Twixmas Bliss in Glasgow

Ivy delights and a dreamy stay at the Kimpton Blythswood Square

In the whirlwind of Christmas, we found one precious night to escape the festive chaos, leaving the wrapping paper behind for a little urban indulgence in Glasgow. Our destination? A double act of decadence: dinner at The Ivy on Buchanan Street and an overnight stay at the iconic Kimpton Blythswood Square.

The weather? Dreadful. Rain lashed down, and the skies were an endless grey, but the Kimpton greeted us like a jewel in the storm, decked out in thousands of twinkling fairy lights. Truly, the stuff of festive dreams. After a warm welcome, we had just enough time for lunch at the hotel’s restaurant, Iasg. Exquisite dishes tempted us to linger, but with spa treatments booked, we regrettably skipped dessert (a sacrifice, trust me).

The spa at Blythswood is a sanctuary. Two of our party drifted off into blissful massages, while the remaining two wandered from steam room to snow room, pool to salt room—a symphony of sensations that left us glowing. Post-treatment, next-level relaxation called for a power nap before dinner.

Borrowing hotel umbrellas, we splashed downhill to The Ivy. Greeted with smiles and ushered to our table, we soaked up the festive buzz. Multi-generational families and friends filled the space with laughter, clinking glasses, and a sense of celebration. Two courses and some Christmassy cocktails later, we left full, content, and wrapped in the glow of a quintessential Ivy experience.

Back at the Kimpton, our beds awaited, complete with pillows so dreamy I’m asking Santa for four. A cosy night’s sleep was followed by an equally indulgent breakfast. The sprawling buffet was a feast in itself, but the real showstoppers came from the kitchen. Eggs Royale, blueberry pancakes, and a plant-based option hit all the right notes, paired with tea, toast, and lattes. A booth, if you can snag one, adds to the relaxed, yet luxe vibe.

And then, sadly, it was time to leave. Back out into the rain, but with hearts full and spirits high. Glasgow in Twixmas might have been grey, but between the magic of the Kimpton and the festive charm of The Ivy, it sparkled in all the right ways.

https://www.kimptonblythswoodsquare.com

https://ivycollection.com