Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Manchester
Expert reviews
“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.
“In an imposing terracotta Victorian building, with ornate original features and one of Manchester’s most popular bars, the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel combines classic good looks with a cool streak. And, despite its grand public areas, it’s warm and welcoming, with thoughtful extras for all guests, from families to dogs.”
What guests liked
- Top location
- Friendly staff
- Great breakfast
- Comfortable beds
- Free Wifi
All you need to know
With a variety of stunning spaces, Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is particularly aesthetically-pleasing. Nestled in a Victorian-era building dating back to the 1890s, Kimpton Clocktower Hotel has unparalleled craftsmanship, apparent in every room. Guests can enjoy the greenhouse-like lounge with incredibly high, opaque ceilings, bold-tiled flooring, and full-size indoor trees. The hotel restaurant’s crown molding and vintage wooden floors create a space filled with character. Vintage wood paneling in many of the guest rooms adds to this historical hotel’s charm. In the hotel ballroom, you can take in the largest event space in the North of England.
There are many different floor plans to choose from throughout the hotel, but each room comes with tasteful decor, private bathrooms, WiFi, and satellite TVs. Depending on the guest room, you will likely find fun pops of color, different-textured materials, exposed finishes, and incredibly comfortable bedding.
Located on the lively Oxford Road, you will only be a short walk away from abundant attractions, shops, and restaurants. However, the onsite dining does not disappoint. The Refuge Dining Room offers a vibrant space to enjoy an eclectic meal, or check out The Winter Garden for afternoon tea in an elegant environment. You will be within walking distance from several sights during your stay, like the Palace Theater, Bridgewater Hall, Library Theater, Canal Street, and the Manchester Art Gallery.
Hotel deals & lowest price guarantee
We partner with Booking.com and Agoda. Both booking websites offer the lowest price guarantee, so you can be certain you will always get the best deal for this hotel. If you have seen a better price elsewhere, all you need to do is contact the booking website, and they will refund you the difference immediately. You can price match right up until the day before check-in.
Location
Recent guest reviews
9 November 2025
Very good
Beautiful building with very impressive architecture, don't use the lift, take the stairs....it'll blow you away.
Cooked breakfast was 5/10. It wasn't worth the £20 odd pounds and was lukewarm, scrambled egg was watery. The young waiter was rushed off his feet and forgot my coffee. Lots of supervisors but only one grafter. The hotel room windows were filthy and the noise from outside way too loud...need better sound insulation of the windows.
9 November 2025
Exceptional
The whole experience was amazing, to stay in such an iconic building was a privilege.
I came back in the evening not at all late,the door security where quite intimidating even when I proved I had a room
9 November 2025
Exceptional
Amazing venue, nice atmosphere very convenient near Oxford road station. Lovely products in the room and I felt very accommodated to if I was to forget anything.
8 November 2025
Fantastic stay
Lovely building, quirky due to its age but fab architecture. Grand and spacious rooms, modern but still maintaining traditional style room amenities (coffee, drink and snacks) are a nice touch. Breakfast is varied and tasty. Service is friendly. I was there for an event and it was great too
Nothing
7 November 2025
Great visit but did not appreciate being phoned at 3.30/am re delivery of food not ordered by us.
Location
Liked everything
6 November 2025
Great stay for 1 night with kids
Spacious room. Comfortable beds. Nice toiletries. Plentiful hot water. Excellent gym. Internal decor of main spaces including the entrance hall, dining areas etc were very grand and Victorian.
Some corridors seem a little dingy but I’m probably being overly critical.
6 November 2025
The staff were very friendly, the breakfast was vast and very good...loved everything about our stay
The decor of the hotel was very nice, the room was very spacious and comfortable...especially the bed and pillows provided
The noise from the street and trains passing close by
5 November 2025
Great upgrade. Gorgeous high ceilings
Upgrade to a lovely room. High ceilings
Nothing
5 November 2025
Slightly disappointed.
Hotel very close to the train station. Room was comfortable. Architecture of the building outstanding. Great cocktails before the loud chatter started.
We booked a table at the restaurant in the winter garden however there was a conference happening in the hotel. We couldn’t get to the bar to order further drinks. Also once seated we couldn’t hear each other speak. If the hotel would have told us there was a conference we would have booked a table at a different venue.
5 November 2025
Kimpton Clocktower is an amazing and unique hotel, we will be staying again I hope.
The staff were amazing, the room was good for the amount we paid, it would have been better to be able to open the windows and also it could have done with a light switch on the RH side of the bed, but these are small issues. the coffee and tea tray was very good, so all good in the room. The building is stunning and more information points aroud the public areas telling us more about its history , and the "ghosts!" would really add to the experience. The breakfast was excellent and great value for money. The team were "super" helpful and friendly.
One criticism, I get having a DJ on some evenings, but on a Sunday night? it could have worked better if the vibe was more chilled and relaxed, the DJ was playing for herself, too high energy and party feel to what was effectively an empty bar, she should read the room.
