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 ; however, this was abandoned, and the site lay derelict until the late 1980s. As well as being Hilton's first foray into Glasgow, the hotel was notable for being the first high-rise building over 20 storeys to be constructed in Glasgow since its tower blockbuilding 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 StatesPresident Bill Clinton. The local actor and comedian Billy Connolly is also a regular guest, and was born a few streets away in the 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:
2014 Commonwealth Games – They were held in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 3 August 2014 and were the largest multi-sport event ever in Scotland, involving 4,950 athletes from 71 different nations and territories competing in 18 different sports. It was the third time the Commonwealth Games had been held in Scotland, and the 2014 Games were notable for the successes of the Home Nations of the United Kingdom, with England, Wales and hosts Scotland achieving their largest ever gold medal hauls and overall medal hauls at a Commonwealth Games.
2014 Ryder Cup for the 2014 Scottish Golf Awards – It is one of the biggest sporting events in the world and it was the first time in more than 40 years that the tournament had been staged in Scotland.
