Manchester, a city that embodies the glorious history of the Industrial Revolution, shines in music, football, and culture. Its hotels are equally full of stories and charm. If you’re looking to deeply experience the city’s history and unique atmosphere during your trip, why not stay in hotels that have stood the test of time, feeling the allure of places that have witnessed the passage of history?
From the grandeur of Victorian architecture to the elegance of Edwardian design, Manchester’s hotels tell a story of both innovation and tradition. These century-old landmarks not only offer luxurious accommodations but also provide an immersive experience into the city’s rich past. Staying in such hotels allows you to walk in the footsteps of famous figures such as Winston Churchill and Henry Royce, all while enjoying modern comforts and first-class services.
I will recommend three historic hotels with a century of stories, allowing you to experience the rich heritage of Manchester. These iconic buildings are more than just places to rest—they are windows into the past, where you can feel the pulse of history. Moreover, we’ve compiled a comprehensive accommodation guide for you, covering luxury hotels, trendy options, best value-for-money stays, and recommendations for those with a £50-£100 budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury, style, or affordability, we have something for everyone! No matter your preference, each hotel ensures you’ll not only be staying in comfort, but also living in the heart of Manchester’s cultural legacy.
By choosing these historic hotels, you get more than a room for the night—you get an opportunity to dive into the city’s essence, making your trip to Manchester truly unforgettable.I. Staying in History: 3 Legendary Centuries-Old Hotels in Manchester
- The Midland Hotel – Where Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George met
Address: 16 Peter St, Manchester M60 2DS
Price Range: £130 – £250 per night
Hotel Story:
Since its opening in 1903, The Midland Hotel has been one of Manchester’s most iconic luxury hotels. This elegant Edwardian building has hosted countless dignitaries, including Winston Churchill and British Prime Minister David Lloyd George. Even more astonishing, it was also the place where Rolls-Royce was born. Charles Rolls and Henry Royce met here and decided to collaborate, launching the luxury car brand.
Highlights:- Royal Elegance: A grand marble hall, stunning chandeliers, and vintage rooms transport you to the British upper class of the early 20th century.
- Award-winning Restaurant: Adam Reid at The French, recommended by the Michelin Guide, is the perfect spot to sample modern British cuisine.
- Luxury Spa: Relax your mind and body at the Rena Spa at The Midland, offering massages and saunas.
Ideal for: - Travelers seeking an aristocratic British stay
- Visitors who love high-quality accommodation and fine dining
- History enthusiasts interested in the stories of famous figures
- Kimpton Clocktower Hotel – From insurance company to Renaissance-style landmark
Address: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA
Price Range: £140 – £270 per night
Hotel Story:
Originally built in 1890 as The Refuge Assurance Company, this striking red-brick building is one of Manchester’s most magnificent structures. After several renovations, Kimpton Clocktower Hotel now blends the classical Renaissance architectural style with the comforts of a modern luxury hotel. The hotel’s iconic clock tower remains a charming feature of Manchester’s skyline.
Highlights:- Glamorous Retro Design: The hotel’s interiors retain original wooden floors, stained-glass windows, and intricate carvings, evoking a rich historical feel.
- Stylish Bar and Restaurant: The Refuge by Volta serves creative cocktails and British cuisine, loved by locals.
- Great Value: Despite its five-star qualities, it offers excellent value compared to similar hotels in London.
Ideal for: - Travelers who enjoy historical buildings but also desire modern comfort
- Design lovers who appreciate retro and artistic styles
- Those wishing to experience Manchester’s local fashionable lifestyle
- The Alan – A fashionable rebirth of Manchester’s old architecture
Address: 18 Princess St, Manchester M1 4LG
Price Range: £100 – £180 per night
Hotel Story:
The Alan is housed in a 19th-century Victorian building that once served as an office for a trading company. After renovations, it became a boutique hotel that seamlessly combines vintage charm with modern style. Unlike traditional luxury hotels, The Alan is known for its artistic design, attracting young trendsetters and cultural enthusiasts.
Highlights:- Industrial & Modern Design Fusion: Exposed brick walls, minimalist furniture, and open spaces offer a unique mix of historical charm and contemporary flair.
- Independent Café and Cocktail Bar: A hub for local creatives, enjoy artisanal coffee and handcrafted cocktails.
- Prime Location: Situated close to Manchester’s city center, it’s within walking distance to the Manchester Art Gallery and Chinatown.
