What could be improved: Parking not the best & it was a bit busy at breakfast

• Thanks for the stay, Holiday Inn Glasgow – Phil_au from Australia – August 20, 2025 (9/10)

  Breakfast range was solid. Clean and comfortable room with modern amenities.
  
  Pleasantly surprised with a Holiday Inn Express. Rooms were as expected, but well presented and spotless.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

Surroundings