Manchesteris going through a renaissance, and all eyes are on it.Manchester Museum reopened earlier this year after a grand £15 million overhaul and a total redesign. The impressive Castlefield Viaduct, a regenerated Victorian-era steel viaduct and sky park launched to fanfare,artist Yayoi Kusama’s psychedelic creations and polka dotswill grace Manchester’s Factory International come June, and Gordon Ramsay’s new outpost ofLucky Catalso arrives in next month – the culture andrestaurant scene in Manchesteris next level right now.
As for hotels, Manchester has a slew of exciting new openings this year – and a sensational stable of established stays. While we're focused on accommodations in Manchester, it's hard to ignore the charm of a classic stay like the royak oak hotel ripon, albeit a little way out of the city, for those perhaps looking for a small detour on their trip or a different flavour of Northern hospitality. Back to Manchester, there are 125 hotels and 33 hotel chains, but we’ve selected what we think are the ‘best’ stays in the city; for luxury, style, and service. Here are our carefully curated picks of the 10 best hotels in the city.
Discover the Ideal Neighborhood to Stay in Manchester
If you're wondering where to find the best hotels in Manchester, look no further than the centrally located areas near Piccadilly, Oxford Road, or Victoria train stations. These prime locations provide convenient access to the city's most popular attractions and amenities.
For those seeking a vibrant and artistic atmosphere, you'll want to consider staying in the creative Northern Quarter. This eclectic neighborhood exudes the soul of Manchester, with its thriving arts scene and stylish boutique accommodation options.
In addition to the Northern Quarter, Manchester's village is another fantastic area to explore. This district boasts a collection of unique and innovative hybrid hotels, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers seeking something extraordinary.
Embark on a memorable journey through Manchester by choosing a hotel in one of these remarkable areas. You'll be perfectly positioned to immerse yourself in the city's rich culture, exciting events, and vibrant energy.
Manchester's Crown Jewel - Treehouse Hotel
Prime for: Panoramic city vistas
As we look forward to fresh additions to Manchester's vibrant hotel scene in 2023, three newcomers have particularly caught our attention. The premier northern extensions of Soho House Manchester and Mollie’s are poised to redefine luxury in the city. Among these, stands the radiant Treehouse Hotel, set to sprout on Blackfriars Street. In the latter part of the year, we eagerly anticipate the unveiling of this highly-awaited establishment, a sibling to the greatly admired botanical themed Treehouse London. A former 15-level property in a desolate state will blossom into the trendiest hotel and sky-high bar locale in the city: we're thrilled to behold the completed marvel. A sublime blend of Southeast Asian cuisine will be served on the 14th floor by culinary maestro Sam Grainger. On the topmost level, The Nest, a botanic-themed rooftop bar will offer breathtaking perspectives of the city, while a ground-floor restaurant led by the acclaimed Mary-Ellen McTague will indulge gastronomers with the finest of British cuisine. Following the enchanting experience at Treehouse London, the Manchester branch is undoubtedly going to be our go-to urban sanctuary. With two floors dedicated solely to dining, Treehouse Manchester indeed promises a unique gourmet experience.
Location:Blackfriars Street, Manchester M3 2EQ
Experience Luxury at the Dakota Manchester
Perfectly suited for: those seeking contemporary sophistication
The latest location of the Dakota hotel chain in Manchester perfectly showcases the brand's chic and subdued luxury. The establishment effuses grown-up charisma, characterized by designer decor in dusky hues, silky smooth cotton sheets, and high-pressure rain showers. Exceptional cuisine, exemplary service, and a stylish bar that could be straight out of a Mad Men episode add to its allure. Choose absoulutely magnificent grand deluxe suite among the 137 rooms featuring a panoramic eighth-floor balcony, a couple of lavish bedrooms furnished with enormous beds, and a cosy drawing room.
Insider recommendation: Indulge in timeless elegance at Dakota Grill. This trendy dining spot is known for its signature prime-cut steak paired with a tasteful red wine.
Location:29 Ducie St, Manchester M1 2JL
Dakota Manchester also prides itself on its environmentally-friendly practices such as reduced water use and energy-efficient lighting. Escape the hustle and bustle of Manchester in the snug lounge, and end your day by the fireplace as it adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort during those chilly Manchester nights.
