Britannia Manchester Hotel

Britannia Manchester is housed in a grand, historic building, with statues and carved inscriptions at the entrance -- and the interiors don't disappoint. At least, they don't disappoint upon first glance. The lobby is dominated by an huge glass chandelier. But most impressive is the stunning staircase, which connects floor after floor through a central stairwell. Beautiful intricate wrought-iron spindles wind under curved wooden banisters, with gold trim and white pillars all contributing to the magnificent effect. Guests kick back in various lobby lounge areas and there are several restaurants too. However, rooms are altogether underwhelming, and noise is a common complaint, all making this a less-than-ideal property, despite its relative bargain rates. It's a busy city center hotel, with a steady flow of guests of all types, whether in town for business or leisure. However, it's also popular with tour groups, and weddings frequently take place here.

Britannia Manchester has a top location in the heart of the city, between the buzzy Northern Quarter and Chinatown. It's a 10-minute walk to shopping on Market Street, including the Arndale Centre, and about 15 minutes to Manchester Cathedral and the Football Museum. Piccadilly Gardens is a two-minute walk from the hotel for buses and trams across the city. From there, you can reach Old Trafford in about 20 to 25 minutes. Buses run from Chinatown -- also a two-minute walk away -- to Manchester Arena and nightlife on Deansgate, with a journey time of about 10 minutes. Buses also connect from the same stop to The Trafford Centre in about 35 minutes. Transit to the airport is pretty painless, with direct trains leaving from Manchester Piccadilly Station (less than a 10-minute walk from the hotel) to the airport in about 45 minutes. Alternatively, it's about a 20-minute drive.

Many rooms at the Britannia Manchester are looking worn, but the hotel is in the process of refurbishing as of 2017. The more modern rooms have a nice, traditional finish in keeping with the historic building -- with quality wood furniture and calm neutral tones. However, older rooms aren't fresh, and have tired decor and furniture. It's also important to keep in mind that many rooms are windowless, or only have a small skylight. Amenities include flat-screen TVs and coffee- and tea-making facilities, but regular in-room Wi-Fi access sadly comes with fees and there is no air-conditioning. Noise can also be an issue between rooms as walls are thin -- though exterior noise is also problematic in many units. Larger suites include Four Poster Suites and Double Suites, and these can be adapted with extra beds for families. Bathrooms have white and navy tiles, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and pump products. 

Britannia Manchester Hotel has two restaurants, serving all meals, including a buffet breakfast, which is discounted if booked ahead. There are also two bars -- one with club nights at weekends and its own entrance, and the other a typical hotel lobby bar with a traditional style. Nine conference rooms cater for groups of up to 200 ,including a grand ballroom with chandeliers, and the hotel has a wedding license. There is no gym or business center. Wi-Fi is free in public areas, and guests get a couple of free 20-minute sessions, after that there's a daily fee for use in rooms. The hotel offers discounted parking at a nearby car park. The front desk is manned around the clock and there's free luggage storage service.