After a long period of renovation, The Midland Hotel in Manchester opened its doors earlier this year, unveiling a stylish new look beloved by jet setters in the know and local celebrities with exquisite tastes,

I was was lucky enough to be invited to the star-studded launch event last month along with my hotel-loving girlfriend and fabulous influencer friend Tuggziee who has a taste for the finer things in life – and a good party.

As we arrived after a pleasant train journey from London we were impressed with the elegant new features of this iconic Manchester hotel. I had visited before a few years back, so was impressed with the chic new decor.  The £14m refurbishment features a stunning transformation of all bedrooms and public areas, but the most dramatic change is to the hotel’s main foyer, which now features a brand new, split-level bar built on a raised platform in the heart of the hotel’s lobby.

It was in this glamorous lobby where the Midland’s glitzy launch party took place later that evening, attended by local celebrities, journalists and notable industry figures. Take That’s Howard Donald was on the decks playing an uplifting set of modern and old school party classics, whilst glamorous guests mingled and devoured tasty canapés.

The Midland’s food and beverage offering has also received a brand-new look as part of the transformation and the hotel is now home to two new venues. New restaurant concept, Mount Street, is a modern British style brasserie, which combines Northern hospitality with an all-day menu offering. Guests can also visit The Midland’s on-site restaurant, The Midland Champagne Lounge, where they will find an all-day menu serving classic dishes with a modern twist.

In addition to the public areas, the hotel’s 312 bedrooms have undergone impressive refurbishments. Our room for the evening was tastefully styled in a restful, neutral colour palette with luxurious soft padded armchairs, plump cushions and glowing lamps – perfect to dive into after a long night partying with the Manchester party crowd.

Jason Carruthers, Managing Director of Leonardo Hotels UK & Ireland, comments: “We are thrilled to have completed The Midland’s extraordinary transformation and are all the more excited to reveal it to guests after a long lockdown period. The hotel has hosted gatherings and celebrations since 1903 and we are so pleased to welcome guests back once more to enjoy a new chapter in the life of this iconic building.

The acquisition of The Midland hotel back in November 2018 marked the start of an extremely exciting chapter for Leonardo Hotels in the UK. The Midland’s £14m investment has allowed us to make our own mark on this famous Manchester property, whilst maintaining the hotel’s historical status.”

The refurbishment follows the full rebrand of the award-winning on-site spa, which transitioned into Rena Spa at The Midland in November 2019. The new spa offers a wonderful selection of specialist treatments, all using renowned natural French beauty brand, Caudalie. Rena Spa at The Midland is particularly proud to offer a range of Wellness by Germaine De Cappuccini treatments – specially designed for those who have or are recovering from cancer.

I made a quick visit to this haven of escapism the morning after the launch party to revive my body and mind before our train journey home. After swimming a few laps in the idyllic swimming pool and a lengthly steam room session, I felt revived and just about ready to pry myself back to London life.

 

Images: George Glass