Type Hotel Town or city Glasgow Opening 1992 | Address 1 William Street Country Scotland | |
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Hotel chain Hilton Hotels & Resorts | ||
The Hilton Glasgow is a 20-storey hotel in Glasgow, Scotland. It is one of Glasgow's five-star hotels and is located in Anderston, 8 miles (13 kilometres) from Glasgow International Airport, three blocks away from Glasgow city centre, and close to the M8 Motorway. It opened on November 30, 1992.
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Background and construction
Construction of the hotel began in 1990. It stands on a site within the Anderston Commercial Zone, an area cleared during the 1960s and designated by the then Glasgow Corporation for "comprehensive development". Originally the land was earmarked for the second phase of the Anderston Centre complex (early plans show that a public housing tower was planned for the spot where the hotel stands); however, this was abandoned, and the site lay derelict until the late 1980s.
As well as being Hilton's first foray into Glasgow (it later took over the prestigious Stakis Grosvenor in the city's West End, and a third hotel was added to the portfolio in Finnieston), the hotel was notable for being the first high-rise building over 20 storeys to be constructed in Glasgow since its tower block building boom of the 1960s and early 1970s. The hotel has the largest banqueting hall in the city.
Famous guests
The hotel is notable for having accommodated many celebrities, including the former United States President Bill Clinton. The local actor and comedian Billy Connolly is also a regular guest, and was born a few streets away in the (now demolished) tenements of Anderston.
When American boxer Mike Tyson had a match at nearby Hampden Park, he booked 150 rooms for himself and his entourage. Hollywood actor Robert Duvall also stayed in one of the hotel's luxury suites for several weeks during filming of the movie A Shot at Glory, which was shot in and around the city.
Award ceremonies
The Hilton Glasgow has hosted many award ceremonies. Some notable events include: