If staying smack bang in the middle of Manchester isn’t your idea of a good time, Great John Street may well be right up your street. A former Victorian schoolhouse, this decadent hotel is set just out of the main hubbub. Yet despite that, Manchester’s best shops, restaurants and theatres are all within easy walking distance of this luxury townhouse hotel.
Ambience & Location
A quiet spot, Great John Street is sat opposite the former Granada Studios. While the surrounding area feels quiet compared to the centre, you’ll find it’s a short walk to some of the city’s best bits, plus it’s well connected with buses, trams and trains.
Check-in & Welcome
I arrived later than planned thanks to a delayed flight. With just one minute to spare until my afternoon tea reservation, the receptionist kindly suggested we push the reservation back half an hour which I was immensely grateful for. After checking in, I hopped in the lift and headed up to explore my lodgings for the night.
The Room
Out of the hotel’s 30 rooms, 26 of them are duplex and feature massive windows with mezzanine floors. These theatrical, loft-style rooms work perfectly with the bones of the old Victorian school building and give it real unforgettable character.
The suite I stayed in featured a downstairs bedroom and lounge area and an upstairs show-stopper of a bathroom complete with not one, but two, free standing baths. The huge double storey height windows were dressed with crushed velvet curtains and a stunning chandelier – it all went rather well with classic FM which played from the radio as I entered. The lounge area featured a range of interesting objects, including an eclectic collection of books and a charming welcome by way of rocky road.
The bed was as sprawling as it was comfortable and the baths, of which regrettably I only used one, were heavenly. Especially when teamed with the Temple Spa toiletries.
Read our guide to the best luxury hotels in Manchester
Dining
When it comes to eating and drinking, guests have the choice of heading to The Oyster Bar which serves drinks, afternoon tea and a small food menu. Alternatively, there is the rooftop lounge and playground which is the perfect spot for an evening drink. Do be warned though, it’s often booked out for private events.
I had a reservation at The Oyster Bar for a champagne afternoon tea and once I had dropped my luggage off in the suite, I headed back downstairs to tuck in. I started with a pot of Earl Grey tea, which was served in gorgeous china. Next came the afternoon tea, which featured a range of delectable sandwiches and cakes. The olive sandwich was particularly good, and the pink beetroot humus was gorgeous. I also rather enjoyed the super moist carrot cake, as well as the decadent chocolate brownie which was perfectly fudgy. All of this worked brilliantly with a delicious glass of crisp champagne.
The next morning, I made the most of the in-room dining facility and ordered a full vegetarian breakfast to my suite, which felt super indulgent. Guests can also choose to enjoy breakfast in the Oyster Bar where they can choose from a cooked menu and a selection of cereal, pastries and fruit.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a hotel in Manchester with bags of charm and friendly staff to boot, we’d heartily recommend Great John Street. Choose one of the duplex suites and prepare to drop your jaw when you walk in.
Finances and Details
Entry rooms in low season at Great John Street start at £150
Address: Great John St, Manchester M3 4FD
Tel: 0161 831 3211
Web: www.eclectichotels.co.uk/great-john-street/
