3 Hotels in Manchester

The city once plagued by the darker side of industrialisation is now a vibrant place to live and a popular destination for short stays, city breaks and weekend trips. Tour this former stronghold of the Industrial Revolution and you can’t help noticing the canals crossing the city. Used for transporting goods while industry was still booming, now the old warehouses along their banks are a distinctive element of the city’s image. Spacious loft apartments, chic bars and modern flats are now housed in these towering brick edifices, symbolising Manchester’s rebirth in modern times.

The Lowry cultural centre is also on the waterside at the Salford Quays docklands development. This complex, comprising two theatres, several galleries, cafés and restaurants, is built on what was formerly a reloading point for the cotton industry. Cross over the Manchester Ship Canal to reach the Imperial War Museum North, conceived to resemble a shattered globe shape, symbolising the effects of war.

Football’s coming home! Football fans are of course entirely spoilt in Manchester, and the Old Trafford stadium, home of Manchester United, is also a prime example of effective stadium architecture. Take a two-hour guided tour around these hallowed grounds to take your seat on the reserve bench, view the club’s trophies in its museum, and soak up the unparalleled atmosphere of the player tunnel itself. The National Football Museum to the north of the centre is another must-see for fans of the beautiful game, with free entry and exhibits including a replica of the sought-after Jules Rimet trophy, used for years as the World Cup trophy, and a jersey of Maradona’s from 1986.

If you prefer art to football, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Manchester Art Gallery on Mosley Street not far from our Design Hotel. It houses a significant collection of European art, focussing on works by UK artists.

The centre’s Northern Quarter right by the Motel One Manchester-Piccadilly is well worth a visit, home to trendy designer boutiques, pubs, clubs and jazz venues. It’s emblematic of the modern city, and attracts bands and fans from around the world. A warm Northern welcome awaits in Manchester.