There’s no shortage of up-market hotels in Manchester that visitors can choose to stay in. For me, location is often the priority - I prefer not to have to jump in an Uber or black cab after a train journey. I recently stayed at the Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly, which, you’ve guessed it, is close to the station at less than a five-minute walk.
The city centre venue has not long been through a £33million refurbishment and now boasts 338 rooms and family suites, a bistro-style restaurant and bar, a large function room, 11 meeting rooms, an 'MClub Lounge', a gym, and a spa with seven treatment rooms. On arrival, the reception team quickly checked me in and sent me on my way to the top floor, where I’d stay in one of the 16 panoramic suites with views of the city’s skyline. The suite was very large, modern and very comfortable, with a great view - a really lovely touch was a note from the manager welcoming me alongside some chocolatey treats.
Inside one of the suites at Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly (Image: Newsquest) If you’re looking for things to do close to the hotel, you’re not short of options - the Arndale shopping centre is less than a 20-minute walk and the many bars of Canal Street are less than 10 minutes away on foot. If you’d prefer to go further afield or walking isn’t your thing, you can catch a tram from Piccadilly. I opted to stay in and have a relaxed evening and decided to take advantage of the M Club Lounge which was included in my stay.
It serves as a private area with complimentary self-service refreshments, including daily breakfast, evening hors d'oeuvres, and all-day snacks - access is available to guests who book an executive king room, junior suite, suite, or have Platinum Marriott Bonvoy status or higher. I was really impressed with this part of the stay; there was no shortage of hot and cold food and there were plenty of drinks on offer, including wine, vodka, gin, beer, juice, tea and coffee. And with enough bites on offer, I could save myself the bother of going out for dinner or eating at the restaurant; I opted for a cheese board, chicken wings and crudités, all of which were delicious.
The M Club Lounge self-service area (Image: Newsquest) After that it was time for bed and what ended up being a very peaceful night’s sleep in a large and exceedingly comfortable bed. Despite being next to busy roads and there being plenty of guests, I didn’t hear a thing and woke up to the glorious skyline. I had an early meeting in Manchester so decided to grab a quick bite to eat before checkout.
Although busy, there were tables available and plenty of options when it came to food (which was self-service), from continental to cooked breakfasts. Everything was piping hot and tasty, taking the hassle out of having to grab a bite on the go. Check-out was as speedy as check-in and I was sent on my way by the lovely team; every single member of staff I interacted with was a delight, they really couldn't do more for you.
I was sorry not to have more time to try the restaurant or the spa facilities - both of which I'll be visiting next time I stay; the only fault I can find with the Marriott Piccadilly is that it doesn't have a swimming pool. To book and to check the latest rates visit www.marriott.
com/en-gb/hotels/manmp-manchester-marriott-hotel-piccadilly/ Address: Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly. 91 London Road, Manchester, M1 2PG Check-in: 3pm Check-out: 11am Parking on-Site : Hourly £3.50, daily £20.
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I stayed in this newly-refurbished central Manchester hotel - here's what I thought
The city centre venue has not long been through a £33million refurbishment - here's what Regional Editor Richard Duggan thought of his stay.