Motel One Manchester-Royal Exchange

The hotel was great value for the price, and the room was fantastic. The bed was comfortable, the curtains blocked the light, and there was a safe, tea and coffee, air conditioning and a hairdryer in the room, so no need to go down to reception for one. The bathroom was clean, modern and well maintained, and we didn’t hear noise from other guests. One coffee cup looked a little dirty, with what seemed to be lipstick on it. We didn’t use the cups and everything else was spotless, so it was minor, but cleaners might want to double-check them. The lobby and bar were nicely decorated, and we were offered two free drink tokens, though we didn’t use them. We stayed one night with my partner for a Manchester gig. Service was excellent, and the Scottish man who checked us in was warm and friendly, though I didn’t catch his name.

The downstairs bar has a textile theme tied to the city’s history. The bathroom was good, with a strong shower and several settings, including one that rotates like a massage. It’s a convenient spot, about a two-minute walk from the Arndale. Our room was smart, clean and had tea, coffee and a hairdryer, though it was small with limited storage. We stayed one night and it worked well.

The reception area looks very presentable, and the staff were lovely. The location is great too, but the rooms feel budget in every way. What concerned me was the full-length window, which opened like a door. There was no railing or barrier to stop someone stepping out from the second floor. Dangerous.

The bar was good, with pleasant seating areas and nice cocktails from the barman. The breakfast, though, was the biggest disappointment. We’d paid around £13/14 each and only got a continental breakfast, which felt poor compared with other hotels where we’ve paid less for a full English. We booked a superior room with a view and breakfast. The room was okay, if a little small, but the view was just the street and a building opposite. Checkout was at 12:00pm, yet at 11:45 the maid walked straight into our room, then apologised and left. We could easily have been getting dressed.