3 November 2025
Good place to stay but avoid the evening meal at all costs.
The hotel, entrance and room were nice, with lovely decour.
Everything was good other tyhan the evening meal which at £145 for the 2 of us what quite honestly discusting. the service was not good, we ate (at 20:000 whilst the dining area was being prepared for breakfast the next morning, the steak was served raw when it was asked for as medium, the triple cooked chips weren;t even cooked once and the portion sizes we tiny for the cost.
2 November 2025
Gorgeous
Stunning surroundings.
1 November 2025
Fabulous
The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel dazzles with grand Victorian decor—marble columns, mosaic floors, and a soaring clocktower dome. High-ceilinged rooms blend heritage charm with modern luxury, while warm staff, bold cocktails, and a vibrant atrium restaurant make every moment unforgettable.
NOTHING
31 October 2025
Elegant
Social hour, excellent breakfast, amazing architecture
Room was a tad on the small side
31 October 2025
Fabulous
The cleanliness, the size of the room and bathroom was excellent. The vintage interior had us spellbound. The winter garden was another add on fantasy. Swift check in and check out. Breakfast variety was excellent, specially the fruits and drinks.
The room should have 1 more lamp. The ceiling light was too bright and without the other lamps were not enough. At breakfast, there was no salt shaker(not even on other tables around, all were black pepper). No arrangements to toast/heat the croissants.
29 October 2025
A wonderful experience and would definitely stay again.
Amazing lobby and the smell was incredible. Reception staff were very friendly and helpful. Loved the free drinks in the bar too 😊
The bathroom was a little dirty.
29 October 2025
Fabulous
Historic building, excellent staff
29 October 2025
Wokd definitely go back
Room was gorgeous. We had lots of complimentary toiletries. Nothing was too much trouble. Gym facilities were really good. Hotel is stunning. Breakfast was good.
Nothing.
28 October 2025
Fabulous
the room was quirky, well porportioned and
28 October 2025
Beautiful hotel
Location, facilities. The room was beautiful.
Nothing
28 October 2025
Great hotel with interesting historical features and exceptional staff.
Unique and beautiful property. Loved the historical features and the very high ceilings. Rooms were spacious.
27 October 2025
Stylish, classic building that oozes charm. Unrivalled service,
What a fantastic hotel! Steeped in history, and kept very well preserved with a fantastic stylish and classical presentation. However, to match such a wonderful building were the staff. Such a well managed team that cannot do enough to ensure your stay is as smooth as the polished antique tiled deco. The rooms were spacious, stylish, and furnished to match the rest of the hotel. The beds were comfy and a great nights sleep was had. Extra effort has been made with the smallest of details to raise a pleasing smile. In the evening, the hotel bar had a great ambience, with its own brand of catered music, and a guest only service after late hours, which was nice. Literally could not fault the stay, and will defo recommend and stay here in future.
Nothing!
27 October 2025
Lovely stay
Modern, stylish, clean. Beautiful decor, beautiful bar area.
Nothing
27 October 2025
Exceptional
Stunning hotel. If you appreciate hotels with character and a story then you'll love this place
27 October 2025
Comfortable and enjoyable.
On arrival, my room was not ready (I arrived well after 3pm check-in)which was stressful for me. Nora on reception was professional charm personified and offered me a comp breakfast for the wait.
It was unfortunate that my room was not ready well after the 3pm check-in. This circumstance was, however, mitigated by a complementary breakfast the following morning.
25 October 2025
Excellent Hotel, can't wait to come back
The staff were welcoming & friendly. Hotel was clean & facilities were good quality & easily accessible. The location was perfect for us to explore Manchester in the short time we had. Marina checked us in & was very helpful. When she found out we were staying for our 'baby-moon', she upgraded our room to make it more accessible for me & when we came back that night, she'd put together a wonderful gift. Really made the stay special. Bar was good, good choice of drinks. Breakfast was fresh & excellent quality.
Nothing
25 October 2025
Luxury stay at an afffordable price
The property was stunning, the customer service was fantastic, the rooms were clean and tidy and the amenities were amazing.
23 October 2025
Great hotel
Stunning interior. The room was beautiful - exceptional bathroom. Really comfy bed. Staff are so friendly and helpful. Great location. I always stay here when visiting Manchester. I asked if my room could be changed to a different side of the hotel - (just personal preference). Receptionist happily changed for me.
First time I've noticed used dishes/cups left on tables at breakfast. Took a while for coffee to arrive at table. Cooked breakfast items didn't seem to be replenished in a timeous way at self service. Just didn't seem to be running as efficiently as per my previous visits. Maybe just an off day.
22 October 2025
Exceptional
Breakfast was lovely and room was clean
22 October 2025
Great staff , loved the social hour in the post room
The hotel was lovely 🥰 very quirky and imposing
The air conditioning was very noisy , had to turn it off due to the loudness
21 October 2025
Exceptional
Fantastic architecture, lovely staff and great location bear the NQ
21 October 2025
Fabulous
Beautiful property, high ceilings, spacious bedrooms.
