Renowned as the industrial revolution’s birthplace, Manchester today is bursting with activity. Called England’s second city, it’s the northwest’s hub of culture, sports, science, and more. Book a room in one of the best hotels in Manchester UK and you’ll be all set to explore all the city has to offer. You can spend days exploring its museums, shopping areas, galleries, and parks. At night, paint the town red as you mingle in the lively bars and dance in the pulsing clubs. Meanwhile, your room in one of the hotels in Manchester, England, will be waiting for you, and accommodate you as you recharge for another day of adventure.
Where To Stay in Manchester UK
Manchester lies 209 mi (337 km) northwest of London and 35.4 mi (57 km) east of Liverpool. It’s made up of vibrant districts, each with its own characteristics and attractions. The city center, for example, is home to many of the top things to do in Manchester. It’s made up of neighborhoods that are distinguished in their own right. You could stay in the bohemian Northern Quarter, where restaurants, bars, shops, and nightclubs abound.
Spinningfields is the city center’s business district. Populated by striking office buildings, its bars and restaurants come alive after work hours. Canal Street enjoys popularity with the LGBT+ set. Called the Gay Village, it likewise boasts a vibrant nightlife.
Outside the city center, you’ll also find many great places to stay. For instance, there’s the Salford Quays. Located on the waterfront, it offers terrific shopping, art, and theater. The market town of Stretford is another place to consider. Roughly 4 mi (6 km) from the city center, it’s the home of the highly popular Manchester United Football Club and the Lancashire County Cricket Club.
No matter where you choose to stay, you don’t have to worry unduly about getting around. Traveling within the city is easy and convenient because of the efficient Metrolink (tram) and the extensive bus network. On top of that, many hotels in Manchester UK sit close to public transport stops.
The Midland
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Does staying in one of the Edwardian hotels in Manchester UK sound appealing? If so, you should consider the award-winning The Midland. Dating from 1903, this grand hotel is a Grade II listed building designed by Charles Trubshaw in the Edwardian Baroque style. Located in the city center, it’s a quick walk from the Manchester Central Library and the Town Hall.
Home to 312 en suite rooms and 14 luxury suites, The Midland allows you to unwind in style. All types of accommodation include A/C and free Wi-Fi. Booking a suite, however, lets you enjoy a more spacious lounge and bedroom areas. What’s more, some suite bedrooms offer magnificent skyline views.
Staying in The Midland gives you the privilege of enjoying world-class dining venues. Savor an unforgettable meal in the highly acclaimed The French restaurant, and have a drink at The Midland Bar. Later, indulge your senses at the Rena Spa. Here, you can soak in the heated relaxation pool, experience soothing massages, and more.
The Lowry Hotel
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Named after the beloved Salford artist L. S. Lowry, it’s no surprise that art is all around at The Lowry Hotel. You’ll find them in each of the huge rooms, which also boast marble bathrooms and modern furnishings. And if you book one of the riverside suites, you’ll get to enjoy original art by the acclaimed artist Alan Rankle.
At the bar, you can admire fine art pieces that are changed every six weeks. Likewise, the iconic River Restaurant features walls covered with colorful art. Of course, the hotel is more than just beautiful. It also offers a restful experience, particularly at the spa. Here, you can enjoy massages and treatments from expert therapists. Plus, there’s a fitness center where you can use the services of a personal trainer.
The Lowry is one of the 5-star hotels in Manchester, England. Located in Salford, it sits on the River Irwell’s banks. Several attractions are within walking distance, including the People’s History Museum.
Hyatt House Manchester
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Apartment hotels in Manchester UK enjoy great popularity and it’s easy to see why. Hyatt House Manchester, for instance, is a great place to stay, especially if you’re the type who likes to cook. Each of its rooms includes a full kitchen, so preparing a meal is a breeze. On top of that, there’s a desk if you need to get some work done and a flat-screen TV for some entertainment.
Home-cooked seasonal cuisine awaits at the Laureate Restaurant. Meanwhile, the Graduate Bar offers a hot and cold bar snack menu as well as your favorite cocktails. And to help you maintain your exercise routine, the fitness center offers the latest cardio and weight training equipment.
