You really have to wonder what planners were on in the 70s.
While majestic terraced housing line the Dowanhill sections of Great Western Road as you walk towards Anniesland and beautiful buildings such as Balmanno House and the old train station, now the Italian Bistro, make appearances, suddenly your senses are greeted by a concrete Glasgow kiss in the very-square shape of the Pond Hotel.
Now I don't know for certain this was built in the 70s, but if it wasn't, it should have been. The communist-style architecture repels the eyeballs and proves to be a blot on an otherwise fairly scenic setting, given the situation of the Bingham Pond in front of it.
Nevertheless, the area is safe, the location, in terms of access to the West End, is fantastic and the rooms are clean and comfortable. In actual fact, the interior of the hotel is in complete contrast with the grubby exterior.
If this is your desired area to stay in your options are to pay through the nose at Hotel Du Vin or save your pennies for night-life by spending a few nights here. When it comes down to it, the extra only pays for a few window boxes and a chocolate on your pillow anyway. read more