Pre covid, the vibrant city of Manchester was the third most visited for international tourists in the UK – and you can see why! It's a city where history meets innovation and culture thrives at every corner. However, those visiting and staying in the city will now be faced with a ‘tourist tax’ - the first major city to do this in the UK. The City Visitor Charge means people pay an extra £1 per room, per night, for their accommodation cost with the money being reinvested into the city to help to run large events, conferences, festivals, marketing campaigns and for street cleanliness.
So, wondering where you can get the most bang for your buck? Well, fear not! As we have curated a list of our fave hotels, that not only offer exceptional comfort and service but are also worthy of that tourism tax splurge.
There’s a reason why Hotel Brooklyn has won multiple awards in the past few years - this a-list luxurious hotel is one not to be missed. Located in the heart of the city, Hotel Brooklyn plays homage to the hip, vibrant ethos of Brooklyn, New York in every aspect of its hotel, from décor to the food, you’re going to feel like you’re in the Big Apple!
The hotel defines itself as a sanctuary for the urban explorers - a living room away from home, a workplace divorced from the office. It offers four event spaces, ranging accommodating guest sizes of 12 to 150 guests. Their exclusive top-floor events and banqueting space, Brooklyn Heights offers stunning views of the Manchester skyline – a true nod to the famous New York skyline.
This hotel does exactly what it says on the tin – it offers luxury, with a large helping of industrial glamour. Kimpton Clocktower is one of the city’s most famous buildings and this Victorian masterpiece doesn’t shy away from detail and artistic touches. With its very own in-house florist (which we love) to the beautiful glass dome and signature bronze horse sculpture which greet you as enter the lobby.
Located in the city centre, it’s perfect for both small and large-scale events, featuring the largest hotel ballroom in Northwest England, with up to 1000 guests. Each of its 17 meeting rooms has a story to tell, think oak-panelled walls, high ceilings and chandeliers, a nod to the history of the building.
We love this Melia brand for so many reasons – it’s quirky, sustainability forward and innovative. Located in one of Manchester’s most dynamic and lively districts, surrounded by independent restaurant, bars and theatres. The building itself is a site to behold, boasting stunning contemporary architecture with an avant-garde British style.
Built for curiosity and creativity it houses six versatile meeting & event spaces (as well as it’s open production studio), all conveniently located on the first floor, with natural daylight and large open spaces, perfect for all types of training, meetings, live and virtual events.
Each of its 208 contemporary rooms and suites offer a unique style and décor, with little added touches like a complimentary mini-fridge and other in-room perks – which is always a bonus after a long day in meetings.
A former premises of Midland Bank and a listed building, Hotel Gotham has a lot to offer its guests. A luxury hotel, fabulous dining venue and a rooftop members' bar and club, it stands out from the crowd.
The hotel gives off a Wez Anderson vibe, think Grand Budapest hotel, with a lot less pink, but all the classical art deco features, staying true to the history of the almost 100-year-old building.
It’s a great venue for incentives, private dining or a team away day. Each of the four spaces are quirky and packed full of character, in the Honey restaurant you’ll find relics of banking past, with bowler hat displays, green glass wall lamps and banker chairs. You’ll find the GILT club, hidden two floors underground. An exclusive events space, with an atmosphere that resembles the famous 1930’s speakeasy cabaret clubs. If you are looking to wow your guests, this is the one.
If you’re looking for new ideas and locations for your next event or incentive, get in touch with us today at hello@besureevents.co.uk.
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BeSure Events Ltd is an agency made up of great minds, who are all experts in creating memorable experiences, both virtually and in person.
