A vibrant fusion of rich industrial heritage, cutting-edge musical innovation, and a spirited, welcoming atmosphere makes this city an incredibly compelling destination. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Manchester based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Manchester: Motel One Piccadilly
Best boutique hotel in Manchester: The Cow Hollow Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Manchester: The Stock Exchange Hotel
Best hostel in Manchester: YHA Manchester
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
The Edwardian Manchester is a masterclass in blending history with high-end luxury. Housed within the iconic Grade II-listed Free Trade Hall, the hotel occupies a site famously linked to the 1819 Peterloo Massacre. Originally designed by Edward Walters in the 1850s, the building served as a monument to the repeal of the Corn Laws and later became the legendary home of the Hallé Orchestra.
Fodors + 2 more“In the heart of the city, this elegant option invites you to unwind with its atmospheric spa (complete with a urban subterranean swimming pool, sauna, steam rooms and cutting-edge gym), luxurious afternoon teas, and memorable dining including contemporary Japanese and Mexican small plates in Peter Street Kitchen.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Manchester.
The Velvet Hotel is a stylish boutique gem located right in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Canal Street. Opened in 2009, the property occupies the upper floors of a building that has long been a local nightlife institution, perched directly above the famous Velvet Bar and restaurant.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“Nineteen beautiful bespoke rooms each oozing style: there’s the sleigh bed in room 24, the double bath of room 34, the saucy framed photographs of a stripped-down David Beckham (this is Gay Village, after all!). Despite the tantalising decor and location, this is not an exclusive hotel and is as popular with straight visitors as it is with the same-sex crowd.”
The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is a striking landmark in the heart of Manchester, famous for its magnificent clock tower and terracotta-clad exterior. Originally built between 1891 and 1932 as the headquarters for the Refuge Assurance Company, this Grade II listed building is a masterpiece of Victorian design by the renowned architect Alfred Waterhouse, who also designed London’s Natural History Museum.
New York Times + 1 more“The Clocktower Hotel offers contemporary comfort and boutique-hotel chic for history buffs. After a renovation costing more than 25 million pounds, the Clocktower has kept intact the lovely period faience in hallways, and the glass-domed ceiling in the spacious lobby, while converting former clerks’ offices into wood-paneled bedrooms with soaring ceilings and sleek subway-tile bathrooms.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 hours in Manchester.
The Cow Hollow Hotel is a beautifully restored Victorian textile warehouse tucked away in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter. Once a bustling hub of the city’s industrial past, the building has been lovingly converted by owners Muj and Amelia Rana into an intimate 16-room boutique escape. They worked hard to strip back the layers, revealing 150-year-old brickwork and original oak beams to anchor the hotel in its rich Northern heritage.
The Guardian + 1 more“Its own way this boutique hotel is doing something that feels fresh and honest, true to the Northern Quarter’s historic zest for originality. In the wider context of Manchester city centre, which lacks interesting, independent stays, it is a find.”
The Lowry Hotel, a five-star landmark nestled on the banks of the River Irwell, has been a symbol of modern luxury in Greater Manchester since opening in 2001. Designed by Consarc Architects, its striking glass-fronted exterior was specifically created to reflect the dappled light and movement of the river, offering a sleek, contemporary contrast to the city's industrial heritage.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“Visiting rock stars and luxury hunters tend to favour this modern, five-star hotel (not to be confused with the arts centre in Salford Quays), where the fabulous bedrooms have enormous beds and ergonomically designed furniture.”
King Street Townhouse is a sophisticated boutique hotel tucked away in the heart of Manchester’s upper King Street conservation area. Housed in a stunning Grade II-listed building inspired by Italian Renaissance architecture, the hotel masterfully blends historic Victorian charm with modern, bespoke luxury. It’s a favorite for those who appreciate character and design, with each of its 40 individually styled rooms offering a unique sense of place.
Telegraph + 1 more“You’ll instantly feel relaxed in King Street Townhouse, a charming 40-room boutique hotel. From its infinity spa-pool with a spectacular view of the Town Hall clock, and stylish public areas, to bedrooms you’ll struggle to leave, this is an indulgent retreat in the city centre.”
Roomzzz Manchester Victoria offers a unique stay inside the iconic, Grade II-listed Corn Exchange. Originally built in the late 19th century as a trading hub for corn and grain, the stunning building has been beautifully repurposed. Its architecture remains a standout feature, blending historical Edwardian character with modern, stylish apartment living.
Fodors + 1 more“All spruced up and fresh from an early-2018 opening, the newest incarnation of the Roomzzz Aparthotel group sits within the iconic and historic restaurant hub known as the Manchester Corn Exchange.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Manchester.
The Stock Exchange Hotel in Manchester is a stunning example of Edwardian Baroque architecture, originally built between 1904 and 1906 by architects Bradshaw, Gass & Hope. Once the city's bustling financial hub, this Grade II listed building was lovingly transformed into a luxury hotel by former Manchester United stars Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs, reopening its doors in 2019.
