The Midland

The Midland, an iconic fixture in Manchester since 1903, offers a blend of historical grandeur and modern sophistication, earning its place as a Michelin Key Selected property. The hotel, a Grade II* listed building with striking Edwardian Baroque architecture, underwent a renovation in 2021 to ensure contemporary comfort while preserving its timeless charm.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for The Midland is overwhelmingly positive, with many guests describing their stays as "excellent" or "fabulous". It consistently receives high scores on booking platforms, with an 8.7 "Excellent" rating from over 12,000 reviews on Booking.com. Guests appreciate the hotel's ability to seamlessly merge its rich history with modern amenities and impeccable service.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of The Midland:

• Exceptional Location: Situated in the heart of Manchester City Centre, the hotel boasts an enviable location providing easy access to major attractions and extensive public transport links.
• Award-Winning Spa: The Rena Spa at The Midland is frequently highlighted as a standout feature. It's an extensive, relaxing, and 5-bubble rated facility offering a thermal experience, heated relaxation pool, jacuzzi, and a range of treatments. Hotel guests can typically enjoy complimentary 1-hour access to the spa's thermal areas (subject to availability and booking).
• Destination Dining: The hotel is a culinary haven, home to critically acclaimed restaurants that are a significant draw for food enthusiasts.
• Historic Grandeur & Design: The imposing public spaces and classic elegance of the hotel's design are often praised, offering a sense of dignity and history.

3. Room Quality

The Midland offers 312 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, designed for comfort and convenience. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, plush bathrobes, daily newspapers, flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, safes, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries. Many guests describe the beds as "very comfortable". While public spaces maintain an imposing classic style, the rooms are generally described as softer in design. Some superior double rooms offer ample space and city views. However, some more recent reviews, particularly concerning higher-end suites, have noted that furnishings might not feel of high quality for the price point, and the decor could appear minimalistic or bland, lacking a certain "home comfort". Pillows can be firm. Some bathrooms have also been noted as potentially needing updating.

4. Dining Experience

The Midland is renowned for its diverse and high-quality dining options:

• Adam Reid at The French: This flagship fine-dining restaurant, helmed by critically acclaimed Chef-Patron Adam Reid, boasts 4 AA Rosettes. It is celebrated for its exquisite modern British cuisine, showcasing seasonal Northern ingredients through tasting menus and immaculate service within an opulent setting.
• Mount Street Dining Room & Bar: Replacing Mr Cooper's, this restaurant offers contemporary British classics, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced ingredients from the North. Dishes like perfectly cooked fish, aged steaks, and a signature Beef Wellington are highlights, along with well-thought-out vegetarian options.
• Breakfast: Served as a delightful buffet, guests appreciate the wide selection of hot and cold dishes, including fresh pastries and hearty English breakfast classics, often described as excellent quality. Halal and kosher options are also available.
• The Tea Room: A popular venue for traditional afternoon tea, offering a quintessentially British experience that has been a highlight since the hotel opened in 1903.
• The Midland Bar & Champagne Bar: These venues offer an extensive selection of drinks and cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

5. Service & Staff

The staff and service at The Midland frequently receive high praise, described as "excellent," "friendly," "helpful," "polite," "knowledgeable," and "welcoming". Guests have noted efficient check-in services and staff who go out of their way to assist, such as providing an umbrella during rain.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Midland's central location on Peter Street in Manchester City Centre is a major draw. It offers easy walking access to key attractions including Manchester Town Hall, Deansgate, Manchester Central Convention Complex, Bridgewater Hall, and Manchester Central Library. The hotel is exceptionally well-connected by public transport, with the St Peter's Square tram stop directly outside and several major railway stations within a short walk. Manchester Airport is approximately 20 minutes away. Public parking is available nearby for a fee, with recommended accessible car parks.

7. Value & Pricing

Many guests consider The Midland to offer "exceptional value for money," with average room prices around $224 (approximately £175-180 GBP). Standard rooms can be found for around €120-€130, with superior doubles including breakfast costing about £225. Given its central location, amenities, spa, and dining options, guests generally feel it's a worthwhile investment for a luxurious stay.

8. Common Complaints

While largely positive, some recurring criticisms include:

• Room Condition (Specifics): Despite recent renovations, some higher-end suites have drawn criticism for furnishings that may not align with the perceived luxury or for a somewhat bland and minimalistic design. Firm pillows and potentially outdated bathrooms have also been mentioned. Minor finishing issues like cracked shower hoses or missing grout have also been reported.
• Bar Service Charge: A notable point of contention for some guests is the automatic 12.5% service charge applied to drinks, even when ordered directly at the bar, which some have found "outrageous" and difficult to have waived.
• Noise: While generally quiet, some guests have reported noisy air conditioning units and a "rumble" from the trams on lower floors, though this generally hasn't affected sleep.
• Foyer Ambiance: A very recent review from late 2025 indicated a perceived decline in the ambiance of the hotel foyer, which used to be a popular and pleasant meeting spot.

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