Radisson Blu Edwardian review: A family-friendly hotel in the centre of Manchester
A city centre break is all about enjoying the hustle and bustle of the bright lights.
But pick the right place to stay, and you can be right in the heart of the action yet have somewhere to enjoy time and space to relax.
That is the combination we found when we booked a one-night stay at the Radisson Blu Edwardian in Manchester.
Built in the historic Free Trade Hall, first constructed in 1853 to commemorate the repeal of the Corn Laws, this luxury hotel had everything my husband, our four-year- old son and I needed for a refreshing break.
Taking advantage of the concierge parking service, we pulled up directly outside before being welcomed into the grand entrance hall and reception to check-in.
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Edwardian, Free Trade Hall, Peter Street, Manchester, M2 5GP.
Call: 0161 835 9929.
The service was smooth and efficient and we were delighted to be given an upgrade to an “Al-fresco” suite with its own outdoor area, protected from the elements by an opaque glass roof.
As you would expect from a trustworthy brand like Radisson, the suite was spotlessly clean with a huge and incredibly comfortable bed, a sofa, a bathroom with a shower and a bath, a dressing area and a foldable bed made-up for our boy.
There were also extras that made our stay even more special, such as a large smart TV, a coffee maker, a music player and fluffy robes and slippers.
After dumping our bags, we headed straight for the lovely pool in the spa area where we enjoyed a gentle swim while more energetic types worked out in the gym next door.
After getting our glad rags on back in the room, we went to the hotel’s glamorous Opus One Bar and Restaurant bar for a pre-dinner drink.
Although the menu there and at the other restaurant, Steak & Lobster, sounded tempting, we decided to take advantage of the location and walk out to nearby Deansgate to find somewhere to eat.
The hotel also has a champagne bar, Opus Reserve, which I would be keen to visit another time.
After a very peaceful night – I think this is the only hotel I have every stayed in where I have not heard noise from corridors, lifts or other rooms – we headed downstairs for breakfast.
Staff there heard our boy’s sniffles from a cold he had been carrying for a while and immediately dispatched warm milk and honey, attentive to his needs, as had been everyone else working in the hotel during our visit, from the concierge who offered him sweets to the receptionist who chatted to him about football.
The food was excellent and set us up for a day exploring the city – easy and fun after we had found its best address for a rest.
Anywhere-Nice 