The Ainscow Hotel

Dating back to 1878, the brick building that the Ainscow Hotel occupies has been through several incarnations through the years, including as a brewery, jam factory, and auto parts shop. Some original features remain, adding to the atmosphere of the place, including steel beams and exposed brickwork. Interiors are clean and contemporary, featuring a sleek and sophisticated style. Neutral hues dominate, brightened by splashes of color like cherry red vases in the lobby and potted plants sprouting here and there. A masculine look prevails; the restaurant's bar area has handsome tufted dark leather couches paired with rustic wooden tables. There's also a charming rooftop terrace that offers cityscape views and chic wicker seating dotted with bright orange cushions. Overall, it's a great base for a stay in Manchester, with stylish interiors and a variety of features that attract leisure and business travelers alike. 

The hotel is situated along a main road near the Salford train station (a four-minute walk away). Manchester's restaurants, shops, and attractions are within a 15-minute walk of the property. Many top sites can be reached on foot, including the People's History Museum (seven-minute walk), the Manchester Opera House (nine-minute walk), Museum of Science and Industry (11-minute walk), the John Rylands Library (12-minute walk), the Royal Exchange Theatre (15-minute walk), the shops at Arndale Centre (17-minute walk), and the National Football Museum (18-minute walk). The Old Trafford stadium is about a 15-minute drive, as is the Imperial War Museum North. From the hotel, Manchester Airport is a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic, or about 50 minutes via public transportation.

Rooms feature sleek modern decor in a color palette of gray and white accented by bright tangerine or pale yellow hues courtesy of bed throws and pillows. Walls are bare, which make the spaces feel a bit characterless, but they're clean, contemporary, and tastefully appointed. All of the rooms have wooden work desks as well as couches or armchairs, plus some have wet bars. Some rooms are lofted, with small spiral staircases that lead to mezzanine bedroom areas (and living rooms on the lower level), which can be a problem for those with mobility issues. Some rooms have attractive exposed wood beams and peaked ceilings that lend a cozy, rustic touch to the spaces. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities with a supply of free tea and coffee, and free Wi-Fi, but there are no mini-fridges/minibars. Attractive modern bathrooms have stylish subway and slate tiling and are equipped with shower/tub combos and heated towel racks. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided. 

Note that some rooms do not have windows, and the rooms aren't air conditioned. Past guests have also complained about street noise in some of the rooms. 

The hotel offers a solid set of amenities that add convenience and value to a stay here. Dining options include the on-site Lynwood Restaurant, which serves contemporary British fare with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. There's also a cozy lounge that serves light bites and casual fare, a charming outdoor rooftop terrace that offers alfresco seating and views over the city, and a lobby bar. Breakfast is available for a fee.

The spa has two double treatment rooms, and a relaxation room, as well as manicure and pedicure stations. It offers various treatments, including massages, facials, and cryotherapy. There's also a fitness room that's equipped with a good variety of cardio and strength-training machines, plus there's a Cross Fit-like space. Other amenities include meeting and event space and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.