Aloft by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, has opened Aloft by Marriott Manchester City Centre. We sent our writer, Rachel McAlley along on a busy Saturday in the city to find out more.
Aloft by Marriott Manchester, is a 358-room hotel set within a striking new tower on Deansgate, and it claims the title of the largest Aloft by Marriott in Europe.
The Hotel – Aloft by Marriott Manchester
Anchored in upbeat energy and vibrant design, Aloft by Marriott has built its reputation as the brand of choice for the next generation of travellers. It is bold, socially driven, and design-conscious. Best known for its dynamic social scene and inventive spaces, the brand finds a natural home in Manchester. This is a city with distinct creative energy and a booming visitor economy.
I arrived on a hot and sunny summer’s afternoon, the hotel was already abuzz with guests checking in. I joined the queue and took in the size of the hotel. The foyer with its high roof includes a lighting installation, comfy sofas, tables & chairs, pool table, and bar. This bar was bustling with guests, it’s called W XYZ® Bar.
The team on reception were exceptionally busy, yet still managed to chat to each guest with ease. I checked in and was told to help myself to something from Re:Fuel, the drinks fridge and snacks area. I picked up some chocolate, popcorn, fruit juice and a bottle of water. This is the hotel’s grab-and-go food and drinks hub with a vast selection of soft drinks, sandwiches, cookies and snacks.
If I had any children with me, a pet, or a guest that enjoyed working-out, this would have all been an added bonus. Families are well catered for with Camp Aloft®, a dedicated programme for kids. While pets are welcomed through Arf® (Animals R Fun), which offers dedicated in-room amenities including toys and treats. A 24-hour fitness centre serves those who like to keep active. Plus, a private meeting space makes it a practical choice for business travellers. There were a few people in the reception area with dogs, so it was good to see that Aloft’s rooms allow pets.
The Room – Aloft by Marriott
I headed to my hotel room on the 17th floor, it was open and airy, with great views across the Deansgate area of the city. As I had a friend with me, our room offered two beds, so that we didn’t have to share. Equally, there was a giant TV, wall art, a sofa, plus tea and coffee making facilities. The bathroom had a walk-in shower rather than a bath, and was an ideal size for a short stay.
We unpacked, watched TV and got ourselves ready for an evening out in the city of Manchester. We weren’t having dinner in the hotel as the restaurant wasn’t fully up and running due to the hotel’s recent opening. However, as the restaurant setup looked great, I would like to go back and experience dinner.
After an excellent night’s sleep on the very comfortable beds, we ventured down to the hotels breakfast area. Breakfast is served between 7.30am – 11am on a weekend, and 6.30am – 9.30am during the week.
Moreover, there was plenty to choose from including pastries, fruit, and cereals, alongside traditional cooked breakfast buffet staples. There were even waffles if we fancied a little treat.
Furthermore, checkout was at 11am, which made us happy, there’s nothing worse than having to leave a hotel at 10am on a Sunday morning. That extra hour until 11am was made for relaxing!
Information – Aloft by Marriott Manchester
Developed by Dean Street Developments, the property occupies a commanding position on Deansgate, with panoramic views across the city skyline. Guests are seconds from the Deansgate-Castlefield Metrolink stop and within easy reach of Manchester Central Convention Centre, Spinningfields, Deansgate Square, and Oxford Road, placing the hotel at the intersection of the city’s commercial, cultural, and leisure offering.
General Manager, Abi Hindle said;
“We’re thrilled to open the very first Aloft by Marriott in a city known for its warm hospitality. Aloft by Marriott is a fantastic addition to Manchester’s already flourishing hospitality landscape, and we look forward to welcoming guests from near and far.”
Vice President, Brand Manager, EMEA, Marriott International, Sandra Schulze-Potgieter said;
“We are delighted to introduce Aloft by Marriott to Manchester, bringing this upscale, lifestyle brand to one of the UK’s most dynamic cities. Aloft is different by design. It is a hub, or launching and landing pad for all that travel has in store, bringing our unique attitude and atmosphere to each and every stay, now also in Manchester – a city internationally recognised for its creativity, individuality and innovation.”
In conclusion, Aloft by Marriott Manchester City Centre at Deansgate is part of a landmark mixed-use development by Dean Street Developments, a luxury property developer with projects across the UK and Europe.
Room rates start from £95, and Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points across their stay, with access to mobile check-in and digital key functionality through the Marriott Bonvoy app. Visit Aloft by Marriott to find out more.
Words by Rachel McAlley @LadyRach and management quotes from Tempt Marketing
