Manchester has a huge selection of budget chain hotels, but which one to choose? On a recent visit to the city we checked-in to The Portland Hotel by Thistle and were pleasantly surprised…
The hotel has the perfect location, over looking Piccadilly Gardens, just a 5 minute walk from the train station – ideal for dropping off your bags before you hit the shops, which also happen to be just a short walk away. Located in an impressive Victorian Building the hotel houses 204 rooms, two restaurants and bars, and a gym.
On arrival the reception staff were friendly and helpful – nothing like a bit of Northern charm! Keys in hand we made our way up to our room for the night, the Junior King Suite Room – who said a budget hotel couldn’t be luxury too! The room with its King sized four-poster bed, leather sofa, flat screen TV, Jacuzzi bath, separate lounge area and twin sinks was everything a suite should be.
In need of a bit of R&R we made our way down to the hotel’s pool and sauna, which although on the small side, were like a mini oasis in the inner city jungle – perfect for de-stressing after a busy day exploring. The gym was an added bonus, but we were on our jollies so stayed well away! Dressed in our complimentary robes we made our way back upstairs to take advantage of the in-room tea making facilities and get on our dancing shoes, with the Northern Quarter a short walk away there was no need for a taxi and more cash for the vino!
Breakfast is served a’la buffet and reminded us of the department stores breakies you get in the likes of Debenhams. Check out was quick and painless which was much appreciated given the antics of the night before.
The Portland Hotel by Thistle is a great choice if you’re looking for a budget hotel slap, bang in the middle of Manchester with rooms starting at just £70 a night. We’d recommend paying extra for a Junior King Suite Room which start from £200, and for a suite in the city centre that’s a pretty good deal.
The Portland, Manchester, 3-5 Portland Street, Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, M1 6DP
www.thistle.com