A stylish, converted church

Popular plate: The Mal's basement bistro complete with comfy, chocolate leather booths sets the mood for cosy wintertime dining. At GBP 13.95 for two courses, the set lunch menu is also very reasonable.

Hotel du Vin's City Centre sister isn't quite as luxurious as it's West End sibling, but as stylish city sleeps go, "The Mal" is right up there. Set in a former Episcopal Church, the four-star hotel's striking facade holds its own against that of the domineering Blythswood Square around the corner, and there's nothing old-hat about the sleek, modern rooms, which are furnished in recurring Glasgow tones of chocolate, burgundy and grape.

Stop by the Malbar on your way to the brassiere for a single malt or well-muddled mojito. Go large: you can work off the excess in the in-house gym.