The Lowry is arguably Manchester’s most glamorous place to stay right now, so it was only right that we tried it out. It is a glass and steel structure that sits on the bank of the river Irwell, in the Chapel Wharf area of the city. The area is newly developed and looks like a thoroughly cool place to be.
The hotel is a mere five minutes’ walk from the city shopping and restaurant areas so is handy for spending a weekend shopping. The Calatrava bridge sits almost opposite the hotel building, and looks quite striking, all clean and shining in the autumn sun.
"Nothing seemed too much trouble and the service really was with a smile."
As soon as we parked, someone came and helped us with our luggage. We were off to a good start. The Lowry is a five-star hotel run by Rocco Forte, so expectations were high. The modern exterior was reflected on the inside with lots of airy space, wide corridors and a feeling of calm throughout. The reception staff were smart, attentive, polite and efficient. We were quickly checked in and off to our room. When I called down to them with a query, I was addressed by name, which was a nice touch.
The room was superb, with large windows and a great view over the river. The bed was extremely comfortable and the sheets had that just washed feeling that only a hotel can get right. There were no tea and coffee making facilities, but they are apparently available on request.
There was a walk-in wardrobe with a full length mirror, which made getting ready for a night out easier. The bathroom was light, well finished and had plenty of hot water. Not tepid, or lukewarm, actual hot water. That’s a big tick in my book. The towels were also clean, nice thick ones that leach water off your body with no effort at all. The products were all present, in their ubiquitous single-use packages.
Overall the room was modern, well-appointed and a nice place to be. It had the usual well-stocked mini bar, flat screen TV, safe and those great big windows.
We were heading into town the first evening so just had a drink in the bar. It was a pleasant drink in a light airy bar with a relaxed atmosphere. The waiter was quick, friendly and had a ready smile, which says a lot, and put us at our ease. We made our way out of the hotel, across the bridge and we were in the city, that’s about as convenient as it gets.
Throughout our stay, we were made to feel welcome and that anything we wanted would be provided. Nothing seemed too much trouble and the service really was with a smile.
The Bill: £280 per night
