The Midland Hotel
Shekina Rose, Families Editor
The Grade II-listed Midland Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in Manchester, originally built to serve rail travellers from London in 1903 at the then-staggering figure of £1m. Its terracotta and polished granite exterior hints at the calibre of celebrities and VIPs who have stayed within its walls.
The Midland is soaked in interesting history. It’s where Charles Stewart Rolls met Frederick Henry Royce in 1904, and Rolls-Royce Limited was formed. It’s where The Beatles were once refused entry for inappropriate clothing, where the Queen Mother once took supper, and most importantly, where the Beckhams had their first date!
The building was brought up to date with a £12m renovation in 2004. Today it boasts 312 luxurious bedrooms, an award-winning spa and gym, two bars, 14 suites, two restaurants and a rather yummy British tea room serving opulent afternoon tea.
Many people visit The Midland to experience the double AA rosette restaurant, The French, run by Chef-Patron, Adam Reid. The French is renowned for its delicious and beautiful Northern inspired fine dining dishes. Since Adam joined The French in 2013, he has been awarded 4 AA rosettes, as well as going on to win BBC’s prestigious Great British Menu competition with his apple dessert, Golden Empire.
Just like The Midland itself, The Grade II listed dining room that houses The French is steeped in history while maintaining just the right strokes of modernity. It’s stylish and comfortable and the perfect spot for a special meal out.
Serving different kinds of food to The French, but popular too, is The Tea Room at The Midland, which offers delicious afternoon tea served in the most gorgeous spot overlooking St Peter’s Square.
Mouth-watering restaurants, luxury bedrooms, high-class spa facilities and to top it all off, The Midland is located smack bang in the centre of Manchester in St Peter’s Square, so transport links, shopping facilities and Manchester’s thriving night life are just a few steps away.
