Introducing you to the Kimpton Clocktower Manchester

Where is the Kimpton Clocktower hotel?

Housed in a magnificent terracotta Grade II–listed building, the Kimpton Clocktower in the vibrant city of Manchester has a rich history and effortlessly combines its storied history with its eclectic style and boutique amenities.

History of the Kimpton Clocktower

Designed by Alfred Waterhouse, the architect behind Manchester’s grand Town Hall, the elaborate building with its distinctive clocktower that stands out in the city’s skyline dates back to the 1890s and in its previous incarnation as a life assurance building, the Kimpton Clocktower has maintained plenty of its original charm and ornate features.

Architecture and design of the Kimpton Clocktower

Located in the heart of the city, at the corner of Oxford Street and Whitworth Street, the Kimpton Clocktower is extremely central with the bars of Canal Street just a hop and a skip away. The shared areas including the extravagantly-decorated lobby are where the hotel shines.

As you enter through the wooden revolving door, the catchphrase of Manchester’s very own Oasis ‘Mad fer it’ is emblazoned by hologram as you enter.

The lobby is expansive and has a spectacular glass-mosaic dome feature, vintage bikes and also has a centrepiece of a three-metre-tall bronze horse which was sculpted by artist Sophie Dickens who was the granddaughter of novelist Charles Dickens.

The artwork demonstrates where the original turning circle for horse and carts was when visitors used to come to the headquarters of The Refuge Assurance Company.

Eating at the Kimpton Clocktower

One of my favourite areas of the hotel was the super stylish Refuge bar which is resplendent and all kinds of fabulous. The restaurant can get busy, but the staff are extremely friendly and willing to help. This was reflected by all staff members in the hotel who offered excellent service throughout our stay.

The walls of the restaurant are adorned with graphics and pictures paying homage to the city of Manchester and in particular its industrial past. With its excellent cocktail menu and DJ sets, it makes for a very chilled vibe!

Breakfast is served in the Winter Garden conservatory area which has decorative trees adorned with twinkling lights and a white art-deco style floor. One lovely added touch was the complimentary refreshing ginger, grapefruit and lemon health shot before we chose from the impressive breakfast menu.

Dining at the Refuge’s vibrant menu works on a small plates basis, giving diners the option to choose a couple of dishes for themselves or opting for a selection to share. Highlights include the delicious hummus and corn ribs with hoisin sauce.

Richard Kelly photography exhibition – ‘A Time and Place’

Just outside of the bar and restaurant, there is a photography exhibition featuring the photos of music photographer Richard Kelly. ‘A Time and Place’ features a series of rare photos from the early noughties of musicians like Amy Winehouse, Pete Doherty, Ian Brown, John Cooper Clarke, Florence + The Machine and many more.

Rooms at the Kimpton Clocktower hotel

The hotel is divided up into three separate buildings and there are 270 rooms and suites, all of which are individually styled. Some of the rooms have maintained some of its lovely original features such as panelled walls.

Decorated with a colour palette of neutrals juxtaposed with flashes of mustard, french navy and dark green, the rooms are spacious, but can be a little bit dark.

One nice touch is the complimentary snack boxes which contain water, crisps and chocolate as well as the ring to order service which is super helpful, as well as the standard toothbrush, razors, you can request everything from nail varnish to hair straighteners! Fantastic!

Opulent and stylish, with its nod to its industrial heritage coupled with its edgy yet chic interiors, the Kimpton Clocktower makes for a fabulous getaway to explore one of the UK’s most vibrant cities!

Check in: Double rooms start from £227 per night