Experience Leven
Highly Recommended for: lovers of unique design
Positioned close to the vibrant heart of Canal Street in Manchester, experiencing the dream that is Leven is all about reserving the exclusive two-bedroom penthouse. Leven prides itself on the meticulous attention given to every design detail. The hotel exudes contemporary chic – with remarkable architectural elements reflecting New York City loft-style, right from classic Crittall windows to the wooden plank flooring. Bathrooms boast flawless Porcelanosa deep tubs and dining spaces outfitted with luxurious marble-topped tables. As dusk descends, the hotel's expertly-mixed cocktails make the perfect accompaniment; give The Avalanche, a potent blend of Finlandia vodka and Kahlua, a try.
Insider's Note: Keep your radar on for the soon-to-open Maya. The culinary gem, helmed by talented chef Gabe Lea (formerly associated with the Michelin-starred Le Manoir) will feature an exquisite canalside brasserie and fine-dining room, promising contemporary European dishes that celebrate each season. The ambitious project is the brainchild of the team behind renowned properties like Petersham Nurseries and Soho House.
Find them at:40 Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3HW
Experience Manchester in Style: Whitworth Locke
Ideal for: laid-back weekends with friends
Overflowing with urban chic charisma, Whitworth Locke flawlessly encapsulates what the ideal city break should be. This sophisticated aparthotel creates a faultless weekend getaway environment — from charmingly snug apartments nestled in a hip locale, swanky design accoutrements and lush, collaborative workspace, it leaves nothing to be desired. It brims with world cuisine and happenings, both conveniently within reach nearby and available inside the establishment. Housed in a historical 19th-century cotton mill just a stone’s throw away from Chinatown and the eclectic Northern Quarter, its design pays tribute to landmark New York architects Grzywinski+Pons. The intricate nuances of the building have been dutifully acknowledged, adding an authentic charm to the atmosphere. The soft-toned, spirited studios boast state-of-the-art Smeg-fitted kitchens, bespoke quality furniture, and indulgent Kinsey Apothecary bathroom products, all set within a unique green and pink color palette.
Our suggestion: Treat yourself to the extravagant two-bedroom suite, painted in a playful candyfloss pink, and immerse yourself in the local vibe.
Location:74 Princess St, Manchester M1 6JD
In the heart of Manchester's vibrant cityscape, Whitworth Locke blends traditional and modern for an unmatched experience. Thanks to its prime location, many of Manchester's top attractions and hotspots, including its notable music scene and sports venues, are easily accessible.
Seeing firsthand how this historic factory building has been transformed while keeping its character adds an extra layer of depth to your stay. From antique trims to state-of-the-art amenities, every detail harmonizes the past and the present.
Kimpton Clocktower Hotel
Best for: being at the heart of the action
The majestic Victorian facade of the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is a draw, and its super-central city location – it’s just moments from Oxford Road train station. The hotel was designed by Manchester’s superstar architect, Alfred Waterhouse, and many of the building’s unique features have been maintained immaculately. There are 270 rooms and suites, but book a speciality suite for a sumptuous Kimpton bed, in-room record player, and vinyl collection. Stop for a gin and tonic at The Winter Garden, an airy, whimsical, green conservatory space – before dining at Refuge.
Top tip:check out the latest exhibition at the hotel by Richard Kelly (Arctic Monkeys photographer), ‘A Time and Place’, which showcases some iconic images of musicians and artists, including Amy Winehouse.
Address:Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA
King Street Townhouse
Best for: a pool with a view
King Street does understated luxury and exclusivity best: the 40-room boutique hotel has more of a private residence feel and is all the better for it. There’s nothing cookie-cutter about it. The hotel has an excellent spa with a marvellous city-view pool on the seventh floor and a sharp, brasserie-style restaurant, Tavern – standouts are the honey-glazed duck and crispy cauliflower steak. The hotel’s private cinema in the cellar is an added surprise, a secret Everyman for guests. In the spa, ESPA treatments are the order of the day, and the new menu is extensive – try the blissful ESPA signature, which includes a salt stone back, shoulder and foot massage and a quartz stone facial.