Telegraph“This city centre hotel, housed in Manchester’s former Stock Exchange, shows off its heritage with style. Original features such as marble columns, stained glass and fireplaces sparkle, while an excellent restaurant by chef Tom Kerridge is in pride of place in the building’s magnificent dome, formerly the trading floor.”
Motel One Manchester-Piccadilly, which opened in 2015, is a smart, design-focused hotel located right in the city’s transport hub. The building itself is a clever piece of modern architecture, featuring a 14-storey tower that wraps around a historic local pub, the Monroes. This clever placement pays homage to the site's past, as it sits on land once occupied by "The Twisted Wheel," an infamous music venue legendary in the Northern Soul scene.
New York Times“Across from the Piccadilly Rail Station, the sleek design inside Motel One, an outpost of the German budget hotel chain, makes up for the more dingy feel of the street outside.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Manchester.
Recommended by:
Fodors, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
The Guardian, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Telegraph, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Fodors, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times
The best areas to stay in Manchester are: City Center, Salford Quays, Chinatown, Castlefield and Northern Quarter. Please read our extensive guide about where to stay in Manchester. It gives a great overview about each area, including the museums, attractions and other things, as well as the best place to stay in each neighborhood.
If you’re looking for an affordable hotel, then book Motel One Piccadilly. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Manchester.
You like some luxury but don’t like the famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Manchester, you should check out The Cow Hollow Hotel. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. For more cool hotels, check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Manchester.
If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Manchester, then go for the Stock Exchange Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. For more 5-star hotels, check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Manchester.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in Manchester? Check out YHA Manchester. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our shortlist of the best hostels in Manchester, it’s based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $160 per night and for a 4-star hotel, you would be looking at $250 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star Manchester hotel then you can expect to pay around $400 per night.
Let’s start the day with some good food. The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is an excellent option if you’re looking for a Manchester hotel offering a great breakfast. Recent guests have given great ratings for the breakfast service at this hotel.
Planning a holiday trip to Manchester with your family? Guests who traveled to Manchester with their families rated The Cow Hollow Hotel very highly.
There are a lot of things to do in Manchester and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in and around Manchester.
Manchester United Museum and Stadium Tour
Immerse yourself in the history of Manchester United. Get behind the scenes access to the dressing room, tunnel, players' dugout and exclusive areas. Price: $35. More info.
60-Minute River Cruise in Manchester
Take a 60 to 70-minute cruise along Manchester's historic Ship Canal and River Irwell on board a boat from central Manchester. Venture through the industrial heartland of the north of England and see historic monuments such as Stephenson's railway bridge. Price: $13. More info.
From Manchester: Lake District, Windermere, and Lancaster
Take a journey through the exciting landscapes of the Lake District. Learn the tales of Windermere, the largest lake in England. Admire Wordsworth’s cozy Dove Cottage. Marvel at the medieval architecture of Lancaster. Price: $72. More info.
More things to do in Manchester
Manchester, situated in the heart of North West England, stands as a testament to the transformative power of the Industrial Revolution. Historically known as Cottonopolis during the nineteenth century, the city was the world’s first industrial metropolis, where the clatter of power looms and the smoke of countless chimneys fueled a global textile economy. This period of intense production not only shaped the physical landscape, defined by its red-brick warehouses and canal networks, but also forged a spirit of radicalism and reform. It famously became the site of the Peterloo Massacre in 1819, a pivotal moment in the struggle for democratic representation.
Today, Manchester has successfully transitioned from its manufacturing roots to become a vibrant, modern cultural hub that stands for innovation, inclusivity, and creative defiance. It is a city that embraces its dual identity as a heavyweight in both global football and cutting-edge music, fostering an atmosphere where heritage buildings now house tech startups, art galleries, and bustling social spaces. Its ethos remains deeply rooted in a working-class pride, characterized by a bold, independent spirit that championed everything from the suffrage movement to the modern scientific breakthroughs born within its world-class universities.
Beyond the well-trodden paths of industrial tourism, the city harbors intriguing secrets. It is home to the world’s oldest public lending library, Chetham’s Library, which has been in continuous use since 1653 and once served as a meeting place for Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. Furthermore, Manchester was the site of the first successful splitting of the atom by Ernest Rutherford in 1917, and it witnessed the birth of the world’s first stored-program computer, “Baby,” in 1948. These milestones underscore Manchester’s enduring role as a cradle of progress, constantly evolving while remaining fiercely committed to its unique, resilient character that refuses to be eclipsed by the shadow of its capital, London.
Please do read our guide on where to stay in Manchester, so you get an even better idea about the city.
If you like our list of best places to stay in Manchester, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Dublin or the best hotels in Glasgow.