Hotel Review: Qbic Hotel, Manchester

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From the moment you enter the Qbic Hotel, it feels like you’re walking into a love song to Manchester.

There is the Liam Gallagher quote in lights at the entrance – “I take me shades off every now and again and have a look at the world and see some nice things” – then there are the modern statues honouring local heroes and the stylish meeting rooms named after the city’s most famous sons and daughters – not to mention the super friendly and funny staff.

it feels like you’re walking into a love song to Manchester.

We arrived on a Friday night, the buzzy, and high-octane atmosphere enveloped us like a warm slap on the back.

No formal reception desk here – staff mill around a circular table and welcome you straight into the colourful and quirky bar and restaurant that fills the ground floor, as great for people watching as it is for cocktails and inventive, delicious food.

Whether you’re sitting in the plush sofas, on one of the low velvet stools or at one of the high tables, there is so much to take in, from marvelling at the towering high heels, to noticing the quirky art like the sculpture of a pug in headphones, or admiring the magnificent parrot who happened to be visiting on our last morning. It’s the kind of place where it feels like anything could happen.

If you’re after a quiet, sedate and stately place to stay, this may not be the place for you – at least not on a weekend – but if you’re up for having a good time or for watching young Mancunians have a good time, then you’ll find your people here.

Who for

On the weekend, the Qbic Hotel is ideal for anyone eager to feel surrounded by life again after the pandemic and wanting to enjoy all Manchester has to offer. The staff told us it is understandably quieter during the week, and the meeting rooms are perfectly equipped to hold the most technologically advanced business gatherings.

Accommodation

Our room was classed as cosy, and although it was small, it still felt luxurious, thanks to the deep green walls, enormous TV and an extremely comfortable bed, though it was a shame about the non-feather pillows.

The well-designed wet-room with Villeroy & Boch sink, stylish black matt taps and Faith In Nature products was a pleasure to use – especially the powerful rain shower.

Larger rooms are available – such as the nine Fancy rooms, which also have a seating area and a view over the city. On every floor, there is a coffee station with a machine to make your own – and get chatting to the other guests, if you feel so inclined.

Food and drink

The Motley restaurant and bar has its own entrance and is a fun place to hang out, whether you’re staying in the hotel or not, for the delicious food and drink as well as for the atmosphere.

The antipodean-style menu offers small plates, full meals, burgers and flatbreads – we particularly enjoyed our Korean fried cauliflower – and a good selection of wines and cocktails.

Facilities

The stylish and quirky meeting rooms can host business gatherings as well as dinner parties, football screenings, or even a night of karaoke. There’s a fitness studio opening soon.

How much?

Double start from £63 per night.

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What’s nearby?

Qbic hotel’s location on the main road through Manchester City Centre – the mile-long Deansgate – means it’s perfectly placed for enjoying the many shops, bars and restaurants in the area. It is also just a short bus, tram or taxi ride from Manchester Piccadilly Station.