Hotels near OVO Hydro Glasgow

The OVO Hydro is Glasgow’s premier multi-purpose indoor arena and one of the busiest worldwide. Located on Exhibition Way, close to the banks of the River Clyde, the venue has welcomed many global superstars since opening in 2013, from Arctic Monkeys and Take That to Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. It also regularly hosts major sporting events, including Boxing, UFC and WWE.

When heading to see a show at the OVO Hydro, booking a hotel nearby is a wise choice. It means you’ll be closer to the arena while also allowing you to explore Glasgow.

Discover hotels near the OVO Hydro Glasgow ahead of your visit and activities to keep you occupied before and after the event.

Everything you need to know before visiting OVO Hydro Glasgow

Glasgow’s OVO Hydro offers fun and excitement for all, whether you’ve got a ticket to watch incredible music, hilarious stand-up comedy or electrifying live sports.

Before your visit, it’s important to consider key details, including transport, facilities and refreshments. Get all the information below and make the most of your OVO Hydro experience.

Getting there

Getting to the OVO Hydro Glasgow is easy, with many transport options, including by car, train and bus.

Find all the OVO Hydro Glasgow travel information you need to know about below:

• Car – Exit at junction 19 on the M8, join the westbound Clydeside Expressway, and follow until you see the 'SEC East' signpost. Turn left at the traffic lights, and you can leave your car in the 24-hour multi-storey car park, which includes accessible parking.
• Rail – Head to Glasgow Central Station and jump on a train to Exhibition Centre.
• Bus – Catch the X19 Stagecoach to Finnieston Street, a 6-minute walk from the OVO Hydro.
• Taxi – There’s a designated taxi rank for pick-ups and drop-offs outside the SEC Armadillo.
• Pick-up & Drop-off – A specific area is dedicated to non-taxi pick-ups and drop-offs, located on the west side of the SEC Centre. It’s free, and you can stay up to 30 minutes.

Food and drink

You’ll find plenty of food and drink options when you visit the OVO Hydro. Choose from a selection of beers, spirits, wines and soft drinks from various bars on the ground floor, including contactless bars. All cups are reusable, and thanks to the arena’s Stack Cups policy, you get a £1 refund when you return your cup to a redemption point.

Fancy a bite to eat? Check out the Gig Food Menus at Rocksalt and Big Grill, pick up a pizza from Pizza Love, or grab a hotdog from Rollover Hotdogs.

Visitor information

The OVO Hydro is accessible with lifts, automated doors and stairs with handrail assistance throughout. There are also many onsite services, including baby changing, free Wi-Fi, and a cloakroom, which you’ll find in the west lobby on the ground floor.

All tickets are digital; download them onto your mobile before arrival.

Things to do near OVO Hydro Glasgow

Are you looking to fill time ahead of an event in Glasgow? There’s plenty to do near the OVO Hydro, from visiting historic local landmarks to grabbing food at delicious eateries.

1. Dine in fantastic restaurants

You'll find plenty of restaurants close to the OVO Hydro if you fancy a sit-down meal before your visit. Different cuisines are available, including Indian, Spanish, Thai, traditional British and Scottish. Several Michelin-starred restaurants nearby offer top-class food plus vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Our favourite restaurants near the OVO Hydro in Glasgow include:

• Crabshakk
• Cubatas Tapas Bar & Restaurant
• India Quay
• Joia Italian Restaurant and Bar
• Ox and Finch
• Thai Siam
• The Gannet
• Unalome by Graeme Cheevers

2. Visit local landmarks

The area surrounding the OVO Hydro is packed full of fantastic landmarks. Head to the banks of the River Clyde and check out the Finnieston Crane. This historic cantilever crane is a nod to Glasgow's industrial heritage.

A short walk east takes you to the picturesque Clyde Arc Bridge (the Squinty Bridge). Meanwhile, the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Statue, Johnnie Walker Mural and Glasgow Savings Bank Building are also well worth a visit while you're in the area.

3. Head to Kelvingrove Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of Glasgow’s city centre with a trip to Kelvingrove Park. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the River Kelvin, taking in fantastic views of historic woodlands and colourful flower beds, or tuck into a picnic on the lush green grass. 

The park also contains the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which is free to enter and boasts over 20 collections. Explore Scottish history, marvel at Egyptian art, and discover medieval weaponry inside the iconic red sandstone building.

Questions about hotels near OVO Hydro Glasgow

Looking for a hotel near the OVO Hydro? Enjoy a comfortable stay at one of Leonardo’s hotels in Glasgow.

What are the best hotels near OVO Hydro Glasgow?

Leonardo Hotel Glasgow is the perfect place to stay for your visit to the OVO Hydro. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a 5-minute walk from Glasgow Central Station, where there are regular trains to the arena. Its central location means you’re close to many attractions, shops, and restaurants. At the same time, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi and plenty of nearby parking.

How far is OVO Hydro from the train station?

The Exhibition Centre is the closest train station to the OVO Hydro. It's a 7-minute walk from the arena, and from there, you can catch trains which take you directly to Glasgow Central Station. The journey time from Exhibition Centre to Glasgow Central is three minutes.

What area of Glasgow is the OVO Hydro?

The OVO Hydro is in Glasgow’s West End. It’s part of the Scottish Event Campus built on the site of the Queen’s Dock, just off the banks of the River Clyde.