Ideal for: - Young travelers seeking unique design experiences
- Photography enthusiasts, creative workers, and artists
- Those wanting to explore Manchester’s cultural and vibrant atmosphere
II. Manchester Accommodation Guide: Luxury, Trendy, Best Value Hotels
- Luxury Hotel Recommendations (£200+): Ultimate Luxury with Manchester’s History and Charm
For those who seek high-end comfort while soaking up Manchester’s distinctive historical and cultural ambiance, these three luxury hotels are your best choice.- Hotel Gotham
Address: 100 King Street, Manchester M2 4WU
Price: £200+ per night
Highlights: Art Deco style, vintage luxury, and an exclusive members-only bar
Hotel Gotham is one of Manchester’s most iconic five-star hotels, known for its Art Deco style and vintage opulence. The hotel exudes the golden age of British luxury from the 1920s-30s. Rooms are decorated with velvet curtains, brass fittings, and antique furniture, blending understated luxury with rich details.
Highlights:- Club Brass: A rooftop members-only bar offering stunning city views.
- Unique Design: Inspired by an old bank, it is full of “vault” elements and an air of mystery, making it a popular spot for fashion influencers and photographers.
- Stock Exchange Hotel
Address: 4 Norfolk Street, Manchester M2 1DW
Price: £250+ per night
Highlights: Former stock exchange, designed with Manchester’s financial history in mind
The Stock Exchange Hotel was once the Manchester Stock Exchange and has been transformed into a luxurious hotel, with investments from Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs. The hotel combines financial history with modern design, featuring stunning Victorian-era architecture.
Highlights:- Historical Legacy: Many rooms retain elements of the original stock exchange building.
- Michelin-starred Restaurant: Bull & Bear, led by renowned chef Tom Kerridge.
- Hotel Gotham
- Trendy Hotel Recommendations (£120-£200): Stylish & Instagram-worthy
If you love staying in hotels with distinctive design and trendy vibes, these two hotels in Manchester will certainly offer you memorable moments and plenty of photo opportunities.- Native Manchester
Address: 51 Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2TP
Price: £130-£180 per night
Highlights: Loft-style apartments with industrial chic
Native Manchester is housed in a converted cotton mill, retaining the building’s original industrial style with exposed red brick walls, metal pipes, and wooden floors, complemented by a minimalist, modern design.
Highlights:- Perfect for photo ops, every corner is full of retro industrial charm.
- The apartments have kitchenettes, ideal for long stays.
- Dakota Manchester
Address: 29 Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2JL
Price: £150-£200 per night
Highlights: Understated luxury, boutique hotel with top reviews
Dakota Manchester is known for its understated luxury, featuring dark tones, marble accents, and soft lighting to create a sophisticated atmosphere. It is considered one of the most stylish hotels in Manchester, highly rated by both locals and visitors.
Highlights:- Highly rated on booking sites.
- Elegant restaurant and cocktail bar, perfect for a nightcap.
- Native Manchester
- Best Value Hotels (£80-£150): High Quality & Reasonable Prices
If you want to enjoy a high-quality stay without breaking the bank, these two hotels offer great value for money.- The Edwardian Manchester
Address: Free Trade Hall, Peter Street, Manchester M2 5GP
Price: £120-£150 per night
Highlights: Four-star hotel with excellent facilities and prime location
The Edwardian Manchester is housed in a historical building, rich in cultural ambiance. It boasts a fitness center, an indoor pool, and high-end services at reasonable prices. - Motel One Manchester
Address: Multiple locations including Piccadilly and Royal Exchange
Price: £80-£120 per night
Highlights: European chain with stylish design and excellent value
Motel One offers modern minimalist rooms with full facilities at an affordable price, ideal for those on a budget but seeking comfort and style.
- The Edwardian Manchester
- Budget Accommodation Recommendations (£50-£100): Best Value Choices for Budget Travelers
For travelers on a budget of £50-£100, these three accommodations offer the best options:
Ibis Styles Manchester Portland (£70+): Budget hotel with great location
YHA Manchester (£50+): Popular among backpackers and students
Selina NQ1 Manchester (£60+): Trendy hotel in the vibrant Northern Quarter
No matter what your budget is, there’s a perfect accommodation choice for you in Manchester. From the luxurious The Midland Hotel to the Renaissance-style Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, and the artsy The Alan, each hotel tells the story of Manchester’s past and culture. If you’re a history lover, make sure to explore nearby landmarks, like the Manchester Central Library or the Manchester Art Gallery. Whether you’re after luxury, trendy vibes, or great value, Manchester has it all, making your stay a journey through time and culture!
Tags: Accommodation Guide, Manchester, The Midland Hotel