If you are anything like me when I arrive at a hotel, I want my “WOW” moment. From the minute I saw the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel until I sadly had to leave, trust me I was saying “WOW”!
This incredible piece of Manchester’s history combines beautifully preserved architecture with modern day luxury in a way that provokes a conversation. You simply cannot step in to the magnificent lobby of the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel without thinking “what used to happen here?”
The imposing bronze statue of a horse, sculpted by Charles Dickens great, great granddaughter symbolises how the Directors of the Refuge Assurance Building used to arrive to work. The building was constructed in 1891 and was home to the life insurance company for years until it was converted into the hotel we see today.
Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is oozing with features. As I opened the door to my suite, I was wowed again by the sheer scale of the rooms. These benefit from sweeping double height windows giving incredible light and atmosphere. The interiors are sympathetically decorated with a distinctive colourful modern edge referencing Manchester pop culture and with nods to the past.
I especially enjoyed the record player with a selection of records and the cocktail trolley, both teasing you to kick back and unwind. The details didn’t stop there. The coffee station and mini bar are housed in a trunk and the doorstops are men’s office shoes. It’s playful, interesting and above all fabulous.
I often get asked what I look for in a luxury hotel and for me the devil is in the detail. The Elemis pillow spray left next to a bed with plug sockets and clearly labelled lights was a treat, as was the thoughtful QR code system in the bathroom offering guests the chance to purchase key items that they may have forgotten like phone chargers or hairspray. We have all been there, right? The wardrobe also housed, a yoga mat and clothes steamer, lovely touches.
The features continue around the building, I couldn’t help but WOW again over the old safe room with the original wooden safes, which is now a walk way through to the lifts. The experience not only took you back in time but made you marvel over the sheer opulence of the building. It was easy to see why the staff seemed so proud to work there.
The full-sized gym was another great feature with a very chic, modern feel, great air conditioning, Peloton bikes and complimentary towels and water. It really did feel like a feature rather than an afterthought as many hotel gyms can be. They even have Technogym boxes that can be delivered to your suite for a private workout.
It was interesting to learn that the 10,000 sq ft Refuge Bar and Restaurant used to be the old typing pool. The cavernous space remains cosy and thoughtful with awesome Manchester murals and clever segmenting of areas. We dined on their new Summer Menu by Chef Paul Bleakly and it was delicious. Big, bold flavours and interesting dishes made for a very enjoyable meal.
The ultimate WOW came from their new signature suite, Suite 51. If you were looking to celebrate a special occasion or get together with friends, this epic space can be converted into a three bedroom Suite. Complete with dining table, walk in wardrobe and dressing room, stand alone bath, PS5 and Super King bed it’s the ultimate party pad.
As you can probably tell I was Wowed by the whole experience, and it will be top of my Manchester recommendations list from now on.
Take a look at www.kimptonclocktower.com
Review and Images by Emmie Blower @emmiebhungry
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