WE’D spent a couple of days in Edinburgh before setting out for Scotland’s second city.

Trains run regularly throughout the day, and we soon found ourselves in Glasgow.

The differences between the two cities were apparent as soon as we left the station.

Compared with the ancient and historical capital, everything in Glasgow seems to be on a much grander scale, reflecting its rise to glory as a powerhouse of Queen Victoria’s industrial and mercantile empire.

We were staying in Hotel Du Vin’s Scottish flagship in the exclusive West End.

The hotel occupies a row of five large Victorian townhouses, retaining many original features, including opulent wooden panelling and magnificent stained-glass windows dominating the sweeping staircases.

Our room featured stylish modern decor complete with flat-screen TVs in the bedroom and en-suite bathroom, a luxurious bed, roll-top bath, separate shower and even a putter with an electric putt-return to keep keen golfers amused.

The restaurant boasts 3AA Rosettes and seems popular with locals as well as guests – always a good sign, and the food certainly didn’t disappoint.

But perhaps the jewel in the crown is the whisky snug where Scotland’s liquid heritage sits waiting to be discovered.

Running to more than 300 varieties ranging from modestly priced blends to the rarest single malts, it really is all there and expert staff are on hand to guide you through its complexities.

As well as great shopping and famously lively nightlife, Glasgow offers plenty to see and do during the day.

First on our list was the Kelvingrove Museum, an imposing Victorian cathedral of culture, recalling London’s Kensington museums, and about 20 minutes’ walk, or a short taxi ride from the hotel.

Next stop was the Glasgow Tall Ship, the restored Clyde-built 19th century square-rigger Glenlee, now berthed as a permanent attraction just down the river from the “Armadillo” concert hall.

Getting there

• Hotel Du Vin, 1 Devonshire Gardens, Glasgow – 0141 339 2001, hotelduvin.com

• Malmaison, 278 West George Street, Glasgow – 0141 572 1000, malmaison-glasgow.com

• For more information on Scotland, go to visit-scotland.com