21 October 2025
Beautiful historic hotel in a great area of Manchester
Beautiful hotel in a great location. Friendly and helpful staff. Rooms are very spacious and full of character.
20 October 2025
A hotel that everyone needs in their life
Beautiful old building. Rooms with original tiles and very high c20ft ceilings. Spacious. Great layout and friendly / helpful staff. Nice tuck box in room and you can have things you specifically want in the fridge in your room Also early check in
The bed in my room was a standard double which I find small No decaf tea available Breakfast great quality but can get cold with cold plates and constant open server dishes at busy times 9-10.30
20 October 2025
Very good hotel
Classical and full of character Breakfast fantastic
Too big and complicated getting to the rooms, signs not clear
20 October 2025
Brilliant hotel with very professional and polite staff
The overall excellent standard of the hotel
There was'nt anything i didn't like
19 October 2025
Happy Hotel 🩷🩷🩷🩷
I loved the cushion on the bed so cute, I loved the fact it was so quiet. I loved how big the hotel was even tho I got lost about 5 times trying to find my room. I loved that there was a fridge in the room the bed was so comfortable & the size of the room was amazing! I loved that there was a bath & the shower was amazing!!!! I will definitely love to stay again! All the staff were really nice. I also loved the fact I could have a later check out. I really loved the fact I could chill in this bar bit with tables in nobody bothered me I could just chill after I checked out!!!!!!!
The only thing is that I went downstairs to get a complementary drink but they didn't have any pop they only.had apple juice. Otherwise it was perfect!!!!!
19 October 2025
Amazing building and facilities !
The room was premium standart.The staff was excellent
19 October 2025
Great stay!
Stunning reception and great service when checking in
There was a lot of noise by our room in the night as I think we were located near storage cupboards
19 October 2025
Fabulous
Fabulous hotel!
17 October 2025
Good stay, staff really friendly and architecture superb
Location was ideal and fairly close to Manchester Piccadilly
The signage for the rooms weren’t as clear as the could have been
17 October 2025
Brilliant
everything
N/A
17 October 2025
Fabulous
Building is just stunning!
It was smaller than I thought.
16 October 2025
Lovely hotel in a great location for theatre, shops etc.
Beautiful hotel, love staying here, 2 minute stroll from the Palace Theatre.
As far as I was concerned I’d booked a twin bedded room for myself and my friend, only to be told we had a double bed! We refused that room and after a little re-jigging we were offered a twin. Apparently there are no guarantees to your chosen room. Never had a problem before.
14 October 2025
Fantastic & worth the money.
Location- Decoration- Size of room- Room facilities
Nothing.
13 October 2025
Super room, lovely staff, great breakfast
Beautiful historic building with so much preserved.
Needed more history (information and pictures) of its previous existence as the Refuge Assurance. A key stone of Manchesters wealth and story.
13 October 2025
Fabulous
Old styling
N/a
13 October 2025
Exceptional
Amazing staff personnel, good breakfast, super good location
13 October 2025
Great stay as always
We have stayed at this hotel many times. Always a great stay. Beautiful rooms in a lovely hotel.
Hotel facilities
Food & Drink
- - Restaurant
- - Bar
- - Breakfast in the room
- - Snack bar
- - Kid meals
- - Coffee house on site
General
- - Room service
- - Non-smoking rooms
- - Facilities for disabled guests
- - Family rooms
- - Lift
- - Safety deposit box
- - Packed lunches
- - Heating
- - Allergy-free room
- - Non-smoking throughout
- - Air conditioning
- - Designated smoking area
- - Minimarket on site
- - Pet basket
- - Pet bowls
Business facilities
- - Meeting/banquet facilities (additional charge)
- - Business centre
- - Fax/photocopying (additional charge)
Reception services
- - 24-hour front desk
- - Express check-in/check-out
- - Currency exchange
- - Luggage storage
- - Concierge service
- - Invoice provided
Activities
- - Fitness centre
- - Games room
- - Nightclub/DJ
- - Fitness
- - Bicycle rental
Cleaning services
- - Laundry (additional charge)
- - Dry cleaning (additional charge)
- - Ironing service (additional charge)
- - Daily housekeeping
Entertainment and family services
- - Board games/puzzles
Parking
- - Parking garage
Accessibility
- - Wheelchair accessible
- - Toilet with grab rails
- - Lower bathroom sink
- - Emergency cord in bathroom
Outdoors
- - Outdoor furniture
Miscellaneous
- - 24-hour security
- - Key card access
- - Smoke alarms
- - CCTV in common areas
- - CCTV outside property
- - Fire extinguishers
- - Breakfast takeaway containers
- - Delivered food is securely covered
- - Access to health care professionals
- - Thermometers for guests provided by property
- - Face masks for guests available

More photos

10 November 2025
Wonderful historic building cleverly repurposed. Location great but expensive.