From the hotel, you can walk to nearby landmarks. One notable example is the Palace Theatre, which is one of the biggest and most well-equipped theaters outside London.
Hotel Football, Old Trafford, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
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Fans of the Manchester United Football Club will enjoy staying at Hotel Football. This 4-star property is among the most popular themed hotels in Manchester, England. Overlooking the Old Trafford stadium, home of the Man U team, it’s filled with references to the beautiful game. Each of its 133 rooms and suites, for instance, come with bespoke Class of ’92 toiletries and football-themed prints and wallpaper.
The colorful Cafe Football serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And if you’d like something to drink with a bit of spirit in it, you can head to the sports bar. Meanwhile, a rooftop pitch, dubbed “Heaven,” hosts special events. Hotel Football, part of the Marriott Group’s Tribute Portfolio Hotels, also offers meeting venues. Hence, it’s no surprise that it’s a popular business hotel as well.
Besides Old Trafford, other attractions are close by. If you can’t quite bend it like Beckham, you can aim for a hole in one at the Trafford Golf Centre. Or, take the kids kayaking at the Helly Hanson Watersports Centre.
Motel One Manchester-Royal Exchange
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The 4-star Motel One Manchester-Royal Exchange is one of the hotels in Manchester UK to honor the city’s industrial heritage. Manchester once had a booming cotton trade, hence its nickname “Cottonopolis.” In this hotel, you’ll find classic furniture, paper sculptures, and others that pay homage to 19th-century Manchester’s cotton processing days.
The rooms are cozy yet modern, equipped with air-conditioning and smart TVs from which you can stream movies and music. Meanwhile, king or queen beds fitted with cushioned headboards and Egyptian cotton sheets make for a good night’s sleep.
You can begin your day with a healthy breakfast buffet, which features organic products and Fairtrade coffee. At the “One Lounge”, you can choose from a wide selection of snacks and drinks. Close by, there are also plenty of pubs and bars along Deansgate road. Likewise, the Gothic tower of the Manchester Cathedral is within walking distance.
Holiday Inn Manchester – City Centre
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As you can infer from its name, the Holiday Inn Manchester – City Centre sits smack dab in the heart of town. Hence, it scores tops when it comes to location. Set on the trendy Northern Quarter’s edge, it’s a favorite among LGBT+ travelers because of its proximity to Canal Street’s vibrant gay village. Also, the Metrolink stop is close by, so it’s easy and convenient to explore the city by tram.
The stylish rooms and suites also make this 4-star property one of the most popular hotels in Manchester, England. All rooms offer flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and a work desk with a lamp. But if you choose a suite, you’ll also enjoy a minibar, a separate living room, and a complimentary morning newspaper.
The hotel boasts the city’s only open lobby, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast as well as full 3-course meals in the evening. The lobby also serves as a bar, which offers an extensive menu of original cocktails.
AC Hotel by Marriott Manchester Salford Quays
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Modern, understated, and clutter-free are some of the words that come to mind at the AC Hotel by Marriott Manchester Salford Quays. Here, the rooms offer a relaxing color palette of earthy hues. But, as expected from a 4-star hotel, they boast modern features. From satellite TV to power showers, they provide what’s needed for a comfortable stay.
The AC Kitchen is where to head to in the morning for a hearty breakfast buffet. Meanwhile, the laid-back AC Lounge is perfect for a nightcap after a day of sightseeing. And if you’d like to sweat it out in the morning or at night, the 24/7 fitness center will be glad to accommodate you.
Though it isn’t one of the hotels in Manchester UK that’s located in the city center, the AC Hotel is still well-located for sightseeing. From here, you can walk to MediaCity where shopping, restaurants, and bars abound. Likewise, the Lowry Arts Centre is a short stroll away.
Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford
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Sports fans will have a field day at the 4-star Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford. It’s located at the Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground, the base of the Lancashire County Cricket Club.
