Abode Manchester unsponsored review

I regularly go to Manchester for work and leisure, and have stayed at several hotels. Here’s my honest, unsponsored review of the Abode Manchester based on my two experiences there.

About the Abode Manchester

Housed in a restored 19th-century Grade II listed building, the Abode hotel in Manchester is located in the heart of the city, by the vibrant Northern Quarter and a short walk away from the Piccadilly train station.

The building retains much of its original Victorian architectural features, including high ceilings and large windows, giving the hotel plenty of historic charm.

The Abod offers a variety of rooms, from "Comfortable" and "Desirable" to "Fabulous" catering to different preferences and budgets.

The fifth floor boasts five uniquely themed, ultra-modern suites that feel more like private mini-apartments.

The rooms I have stayed in featured a Nespresso machine, premium bedding, comfy bathrobes and vintage touches such as an old-school telephone.

There’s a 24-hour front desk service and concierge, as well as meeting and event spaces.

Breakfast is served at the on-site Brasserie Abode. I chose not to book breakfast during my stay, as the Brasserie currently has mixed reviews and isn't highly rated overall.

Plus, one of my favourite things to do in Manchester is visit the lovely coffee shops and enjoy breakfast at the many excellent spots in the city centre.

My honest Abode Manchester review: two stays, two stories

I have stayed at the Abode twice at the time of writing this post, and had two completely different experiences.

First stay: slightly disappointing

For my first stay at Abode Manchester, I had booked an Enviable room for one night. The stylish room lived up to its name in many ways- spacious and well-appointed with a desk area, armchairs and a huge, incredibly comfortable bed.

However, there were a few downsides. To start with, the blinds could not be pulled up on one side, leaving the room unusually dark.

It’s worth noting that the air conditioning is currently not working in any rooms, which are meant to be equipped with Dyson fans. Unfortunately my room didn’t, and on a sunny August day the space was uncomfortably stuffy.

Considering that I had paid extra to treat myself to a better room, these issues detracted from what could have been a much more enjoyable experience.

Second stay: the suite upgrade

A few months later, I decided to give the Abode Manchester another chance, this time booking a two-night stay.

Once again, I opted for an Enviable room and messaged the hotel via Booking.com ahead of my visit to share feedback from my previous stay and request a room with functioning curtains and a fan.

Upon checking in, however, I discovered I’d been given the exact same room as before. Naturally, I wasn’t thrilled and politely expressed my disappointment to the receptionist.

I wasn’t expecting more than a different room of the same standard, but to my surprise, she offered me a complimentary upgrade to a suite. It was a wonderful gesture, and I gladly accepted - it felt like a real treat, as I’d never usually book a suite for myself.

The Angel Suite was exceptional: incredibly spacious, with a large lounge area, plenty of storage, a desk, and even a dining table and chairs. The super king-size bed was wonderfully comfortable, and the room featured dimmable lighting for a cozy ambiance.

The bathroom was a standout too, with both a walk-in shower and a bathtub. Situated on the 5th floor, the suite also offered fantastic views of Manchester’s city centre.

Although I had a busy schedule, I made the most of my time in this luxurious space, savouring every moment I spent inside.

The Abode really redeemed itself with this experience, and I’m grateful to the receptionist for going above and beyond to ensure my stay was better this time around.

I know I won’t get the same privilege next time I book a stay at this hotel, but hopefully one day I’ll be able to justify treating myself to a suite and get another taste of luxury!