The Midland Hotel Manchester Review: City Centre Convenience and Destination Dining

Almost ten years ago was the last time I was in Manchester and while it’s been a rather long time, not much has changed in the city centre in terms of looks. I used to spend almost every weekend here during my late teen’s and I can still remember it like the back of my hand. But what happened to all the awful buffet restaurants I used to eat in? Thankfully, they’ve been replaced with fabulous new eateries and delectable dining institutions. Even the hotel scene has changed for the better and one of the originals is The Midland Hotel, located right in the heart of the city.

Step into the lobby, drop your bags off and do what we did – relax. The check-in service was incredibly quick and our bags whisked away to our room before we had the chance to ask otherwise. There’s a fabulous spa too for ultra relaxation so as soon as you check-in, change into your dressing gown.

Climb the lifts and the many hallways and you may, if you’re lucky find your room. We were quite some while away from the main lift area but then our views and room size were well worth the journey. The hotel has played host to an array of Kings, Queens, Presidents and Prime Ministers over the years and so while alot of the hotel is quite modern in style, there’s alot of history behind the walls here.

We stayed in one of the very comfortable superior double rooms which offered bundles of space. A large lobby area also acted as a dressing room which was home to both a huge wardrobe and fully stocked minibar. Delve a little further and you’ll find the bedroom. Home to a very comfy bed, over 350sqft of space and fantastic views across the city of Manchester.

I quite enjoyed the colourful dressing table for getting ready too. Bright and lively which folds closed meaning it can double up as a breakfast table, at least that’s we used it for during the morning. There’s also some quality spa products in the bathroom from Geneva Guild, though our actual bathroom could have done with some updating.

Arguably one of this hotels biggest selling points is its rather gorgeous spa area. It’s very extensive and very relaxing. The Spa At The Midland has firmly positioned itself as one of the UK’s leading luxury spas and offers an abundance of relaxation areas, complete thermal experience and is 5 bubble rated. Start with the lifestyle showers, experience the sauna and aromatherapy steam bath – before spending an afternoon in the heated relaxation pool and jacuzzi. Finish off in the absolutely stunning relaxation room.

While the spa may be one of this hotels biggest selling points, it has a second – its food. A multitude of dining experiences from casual eating, to world-class fine dining. Pictured above is Mr Cooper’s Restaurant & Bar and while we didn’t get to eat here, we had a peak and it’s a really lovely space. Serving up a fresh and fuss-free menu which is designed to be shared.

For those seeking a more quintessentially British experience, afternoon tea at The Midland has been popular ever since the hotel opened in 1903. Interestingly this is also the only setting specifically designed and dedicated to solely afternoon tea and it can get rather busy – so book ahead to avoid disappointment!

Between all of this eating make sure you spend lots of time at the newly refurbished bar at the centre of the hotel, which was previously known as The Octagon Lounge. I’d not seen this area before its revamp, but in its new guise it’s now the centrepiece of this hotel. Art deco in style, royal blue and hints of copper and marble. There’s also a fabulous new cocktail list to tempt, though we stuck with a glass of our favourite Champagne before heading into our dinner reservation at The French by Adam Reid.

The French by Adam Reid is this hotels shining gem and so far for me it’s been the best meal I’ve eaten all year. Flavour, imagination, surprises and some of the best service you’ll find in the Manchester and beyond. Read my review and find out why I loved it so much and just why this talented head chef Adam Reid has turned The Midland into a destination hotel for food lovers.

A little full the next morning, we still managed to fit in an all important breakfast in bed. The classic full English, hot drinks, fruit juices and toast. A solid offering and nothing we could have faulted.

We had a lovely stay at The Midland Hotel in Manchester and while it perhaps isn’t the most luxurious hotel Manchester has to offer, it does have what some others don’t. Lots of history behind it, fantastic service, impressive sized bedrooms and destination dining rivalling some of the best restaurants in the UK. Book a night, eat in The French and drink too many cocktails in the bar – you’ll have a fantastic time.

NB: My stay was complimentary. All views are as always, my own. My views are not influenced by anyone other than my own palate and slightly poor eyesight.