Edwin Lutyens designed this Grade II-listed Art Deco Midland Bank building, whose imposing grandeur inspired the homage to Manhattan's glory days - writ large in its dramatic transformation to swanky boutique hotel. Rise in the elevator to the 1930s-style reception lobby on the 6th floor. Here, Honey restaurant monetises those 180º views through original arched windows; on the floor above is a delightful, gilt-tiled private members' club Brass. Weather permitting, you can even sip cocktails on the roof terrace while scanning a skyline which stretches to the Pennines.
Across the lower 5 floors, no expense has been spared in the 60 rooms and suites. Beds are luxuriously decked with faux-fur throws, posh linen and leather headboards, while well-stocked minibars boast cut-glass tumblers. Monochrome bathrooms have the most enormous rain showers. Repro steamer trunks complete with old-school binoculars, gold cocktail trolleys and geometric carpets all evoke bygone glamour. The building's banking heritage is also referenced in bank vault-style doors, bullion bars and money bags. Central, comfortable, quirky and brimming with Mancunian confidence, you're in for a treat staying here.
Highs
- Great central location in the city's shopping hub, close to nightlife, restaurants, attractions, transport
- The quality of the cleverly designed interiors, from bedroom to bathroom and in Club Brass, cannot be faulted
- Genuine, attentive service from staff dressed in pinstripe suits and '40s outfits
- We really liked the dishes in Honey restaurant, many with a modern Northern angle
- And we loved the captivating cocktails!
Lows
- Prices are steep for top suites, and for some extras
- Some may find the competing themes a tad contrived, such as the cast of Roaring Twenties characters in photographs and in the hotel newspaper
- Although nearby streets have little traffic, Manchester is a busy place, so be prepared for some construction noise by day (but windows are double-glazed)
- Lifts, which you'll need to access the compact 6th floor reception, are small
Best time to go
Manchester is a vibrant and buzzing city year round with much to recommend it in terms of heritage (both art and industry), shopping and lively nightlife. The wonders of the Pennines (to the North) and Peak District (to the East) are just over an hour away by car. It also famously rains a lot although less so in the summer months.
Our top tips
- Check out the Museum of Science and Industry, which has fascinating displays on Manchester's industrial heritage, including transport and textiles, and interactive galleries
- Don't miss out on the superb cocktails in Club Brass (you may need a little patience as service can be slow here)
Location
Hotel Gotham is right in the city centre, in the upscale shopping district, not far from Chinatown, Deansgate, the Opera House, and Arndale Shopping Centre.
By Air:
Fly to Manchester Airport, which is to the South of the city. It takes about 25 minutes by car to reach the hotel from Manchester Airport, or around 35 minutes by train. The hotel can book taxis.
By Train:
Many will arrive via the railways. There are fast services to Manchester Piccadilly railway station, including frequent trains from London Euston which take just over 2 hours. The station is about a 10-minute walk away. See Seat 61 for more details.
By Car:
You will not need a car to get around Manchester, however, you may want to hire a car to see the surrounding area. Valet parking is available at an additional charge, or parking is available at the NCP car park, 5-10 minutes walk away.
Detailed directions will be provided when you book through i-escape.com
More on getting to the UK and getting around
Airports:
- Manchester Airport 15.0 km MAN
Other:
- Beach 56.0 km
- Shops 0.1 km
- Restaurant 0.1 km