Top tip:book one of the two stylishly curated one-bedroom suites, named after Manchester’s Alfred Waterhouse and Abel Heywood, for a beautiful stay with private infinity pool access – they have prime views of Manchester’s glorious Town Hall clock tower.
Address:10 Booth St, Manchester M2 4AW
Native Manchester
Highly recommended for: An upscale loft style living
The awe-inspiring Native boasts not less than 162 high-end residences nestled within the historic surroundings of Ducie Street Warehouse, a Grade II listed building. One of its virtues is that it offers amenities galore right under one roof, forming a self-sufficient community. This haven offers dining, grocery shopping, a watering hole, movie theater, fitness programs and a preferred alfresco terrace. Make sure you reserve one of their elite lofts placed above the community zone. They are equipped with magnificent parquet floors, generously sized double-height ceilings, showcased rugged red brick, tranquil powder-blue walls and customized furniture in vibrant hues of teal and orange.
Quick tip: Feel free to explore downstairs for travelling markets, artistic life drawing classes, an intimate movie theater, a socially interactive dining concept or disco-style brunch events. As dynamic as ever, Ducie continues to innovate and expand catering to its discerning guests. Just go ahead and reserve it, the place is uber-trendy.
Location:Warehouse, Ducie St, Manchester M1 2TP
The Lowry
Best for: Manchester’s art heritage
The Lowryis a proper Manchester icon. Named after Laurence Stephen Lowry, L.S. Lowry, an industrial art icon famed for his ‘Matchstick Men’ paintings, the landmark address is further out of the city, has a quieter pace, and is dedicated to the world-famous local artist. Once inside the polished building, art is abundant, as expected: there are also rotating art and photography exhibitions. Chow down on comforting bistro plates such as French onion soup and cannon of lamb at River restaurant or linger over afternoon tea – looking out onto the wispy River Irwell.
Top tip:for adults, there’s an Elemis spa that begs to be made use of once you’ve checked into one of the luxurious superior rooms. For children, there are complimentary teddies. It’s a win-win.
Address:50 Dearmans Pl, Salford M3 5LH
The Edwardian
Best for: old-world luxury
For a deluxe experience, book The Edwardian – a five-star centre piece set in Manchester’s Grade II-listed Free Trade Hall, dating back to 1853. A multi-million-pound makeover means that though the handsome 19th-century facade has remained, the 263-room hotel has been upscaled as a luxurious lifestyle destination. Once inside, the colour palette enhances that velvet feeling: warm and rich, with earthy wooden flooring and polished leather banquettes. There’s a spa with a health suite, a gym and a restaurant, Peter Street Kitchen, dishing up delicious Mexican and Japanese small plates, but – if you wish to venture outside – step out the door onto buzzy Deansgate.
Top tip:the swanky spa is something to shout about. Based in the peaceful vaults, there’s a glassy 12-metre swimming pool, fragrant sauna and steam rooms, and an experience shower – a serene cocoon for an afternoon.
Address:Free Trade Hall, Peter St, Manchester M2 5GP
Stock Exchange Hotel
Best for: a blow-out experience
Set in the spectacular Manchester Stock Exchange (the grand building is circa 1906) and owned by Manchester United’s Gary Neville, the Edwardian baroque beauty of the 40-room Stock Exchange ticks all the right boxes for a spoiling city stay. Not only are the dreamily-ornate interiors swoonsome – such as gorgeous stained glass elements and opulent marble floors and columns – the recently-launched hotel brasserie, Stock Market Grill, helmed by Joshua Reed-Cooper, serves mod-British dishes with panache and is the hot table to bag now, created by the team behind Manchester’s best bars, the Schofield brothers. Sterling’s speakeasy-style bar is a sophisticated and sufficiently moody spot to imbibe, serving custom cocktails and rare wines. The dashing dining room with all its pretty details – the gilded, lofty ceiling being an excellent reminder always to look up – makes for the best dinner date. Try the cured sea trout and wild mushroom tart, fillet steak or Scottish scallops from the grill, and finish with a pile of profiteroles – to share.
Top tip:for ultimate decadence, go all-out and opt for The House – the three-bedroom penthouse with a private rooftop terrace. Alas, leaving isn’t optional.
Address: 4 Norfolk St, Manchester M2 1DW