I have just recently returned from a function at the Palace Hotel in Manchester. Firstly I would say it's not the easiest hotel to find, not knowing Manchester too well locals knew where it was but did have difficulty in directing me, however just head for the Palace Theatre and its on the corner opposite, there is an NCP car Park ( Palace) just along the side road next to the Palace theatre, and then its just a few minutes walk to the front of the building and to the entrance, ( which incidently again is not too obvious that it is the Palace Hotel, Look skyward and you will see the sign on the wonderful clock tower).
On entering the Hotel the you come into a magnificent entrace hall which is circular, and the original turning circle for the horses and carriages is under the tiled floor. The whole building exudes history and has a deffinate presence about it, it is supposedly haunted, and there is a strange something about the atmosphere (not frightening or nasty) maybe a little sad but nothing to fear.
Because I was attending a function I did not try the restaurant, however I can comment on the function food which was excellent considering there was about 500 in attendace. The food was presented beautifully and tasted very good cooked to perfection and served with just the right amount of vegetables, again cooked to perfection which can be tricky when catering for so many so WELL DONE CHEF ! Staff were well trained, courteous, and I can honestly say understood what the the words 'Hospitality Industry' meant. Friendly and proffessional, and were actively pro-active in identifying guests needs.
My bedroom was of a modern and contemporary design and was very spacious, bath with over power shower that was very good. Only quibble here is that they did not supply shower caps, however the hairdryers ( in the drawer by the dressing table) are real ones not those awful things that hang on the wall in the bathroom, and seem to have a continual hangover. another little comment - the towels could be better they are small and for this standard of hotel I would have expected those huge fluffy bath sheets. The bed was a nice large one with a duvet and trendyfur throw and cushion and nice clean crisp white sheets. A very nice touch was a brown leather recliner ergononically designed no doubt but I must admit I am going to have alook at them now I quite fancy ones of those at home table on the side a glass of wine ! Plenty of hanging space and all the bits you expect, tea/coffee etc/ safe /iron and ironing board/trouser press, TV opposite the bed and able to swivel (back to that recliner again !) There were also fresh flowers in the room which is a lovely touch. Housekeeping standards are high here and it shows.
Checking out was not a problem, and the Reception team were freindly, professional and very helpful. The Consierge finally waved me on my way armed with a map on how to get out of Manchester.
Deffinately a different type of Hotel in terms of architecture and decor, very good staff, and for those wanting to feel the history it's deffinately worth a visit next time you are in Manchester.
Just a little word of advise for us Ladies travelling alone -
because it was mid afternoon and bright sunshine when I arrived I had no fear walking from the car park to the hotel, but on winter nights I would suggest that maybe a quick call to the hotel and ask if a Porter would be available for assistance it may not be quite so pleasant.
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May 18th, 2005
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