Hotel of the week Malmaison, Liverpool

WHERE AND WHY

Set in a prime waterfront position with views over the Liver Building and the River Mersey, Malmaison Liverpool is perfectly situated in the city centre and a stone’s throw from the Royal Albert Dock, the city’s most popular attraction.

The Malmaison chain’s only purpose-built hotel, it bills itself as ‘Decadence on the Docks’ and it’s easy to see why. With its rich golden, green and red pastels, and lush decor mixed with exposed brickwork giving a nod to Liverpool’s industrial past, it exudes an alluring blend of old and new.

The busy bar leads out to the waterside terrace, perfect for dining alfresco or sipping an evening drink as the sun sets over the Mersey. And if you’re wanting to work up an appetite first, there’s a spacious gym to burn up those carbs.

The hotel has 130 rooms and suites spread over six floors. We stayed in one of the two Signature Suites. Decorated in luxurious greens and blues, and with moody low-level lighting it has a slightly naughty boudoir feel.

The bedroom and separate lounge are both large and comfy, with great views out towards the sea. There’s a super king-size bed, plasma TVS, and an en-suite with bath and double walk-in monsoon shower.

ON THE MENU

We dined in the newly revamped Bar & Grill. Its high ceilings and faux industrial style evoke the area’s rich maritime heritage, while the funky decor celebrates the city’s pop culture heroes.

We opted for tuna tartare and tiger prawn cocktail for starters, followed by steak au poivre and chicken with garlic butter for mains. We just about had room to polish off New York baked cheesecake and chocolate sponge pudding for dessert. Delicious all round, with the two-course prix fixe menu at £20, starters from £6.50 and mains from £14.

For breakfast there are vegan and vegetarian options, plus the full cooked English.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

A stroll along the adjacent waterfront takes you past the spectacular Three Graces buildings to Royal Albert Dock. Packed with bars, restaurants and shops, it’s also home to The Beatles Story Exhibition/museum, the Maritime Museum and the Tate Modern. Liverpool ONE shopping centre is 10 minutes away, and no visit is complete without a ferry across the Mersey.

WAKE UP CALL

Rooms start at £82 room-only a night, Signature Suites from £249. malmaison.com