The hotel offers 150 rooms spread across 5 floors. But to make your stay extra special, book one of the 85 rooms with pitch views. Each one has a balcony, which will give you a great vantage point of what’s happening below, be it a game or a concert. Also, you can take advantage of the hospitality boxes that are set up on match days. These prime viewing spots make the Hilton Garden Inn one of the top hotels in Manchester UK.
A refreshing breakfast sets you up at the Garden Grille restaurant and bar in the morning. And when the munchies strike later, you can get a snack at the hotel shop. Also, you can keep fit in the hotel gym or walk to nearby landmarks like the Imperial War Museum.
Didsbury House Hotel
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Set in a Victorian townhouse, Didsbury House Hotel is, without a doubt, among the most charming hotels in Manchester, England. This 4-star property features 27 rooms and suites, all charmingly decked out in floral and garden themes. With features like handmade pocket sprung mattresses and goose feather pillows, we wouldn’t blame you if you’re tempted to sleep in!
The light-filled breakfast room offers light continental meals. If you have a bigger appetite, you’ll appreciate the traditional full English and Irish breakfasts that are cooked to order. Meanwhile, the bar lounge invites you to relax with a glass of wine. Or, you could sit with a drink in front of the walled terrace’s fireplace.
The hotel is in the tranquil Didsbury neighborhood in southern Manchester. But if you find yourself hankering for the bustling city center, you can take a tram or a bus from the station or stop close by.
King Street Townhouse
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Historic hotels in Manchester, England, tend to be breathtaking and King Street Townhouse is no exception. This 4-star hotel occupies an 1872 building constructed in the Italian Renaissance style and is as regal as they come. Located in the Upper King Street conservation area in the city center, it’s close to Albert Square. This bustling public square is where the Manchester Christmas Markets take place.
The hotel opened its doors in December 2015 and is popular among couples. Also, it’s one of the top gay-friendly hotels in Manchester. Each of its 40 rooms and suites is ideal for a romantic getaway. But for a spectacular stay, we recommend booking one of the suites. Here, you can luxuriate in a free-standing bath at the foot of the bed. You can also admire views of the Town Hall and clock tower from floor-to-ceiling windows.
You’ll also enjoy these views from the amazing infinity pool on the 7th floor. The pool is part of the hotel spa, which also offers a steam room and a relaxation room. And when it comes to gastronomy, the hotel offers classic dishes at the Tavern Restaurant and Bar.
The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
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If you’re looking for 5-star hotels in Manchester UK, you can’t go wrong with Edwardian Manchester. Part of the Radisson Collection group, it’s the embodiment of luxury. And, housed in the Grade II-listed Free Trade Hall building, the hotel itself is a landmark in the heart of the city.
Following a multimillion-pound refurbishment, the 263 rooms and suites offer outstanding comfort. Sleep on handcrafted Vispring mattresses and high-thread-count Egyptian bedding and enjoy plenty of natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. The suites, meanwhile, boast separate areas for entertaining. Some also have balconies where you can drink in sweeping views of the city.
At the award-winning Peter Street Kitchen restaurant, you can savor Japanese and Mexican cuisine. Later, enjoy afternoon tea or a pre-dinner cocktail at The Library bar. And of course, no stay in one of the best hotels in Manchester, England, would be complete without a dip in the indoor pool or pampering in the spa.
Recommended Restaurants / Food Tours in Manchester:
- Hard Rock Cafe Manchester – Experience a meal to remember in Great Britain’s largest Hard Rock Cafe! Choose a 2- or 3-course meal and get set to rock your taste buds.
- Manchester Food Tour With A Local Guide – Discover Manchester’s culinary traditions during this multi-stop food tour. Bring your appetite and prepare for eight tastings across the city!
Recommended Activities In Manchester:
- Welcome To Manchester: Private Tour With A Local – See firsthand where Manchester’s residents go to eat and shop. A local guide will share insights about the top things to do in the city and the best ways to get around.
- Manchester Art Gallery – More than 25,000 objects are on display here, including paintings, miniatures, prints, and furniture. Established in 1823, the gallery is in the city center, not far from some of the top hotels in Manchester, England.